There is nothing more fun than a getaway road trip in the wilderness of the United States. This summer is the perfect time to plan the long-awaited road trip that you had been postponing or not getting started with planning.
The biggest dilemma while planning is where to go during a road trip. This can become quite stressful but nothing beats a good national park with perfect weather. The United States has numerous national parks spread over acres with a wide variety of wildlife and nature according to the climate conditions. In summer, you will find many animals out in their natural habitats, flowers blooming and a good amount of sunshine.
For pre-road trip planning tips, click here.
Below are a few of the most well-known national parks in the U.S. You can pick yours for the trip according to your convenience of travel dates and timings. You can take your car for the road trip if the national park is closer to your place or you may book a cheap flight ticket and then rent a car for a trip from the airport. Anyhow, the end result would be satisfied with the mesmerizing views from the parks.
Denali National Park, Alaska
North America’s tallest peak, Denali is surrounded by snowy mountains and alpine tundra. On the six million acres of park lays only one long road. With wild animals, be it large or small, living in their natural habitat without fences, the park gets even more fun.
You can take your car till fifteen miles into the park, from there you will have to travel in the bus service provided for various reasons. The park also offers certain itineraries to choose from if you’re planning to stay for a while.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park is famous for being the deepest lake in the USA. The history of this park is as fascinating, the park was formed 7,700 years ago due to a volcanic eruption that caused the collapse of a tall peak. Since then, the park has been attracting many tourists for its beautiful views, fresh air, and blue water. No matter the weather, rain, or snow, the park is appealing to visitors all year long.
Yosemite National Park, California
The 1,200 square miles long park has it all from deep valleys to vast wilderness and meadows. Experience the pure air in the middle of nowhere in Yosemite. Found in 1864, the park has been one of the main attractions for tourists. Reserve your permits for parking or camping before heading.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
One of the coolest experiences for a natural park can be experienced in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The 12-mile-long stretch of the mainland and 22 islands attracts many tourists especially in the summer with the cool summer weather and beautiful forest, cliffs, and beaches.
Pictures Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Spend the perfect summer on the most serene beaches of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. a perfect summer day with long hikes and cliffs is experienced by most tourists. America’s first lakeshore is amazingly beautiful throughout the year. You can plan a camping trip with your family or friends.
The park is ideal for so many fun activities like canoeing, kayaking, drive-in camping, winter ice climbing, snowshoeing, sightseeing and so much more!
Arches National Park, Utah
Also known as the red-rock wonderland, the Arches National Park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, rock fins, and pinnacles. The contrasting colors and the texture of the rocks look most pristine during the sunset. To enter, prior reservations are required.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale is the perfect getaway for all the adventurous outdoorsy people out there. The isolated island offers various water sports with summer vibes. You can book your reservations for certain activities prior to your arrival.
Make sure to check the weather before you plan your trip as the only way to reach the island is via ferry, seaplane, or private watercraft, which can sometimes be closed to the weather conditions.
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Visit the longest cave system in the world in the Mammoth Cave National Park which is now UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. There is so much more to it than the caves themselves. With a 36 miles long navigable waterway, the first national water trail is famous for exploring via boat.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
One of the best places to visit in summer if you can handle the Arizona heat, the National Park is basically an erosion of land along the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. The only way to go around the canyon is via automobile; you can take your own or use the free shuttle service. You can book a flight to Phoenix and then go via road to the park as it is a cheaper and efficient option.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Explore two of the world’s most active volcanoes, the Kilauea and Mauna Loa, designated as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. You can hike, road tour, and explore the intriguing history of the park. Learn about the biggest cattle ranches of Hawai’i.
In case you are planning to view a volcanic eruption, make sure to book your reservations early enough as they tend to book out quickly.
Make this summer memorable with your family and friends. These mini-trips can be as fun as any other, no need to spend hundreds of dollars on an over-crowded destination. Book your cheap flight tickets and car rentals in advance. Explore the adventures that your nearest national park has to offer.