Majestic in summer, breathtaking in winter, and just plain gorgeous all year round. California’s Yosemite National Park is home to the famous giant sequoia trees, massive granite mountains, and astounding waterfalls. This park has something for every kind of travel—be it as a group of happy campers, a couple on a honeymoon, or a family seeking memorable adventures. Yosemite has one of the most sought-after hiking trails, namely the Eagle Peak, Vernal Fall, and Half Dome Cable hikes. But if you need to take a break from hiking and other outdoor activities, museums, wineries and breweries, and spas are also within reach.
Must-see: Yosemite Falls, Tenaya Lake, Half Dome, Glacier Point, Night Sky Stargazing
Best hikes: Cathedral Lakes, Merced Grove Hike, Valley Floor Loop, Half Dome, and May Lake & Mount Hoffmann
Where to stay: Restful Nest Bed & Breakfast, Cabins at Tenaya Lodge, and The Ahwahnee Hotel
Best months to visit: May and September
Steep red cliffs, scenic drive cuts, emerald pools, and enchanting forest trails will impress you at Zion National Park. This Utah gem features the famous red Kolob Canyons and is home to the world-famous Angel’s Landing mountain hike. Another exciting trail in Zion is the Narrows, this hike leads you from the Chamberlain Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava by walking through Zion’s Virgin River. Just note that the best time to do the Narrows is during spring and summer or when there is no rain, and the water temperature is bearable to plunge into. Most hotels and lodges in Springdale (the tourist town located at the entrance of the park) have excellent amenities to soothe you after a long day of adventure. Who wouldn’t want to dip in a hot tub after a long day of a hike?
Must-see: Observation Point, Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Court of the Patriarchs
Best hikes: Angel’s Landing, Upper Emerald Pools, The Narrows Bottom Up
Where to stay: Flanigan’s Inn, Best Western Plus Zion, and Driftwood Lodge
Best months to visit: March to May, September, and October
This park features millions of years of geological history with its layers of red rock formations that sprawl around the Colorado River. Grand Canyon’s South Rim is the most visited site of the park, it features campgrounds and lodges, its own airport, and rail service. The North Rim on the other hand is more secluded and has high elevation, which means hikers would need to prepare when the temperature drops. Nevertheless, both sides of the park showcase breathtaking views of the intricate Arizona red rocks and historic Native American villages.
Must-see: Grand Viewpoint, Havasu Falls, Horsehoe Bend, Angel’s Window
Best hikes: Rim Trail, South Kaibab Trail, West Rim Trail
Where to stay: Thunderbird Lodge, Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel, El Tovar Hotel
Best months to visit: March to May, September to November (except winter months for North Rim as some areas in the park will be closed)
Situated in northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts snow-capped mountains, alpine tundra, lush forests, and beautiful bodies of water. This park offers lots of recreation activities for the family, nature adventures, scenic routes, and best of all, solitude. At Rocky Mountain, campers are free to hike, fish, and observe wildlife. But since the park is committed to the preservation, some basic amenities are limited in Rocky Mountain.
Must-see: Bear Lake Area, Kawuneeche Valley, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
Best hikes: Tundra Communities Trail, Longs Peak, Hallet Peak
Where to stay: The Overview Lodge in Grand Lake, RiverWood in Estes Park
Best months to visit:November to April
Amber tinted mountains, gushing geysers, alpine rivers, hot springs, and lush forests are what Yellowstone National Park truly remarkable. This park has a lot of beauty that visitors of all ages will surely notice. The mountain trails and geysers in Yellowstone will surely leave you in awe, so plan your trip wisely to take advantage of these natural wonders. Plus, after a day of nature-filled adventures, you may relax at the park’s hot springs or dine around town.
Must-see: Yellowstone Lake, Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful Geyser, Upper Falls
Best hikes: Avalanche Peak, Yellowstone River Trail, Mount Washburn, Fairy Falls
Where to stay:Grant Village Hotel, Canyon Lodge and Cabins, Old Faithful Inn
Best months to visit: April to May, and September to October
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