Embarking on a journey to visit all US National Parks is an ambitious and rewarding goal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just beginning to explore the great outdoors, careful planning is key. This guide provides a structured approach to visiting these natural wonders, optimizing your experience and minimizing potential overwhelm.
Crafting Your National Park Itinerary
The pace at which you explore is a personal choice. While some aim to conquer all parks within a year, a more relaxed approach allows for deeper appreciation and avoids burnout. The ideal times to visit most parks are during the spring or fall, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Consider regional trips, ranging from 10-day to two-week adventures, or shorter one-week excursions to accommodate other commitments.
Regional National Park Groupings
Northwest National Parks: Washington State boasts three stunning parks: Mt. Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades.
These parks are accessible between June and October, after the snow melts, but avoid summer weekends and the peak months of July and August for a less crowded experience. A week might feel rushed, but it’s achievable.
Crater Lake, Oregon’s only national park, can be combined with the Washington or Northern California parks.
Northern California National Parks: Group Redwoods, Lassen, Pinnacles, and Yosemite National Parks for a memorable trip.
Redwoods and Pinnacles are accessible year-round, while Lassen and Yosemite require snowmelt, making spring or fall the perfect time for a 10-day exploration. Yosemite, being the largest and most popular, requires careful planning. Winter visits to Yosemite offer a unique, less crowded experience.
Southern California National Parks: Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Channel Islands, and Death Valley National Parks offer a diverse range of landscapes.
Avoid Death Valley during the summer due to extreme heat. Consider a winter trip solely for Death Valley or combine these parks during spring or fall for a 10-day to two-week adventure. Joshua Tree, a shorter two-day trip, can be paired with these parks or those in Arizona.
Arizona National Parks: Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro National Parks are spread across the state.
The Grand Canyon’s north rim, offering a historic lodge and fewer crowds, is open from mid-May to mid-October. The south rim is open year-round but avoid weekends and arrive early. River rafting is available from April to October. Plan your trip based on your desired Grand Canyon experience. Petrified Forest National Park requires a full day, any time of year. Saguaro National Park, divided into two sections by Tucson, requires two days in the fall, winter, or spring. Saguaro can be combined with Southwest parks.
Conclusion: Your National Park Adventure Awaits
Visiting all US National Parks is an extraordinary undertaking. By carefully planning your itinerary, considering the optimal seasons, and grouping parks by region, you can transform this dream into a tangible adventure. Embrace the journey, immerse yourself in the beauty of these natural treasures, and create lasting memories. Consider purchasing a National Park Pass to save money on entrance fees.
