Whether it’s a family adventure in the United States or driving across Europe, embarking on a road trip is an exhilarating way to discover the stunning landscapes and hidden gems within our vast and diverse world.
When combined with the awe-inspiring beauty of national parks, these journeys become unforgettable experiences. For nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or curious travelers just looking to escape their routine, exploring national parks through road trips offers a unique and immersive adventure.
From towering mountains and ancient forests to vibrant deserts and cascading waterfalls, the U.S. has an extraordinary collection of national parks, each boasting its distinct allure. A road trip to these natural wonders lets you witness the wonders of nature up close, delve into the rich history and culture of the regions, and create lasting memories along the way.
Here are six great road trips for visiting national parks.
Yosemite National Park
Fly into: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
Best time to visit: May through October
Yosemite National Park in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains is a must-visit for road trip enthusiasts. Its stunning beauty encompasses granite cliffs, alpine meadows and waterfalls.
From iconic sights like Half Dome and El Capitan to peaceful spots like Mirror Lake and Yosemite Valley, the park offers endless outdoor adventures. Whether hiking among giant sequoias, rock climbing or enjoying nature’s serenity, Yosemite inspires exploration. Well-maintained roads, scenic drives, iconic lodges and well-equipped campgrounds provide an unforgettable journey through its majestic wilderness — no matter your budget.
Stops around the park
- Mariposa Grove: Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias
- Glacier Point: Offers a stunning view of Yosemite Valley
- Half Dome Village: Great place for hiking and rock climbing
Where to stay
Campgrounds with nice facilities are available inside the park or splurge at The Ahwahnee (about $776 a night) for a more luxurious stay. If you want to use points, opt for Fairfield Inn & Suites Oakhurst Yosemite. It’s about 36 miles from the park and about 27,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $259 per night.
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Related: Top-notch Yosemite National Park hotels to plan your visit around
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Fly into: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
Best time to visit: June through July and in October
Straddling the state lines of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. It’s known for its diversity of plant and animal life and its rich Southern Appalachian culture.
From the majestic vistas atop Clingmans Dome and the panoramic drives along the Newfound Gap Road to the peaceful serenity of Cades Cove and the breathtaking waterfalls such as Laurel Falls, the park offers abundant natural wonders. It’s perfect for road trippers who love hiking, photographing wildlife, or history.
Stops around the park
- Cades Cove: Offers wildlife viewing and historical buildings
- Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park, providing panoramic views
- Roaring Fork: A scenic motor nature trail
Where to stay
LeConte Lodge provides a rustic experience and spectacular views — it’s the highest guest lodge (6,400 feet) in the eastern U.S. Rates start from $176 per person in a lodge room or cabin. Or, redeem 50,000 Hilton Honors points ($194) per night for a stay at Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail, less than two miles from the park.
Yellowstone National Park
Fly into: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
Best time to visit: May through September
This iconic park showcases geothermal wonders, sprawling meadows and dramatic landscapes.
The park’s kaleidoscope of natural marvels is well documented. There are the mesmerizing eruptions of Old Faithful, the Instagram-worthy colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, the majestic wildlife sightings in Lamar Valley and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and so much more beyond the park’s most visited attractions.
Active types can explore the intricate network of hiking trails, witness the power of Yellowstone’s geysers and hot springs, or embark on wildlife safaris to spot bison, wolves and grizzly bears.
With its scenic drives, well-preserved historic sites and comfortable campgrounds, the park provides diverse landscapes to ensure that every road trip through its vast wilderness is an adventure.
Stops around the park
- Old Faithful: The most famous geyser in the park
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the U.S.
- Lamar Valley: Referred to as the “Serengeti of North America” for its abundant wildlife
Where to stay
Old Faithful Inn is an iconic historic hotel next to Old Faithful. Holiday InnWest Yellowstone is just three minutes from the park entrance with rates from $465 or 76,000 IHG Rewards points per night.
Related: Visiting Yellowstone, a land for all time
Joshua Tree National Park
Fly into: Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
Best time to visit: March through May and October through November
Dramatic rock formations, vast desert vistas and Joshua trees define this southeastern California park.
From the ethereal beauty of Joshua Tree forests to the striking shapes of landmarks like Skull Rock and Arch Rock, the park offers an abundance of natural marvels to explore. Hiking through hidden oases, marveling at the star-studded night sky, and immersing oneself in the serene solitude of the desert are just a few of the remarkable experiences that await visitors.
Stops around the park
- Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center: Start here for maps, books, gifts, and local information
- Keys View: For panoramic vistas of Coachella Valley
- Cholla Cactus Garden: Best viewed at sunrise or sunset
Where to stay
Joshua Tree Inn is known for its connection to musician Gram Parsons, a former member of The Byrds and frequent inn guest who passed away in his room. (You can book a stay in Gram Parsons Room 8, where the rock legend spent his last night. Consider Sacred Sands, a luxury desert retreat near the park’s west entrance. Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa is about an hour’s drive from the park. Rates are from $219 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Related: Best hotels in Palm Springs that are an oasis in the desert
Acadia National Park
Fly into: Bangor International Airport (BGR)
Best time to visit: June through October
Acadia National Park in Maine is a must-visit destination for road-trip enthusiasts.
This park boasts a stunning combination of natural wonders and breathtaking views along its picturesque coastline. Rocky shores, lush forests and granite peaks create a remarkable landscape that captivates visitors.
Take advantage of the opportunity to hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain — the highest point on the East Coast of the U.S. — or enjoy the tranquility of Jordan Pond and the dramatic cliffs of Thunder Hole.
Acadia offers a wide range of activities, whether you prefer hiking, cycling the Park Loop Road, or immersing yourself in the area’s rich maritime history.
Stops around the park
- Cadillac Mountain: The tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast
- Jordan Pond: Known for its clear water and views of the North and South Bubble mountains
- Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse with beautiful harbor and sea views
Where to stay
The Bluenose Inn offers great views and easy access to Bar Harbor. Hampton Inn Bar Harbor is also nearby, with rates from $312 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Related: A beginner’s guide to visiting Acadia National Park
Zion National Park
Fly into: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) or St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
Best time to visit: Spring and fall
Zion National Park, nestled in the rugged canyons and towering cliffs of southern Utah, is a must-see destination for any road-trip aficionado.
Renowned for its striking red rock formations, narrow slot canyons and the winding Virgin River, Zion offers a mesmerizing landscape that captivates the senses.
From the awe-inspiring views at Angels Landing and the sweeping panoramas of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to the enchanting beauty of Emerald Pools and the majestic Narrows hike, the park presents an array of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on thrilling hikes, canyoneering adventures, or simply take in the serene beauty of the natural surroundings.
Stops around the park
- Angels Landing: This hiking trail offers incredible views of the park
- The Narrows: Hike along the Virgin River through towering canyon walls
- Kolob Canyons: A quieter park section that offers stunning scenic drives and hikes
Where to stay
Zion Lodge is the only in-park lodging, and it offers both cabins and hotel rooms. SpringHill Suites Springdale Zion National Park is just eight miles from the park with rates from $273 or 67,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Related: The best places to stay near Zion National Park
Now that you have options, are you ready to hit the road?
