Top 10 National Parks

National Parks are a must on Family lists, because they offer plenty of activities no matter the age there are ranger-led activities (some charges may apply) as well as plenty of things to do own your own. Activities include such things as fishing in lakes or rivers, hiking easy to more advanced trails, rafting, kayaking and if there are family members who are less active, they may prefer bird or wild-life watching, and the Parks normally have scenic drives that can be taken. Ranger Stations and visitors centers are always a great place to start in the Parks, There you can talk to Rangers and get a full list of activities and park events, maps of scenic drives and hikes with activity levels on them, as well as weather forecasts, and possible areas where you are likely to see wildlife. While there, young ones can get a junior ranger book to fill out as you vacation through out the park. The books include information on the native animals and plants of the park and places to check off the ones they have seen. Once they complete the book they can return it to the rangers station to receive a special junior ranger badge.

Smoky Mountain National Park - Tennessee

Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of the Appalachian mountains, and the remnants of Appalachian mountain culture. Ridge upon ridge of forest covers over 800 square miles the Appalachian mountain range which spans across North Carolina and Tennessee.

While there, be sure you do not miss Cades Cove. Cades Cove is a broad valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are often seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. Touring the Cove can be as easy a Sunday drive on the 11-mile, one-way loop road that circles the cove. Motorist can sight-see at a leisurely pace, stopping at pull offs as they choose, to walk some of the trails, view wild-life, take in the scenery or walk through some of the old buildings. Scattered along the loop road you will find three churches, a working grist mill, barns, log houses, and many other restored eighteenth and nineteenth century structures. Pick up the self-guiding tour booklet available at the entrance to the loop road for information about the buildings you'll see in the cove and the people who lived there. I would advise you allow at two to four hours to tour the area, longer if you walk some of the area's trails. The loop road is only open to bicycle and foot traffic until 10:00 a.m. every Saturday and Wednesday morning from early May until late September. Otherwise the road is open to motor vehicles from sunrise until sunset daily, weather permitting.

Lodging --If you’re looking secluded and quiet lodging option when visiting, you may want to consider Blackberry Farm Inn. This luxury farm-style resort is about a 20-minute drive from the less crowded, western entrance of the park, The farm sits in the foothills of the world-famous mountains, so you know it has awesome views. The property itself has more than nine miles of trails and also offers guided hikes and other outdoor activities like fly fishing, horseback riding, and even paint-balling. Other amenities include a renowned fine-dining restaurant, spa, pool, and suite options.  If you would rather be a little closer to town, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is a great option, it recaptures the rustic elegance of from the era and combines it with the pristine beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Nestled in the majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains sitting on 26 forested mountain acres, Buckberry Lodge offers the perfect blend of beautiful landscapes and Iuxury accommodations. The Parks entrance is only 2 miles away.

Yellowstone National Park- Wyoming

The land of Fire and Ice

Yellowstone National Park Established in 1872 by the United States Congress “for the preservation of” its many wonders and “for the enjoyment of the people,” Yellowstone is a treasure that inspires awe in travelers from around the world. It is the site of America's greatest concentration of geysers and hot springs, boasting more geysers than anywhere else in the world. See the Yellowstone Lodging Post for hotel, cabins and camping.

Zion National Park - Utah

The name “Zion” means a place of peace and refuge. As a sanctuary with over 146,000 acres of cliffs, canyons, diverse plant and animal life, and uninterrupted beauty, Zion is well-named.

Explore the park’s canyon walls via its hiking trails, bike rentals, or the tram ride along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Your Travel Agent would be able to make arrangement for any activities you choose participate in. The beautiful Zion Lodge lies in the middle of a hiker’s paradise. With the lodge open year-round and offering special winter rates and packages, guests can easily experience Zion National Park. Accommodations include historic cabins with two double beds, full bath, and gas fireplace with private porch.

Lodging As the only in-park lodging, Zion Lodge is located in the middle of paradise. Enjoy a selection of comfortable and spacious accommodations, and have a gas-powered fireplaces, as temperatures can get cool at night. There is a year-round restaurant serving local favorites and a wide variety of ways to keep you entertained during your stay in Zion National Park.

Big Bend National Park - Texas

There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenacious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern sun, and diversity of species is the best in the country. The Big Bend is named for the vast curve of the Rio Grande in remote southwest Texas. It is a wildly beautiful natural region, with a complex and fascinating history. Over one million acres of public land including Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park offer hiking, camping, river running, horse riding, mountain bicycling, birding, jeep touring, and abundant sightseeing opportunities on paved and improved roads.

Lodging* When we visited in 2018 I wasn't sure what to expect. I was following my son down the road to lodging who was in his car along with his wife and kids. I will admit I got really rather nervous. When the road turned dirt my nervousness got worse. I had no cell service and was not sure where we were headed. Finally 16 miles later we pull up to Terlingua Ranch. I was still very leary. But, my nervousness soon disappeared and I was pleasantly surprised. The cabin was simple, two beds and a full bath, it was very clean and the restaurant on grounds was delicious. Wildlife was very present. One evening while sitting on the porch I noticed something (I couldn't tell at first what it was, but it wasn't a large animal) had walked up, sat down in the drive way behind our cars, and just stayed there. After a while I could tell it was a fox. We just sat watching him for the longest time. Finally he laid down and curled up. I tried to take pictures and a video, but was afraid to use a flash as I didn't want to scare him off, so the pictures didn't come out to well

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/624b02_6c5d13605fa6468a8abae5cbc7231693/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Maybe you can see the little guy, I was fascinated that he just laid there so close in proximity to us. The night sky was just beautiful as you could see every star in the sky for miles. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the place for you.

Scenic Drives:

Chisos Basin Road (6 miles)

A drive to the Chisos Basin is an excellent way to experience the transition between arid desert and cooler mountain habitats. The Chisos Basin has a visitor center, campground, lodge, restaurant, camp store, and access to miles of hiking trails. As this scenic, winding road rises over two thousand feet above the desert floor, it offers breath-taking vistas of the mountain peaks and the erosion-formed basin area. The road is not recommended for travel trailers or RVs due to its sharp curves and steep grades.

Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village (21 Miles)

The drive to Rio Grande Village traverses ancient limestone and has marvelous vistas across the river to the magnificent Sierra del Carmen escarpment. The 20 mile road, the road descends nearly two thousand feet. There are several worthwhile stops and highlights along the way. Dugout Wells has a desert nature trail and a shady oasis, nice for picnicking and bird-watching. A soak in the Historic Hot Springs is also a popular activity. The short hike into Boquillas Canyon leads to one of Big Bend's most scenic spots. The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail is an excellent birding location; it crosses a wetland spring with a viewing platform then gradually climbs to a promontory with excellent panoramic views.

Ross Maxwell (30 miles)

A trip along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive highlights the geologic splendor Big Bend is famous for, and offers many scenic overlooks and exhibits along the way. Sotol Vista, Mule Ears Overlook, and Tuff Canyon are all must-see stops. Castolon has a visitor center and camp store.

Continue the drive to the magnificent Santa Elena Canyon, where limestone cliffs rise 1,500' above the Rio Grande. A short trail leads into the canyon. Return by the same route, or take the gravel Old Maverick Road to the western entrance of the park. The Old Maverick Road is usually passable for most vehicles, but may be impassable after heavy rains. Check at a visitor center for current conditions.

Grand Tetons National Park - Wyoming

Few landscapes in the world are memorable or as awe inspiring as that of Grand Tetons National Park. This mountain range is truly a grand landmark in the northern parts of Wyoming. The Tetons are actually part of the Rock Mountains and this range constitutes a large part of the park. The other main feature is the immense valley known as Jackson Hole – this valley contains 5 lakes (Jackson Lake being the largest), the National Elk Refuge and Snake River. On the western side of the river, Tetons Park Road and the adjacent biking/hiking path meanders through the heart of the park to Jenny Lake and its visitor center. On Jenny Lake, you can take a scenic cruise, or take a water taxi across the crystal clear waters to the western shore: where you can take a short hike to Hidden Falls or Inspiration Point or you can try a more challenging ascent of the park’s highest peak (13,770-ft in elevation). The south-eastern are of the park hold the best opportunities for wildlife watching.

Badlands National Park -Wyoming

Located in southwestern South Dakota, Badlands National Park consists of 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires. It is desolation in its truest form.The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world. The Lakota gave this land its name, “Mako Sica,” meaning “land bad.” These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient mammals such as the rhino, horse, and saber-toothed cat once roamed here. The park has the world’s greatest fossil beds. The skeletons of ancient camels, three-toed horses, saber-toothed cats and giant rhinoceros-like creatures are among the many fossilized species have been found here. All fossils, rocks, plants and animals are protected and must remain where you find them. Prehistoric bones are still being uncovered today by park officials. Now days you can find wildlife such as bison, prong horn, mule deer, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. In 1994, the near-extinct Black-footed ferrets were reintroduced into the Badlands prairie. These nocturnal animals are rarely seen by the visiting public.

Lodging Cedar Pass Lodge

Set amidst the prairie at the base of South Dakota's Badland pinnacles, your stay at the Cedar Pass Lodge will be a pleasant one filled with the beautiful vistas that contribute to the wonderful setting that is Badlands National Park. Each cabin is furnished with heat/air conditioning, a coffee pot, and a bathroom. Cedar Pass Lodge is a must stop when en-route through South Dakota's Badlands.  

Badlands Inn

Badlands Inn is in close proximity of the Badlands National Park.

The Badlands Inn is open mid-May through mid-October. Each of the twenty rooms provides an unobstructed view of the Badlands. A complimentary continental breakfast will make your stay in this one of a kind Badlands Inn. The Badlands Inn is ideally located a short mile from the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and Cedar Pass Lodge and Restaurant.

Rocky Mountain National Park-- Colorado

The Rocky Mountains are one of the most well-known mountain ranges in the USA and attracts visitors from all over the world. This park was established in 1915 and has since been designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Located near Estes Park Colorado, the park consists of a series of immense mountains and deep valleys and even several glaciers such. Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year! Enjoy the magnificent sites as you drive, hike, bike or take the public transportation. Trail Ridge Road does not open until at least Memorial Day Weekend, but there are many amazing areas open year round in the park. Cross-country skiing is incredible with so many trails to choose from, and if it's snow sledding or tubing your looking for, head to Heavenly Valley. Stop at one of the visitor centers as you enter the park to find out what areas are open and it is always best to call ahead for weather and road conditions. Wildlife within the park includes Elk, Wolverines, Grizzly Bears, Bison and Bobcats to name a few.

Lodging Unlike some national parks, there are no overnight accommodations in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many lodging options in the nearby communities of Grand Lake and Estes Park.

Everglades National Park – Florida

If you’re planning on spending your vacation in South Florida, then you have to stop by Everglades National Park. Congress established the Everglades as a National Park in 1934. The Everglades spans 1.5 million acres and can be quite intimidating, but the park is just as equally fascinating. There are several ways you can explore the park– from hiking and camping, to land tours by tram and water tours by air-boat. You can even rent a bike or kayak to see this subtropical paradise. if you choose to go at it on your own. At least one million people from all over the world visit the Everglades each year. There are three main entry points: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is closest to Naples and south of Everglades city; the Shark Valley area that can be accessed by US 41 (also known as the Tamiami Trail); and the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, the park’s main headquarters.

Lodging there is no lodging in the park, but there are several places locations near entrances to the park.

“Here are no lofty peaks seeking the sky, no mighty glaciers or rushing streams wearing away the uplifted land. Here is land, tranquil in its quiet beauty, serving not as the source of water, but as the last receiver of it.”  — President Harry Truman 

Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

Grand Canyon was designated as a National Park in 1919. The Grand Canyon National Park is home to much of the immense Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history. Viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower. Lipan Point, with wide views of the canyon and Colorado River, is a popular viewing point, especially at sunrise and sunset.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was forged by the Colorado River carving through this portion of Arizona. There is not a bad spot in the area to take epic photos.

Lodging

Bright Angel Lodge

Bright Angel has 90 lodging units ranging from cozy historic units with shared bathrooms to standard lodge rooms and historic cabins to the one of a kind “Buckey O’Neill Cabin”. Accommodations range from rustic cabins (with in-room Keurig coffee maker, satellite TV, and private bath) to lodge rooms (with no television and a shared bath). All rooms are equipped with telephone and refrigerator. Most rooms generally have only one bed.

Maswik North rooms are located in 12, two-story buildings. The guest rooms are accessed from outside walkways and stairwells (there are no elevators). Rooms feature in-room Keurig coffee maker, refrigerator, air conditioning, safe, satellite TV, telephone, hair dryer and two queen-sized beds or one king-sized bed. Rollaway beds are available by request, on a first-come, first-served basis (additional fee applies).

"The Grand Canyon is, the one great sight which every American should see”. -President Teddy Roosevelt

Denali National Park --Alaska

Denali National Park and Preserve was designated a National Park in 1917. The park encompasses 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior wilderness. It is bisected by one road, Called "the Park Road", it is 92 miles long and runs from east to west. It is a scenic road made mostly of dirt and gravel. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains, culminating in North America's tallest peak, 20,310' Denali. Its centerpiece is 20,310-ft. high Denali (fka Mount McKinley), North America’s tallest peak. With terrain of tundra, spruce forest and glaciers, the park is home to wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou and Dall sheep. Popular activities in summer include biking, backpacking and hiking. Summer Touring begins in mid to late May. Private vehicles can only go 15 miles on the "Park Road" to a place named Savage River. Bus Tours are offered and they begin at Parks entrance. The tours are a great way to see the beautiful scenery and wildlife.

The aurora is an awesome and breath-taking site to behold. If you're wanting to see the Northern lights its best to plan a trip beginning in the second week of August, the night sky is dark enough to potentially allow views of the aurora. The amount of darkness increases each night, as Denali turns farther and farther away from the sun.

“To the lover of wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.” – John Muir