With summer just around the corner, you must have thought of spending a day or two at a National Park, a popular summer ritual for people all over the world.
The desire for a memorable escapade surfaces as the days stretch longer and temperatures soar. Visiting National Parks is one of the best ways to embrace the warmth of the weather and indulge in nature’s cooling splendor.
Whether you prefer being surrounded by wildlife or crave some adventure in your everyday life, National Parks have something to offer to people with varied interests and goals. Keep reading to discover which National Park you should visit next!
8 Best U.S National Parks to Visit in Summer
We have compiled a list of the eight best National Parks to visit in the U.S. Whether you are a citizen or are traveling to the country, consider adding them to your list of must-visit destinations for this summer season.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Almost a century ago, this National Park was home to 150 glaciers. Experts speculate that by 2030, all the remaining snow may also melt.
Therefore, now is your chance to visit Glacier National Park, as its beauty is best realized in the warmer months. The most popular route, “Going to the Sun Road”, is closed in winter. It opens for tourists around the middle of July.
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking enthusiasts (more than 700 miles of trails) and other popular tourist attractions such as waterfalls, lakes, wildflowers, and birds for nature enthusiasts.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
You must have already come across enticing images of this park online, right? Well, now is your chance to grab a ticket and see it for yourself!
This massive National Park hosts the majority of its visitors in the hotter months. Summer makes rafting on the Colorado River feel more adventurous and enjoyable. This is because the water released by the Glen Canyon Dam reaches its peak during the months of July and August.
The magnificent North Rim is also accessible to visitors during Summer. You can look forward to a fun-filled day full of exciting activities such as helicopter rides, movies, and various fast food chains. The North Rim is additionally 1000 feet higher than the South Rim, which makes it relatively cooler.
3. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska
This National Park, stretched over four million acres, is only accessible through a helicopter or a float plane, as no roads lead up to it. Buckle up to explore the home of the Dena’ina people and bears!
It is suggested that you spend a few days in this National Park to truly grasp the magnitude of its beauty and splendor. You can rent historic public-use cabins located in Lake Clark.
It is a perfect place to participate in activities like hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping, not to mention the highlight of the Park itself, the amusing Lake Clark.
4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming and Montana
Yellowstone National Park holds the title of America’s first national park. You are advised to experience it at its prime in Summer when all the wildflowers burst into the most exquisite and breathtaking bloom.
Besides its lush forests, alpine rivers, and mesmerizing canyons, Yellowstone National Park houses exquisite and awe-inspiring geothermal wonders and attractions, including bubbling mud pots, geysers, and fumaroles.
Other activities include hiking, boating, horseriding, fishing, and daily range-led tours. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary and wild, book your next trip here!
5. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Here is an interesting piece of information: Crater Lake started to form 77,000 years ago. Additionally, it is not only America’s deepest lake, but is also situated inside the caldera of a volcano!
You are free to map this Park on foot or by bicycle, which is usually preferred. Additionally, visitors are facilitated to go around by self-driven vehicles and captained boats. Summer is the perfect time to visit this Park, as it is when the snow recedes and the “Scenic Rim Drive” is accessible to tourists.
Visitors are advised to spend a night at the Crater Lake Lodge and take the ranger-led boat ride during the day to immerse in the experience provided by this glorious park fully.
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
This National Park offers a dazzling and breathtaking view of a thirty-square-mile dune field that transports you to an Arabian desert. To maximize the effect and beauty of the place, visit at night during a full moon!
The park has much more to offer besides sandboarding and sledding. You can hike along the Alpine Trail, counter heat in water, and visit grasslands that house animals such as pronghorn and elk.
7. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
This Massive site houses more than 30 lakes and 900 Islands. Impressive right? It is the perfect place to visit in the summer season, with experiences ranging to suit each individual’s varied interests, from birdwatching to fishing, hiking, and paddling.
Over the years, 240 species of birds have been proven to be present in this National Park. The night experience is amplified by millions of stars in the pristine, clear sky, providing a breathtaking opportunity for stargazing.
You are advised to cruise rather than paddle. The Rainy Lake Recreation trail promises a scenic and entrancing 1.75-mile trail. If luck is on your side, you may spot a white-tailed deer or a moose along the way!
8. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
This picturesque park is divided into three areas: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the lesser-known Elkhorn Ranch.
Cottonwood Campground, located in the Park’s South unit, offers a spectacular view of mountains. The mountains look as if hues of brown, red, and deep gray have tainted them. The Park is relatively peaceful and offers plenty of time for reflection and meditation in the backdrop of an alluring landscape.
Keep in mind that the roads are uneven and only support four-wheel vehicles. The area doesn't have telephone service. Yet, it is spectacular and worth visiting, especially during the summer season.
What Do You Need to Prepare for National Park Activities?
Visiting National Parks during the Summer is fun and exciting. Yet, a perfectly planned day can be ruined if you fail to prepare well beforehand. Therefore, we have compiled a few tips and resources to help you have the best summer trip yet!
1. Select the Right Park
Choosing the best Park according to your wants and expectations is the first step to truly savor every moment of your visit. Refer to the list provided above to determine which National park fits your best interests.
Make a list of activities you would like to indulge in. You may be looking forward to fishing, hiking, or birdwatching. After compiling the list, begin your research and pick your destination accordingly.
2. Research
You must research and learn about the rules and regulations specific to the National Park you are planning to visit. This is a crucial step to avoid any inconvenience later.
Secondly, you must have a rough idea of how to get around the park and which transportation options best suit your needs. Some Parks are best visited on foot, by boats, or by self-driven vehicles.
3. Early Reservation
If you wish to stay at the Park’s lodging, you are advised to make your reservations early to avoid hassle. If the reservations have already been made, keep checking regularly for any possible cancellations.
4. Comfortable Clothing
Wear comfortable materials and shoes, especially if you have planned your trip around the warmer months. Breathable and loose fabrics are mostly preferred.
You might want to bring a hat as an accessory to avoid severe heat and protect your skin against the harsh rays of the sun.
5. Don't Forget the Essentials
Umbrellas, Sunscreen, allergy medicines, bandages, water bottles, day packs, flashlights, and maps are some key essentials that you are expected to carry around for ease.
Bring extra clothing if you intend to stay for an entire day or night. Consider bringing along snacks and drinks to keep yourself satiated during long trails.
6. Appropriate Gear
Apart from the items mentioned above, you must make sure to bring appropriate gear for your trip. This might include a first-aid kit, a GPS device, or a smartphone.
Investing in a portable power bank to keep your phone fully charged is equally important. Your battery will run out in a few hours as you'll have to use your phone to keep in touch with your tour group/friends and take pictures.
Check out the best portable power stations to buy for your next trip to the National Park of choice.
Therefore, we have an excellent product recommendation to save you the hassle of looking through different Power Station options.
BLUETTI AC60 Portable Power Station
The BLUETTI AC60 Portable Power Station is your perfect and reliable companion for anywhere you go, especially your next visit to the National Park.
Key Features:
Warranty: BLUETTI offers a six-year long warranty period for any defect and malfunction you might experience while using the power bank.
Dust and Water Resistant: The product has been tested rigorously to meet the IP65 criteria. Hence, the product ensures durability and can be used in National Parks, which mostly involve outdoor activities, without risk.
Capacity: The product offers different models with varying capacities that are suited to your personal needs. For instance, the AP60 model’s capacity can be extended to 2,015 WH from 403WH.
Charging: Turbo Charging Technology enables the Power Bank to charge 100% in just one hour. It is suitable for situations where power might not be readily available, like National Parks.
Click to learn more about the best Portable Power Stations for Outdoor Sports.
Enjoy Your Summer Vacation
The most important part is to savor and cherish each moment of your precious time off work. National Parks are some of the most exciting escapades, as they allow you to experience the best of both worlds in one space, ranging from wildlife, food, animals, and physical sport.
The diverse landscapes combine history, culture, and nature to provide an exquisite environment that caters to each individual’s desires and hobbies. Get ready to immerse in an experience that will make your summer truly fascinating and worth remembering!
