Article Overview: Best Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

If you love Utah’s parks but hate the crowds then let me tell you about all the amazing things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. Let’s start with the simple fact that Capitol Reef saw 3.5 million less visitors than Zion National Park last year.

If you’re digging that, then allow me to continue by saying Capitol Reef is also nearly double the size of every other Utah National Park except Canyonlands.

In sum, Capitol Reef is larger than most of the other Utah parks and there are way less crowds here. That means lots of epic adventures to be had and incredible things to do in Capitol Reef National Park with just you and the park. Not tantalizing enough? How’s this –

Situated in the heart of Utah’s southern desert, Capitol Reef National Park is home to some of earth’s most breathtaking geological wonders including massive natural arches, deep sandstone canyons, towering rock pillars, and the dazzling monoliths of Cathedral Valley.

Shall we get started?

Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

About Our Travels to Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef has been my favorite Utah National Park long before the crowds overran places like Zion and Bryce Canyon. Ever since my first trip here when I was fresh out of high school I have felt at peace in this epic place.

The landscape is totally different from the other Utah national parks in an amazing way. The park got its name from frustrated travelers who likened it to coral reefs that impede ships from passing through.

From the overlooks in this park you can get otherworldly vistas that seem like something right out of star wars. I’ve been back many times since my first trip here.

This past year we worked with the Utah Office of Tourism to create a visually stunning film on the park that is launching soon and will be added to this article!

Things to Know Before You Visit Capitol Reef National Park

Entrance Fees

$30 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months I suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee.

Sunscreen

Use it. Lots of it. Especially this one which I never leave the house without because it plays nice with our dear friend, earth

Windbreaker

I usually pack a light windbreaker when visiting Capitol Reef as the high desert can get cold at night despite being hot during the day.

Gas

There are fuel options in Torrey right outside of the park so fueling up at Capitol Reef National Park is not as much of a concern.

The Best Guide Book

This is the guide book I like best for Capitol Reef National Park.

The Best Map

I like this map best for Capitol Reef National Park.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Capitol Reef National Park is during the fall to see all of the cottonwood trees turn a vibrant yellow. If you can’t make it during Autumn, try Spring as a second best time. Summer is extremely hot in Capitol Reef and in Winter is surprisingly cold (and snowy).

Restaurants & Food

Food options are limited but solid in the Capitol Reef area with the charming town of Torrey, Utah located just outside of the park. My personal favorite is the Wild Rabbit Cafe which has delicious sandwiches and great coffee.

While here be sure to stop at Shooke Coffee next door. Their african beans make some of the best coffee I’ve ever had (which they serve at Wild Rabbit).

How much time do you need in Capitol Reef National Park?

The short answer is you need at least 1 day in Capitol Reef National Park. In that day hike the Hickman Bridge Trail, the Grand Wash Trail, drive the Scenic Road across the Slickrock Divide, see the Petroglyphs, and visit the Fruita area.

Personally, I recommend 2 days with one day spent in the Cathedral Valley area and one day in the Fruita area.

Top 25 Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

25. See The Castle

Starting off our list of the best things to do in Capitol Reef National Park is an easy check box item. The Castle is a prominent rock feature located near the main visitor center. It’s tough to miss if you’re looking for it!

Some of the most beautiful photos of Capitol Reef national park (especially in Autumn) feature this prominent feature framed with the Fremont River.

I recommend parking at the visitor center and walking across the street to give it a look!

24. Explore Behunin Cabin

Add this one as an easy quick stop on your list of of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. Behunin Cabin was once occupied by some of the areas early settlers, Tabitha Jane and Elijah Cutler Behunin.

While they only lived in the cabin for one year (in 1883) the Behunin Cabin still remains today and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Behunins only stayed here a year for many reasons that can be summed up by saying simply, it’s not such an easy spot to live.

23. Stargazing

If you’re love to gaze up at the heavens then add stargazing to your list of things to do at Capitol Reef National Park. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2015, Capitol Reef is one of the best places to stargaze in the United States (of the contiguous 48 anyway).

A great place to see and photography the milky way during summer is from Notom Bullfrog Road where you’ll get minimal light pollution and maximum dark skies.

22. Find the Lesley Morrell Line Cabin

I had long seen photos of this cabin but must say finding it was a bit tricky. If doing a little bit of old fashion exploring is up your alley then add finding the Lesley Morrell Line Cabin to your list.

Located in the Cathedral Valley, the cabin is tucked away from the road quite a bit which added to it’s mystery.

The cabin is beautiful represents some of the best preserved ranching resources located within Capitol Reef National Park. The craftsmanship on this structure is impressive even today.

If you’re looking to find this cabin yourself then start at this pin and follow the wash all the way to the cabin (less than half a mile).

21. See the Fruita Schoolhouse

History buffs add this one to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. The Fruita Schoolhouse is one of the coolest historical landmarks located within the park.

Situated within the Fruita District, not too far from the visitor center, the school house has great interpretive displays which really set the scene for how this was used back in the day. The displays are electronic and feature buttons which, when pressed, play audio narration from one of the schoolhouse teacher describing her experience at Fruita.

Top 20 Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

20. Horseback Riding

If you’re looking for a true western experience then add horseback riding to your list of things to do at Capitol Reef National Park. Now technically there is no horseback riding within the park itself but just outside the main park entrance (Torrey) there’s horseback riding on the Fishlake National Forest.

We went with Wilderness Ridge Adventures and did the one hour ride which we felt like was sufficient to see the sights.

19. Brave the Burr Trail Switchbacks

I have to admit the first several times I visited Capitol Reef National Park I didn’t even know this side of the park existed. Let me tell you, I was missing out. The Strike Valley may be one of the least visited sections of Capitol Reef National Park but it is breathtaking.

It seems to me like folks are keeping secrets here. One of the most notable features in the Strike Valley (among many) is the Burr Trail Switchbacks which is a gnarly road (4WD or AWD) that switches back again and again taking you out of the valley itself.

From the top the views are pretty spectacular. Add this to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park if you’re into some wild roads.

18. Drive the Notom Bullfrog Road

Speaking of roads, the Notom Bullfrog Road is the one that takes you out to the Strike Valley and a great addition to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park.

Starting in the “main” part of the park this road heads south into the heart of the waterpocket fold and gives you the best views of the fold’s geology.

Along the way make sure to stop off and check out some of the cool sites. Apparently there’s some fossilized oyster beds just off the road that I missed last time as I was trying to outrun a storm.

NOTE: If there’s rain in the forecast you can scratch this one off your list. Even seemingly small amounts of rain can wash out this road to the point of making it impassible.

17. Explore Upper Muley Twist Canyon

I’ll tell you what, if you’re into hair-raising drives then add Upper Muley Twist Canyon to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park.

I let my brother take the wheel while I filmed it and there were some really close scrapes (but no actual scrapes). This road is a 4WD road that should not be attempted during any inclement weather. You can also do the smart thing and choose to hike it.

Just off the road you can see several natural arches, many of which you can hike or scramble up to.

The reason we wanted to drive it was to get a head start on the trailhead to the next item on our list.

16. Admire the Views at Strike Valley Overlook

Strike Valley Overlook is hands down the most impressive overlook in Capitol Reef National Park. The views from here are truly awe-inspiring and mesmerizing in a way that few are (views of the Grand Canyon & Black Canyon of the Gunnison come to mind).

From the overlook you can see the full might of the geological forces at work in the waterpocket fold.

Getting to the overlook is relatively easy if you drive the road requiring a mile or so hike each way following cairns.

Top 15 Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

15. See the Great Slickrock Divide

Slickrock Divide is an epic and often overlooked viewpoint that should be on every photographers list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park.

The divide itself separates the way water flows in the park with the northern runoff spilling into the Grand Wash and the southern runoff spilling into the Capitol Gorge. The effect of water is very apparent throughout the park but few places show it in such a grand fashion as the Slickrock Divide.

Note: This spot is very easy to overlook and pass by so keep a close eye. I blazed right by it my first time to the park and barely noticed it on my second trip. The small turnout is located on the park’s Scenic Drive and is marked by an easily missed road sign.

14. Soak in the Views at Panorama Point

Panorama Point is one of the best places to catch a sunset and an easy addition to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park.

Personally, I prefer the aptly named Sunset Point for sunset (see below) but this is still a great spot that requires less of a hike to get to.

To get to Panorama Point simply follow the signs from Highway 24 inside the park. There will be a turn off onto Goosenecks Road you need to take and then it’s a quick left turn into the Panorama Point parking lot.

Getting to the Point itself requires just a .3 mile hike after parking your car.

13. View the Pioneer Register

For history buffs out there, seeing the pioneer register is something you’ll want to add to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. I like to call this site an example of protected graffiti. If you deface a rock face like these folks did back then in modern times you get in trouble for it, and rightly so.

The names carved on to the rock face at the pioneer register give an interesting historical picture of the sorts of folks who lived in and passed through the area at the time. The earliest inscription I was able to find on the register was from 1871.

Please note that this site is protected now and it is a federal offense to mark or deface the register in any way.

12. Hike the Cohab Canyon Trail

For folks who love a good hike with some solid elevation gain hiking the Cohab Canyon Trail should be added to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. There are two ways to hike the trail as it can be done as a point to point or out and back.

For most folks, the out and back is the best option unless you have a way of being picked up at the opposite end of where you start. If you’re doing the round trip then I recommend starting at the end point off of the Scenic Drive near Fruita Barn.

This takes you up a series of switchbacks to start which means you go back down them on your way back. When you get toward the end of the trail you’ll start to descend down toward highway 24.

I recommend looping it back when the trail starts to descend toward the highway so you don’t have to hike up that portion again.

The entire trail is about 1.7 miles each way according to the NPS and should take about 2 hours or so to complete.

11. See the Petroglyphs

If you’re a sucker for petroglyphs (*raises hand*) then adding these to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park is an absolute must.

I had actually seen photos of these petroglyphs prior to my visit to the park as they are relatively famous to us petroglyph nerds out there so seeing them in person was especially cool.

The Capitol Reef petroglyphs date back to between 600 – 1300 AD and were left by the Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan people who inhabited this region.

They appear to depict a variety of things like hunting activities, stories, and mythologies of the time.

Getting to these petroglyphs is very easy and wheelchair accessible. Located just off of highway 24 near the Fruita Barn, the turnout for the petroglyphs is hard to miss.

Once parked, a short .15 mile boardwalk leads visitors to the viewpoint where the petroglyphs can be seen from about 50 yards away.

Note: I recommend bringing a pair of binoculars or a telephoto lens to see them well.

Top 10 Capitol Reef National Park Activities

10. Explore the Capitol Gorge

The Capitol Gorge is a deep and beautiful canyon located within the Waterpocket Fold that holds many of the best things to see and do in Capitol Reef National Park.

For starters, the hike through the Capitol Gorge is one of the most beautiful in the park as it leads you through the massive canyon similar to Zion but with a greater variety of colors.

Located within the Capitol Gorge itself are the Pioneer Register, Golden Throne Trailhead, and Water Tanks.

Getting to the Capitol Gorge is very straightforward and the drive one of the most scenic in the park. To get to the Capitol Gorge simply follow the park’s Scenic Drive to the end, then turn left and you’re in.

Follow the road to the end and you’ll find a parking area and trailhead for the Capitol Gorge hike.

9. Admire Pectols Pyramid

One can’t help but to notice this iconic landmark when visiting Capitol Reef National Park and wonder “what is that?” The answer is Pectols Pyramid – more specifically it’s a roughly 180 million year old natural monument comprised of Navajo sandstone.

I decided getting a great photo of Pectols Pyramid was something I wanted to add to my list of things to do in Capitol Reef and believe I finally did.

If you’re looking to snag a photo like the one I’ve got here or simply get the best view of this impressive landmark then I recommend hiking up the Hickman Bridge Trail (more on that below) about a quarter mile or so.

From here the view of the Pectols Pyramid is the best you’ll find in Capitol Reef. If you think you’ve found a superior one then drop me a comment below!

8. Catch a sunset at Sunset Point

If you’re looking for to add a great sunset to your list of things to do in Capitol Reef then look no further than the aptly named Sunset Point. It’s not always that these points are perfectly named, I must say.

A quick example of this is Sunrise Point in Bryce Canyon. Nice sunrise? Yeah. The best in the park? Certainly not. That title goes to Inspiration Point.

Back to Sunset Point. This is a really nice spot that I almost didn’t make it to on my last trip to Capitol Reef National Park. I was running a bit behind when I reached the trailhead where there is a viewpoint of the Goosenecks (more on that below).

I decided to risk it and dash to the .3 miles to Sunset Point not knowing if the light would still be there. It was and so were some rather foolish folks who lowered themselves down onto the point featured in the image below for a thrill. Do not attempt to do that as they almost lost their lives in the process.

7. See the panoramas from Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook

Upper Cathedral Valley has long been on my list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. I finally made it out here last year and was not disappointed.

Folks visiting Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook should know that a high-clearance vehicle is required to get here. Going beyond the overlook and into the valley itself should not be attempted without a 4 wheel drive vehicle.

The viewpoint itself looks out into the stunning landscape of Cathedral Valley where the famous Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon are located (more on that below).

I recommend this overlook for sunrise although I’m sure sunsets here would be beautiful as well.

Getting to Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook requires a 90 minute drive from the Fruita area of Capitol Reef through Torrey and parts of the Fishlake National Forest (also worth a visit while you’re in the area). I’ve pinned the exact location where this photo was taken.

Related: The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip

6. Watch the sunset at Fruita Barn

For photographers out there, getting *the shot* of the Fruita Barn is near the top of the list of things to do in Capitol Reef National Park. The picturesque setting of this barn hearkens back to a time long past and makes for beautiful photos. It’s the Moulton Barn of Capitol Reef.

The best time to photograph the Barn is about 30 minutes to an hour before sunset when there is still light on the cliff face behind the barn.

I missed this time my first night in the park the last time I visited but was ready the second time around.

There is a small parking lot just off the frame in the photo below on the right hand side withing 200 feet of the barn.

Top 5 Best Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

5. Hike through the Grand Wash

The Grand Wash is similar to Capitol Gorge but if you can only add one to your things to do in Capitol Reef National Park list then I recommend Grand Wash.

The reason for this is the canyon is just breathtaking with the narrows section reminiscent of the Zion Narrows just with less water and a tiny fraction of the humans. The canyon walls in the Grand Wash are impossibly tall and make you feel like you’re living out a scene from an Indiana Jones movie.

The hike is 6.25 miles round trip or can be done as a point to point with termini at Hwy 24 & Scenic Drive.

Also of note is the Cassidy Arch Trailhead (more on that below) which is located in the Grand Wash close to the Scenic Drive side.

4. See the Twisted Overlook at the Goosenecks

I must admit I didn’t know what to expect when I first visited the Goosenecks in Capitol Reef but was really surprised by the scale and grandeur of the scenery. Photos cannot do this impressive landscape justice which is one of the reasons I ranked it so high on my list of things to do in Capitol Reef.

Getting to the Goosenecks Overlook is easy as you can park within a very short walk of the overlook itself. I recommend walking around the overlook area a bit to see the different vantages that are available here but don’t get too close to the edge!

3. Experience Lower Cathedral Valley

This was at the very top of my things to do in Capitol Reef list for many, many years. Finally, last year, I was able to make it out to the famed Cathedral Valley and my oh my was the scenery stunning.

Some parts of the trek out there were unexpected, however. Like the drive out there which we performed at night (do not recommend).

In retrospect, I recommend driving from the top down and back up the same way, which means starting your drive on the Torrey side and Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook before descending into the valley itself.

We, of course, attempted it in reverse, and despite driving a new 4WD Chevy Tahoe, nearly got stuck in the *DEEP* sand drifts multiple times.

In wet conditions this is not a drive I would recommend as it is almost sure that you’d get stuck.

NOTE: From the Fruita Barn to Temple of the Sun takes about 2.5 hours so plan accordingly.

Visiting Temple of the Sun & Temple of the Moon

The main attractions in Cathedral Valley are the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Moon. The more spectacular one, in my opinion is the Temple of the Sun.

In the caption of the photo below I’ve indicated which is which.

Sunrise is the best time to photograph these impressive monuments as the colors that hit them are really beautiful. Sunset can be good as well but not nearly as beautiful as sunrise.

2. Hike to Hickman Bridge

Of all things to do at Capitol Reef National Park, only one hike surprised me more than Hickman Bridge (keep scrolling for that one).

I had not seen many photos of the bridge itself prior to making the trek and was blown away by the grandeur of this bridge. It’s massive!

Hickman Bridge is 125 feet tall and spans 133 feet across. In person it’s a site to behold.

Getting to Hickman Bridge requires a nearly 2 mile round trip hike with just 400 feet of elevation gain.

The views from the bridge and the trail leading to it are impressive as well given the relatively high vantage point of the rest of the park.

1. Hike the Cassidy Arch Trail

My personal favorite thing to do in Capitol Reef National Park is hiking the Cassidy Arch Trail. Now, did I get lost, take quite a tumble, and smash up my foot pretty badly the last time I did this hike? Maybe.

But even still, the hike is so worthwhile.

A note of caution: There is a “lower hike” that is now closed but not marked the best. When I hiked this trail last year I did not realize this and ended up hiking this closed portion which ended up being *very* dangerous. If you’re on this trail and think you might have gone the wrong way then odds are you have.

This was not the only time I got turned around on this trail so when signs do appear read them carefully and really pay attention to the arrows which are not always easy to translate.

All that aside the Cassidy Arch is spectacular and the trail is even quite scenic, perhaps especially so if you get lost. The last portion of the hike across the exposed rock is most folks favorite part.

One cool thing about Cassidy Arch is that you can walk across it! It looks somewhat intimidating from afar but it’s actually quite wide once you’re on it. Add that one to your Capitol Reef things to do list.

When we visited the arch last year we were taking a time lapse and admiring it when a woman (we later found out it was her birthday) proceeded to walk out onto the arch itself and strip naked! Maybe this hike should be rated PG-13?

The Capitol Reef National Park Video

The long standing partnership between More Than Just Parks & Utah Office of Tourism has resulted in a series of award-winning short films on Utah’s breathtaking natural treasures, the latest of which has just launched. The partnership was established to highlight Utah’s unique public lands and provide visitors with new ways to explore these landscapes responsibly. 

This latest installment featuring Capitol Reef National Park was done not only to showcase the unsung beauty and recreational opportunities that exist in the park but to underscore the importance of protecting Utah’s wild places so they can stay Forever Mighty®.

Situated in the heart of Utah’s southern desert, Capitol Reef National Park is home to some of earth’s most breathtaking geological wonders including massive natural arches, deep sandstone canyons, towering rock pillars, and the dazzling monoliths of Cathedral Valley. Journey with More Than Just Parks as we take you to a fascinating land dotted with geographic marvels and teeming with endless adventure.

For the creation of this film we spent a couple of weeks inside Capitol Reef National Park filming all of the park’s top highlights. Throughout the production we produced more than 25,000 images and several terabytes worth of footage.

Map of Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

Where to Stay at Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef happens to be one of those blessed national parks located right next to a charming little town, in this case we’re talking about Torrey, Utah.

Here’s our favorite place to stay near Capitol Reef National Park!

Camping at Capitol Reef National Park

There is also a single campground located within the park, Fruita Campground. Fruita campground has 71 sites available for $25 / night. Sadly the campground is 100% reservation based which I feel is wrong. In my opinion, at least a small portion should always be kept available on a first come – first served basis.

You can book reservations in advance through recreation.gov.

Summary of Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park

1. Cassidy Arch
2. Hickman Bridge
3. Lower Cathedral Valley
4. Goosenecks
5. Grand Wash
6. Fruita Barn
7. Upper Cathedral Valley
8. Sunset Point
9. Pectols Pyramid
10. Capitol Gorge
11. Petroglyphs
12. Cohab Canyon
13. Pioneer Register
14. Panorama Point
15. Slickrock Divide
16. Strike Valley Overlook
17. Upper Muley Twist Canyon
18. Notom Bullfrog Road
19. Burr Trail Switchbacks
20. Gifford House Museum
21. Horseback Riding
22. Lesley Morrell Line Cabin
23. Stargazing
24. Behunin Cabin
25. The Castle

Pin Things to Do at Capitol Reef National Park

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The post 25 AMAZING Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park (+ Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Overview: List of National Parks by State, National Parks Map

The National Parks are one of America’s greatest treasures, best exports, and most incredible success stories. They are home to a wide diversity of special landscapes that have been set aside for all time by the United States. In this article we’ve compiled a complete US national parks list including the names of all 63 national parks.

You’ll also find free printable national park lists, national park checklists, national park maps, and more. For each national park on the list we’ve included basic information including its location, date established, size, up to date visitation statistics, and a few of the best things to do.

Beyond that we’ve included links to helpful articles for each of the listed national parks which include things like guides, maps, best hikes, places to stay, guidebooks, things to do, and more.

What Are National Parks?

The mission of the National Park Service is to “preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations”.

Essentially this means that national parks should look the same 100 years from now as they do today. To that end, activities that would alter national parks in any way (mining, drilling, logging, etc) are prohibited.

Compare this to national forests for example where logging is permitted, hunting is allowed, oil can be drilled, etc. because national forests are managed under a technical rule called “multiple use”. That’s just a fancy way of saying they are managed for both preservation purposes (like the national parks) AND resource purposes.

For the sake of this national parks list, I will only be including the 63 national parks to make things simple. Chances are good that if you’re planning a national parks road trip with friends these are the places you’re most likely to go.

How Many National Parks Are There in the US?

What a lot of people don’t know is that there are actually 423 national park sites (or national park units) in the US which sounds like a lot. Here’s where things gets tricky.

That 423 number encompasses a plethora of important sites like national preserves, national monuments, national historic sites, and national memorials to name a few, but not all of these sites are technically national parks.

So, at the end of the day, there are only 63 official national parks in the US. Maybe we’ll get another soon! On this national parks list only the 63 official national parks will be included.

National Parks List: Quicklinks

Newest National Park | Oldest National Park | Largest National Park | Smallest National Park | Most Visited | Least Visited | Alphabetical National Parks List | All 63 National Parks | By State | Download

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Maps of the National Parks

Printable Checklist of the National Parks

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Download this checklist map here: Printable National Parks Checklist Map

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List of US National Parks (Alphabetical)

Click for National Parks by State instead

1. Acadia National Park

Location: Maine
Established: February 26, 1919
Size: 49,071.40 acres
Visitation: 4,069,098 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Hikes / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts / Things to Do / Summer / Winter
Things To Do: The Bowl Trail, Precipice Trail, Bass Harbor Lighthouse
*Reservations required

READ: Best East Coast National Parks

2. National Park of American Samoa

Location: American Samoa
Established: October 31, 1988
Size: 8,256.67 acres
Visitation: 8,495 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts
Things To Do: Mount ‘Alava Trail, Pola Island Trail

3. Arches National Park

Location: Utah
Established: November 12, 1971
Size: 76,678.98 acres
Visitation: 1,806,865 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Hikes / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Facts / Road Trip
Things To Do: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, Tower Arch
*Reservations required

4. Badlands National Park

Location: South Dakota
Established: November 10, 1978
Size: 242,755.94 acres
Visitation: 1,224,226 (2021)
Resources: Map / Guidebook / Guide / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Notch Trail, Bison Viewing, Castle Trail

5. Big Bend National Park

Location: Texas
Established: June 12, 1944
Size: 801,163.21 acres
Visitation: 581,220 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Facts | Things to Do | Hikes
Things To Do: Saint Elena Canyon, Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail

6. Biscayne National Park

Location: Florida
Established: June 28, 1980
Size: 172,971.11 acres
Visitation: 705,665 (2021)
Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Boating, Snorkeling, Scuba

7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: October 21, 1999
Size: 30,779.83 acres
Visitation: 308,910 (2021)
Resources: Things to Do | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Rim Rock Trail, South Rim Road, Fishing

8. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah
Established: February 25, 1928
Size: 35,835.08 acres
Visitation: 2,104,600 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Road Trip | Where to Stay | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Wall Street, Navajo Loop Trail, Inspiration Point

9. Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah
Established: September 12, 1964
Size: 337,597.83 acres
Visitation: 911,594 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Hikes | Road Trip | Facts
Things To Do: Upheaval Dome, Green River Overlook, Mesa Arch

10. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Utah
Established: December 18, 1971
Size: 241,904.50 acres
Visitation: 1,405,353 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Facts / Road Trip
Things To Do: Cassidy Arch, Hickman Bridge, Capitol Gorge

11. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Location: New Mexico
Established: May 14, 1930
Size: 46,766.45 acres
Visitation: 349,244 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Cave Tours, Natural Entrance Hike, Bat Viewing

12. Channel Islands National Park

Location: California
Established: March 5, 1980
Size: 249,561.00 acres
Visitation: 319,252 (2021)
Resources: Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Inspiration Point, Ferry Tour, Anacapa Island

13. Congaree National Park

Location: South Carolina
Established: November 10, 2003
Size: 26,692.60 acres
Visitation: 215,181 (2021)
Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Congaree River Blue Trail, Bluff Trail, Birding

14. Crater Lake National Park

Location: Oregon
Established: May 22, 1902
Size: 183,224.05 acres
Visitation: 647,751 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Rim Drive, Wizard Island Ferry, Watchman Peak

15. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Location: Ohio
Established: October 11, 2000
Size: 32,571.88 acres
Visitation: 2,575,275 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guidebook | Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Brandywine Falls, Towpath Trail, Blue Hen Falls

16. Death Valley National Park

Location: California
Established: October 31, 1994
Size: 3,408,395.63 acres
Visitation: 1,146,551 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay / Video
Things To Do: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Eureka Dunes, Artists Palette

17. Denali National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: February 26, 1917
Size: 4,740,911.16 acres
Visitation: 229,521 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Denali Park Road, Wildlife Viewing, Thorofare Ridge Trail

18. Dry Tortugas National Park

Location: Florida
Established: October 26, 1992
Size: 64,701.22 acres
Visitation: 83,817 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Fort Jefferson, Snorkeling, Ferry Ride

19. Everglades National Park

Location: Florida
Established: May 30, 1934
Size: 1,508,938.57 acres
Visitation: 942,130 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Things to Do | Guidebook | Facts
Things To Do: Shark Valley, Anhinga Trail, Kayaking

20. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 7,523,897.45 acres
Visitation: 7,362 (2021) 63/63 – Least Visited
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Wildlife Viewing, Flightseeing

21. Gateway Arch National Park

Location: Missouri
Established: February 22, 2018
Size: 91 acres (Smallest)
Visitation: 1,145,081 (2021)
Resources: National Parks Ranked (it’s last) | Facts
Things To Do: Ride the Elevator

22. Glacier National Park

Location: Montana
Established: May 11, 1910
Size: 1,013,126.39 acres
Visitation: 3,081,656 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Itinerary / Facts
Things To Do: Going to the Sun Road, Swiftcurrent Lake, Grinnell Glacier Trail
*Reservations required

23. Glacier Bay National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 3,223,383.43 acres
Visitation: 89,768 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Boat Tour, Bartlett Cove, Whale Watching

24. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: February 26, 1919
Size: 1,201,647.03 acres
Visitation: 4,532,677 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Best Views / Closest Cities / South Rim / North Rim / Where to Stay / Winter / Facts
Things To Do: Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, Cape Royal, Desert View Watchtower

25. Grand Teton National Park

Location: Wyoming
Established: February 26, 1929
Size: 310,044.36 acre
Visitation: 3,885,230 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Maps / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Snake River Overlook, Schwabacher Landing, Oxbow Bend, Phelps Lake

26. Great Basin National Park

Location: Nevada
Established: October 27, 1986
Size: 77,180.00 acres
Visitation: 144,875 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: See the Glacier, Ancient Bristlecone Forest, Lehman Caves

27. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: September 24, 2004
Size: 107,345.73 acres
Visitation: 602,613 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Facts
Things To Do: Star Dune, Sand Lakes, Mosca Pass

28. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Tennessee, North Carolina
Established: June 15, 1934
Size: 522,426.88 acres
Visitation: 14,161,548 (2021) – #1 Most Visited
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Guide / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Cades Cove, Clingman’s Dome, Wildlife Viewing

29. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Location: Texas
Established: October 15, 1966
Size: 86,367.10 acres
Visitation: 243,291 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts
Things To Do: Guadalupe Peak, Salt Basin Dunes, Devil’s Hall Trail

30. Haleakala National Park

Location: Hawaii
Established: July 1, 1961
Size: 33,264.62 acres
Visitation: 853,181 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Things to Do / Guidebook / Map / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Haleakala Crater, Waimoku Falls, Pipiwai Trail
*Reservations required

31. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Location: Hawaii
Established: August 1, 1916
Size: 325,605.28 acres
Visitation: 1,262,747 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Crater Rim Road, Thurston Lava Tube, Kilauea Crater

32. Hot Springs National Park

Location: Arkansas
Established: March 4, 1921
Size: 5,554.15 acres
Visitation: 2,162,884 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Bathhouse Row, Display Spring, Grand Promenade

33. Indiana Dunes National Park

Location: Indiana
Established: February 15, 2019
Size: 15,349.08 acres
Visitation: 3,177,210 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Dunes Succession Trail, Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk, Birding

34. Isle Royale National Park

Location: Michigan
Established: April 3, 1940
Size: 571,790.30 acres
Visitation: 25,844 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Ferry Ride, Rock Harbor, Scoville Point

35. Joshua Tree National Park

Location: California
Established: October 31, 1994
Size: 795,155.85 acres
Visitation: 3,064,400 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Warren Peak, Cholla Cactus Garden, Jumbo Rocks

36. Katmai National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 3,674,529.33 acres
Visitation: 24,764 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Facts
Things To Do: Bear Viewing, Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, Flightseeing

37. Kenai Fjords National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 669,650.05 acres
Visitation: 411,782 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Things to Do
Things To Do: Exit Glacier, Harding Ice Field, Boat Tour

38. Kings Canyon National Park

Location: California
Established: March 4, 1940
Size: 461,901.20 acres
Visitation: 562,918 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts | General Grant Tree
Things To Do: General Grant Tree, Generals Highway, Backpacking

39. Kobuk Valley National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 1,750,716.16 acres
Visitation: 11,540 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Facts
Things To Do: Flightseeing, Guided Tours

40. Lake Clark National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 2,619,816.49 acres
Visitation: 18,278 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map
Things To Do: Wildlife Viewing, Fishing, Flightseeing

41. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Location: California
Established: August 9, 1916
Size: 106,589.02 acres
Visitation: 359,635 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Bumpass Hell, Manzanita Lake, Devastated Area

42. Mammoth Cave National Park

Location: Kentucky
Established: July 1, 1941
Size: 54,016.29 acres
Visitation: 515,774 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Cave Tours

43. Mesa Verde National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: June 29, 1906
Size: 52,485.17 acres
Visitation: 548,477 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Things to Do | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Cliff Palace, Long House, Balcony House

44. Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington
Established: March 2, 1899
Size: 236,381.64 acres
Visitation: 1,670,063 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Paradise / Facts / Where to Stay
Things To Do: Mt Fremont Lookout, Skyline Trail, Pinnacle Peak
*Reservations required

For some amazing Mt. Rainier facts including the time a guy landed a plane on the summit, check out our post: 10+ (AMAZING) Mount Rainier National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know.

45. New River Gorge National Park

Location: West Virginia
Established: December 27, 2020
Size: 7,021 acres
Visitation: 1,682,720 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Rafting, Long Point Trail, Bridgewalk

About This National Park

America’s newest National Park is West Virginia’s first and it’s a beauty! New River Gorge has lots of great recreational opportunities including rafting, kayaking, fishing, canoeing, hiking, and more.

The fall foliage here is magnificent with bright reds, oranges, and yellows filling the gorge.

46. North Cascades National Park

Location: Washington
Established: October 2, 196
Size: 504,780.94 acres
Visitation: 17,855 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Things to Do / Best Hikes / Facts
Things To Do: Diablo Lake, Maple Pass, Blue Lake

47. Olympic National Park

Location: Washington
Established: June 29, 193
Size: 922,649.41 acres
Visitation: 2,718,925 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Where to Stay / Video
Things To Do: Ruby Beach, Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Mount Storm King

48. Petrified Forest National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: December 9, 1962
Size: 221,390.21 acres
Visitation: 590,334 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guidebook | Where to Stay | Facts
Things To Do: Blue Mesa, Painted Desert, Crystal Forest Trail

49. Pinnacles National Park

Location: California
Established: January 10, 2013
Size: 26,685.73 acres
Visitation: 348,857 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Bear Gulch, Condor Viewing, Climbing

50. Redwood National Park

Location: California
Established: October 2, 1968
Size: 138,999.37 acres
Visitation: 435,879 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Hikes / Guide / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Photos / Facts / Near San Francisco
Seasons: Winter / Spring / Fall
Things To Do: Stout Grove, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Avenue of the Giants

51. Rocky Mountain National Park

Location: Colorado
Established: January 26, 1915
Size: 265,807.24 acres
Visitation: 4,434,848 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Elk Viewing | Dream, Nymph, Emerald Lakes Trail | Sky Pond
*Reservations required

52. Saguaro National Park

Location: Arizona
Established: October 14, 1994
Size: 92,867.42 acres
Visitation: 1,079,786 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Wassen Peak Trail, Desert Ecology Nature Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyphs

53. Sequoia National Park

Location: California
Established: September 25, 1890 (#2)
Size: 404,062.63 acres
Visitation: 1,059,548 (2021)
My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Facts / Where to Stay / General Sherman Tree
Things To Do: Big Trees Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock

54. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia
Established: December 26, 1935
Size: 200,192.09 acres
Visitation: 1,592,312 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Things to Do | Facts
Things To Do: Skyline Drive, Dark Hollow Falls, Old Rag Mountain
*Reservations required

55. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Location: North Dakota
Established: November 10, 1978
Size: 70,446.89 acres
Visitation: 796,085 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Things to Do / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Oxbow Overlook, Cannonball Creations, Wildlife Viewing

56. Virgin Islands National Park

Location: US Virgin Islands
Established: August 2, 1956
Size: 15,052.33 acres
Visitation: 323,999 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Video | Facts
Things To Do: Reef Bay Trail, Maho Bay, Trunk Bay

57. Voyageurs National Park

Location: Minnesota
Established: April 8, 1975
Size: 218,222.35 acres
Visitation: 243,042 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guide / Things to Do / Camping / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
Things To Do: Locator Lake Trail, Ellsworth Rock Garden, Grassy Bay Cliffs

58. White Sands National Park

Location: New Mexico
Established: December 20, 2019
Size: 146,344.31 acres
Visitation: 782,469 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Facts | Things to Do
Things To Do: Interdune Boardwalk, Dune Life Nature Trail, Dune Sledding

59. Wind Cave National Park

Location: South Dakota
Established: January 9, 1903
Size: 33,970.84 acres
Visitation: 709,001 (2021
Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do | Video | Facts | Map
Things To Do: Natural Entrance Tour, Fairgrounds Tour, Rankin Ridge Trail

60. Wrangell St. Elias National Park

Location: Alaska
Established: December 2, 1980
Size: 13.2 million acres (#1) – Largest
Visitation: 50,189 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Map | Guidebook | Facts
Things To Do: Flightseeing, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing

61. Yellowstone National Park

Location: Wyoming
Established: March 1, 1872 (#1) – Oldest
Size: 2,219,790.71 acres
Visitation: 4,860,242 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Hikes / Facts / Airports / Where to Stay / Itinerary / Fall
Things To Do: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Lamar Valley

62. Yosemite National Park

Location: California
Established: October 1, 1890
Size: 761,747.50 acres
Visitation: 3,287,595 (2021)
Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Where to Stay / Things to Do / Best Hikes / Fall
Things To Do: Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Half Dome
*Reservations required

63. Zion National Park

Location: Utah
Established: November 19, 1919
Size: 147,242.66 acres
Visitation: 5,039,835 (2021)
My Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Hikes | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Road Trip | Itinerary
Things To Do: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Lava Point, Big Bend
*Reservations required

List of National Parks by State

Alaska National Parks

Alaska is home to 8 national parks making it the state with the second most national parks in the country. However, as mentioned earlier, it has more national park land area than any state by a long shot.

1. Denali National Park, Alaska
2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
3. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
4. Katmai National Park, Alaska
5. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
6. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
7. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska

Interested in Alaska’s jaw-dropping national parks? Read: How to Visit All 8 Epic Alaska National Parks

American Samoa National Parks

There is only one national park in American Samoa.

Located in the South Pacific, American Samoa is the furthest national park from the US mainland and the only US national park south of the equator. Flights to this tropical paradise typically range over $2,000.

1. National Park of American Samoa

Arizona National Parks

There are three national parks in Arizona.

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
2. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
3. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

National Monuments Ranked: ALL 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)

Arkansas National Parks

There is one national park in Arkansas.

1. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

California National Parks

California is home to 9 national parks making it the state with the most national parks in America.

1. Channel Islands National Park, California
2. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada
3. Joshua Tree National Park, California
4. Kings Canyon National Park, California
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
6. Pinnacles National Park, California
7. Redwood National Park, California
8. Sequoia National Park, California
9. Yosemite National Park, California

Colorado National Parks

There are four national parks in Colorado.

1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
3. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Colorado National Parks: These 4 Colorado National Parks Will Blow Your Mind

Florida National Parks

1. Biscayne National Park, Florida
2. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
3. Everglades National Park, Florida

RELATED: ALL of Florida’s National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

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Hawaii National Parks

1. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
2. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

RELATED: ALL of Hawaii’s National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

Idaho National Parks

1. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

Indiana National Parks

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

Kentucky National Parks

1. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Maine National Parks

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Michigan National Parks

1. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Minnesota National Parks List

1. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Missouri National Parks

1. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri

Montana National Parks

1. Glacier National Park, Montana
2. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

Nevada National Parks

1. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
2. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

New Mexico National Parks

1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

North Dakota National Parks

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

North Carolina National Parks

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

Ohio National Parks

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Oregon National Parks

1. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

South Carolina National Parks

1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

South Dakota National Parks

1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
2. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

Tennessee National Parks

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

Texas National Parks

1. Big Bend National Park, Texas
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Utah National Parks

Utah is home to 5 national parks referred to as “the mighty 5”.

1. Arches National Park, Utah
2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
3. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
4. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
5. Zion National Park, Utah

RELATED: ALL of Utah’s MIGHTY 5 National Parks RANKED 2021 (+ video)

US Virgin Islands National Parks

1. Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands

Virginia National Parks

1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Washington National Parks

Washington is home to 3 national parks which are among the best in the world.

1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
2. North Cascades National Park, Washington
3. Olympic National Park, Washington

West Virginia National Parks

1. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Wyoming National Parks

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
2. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

Printable List of the National Parks

Download a simple printable list of national parks below.

Download this Printable List of National Parks in alphabetical order (by park): PDF | JPG

Plain Printable Checklist of National Parks (Alphabetical)

Download this Printable Checklist of National Parks in alphabetical order: PDF | JPG

US National Parks List: Newest National Parks

1. New River Gorge National Park
2. White Sands National Park
3. Indiana Dunes National Park
4. Gateway Arch National Park
5. Pinnacles National Park
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park
7. Congaree National Park
8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
9. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
10. Death Valley National Park

US National Parks List: Oldest National Parks

1. Yellowstone National Park
2. Sequoia National Park
3. Yosemite National Park
4. Mount Rainier National Park
5. Crater Lake National Park
6. Wind Cave National Park
7. Mesa Verde National Park
8. Glacier National Park
9. Rocky Mountain National Park
10. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

States Without Any National Parks

1. Alabama
2. Connecticut
3. Delaware
4. Georgia
5. Iowa
6. Illinois
7. Kansas
8. Louisiana
9. Maryland
10. Massachusetts
11. Mississippi
12. Nebraska
13. New Jersey
14. New York
15. New Hampshire
16. Oklahoma
17. Pennsylvania
18. Rhode Island
19. Vermont
20. Wisconsin

Alphabetical 63 National Parks Checklist by State

1. Acadia National Park, Maine
2. National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
3. Arches National Park, Utah
4. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
6. Biscayne National Park, Florida
7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
8. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
9. Canyonlands National Parks, Utah
10. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
11. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
12. Channel Islands National Park, California
13. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
14. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
15. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
16. Death Valley National Park, California
17. Denali National Park, Alaska
18. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
19. Everglades National Park, Florida
20. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
21. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
22. Glacier National Park, Montana
23. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
24. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
25. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
26. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
27. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
28. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
29. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
30. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
31. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
32. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
33. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
34. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
35. Joshua Tree National Park, California
36. Katmai National Park, Alaska
37. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
38. Kings Canyon National Park, California
39. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
40. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
41. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
42. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
43. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
44. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
45. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
46. North Cascades National Park, Washington
47. Olympic National Park, Washington
48. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
49. Pinnacles National Park, California
50. Redwood National Park, California
51. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
52. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
53. Sequoia National Park, California
54. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
55. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
56. Virgin Islands National Park, US Virgin Islands
57. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
58. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
59. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
60. Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska
61. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
62. Yosemite National Park, California
63. Zion National Park, Utah

List of National Parks FAQ

See Our Full National Park Rankings

We actually ranked ALL 63 National Parks from best to worst in a separate article. If you’re curious how the parks stacked up, click here!

The National Parks System

The national park system is full of incredible places that constitute the all-important natural and cultural heritage of the United States.

These special places, from Gettysburg National Military Park to Yosemite National Park, are of immense importance and are equally deserving of preservation and administration that fits their unique place in the story of this country.

So whether your favorite national park service unit is a national park, a national monument, a national recreation area, or any other type of designation, the point is they’re all important, but there’s only 63 congressionally-designated “national parks”.

Why Listen to Us About the National Parks?

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues.

Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

And a bonus! Tips for Visiting a National Park

Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

• Sticking to trails
• Checking the weather before going out on a hike
• Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
• Avoid ledges with steep drop offs

More Helpful Information on the National Parks

List of National Monuments: Ultimate List of National Monuments (Alphabetical + By State)
How Many National Parks: How Many National Parks Are There Exactly (Detailed Guide)
Best National Parks Ranked: ALL 63 US NATIONAL PARKS RANKED By Experts
Best National Monuments: All 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)
Largest National Parks: 15 Largest National Parks in the United States (+ Full List)
Most Visited National Parks: Top 10 Most Visited US National Parks
Least Visited National Parks: Top 10 Least Visited National Parks
Best East Coast National Parks: Top 10 Best East Coast National Parks Ranked
Best National Park Road Trips: 10 Best National Park Road Trips

The post COMPLETE National Parks List 2024 (Printable MAP + By State) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

I’ve spent the past decade exploring the national parks and there are few that I’ve spent more time in than Death Valley. Why? This place is endless and folks who tell you there isn’t much to do here or that it’s “meh” aren’t your friends. Death Valley spans over 5,000 square miles of otherworldly vistas and is the largest national park in the continental United States – there are endless amounts of things to do in Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley holds the record as the hottest place on earth, the record for the lowest place in North America, and the driest place in the United States. Driving from one end to the other takes nearly 5 hours.

All this to say, trust me when I tell you that there’s a plethora of amazing things to do in Death Valley National Park. Over the years this list of activities continues to grow as I find new gems worth mentioning here. I’ve included a mix of activities for everyone including families with small children, folks with mobility issues, and the more adventurous souls.

Things to Know Before Visiting Death Valley National Park

1. Here’s my favorite guidebook & map for Death Valley.
2. Lather up the non-toxic sunscreen.

Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

Visiting Death Valley? Here’s my favorite hotel to stay in Death Valley National Park

1. Explore Eureka Dunes

Located in the remote Eureka Valley and situated at 3,000 feet elevation, Eureka Dunes is the most stunning dune field (of the five major dune fields) in the park. As such, exploring Eureka Dunes is easily one of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park.

Eureka Dunes are the tallest dunes in California and perhaps the tallest in North America. The tallest peaks reach a staggering 680 feet (207 meters). But what makes this dune field even more impressive is the jaw-dropping backdrop of the colossal Last Chance Mountains.

And if that wasn’t enough to entice you to visit, did I mention they sing? No, really. Eureka Dunes sing underneath your feet. The phenomenon has puzzled scientists for years but under the right conditions you’ll hear a bassy resonance resembling that of a pipe organ.

But take warning, these dunes are deceptively tall, and climbing them requires quite an effort. It’s a difficult challenge and can be downright dangerous during the summer months when temperatures are blazing.

However, of all the best things to do in Death Valley National Park, hiking Eureka Dunes is my personal favorite, which is why I listed it first. The view from atop the dunes is incredible and since they’re fairly remote, there’s rarely a crowd here. Worth noting, the Eureka Dunes Campground is a great spot to base camp if you’re lucky enough to score one of the seven primitive sites.

If you fall in love with dunes as I did, put Great Sand Dunes National Park on your bucket list.

2. Explore Badwater Basin

At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, reason alone to visit. This salty wonderland features dazzling geometric shapes and boasts record temperatures in the summer. This place is ripe for exploration and, thankfully, pretty easy to get to. Badwater Basin is one of the best things to do in Death Valley with kids as well as folks looking for convenient ADA activities.

Simply park your car at the Badwater Basin parking lot (get there early as parking is limited) and walk across a wooden boardwalk into the salt flats. Make sure to read the informative plaques at the start of the hike to learn more about the interesting lifeforms that have learned to thrive in this desolate landscape.

When you reach the salt flats, take your time admiring the fascinating jumble of geometric shapes that create this sea of salt. The further you go the more interesting the shapes get. Exploring Badwater Basin is one of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park because it’s so otherworldly – an experience you can’t get in many other places.

Tip: Most visitors just hike out a few steps beyond the short boardwalk but to truly get a sense of the scale of the salt flats one can do the entire 1.8-mile path.

3. Sunrise from Zabriskie Point

Elevation: 5,744 feet (1,751 meters)

Watching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point is one of the most iconic things to do in all of Death Valley National Park. This location is my second favorite place in the park to watch a sunrise (more on that in a minute). The badlands below, formed by millions of years of erosion, showcase a mesmerizing palette of yellows, browns, and purples. The stark contrast between the colorful hills and the vastness of the salt flats in the distance creates a truly awe-inspiring scene.

As one of the Death Valley’s most popular locations crowds here can be quite large. Be sure to show up thirty minutes to an hour prior to sunrise to get a good spot! There is a short, steep paved pathway that takes visitors from the parking lot to the viewpoint making this one of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park for folks with ADA needs.

Fun Fact: The point is named after Christian Brevoort Zabriskie, a vice president of the Pacific Coast Borax Company who supported Death Valley preservation efforts

NOTE: Zabriskie Point is located at a much higher elevation than the valley floor so depending on the time of year you may want to bring a jacket.

4. Watch the Mysterious Rocks at Racetrack Playa

The Racetrack Playa features rocks that mysteriously move across the cracked desert floor leaving long trails and lots of intrigue. This was at the top of my list of things to do in Death Valley for a long time.

The playa is really amazing, but its defining feature has to be the unique collection of rocks varying in size from a few pounds to hundreds of pounds, that have mysteriously moved across the surface over time leaving distinct trails in their wake. These trails can extend for hundreds of feet! The reason for this movement has long been a mystery, with many theories proposed, including wind, ice, and even algae mats. In recent years, researchers are pretty certain that the movement comes from a combination of factors, including rare flooding events and thin ice sheets.

If you are planning to go the Racetrack Playa I highly recommend a high clearance vehicle as the road is pretty rough. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, & snacks as the closest services are a minimum 2-3 hour drive from the Racetrack Playa.

Damage to Racetrack Playa

This location is special and sadly has not always been treated as such. In recent years incidents have occurred with park visitors driving vehicles on the Racetrack Playa. Despite extensive efforts to repair the damage done the scars are still visible and will be for many years to come.

DO NOT drive off marked roads here or anywhere else in the park. If you see someone doing so be sure to take photos, record their license plate number, and file a report at the closest ranger station.

5. See the Kaleidoscopic Cliffs at Artists Palette

When I first saw photos of Artists Palette I thought it must be a case of Photoshop – surely the cliffs don’t actually look like that in person, right? Wrong. They do. But not at all times of day. Artists Palette is a technicolor, kaleidoscopic display of multicolored rock in Death Valley National Park that must be seen to be believed.

The vibrant colors of the Artist’s Palette are caused by the oxidation of different metals in the rock. Iron oxides produce reds, pinks, and yellows, while manganese minerals create lavender and purple hues. The decomposition of tuff-derived mica adds green tones to the palette. This unique combination of colors creates a mesmerizing and otherworldly landscape.

Located near the hub of Furnace Creek, Artists Palette is one of the most photographed spots in Death Valley. The colorful colors visible in the soil are the result of the presence of rich metals and minerals.

The best time to visit Artists Palette is in the evening when temperatures are cooler and the sun hits the rocks just so to really make their colors pop. Harsh midday sun mutes the vivid colors and should be avoided if possible. Alternatively the rare cloudy day makes for great photos at Artists Palette.

6. Play in Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Visiting Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is on just about everyone’s list of things to do in Death Valley National Park so expect crowds! Don’t let that deter you though. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is the most popular of the five dune fields located in the national park and totally worth a visit. Seemingly endless golden dunes roll off toward the horizon with a backdrop of purple mountain majesty.

While not the tallest dunes in Death Valley, Mesquite Dunes cover a vast area, spanning over 40 square miles. This translates to a massive playground for exploration and activities. The tallest dunes reach around 400 feet (122 meters), offering impressive, panoramic views from the summit.

Located next to Stovepipe Wells village, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an easy stop and a must-see for anyone visiting Death Valley. Make sure to layer up with sunscreen before hiking onto the dunes and bring plenty of water. There is no natural cover from the sun and the sand can be extremely hot to the touch so wear sandals during the day.

7. Discover the Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest

If you’re like me and figured you had to go to Joshua Tree National Park to see Joshua Trees, well, you don’t. It turns out Death Valley has massive Joshua Tree forests and perhaps none as large as the Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest located near the west entrance to the park. Visiting Lee Flat is one of the best things to do in Death Valley for folks looking to escape the crowds. I’ve visited numerous times and typically have the entire place to myself.

Lee Flat is situated at a much higher elevation than the valley floor and as such has a very different feel. Temperatures can be 20 or more degrees cooler here from what visitors find at Badwater Basin. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to visit this area to watch the light turn colors and sweep across this vast landscape.

8. Gaze Upon Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater, pronounced “YOU-BE-HE-BE”, was not created by a meteor strike but rather volcanic activity. Located toward the northern end of the park near Scotty’s Castle, this site is a great Death Valley activity for families with kids.

Ubehebe is a half-mile wide behemoth, formed by a phreatic explosion (molten lava meeting groundwater) and boasts vibrant hues of reds and oranges in its exposed layers. Hike the rim for panoramic views or venture down (prepare for a challenging climb back!) to feel the crater’s immensity.

• Distance: 2.2 miles roundtrip
• Time: 1-2 hours

Make sure to visit Little Ubehebe Crater (more on that below) while stopping by as many visitors (including myself) find it more photogenic and stunning than its larger namesake.

9. See Darwin Falls

Darwin Falls is a great addition to your list of things to do in Death Valley just for the sheer improbability of a waterfall existing here! When I first heard there was a year-round waterfall in Death Valley National Park I thought it was too good to be true too.

The main attraction is a series of cascading waterfalls, with the upper falls reaching about 75 feet and the lower falls around 20 feet. These falls plunge into a crystal-clear pool, creating a picture-perfect scene. The spring-fed water nourishes a vibrant landscape of trees, ferns, cattails, and other greenery, contrasting starkly with the surrounding desert terrain.

The trailhead to this waterfall starts just down the road from the Panamint Springs area of the park. The whole way in keeps the suspense alive as to whether there is actually any water to be seen in the hottest place on earth. Shortly down the trail, however, a creek appears and the suspense builds. Seemingly out of nowhere, song birds start singing, crickets start chirping, dragonflies begin buzzing, and even frogs start to croak!

• Distance: 1.9 miles round trip
• Time: 1-2 hours

Looking down at what started as a tiny sliver of water one realizes that they are looking at a full-blown creek now. And then it’s there – Darwin Falls in all her beauty. I highly recommend this hike to everyone visiting the park as a great way to refresh, cool off, and witness a desert miracle firsthand.

10. Sunrise at Aguereberry Point

If you’re looking to beat the crowds at sunrise then add Aguerberry Point to your list of things to do at Death Valley National Park. While the most popular sunrise spot in Death Valley is Zabriskie Point, if you want to see the most spectacular (says me) sunrise in the park you’ll have to cross the valley and view it from the other side at Aguereberry Point.

Perched at an elevation of 6,433 feet, Aguereberry Point offers stunning panoramic views of the vast desert landscape, comparable to the popular Dante’s View on the opposite side of the valley. The point is named after Jean Pierre “Pete” Aguereberry, a French miner who discovered gold nearby and lived in the area from 1905 until his death in 1945. The remnants of his cabin and the Eureka Mine, where he worked, can still be seen near the viewpoint.

Whereas Zabriskie & Dante’s face away from the sun, Aguereberry Point looks directly at it creating a more dazzling display of colors and light to usher in the day. Aguereberry is certainly more remote than the other points, and as a result, far less crowded. When I visited we were the only ones there versus Zabriskie which is always packed. Also, visitors can drive right up to the point without a hike.

Top 20 Best Things to Do in Death Valley

11. Play a Round at the Devils Golf Course

Death Valley National Park is the king of things with morbid and foreboding names, like Devils Golf Course. Devils Golf Course is many park-goers’ favorite spot in the whole park. The name “Devils Golf Course” comes from a 1934 National Park Service guidebook that described the terrain as so uneven and treacherous that “only the devil could play golf on it.”

The entire area is covered in large, crystallized halite salt formations, the remnants of an ancient lake bed that dried up thousands of years ago. These salt formations are constantly being eroded by wind and rain, creating new and ever-changing shapes.

NOTE: The salt formations are delicate and can be easily damaged by human touch. It’s important to stay on the designated trails and avoid walking on the salt crystals.

12. Venture Across Ibex Dunes

If you’ve got a few days to explore then I highly recommend adding Ibex Dunes to your list of things to do in Death Valley National Park. Ibex Dunes are perhaps the most photogenic dunes in the park (right up there with Eureka Dunes) and almost as remote. These dunes are located on the southern end of the park off of a rough, high-clearance road.

Ibex Dunes are a blast to explore but make sure to do so early as they heat up fast, even in winter, and can create dangerous situations for hikers. One of the coolest parts of exploring Ibex Dunes is finding the abandoned mine on the far side set against the mountains. This eerie spot is a remnant of a bygone era and makes for a great photo opportunity. If you plan on hiking across the dunes be sure to pack way more water than you think you’ll need along with a sun hat, and snack to re-energize!

As you explore the warm sand, keep an eye out for Ibex Spring, a small oasis nestled on the eastern slope of the hills. This hidden gem is complete palm trees and a small pool of water, a stark contrast to the surrounding aridity.

13. Walk Under Natural Bridge

Seeing Natural Bridge is a great activity at Death Valley to get out of the sun. The bridge itself is a 35-foot-tall and 35-foot-thick archway carved by flash floods over thousands of years. It’s a wild thought to imagine the powerful torrents of water rushing through ancient rock, slowly eroding it, that created this impressive bridge.

I really enjoy this hike and don’t find it too difficult but those with mobility issues may want to avoid it as the incline might be a bit much. This is a great day-time hike to avoid direct sun by walking on the shadowy side of the canyon (depending on the time of day).

• Distance: 2 miles round trip
• Time: 1-2 hours

The hike to the bridge is all uphill to the bridge and all downhill back to the parking lot, 1 mile each way. Once you get to the bridge the view back down the canyon is pretty cool giving one a great view of the valley in the distance.

14. See the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns (by Night)

If you’re looking for interesting historic things to do at Death Valley National Park (at night) then add this one to your list! The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns is a cool spot to visit, easily mistaken for an abandoned village of windowless conical, beehive-shaped homes.

Built in 1877, the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns were constructed by the Modock Consolidated Mining Company to provide fuel for their silver and lead mines located about 25 miles west in the Argus Range. Back then, charcoal was a crucial fuel source for smelting metals, as it burned hotter and cleaner than wood.

These kilns were meticulously crafted from local stone and mortar, designed to efficiently convert wood into charcoal. Here’s how the process worked:

1. Filling: Large quantities of pinyon pine logs, abundant in the surrounding hills, were meticulously stacked inside the kilns.
2. Sealing: Once filled, the kilns were tightly sealed with mud and other materials to create an airtight environment.
3. Burning: A controlled fire was ignited at the base of the kiln, triggering a slow and smoldering burn that could last for days.
4. Cooling: After the burning process, the kilns were left to cool for several days to prevent spontaneous combustion.
5. Harvesting: Finally, the cooled charcoal, a black, brittle substance, was extracted and transported to the smelters by pack animals or wagons.

I decided to visit the kilns at night under a waxing moon to try and grab a cool photo and was glad I did. The kilns are located in the Wildrose section of the park. The road leading to the Charcoal Kilns is notoriously bad and high-clearance vehicles are a MUST, if not 4WD.

15. See Panamint Dunes (from afar)

Panamint Dunes are a lesser-traveled dune field in Death Valley National Park covering about 4 square miles that most visitors see from afar rather than actually visit themselves. The dune field is located in Panamint Valley and the trailhead for the dunes is accessed off of a long and rough dirt road.

The tallest of the Panamint Dunes reach around 200 feet high. This may seem small compared to the 400-foot giants of Mesquite Flat, or the 600+ foot tall dunes of Eureka, but it’s still an impressive figure, especially considering the surrounding desert landscape.

One of the things that sets the Panamint Dunes apart from the others in Death Valley is their unusual star-shaped formation, unlike the linear ridges found in other Death Valley dunes. This unique shape is attributed to the specific wind patterns that have sculpted them over time.

The hike to the dunes is a longer one at 7 miles round trip and should only be attempted during cooler temperatures as the heat can turn life-threatening in a hurry especially since these dunes are so remote.

16. Hike Through Surprise Canyon

If you’re looking for another unexpected activity then add Surprise Canyon to your list of things to do in Death Valley National Park. The aptly named Surprise Canyon is a real treat for park visitors featuring a lovely creek, some small waterfalls, and even burros! To get to the trailhead visitors must drive outside the park and then back up the canyon. As such, I’d say this is an activity to add to a longer stay or a second or third visit to Death Valley.

• Distance: 6.3 miles roundtrip
• Time: 3-4 hours

The hike itself is mostly uphill on the way up and mostly downhill on the way back. Every turn features new sites and adventures. Full disclosure, we witnessed a dead burro on this hike which is not uncommon so it might not be one of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park with kids.

17. Take a Scenic Drive

A lot of folks don’t realize that Death Valley is the largest national park in the United States outside of Alaska. As such, there happens to be some very, very long drives throughout the park. In fact, there are over 1,000 miles of roads located within Death Valley National Park! Three hundred miles are paved, three hundred are improved, and the other six hundred are pretty much 4WD roads.

These drives can be split up between the ones that require 4WD and the ones that don’t. Regardless of whether you have 4WD capability, there are so many great roads to explore in the park. If you enjoy experiencing the park from the boundaries of the pavement inside of an air-conditioned vehicle then add this to your list of things to do in Death Valley National Park. A few of my favorite drives/stretches of road are:

• Highway 190
• Badwater Road
• Scotty’s Castle Road
• Eureka Road

Driving Tips in Death Valley

Make sure you have a good spare tire if you’re heading off-road and have a plan in case you break down. Service is spotty at best throughout the park and it can be a very long time before someone else comes across your vehicle. Pack way more food & water than you think you’ll need. If you break down somewhere on a dirt road it could be hours or days before someone finds you.

18. Ascend Telescope Peak

Elevation: 11,049ft

Telescope Peak is the highest point in Death Valley National Park and is regularly snow-capped! I never thought I would see snow in Death Valley so this was a real shocker for me! Beyond the snow, there’s much that’s different about this area. As you ascend up Charcoal Kiln Road to the trailhead, you’ll notice pinyon pines and junipers – quite a difference from the valley floor! Keep an eye out for the ancient bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.

For those interested in hiking, be prepared for a hearty trek. The Telescope Peak Trail is an out-and-back route spanning roughly 14 miles with an elevation gain of around 3,200 feet. It’s considered a strenuous hike due to the steep incline, loose scree, and high altitude. Be prepared for a physically demanding journey that will take between 5 and 7 hours to complete.

One of the best places to see the sunrise over Telescope Peak is just past the Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest off Hunter Mountain Road (more on this coming up). Add this to your list of things to do in Death Valley if you’re looking for an unexpected experience.

19. Marble Canyon

The hike through Marble Canyon is a great daytime activity in Death Valley on a hot day (so long as you’re prepared) as there is typically ample shade and cooler places to rest. This hike is a short and cool jaunt winding through Marble Canyon with some fairly narrow passageways.

The canyon walls are composed of colorful marble (thus the name), ranging from white and green to pink and purple. These vibrant hues are a result of various minerals, including iron oxide and manganese.

The entire trail is extremely long at about 31 miles so I recommend just walking a mile or two into the canyon and then picking a point to turn around. Make sure to pack plenty of water for the hike as even though there’s shade, the extreme temperatures are not to be messed with here.

20. Explore Little Hebe Crater

A lot of folks don’t even know that Ubehebe Crater has a sibling – Little Hebe Crater – so it often gets totally overlooked on lists of things to do in Death Valley. Personally, I find the junior to be the more interesting of the Ubehebe craters.

With a diameter of around 400 feet and a depth of about 150 feet, Little Hebe is significantly smaller than Ubehebe. Despite its size, it still packs a punch in terms of geological significance. Unlike Ubehebe’s maar origin (formed by a phreatic explosion), Little Hebe is a spatter cone, built up by the accumulation of ejected lava fragments during eruptions.

To get to Little Hebe Crater start at the parking lot for Ubehebe and follow the rim trail to the right. Eventually, you’ll find a turnoff for Little Hebe which is less than a mile walk on a nice path. An easy addition to your list of things to do in Death Valley, I think Little Hebe is the more photogenic of the two and totally worth the extra steps.

21. Venture Out to Saline Valley Dunes

If you’re looking for some of the more isolated things to do at Death Valley National Park, Saline Valley dunes are perhaps the most remote in the park. Spanning a larger area than Mesquite Flat, the Saline Valley Dunes consist of gently rolling waves of sand, creating a mesmerizing visual expanse. Reaching a maximum height of around 100 feet, the Saline Valley Dunes offer a more approachable and less physically demanding exploration.

Located in Saline Valley, these dunes are beautiful but probably the least striking of all the dune fields in the park. Death Valley actually has 5 separate dune fields to choose from and these are probably at the bottom of that list for me. My favorite are the Eureka Dunes located on the north end of the park.

22. Find the Famous Death Valley Mud Cracks

Finding the best mud cracks was high on my list of things to do at Death Valley National Park as the photos I’d seen before visiting seemed almost fake. Death Valley is famous for scenes like the one above – a valley floor beautifully cracked with beautiful, geometric shapes. There are many places all over the valley where different shapes, colors, and sizes of mud cracks can be found.

Where I Found the Best Mud Cracks in Death Valley

People are very protective of these places and out of respect to the park I won’t say exactly where I found my favorite ones. I can say that driving down Badwater Road south of Furnace Creek there are lots of great spots. Check out the photos you see and try to match them with the mountains and topography.

23. Find Death Valley’s Elusive Burros

This is one of those things to do in Death Valley that probably won’t be around for much longer. Imported by miners during the 19th century, burros are actually an invasive species to the National Park and disrupt the natural ecosystem here. As such the park service is actively working to reduce/remove the current population in the park.

Eventually, these feral donkeys will be completely removed. Until then, they’re pretty cool to spot in the park. We saw several in Surprise Canyon and near the Wildrose area. Drive slow and keep a keen eye out and there’s a good chance you’ll see some!

24. Find Abandoned Historical Remnants

If rusty old abandoned cars are your thing then add this one to your list of things to do in Death Valley. Death Valley National Park is chocked full of abandoned remnants of bygone eras in the land’s history. You can find all sorts of interesting artifacts here from abandoned cars to mining equipment, tunnels (do not enter these), and more.

You are legally required to leave these objects and artifacts just as you found them. Please resist the temptation to take any of these things from the park or move them from their current positions. A couple of good spots to see historical remnants include:

• Ibex Dunes (an old mining tower)
• Panamint Dunes Road (rusty cars)
• Wildrose Road (charcoal kilns)
• Aguereberry Point Road (Eureka Mine)
• Harmony Borax Works

25. Witness Sandstorms (from afar!)

One of the coolest and most mesmerizing things to do in Death Valley is watching a sandstorm move across the desert (especially during magic hour). I was lucky enough to witness one of these on my last trip to Death Valley and was amazed by the experience. The way the light illuminated the sand as it hurdled across the valley floor was spectacular.

I waited too long to get into the car and boy did it sting when it came in close! Make sure to take cover if you see one of these approaching. High winds can sometimes pick up in the valley seemingly out of nowhere. When this happens seek higher ground and you just might get lucky enough to spectate from above.

FAQ – Things to Do in Death Valley

Map of Things to Do in Death Valley

Summary of the Top 10 Things To Do in Death Valley National Park

1. Eureka Dunes
2. Badwater Basin
3. Zabriskie Point
4. Racetrack Playa
5. Artists Palette
6. Mesquite Flat Dunes
7. Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest
8. Ubehebe Crater
9. Darwin Falls
10. Aguereberry Point
11. Devils Golf Course
12. Ibex Dunes
13. Scenic Drive
14. Sandstorm
15. Burros
16. Telescope Peak
17. Surprise Canyon
18. Panamint Dunes
19. Charcoal Kilns
20. Natural Bridge
21. Mud Cracks
22. Saline Valley Dunes
23. Little Ubehebe Crater
24. Abandoned Remnants
25. Marble Canyon

Visiting Death Valley National Park

There are many ways to get to Death Valley National Park. One of the most popular is flying into Las Vegas and making the 2-hour drive to the park. The second closest major city is Los Angeles 4 hours away.

Four-Wheel Drive: Four-wheel drive isn’t an absolute *must* in but it sure opens up your options as to the things you can see. I’d recommend renting a 4WD vehicle but you’ll be able to see plenty of amazing things without one. Check out this helpful article for the best places to see in Death Valley with 4WD.

The Award-Winning Death Valley Video

We created this 3-minute video based on our travels to Death Valley. It won some awards and was even featured by National Geographic. If you’re planning a trip to the park we encourage you to take a few minutes and watch our film. To make this film we spent weeks in the national park, mostly in February and March when the temperatures are more manageable. We traversed hundreds of miles hiking most of the park’s trails to capture the park like never before.

My Travels to Death Valley National Park

I visited Death Valley National Park for the first time on a whim in 2008 while on a road trip with friends. It was during the winter months and we found ourselves amazed by the heat (the park averages 80° in the dead of winter).

Since then I’ve returned scores of times because I simply can’t get enough. There is something seriously magical about this desert wonderland that I cannot resist. Make no mistake, a lot of our national parks are otherworldly but this one takes the cake.

Death Valley National Park Map

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• Death Valley National Park Guide: Death Valley National Park Ultimate Guide
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• Death Valley by Season: Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter
• Death Valley Camping: 9 Best Campgrounds in Death Valley
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The post 25 AMAZING Things to Do in Death Valley National Park (+ Photos) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Kansas National Parks

Kansas National Parks! While Dorothy & Toto might not be in Kansas anymore there’s no reason why you can’t be there. As a matter of fact, More Than Just Parks is going to give you 8 compelling reasons why you should consider Kansas when planning your next roadtrip.

And More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks.

We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

While Kansas has many national park sites, I should note that it doesn’t actually have any congressionally designated “National Parks.” Nonetheless, there are a whole host of amazing Kansas National Park Service sites to visit.

What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning to visit the Sunflower State then one book I highly recommend is: Kansas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!

We’ve got historic forts, famous explorers, beautiful prairies, the fastest mail service in the Old West, and so much more await you in Kansas!

Are you ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Kansas National Parks

1. Brown V. Board Of Education National Historic Site

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is located in Topeka, Kansas. It commemorates the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case of Brown v. Board of Education.

The case was brought by a group of African American families who argued that segregation in public schools was inherently unequal and violated the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees equal protection under the law.

The history of the case began in 1951 when a young African American girl named Linda Brown was denied enrollment in an all-white school near her home in Topeka.

Her father, Oliver Brown, along with a group of other African American families, sued the Topeka Board of Education, arguing that segregation in public schools was a violation of the 14th Amendment.

The Court Declared Segregation To Be Unconstitutional

The case was consolidated with similar cases from other states and became known as Brown v. Board of Education. The case was heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1954, and on May 17th of that year, the Court issued a unanimous decision declaring segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional.

The decision was a landmark moment in the Civil Rights Movement and has had far-reaching effects on the struggle for equality in the United States.

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site was established in 1992 to commemorate the landmark case and to educate visitors about its significance in American history.

The site includes a museum that features interactive exhibits and educational programs, as well as the restored Monroe School, one of the all-black schools that was involved in the case.

Today, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is an important place of remembrance and reflection, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in the United States.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil Rights Sites In America

Take A Deeper Dive

Believe it or not, I was one of those guys who sat in class taking notes and, when the professor threw out the name of what sounded like an interesting book, I not only wrote it down, I went out and purchased it. Yes, I am that guy which is why I ended up teaching history.

Now while I promised no homework, there’s a wonderful book about the landmark Supreme Court decision for those of you who are interested in taking a deeper dive.

Written by Richard Kluger, it’s titled Simple Justice: The History of Brown v. Board of Education and Black America’s Struggle for Equality. It’s a modern classic!

RELATED: 45 Best National Parks Books (Great Gifts For Park Lovers)

2. Fort Larned National Historic Site

Fort Larned National Historic Site was established in 1859, as a military post along the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The fort was named after Colonel Benjamin F. Larned, who was a Quartermaster General during the Mexican-American War. The initial purpose of the fort was to protect travelers and freight along the Santa Fe Trail, as well as to maintain peaceful relations with the Plains Indians.

During the Civil War, the fort was used as a supply depot for Union troops and as a base for campaigns against the Confederate Army. After the war, the fort resumed its original mission of protecting travelers and maintaining relations with the Plains Indians.

Over the years, Fort Larned played an important role in the settlement of the West. The fort served as a hub of activity for soldiers, traders, immigrants, and Plains Indians, and it played a pivotal role in the shaping of the American West.

In 1964, the fort was designated as a National Historic Site by the United States government, in recognition of its historical and cultural significance.

The Fort Was Home To A Famous Civil War General

The fort was home to a diverse population, including soldiers, civilians, and Native Americans. The fort was also home to a number of notable figures, including General William T. Sherman, who served as the commander of the fort in the early 1860s.

In 1878, the fort was officially decommissioned and the buildings were sold to private individuals. However, several of the original buildings were preserved and are now open to the public as part of the Fort Larned National Historic Site.

Visitors can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.

The fort is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public year-round. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there.

CHECK OUT: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

3. Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott was an active military post for over 20 years, and during its active years, the fort served as a supply depot, a military headquarters, and a base of operations for the U.S. Cavalry.

The fort was also used as a base for patrols and expeditions to protect the Santa Fe Trail, which was a vital transportation route for settlers and traders moving westward, and to maintain peace among the various Indian tribes of the Great Plains.

The fort was home to a diverse population, including soldiers, civilians, and Native Americans.

The fort was also home to a number of notable figures, including General Winfield Scott, who served as the commander of the fort in the early 1840s.

In 1853, the fort was officially decommissioned and the buildings were sold to private individuals. However, several of the original buildings were preserved and are now open to the public as part of the Fort Scott National Historic Site.

Visitors can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the fort and the people who lived and worked there. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.

RELATED: 10 BEST CIVIL WAR SITES IN AMERICA

4. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

From fascinating forts to legendary trails. You can find so much wonderful history when you explore the Kansas National Parks. And that history includes The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail which follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Commemorating the Lewis & Clark Expedition (1804-06), the Trail connects 16 states (Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon).

This trail is administered by the National Park Service. It’s not a hiking trail, but does provide opportunities for hiking, boating and horseback riding at many locations along the route.

What Can I See In Kansas That’s Connected To This Historic Trail

What can I see in Kansas that’s connected to this historic trail? Excellent question. I recommend the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Pavilion. Located at White Cloud, Kansas, it describes the expedition’s passage through the area in 1804 and then again in 1806.

It’s a beautiful open-air pavilion located in Riverfront Park. It was constructed in preparation for the Lewis and Clark bicentennial Commemoration on July 3-4, 2004.

The pavilion contains an interactive touchscreen monitor and interpretive panels with information on the Lewis & Clark expedition, the Missouri River and the Kanza Nation.

While you’re there, I would also recommend a drive along the Frontier Military Historic Byway. It was originally built to move soldiers and supplies. If you travel it today, however, you’ll find various landmarks such as Fort Leavenworth and the John Brown Museum. 

RELATED: 12 EPIC OREGON NATIONAL PARKS & MONUMENTS TO VISIT

More Kansas National Parks

5. Nicodemus National Historic Site

Nicodemus National Historic Site is dedicated to preserving the history of one of the first and largest settlements of African Americans in the American West.

The town was founded in 1877 by a group of African Americans who had moved from the South in search of a better life and greater opportunities.

Nicodemus was established as part of the Exoduster Movement, which was a mass migration of African Americans from the South to the West following the end of the Civil War. The town was named after the biblical figure Nicodemus, who symbolized new beginnings and a fresh start for its settlers.

At its peak, Nicodemus was a thriving community with a school, churches, a newspaper, and various businesses. However, the town faced many challenges, including a harsh climate, limited resources, and economic hardship.

Despite these challenges, the residents of Nicodemus remained determined to make their settlement a success, and their efforts helped lay the foundation for other African American communities in the West.

Nicodemus In The 20th Century

In the 20th century, the town of Nicodemus declined as many residents moved to other areas in search of greater opportunities. In 1996, Nicodemus was designated as a National Historic Site to commemorate the story of the settlers and their efforts to build a new community in the West.

Today, visitors to the Nicodemus National Historic Site can tour the restored buildings and learn about the history of the town and the lives of its residents.

The site includes the Nicodemus Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the town and its residents, as well as the First Baptist Church, which was one of the first African American churches in the West.

Visitors can also take a walking tour of the town to see the remaining structures and learn about the history of this important settlement.

CHECK OUT: 20 BEST Black History Sites In America For You To Visit

6. Pony Express National Historic Trail

The United States Postal Service has announced that we will be paying more for slower mail. Ugh! Perhaps it’s time to dust off an old idea.

From April 3, 1860 until October 26, 1861, the Pony Express delivered messages, newspapers, and mail using relays of horse-mounted riders.

While it was only in operation for 18 months, it reduced the time for messages to travel between the east and west coasts to about 10 days. 

The Pony Express Founders

The three founders of the Pony Express were William Russell, Alexander Majors and William B. Waddell. These three entrepreneurs used a shorted route with riders at relay stations. These stations were about ten miles apart.

The rider coming in could expect a fresh mount [horse] waiting for him and his mail pouch.

Pony Express Peak Operations

At the peak of their operations, Russell, Majors and Waddell employed 6,000 men, owned 75,000 oxen, thousands of wagons, and warehouses, plus a sawmill, a meatpacking plant, a bank, and an insurance company.

Of course, technology waits for no one. The Pony Express could not compete with the faster telegraph. It went bankrupt after 18 months.

Jim DeFelice has written a wonderfully entertaining account of the history of the Pony Express. It’s titled West Like Lightning: The Brief, Legendary Ride of the Pony Express. I love stories about the Old American West. This is one book I simply could not put down.

RELATED: 45 Best National Parks Books (Great Gifts For Park Lovers)

Retracing The Pony Express

One hundred and fifty years later, you can visit trail traces, visitor centers, museums, hiking trails, historic structures and forts related to the Pony Express National Historic Trail. This is another of the amazing Kansas National Parks that is definitely worth seeing and experiencing.

The trail crosses eight states following the journey taken by dozens of young riders and hundreds of horses between St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California.

The best news of all, however, is that you won’t have to change horses every ten miles. There are auto tour routes, GIS interactive maps and a Back-Country Byway.

Or, you can simply use your cellphone (there’s an app for every thing these days!) to chart a course across the Pony Express National Historic Trail.

What’s There To Do?

What’s there to do? What isn’t there to do!  You can visit interpretive sites, hike portions of the trail, bike portions of the trail or horseback ride portions of the trail (don’t forget about those fresh mounts). There are also museums to visit.

Trail sites to visit in Kansas include: (1) Marshville Pony Express Barn which now serves as a museum. Go there and learn all about how this operation was run. (2) Hollenberg Pony Express Station which is a restoration of an actual station.

It includes living quarters for the Hollenberg family, a neighborhood grocery store, a tavern, and an unofficial post-office. (3) Marshall’s Ferry which is a historic trails park where you can trod the same ground that the Pony Express riders did.

7. Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The Kansas National Parks includes one which played an important role in the Westward Migration.

Westward Ho! Between 1821 and 1880, the Santa Fe Trail was a highway connecting Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The route was originally pioneered by Missouri trader William Becknell.

Once Bucknell showed how it was done, others decided to follow. By 1825, goods from Missouri were being traded in Santa Fe, as well as other points farther south.

Two Major Routes | Santa Fe Trail

There were two major routes. Some used the Mountain Route, which offered more dependable water, but required an arduous trip over Raton Pass.

Others took the Cimarron Route. It was shorter and faster, but required knowledge of where the route’s scarce water supplies were located. It you ran out of water then you weren’t likely to survive the journey.

Here’s An Interesting Fact | Santa Fe Trail

Now here’s an interesting fact. During the Mexican-American War, the U.S. Army actually followed the Santa Fe Trail westward to successfully invade Mexico. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended this war in 1848.

Afterward, the Santa Fe Trail became a national road connecting the more settled parts of the United States to the new southwest territories.

The Santa Fe Trail Today

Today, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail still extends from western Missouri to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Along the way, there are museums, historic sites, landmarks, and original trail segments.

Santa Fe Trail Highlights

If you’re planning a trip then I would recommend that you definitely see the following five sights:

Rabbit Ears Mountain served as a vital landmark for Santa Fe Trail travelers on the Cimarron Route.

Santa Clara Cemetery was a landmark for covered wagon trains and traders going up and down the Santa Fe Trail. It’s now the Wagon Mound National Historic Landmark.

Starvation Peak is a butte that sits at over 7,000 feet, located along Interstate 25 between the town of Pecos and Las Vegas.

Raton Pass which was one of the segments of the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail. It cut through the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, allowing wagons access to the vast western territory.

Santa Fe Spring which was an important water source for Santa Fe Trail travelers heading West.

You may want to do some research before you go, however, as there are other amazing historical and natural sites you may find to be of particular interest to you.

More Kansas National Parks

8. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Once upon a time, tallgrass prairie once covered roughly 170 million acres of North America. It was the continent’s largest continuous ecosystem. It supported a huge quantity of plants and animals.

Of course, with the settlement of America, farmers discovered that prairie soils are outstanding for crop production. So, they plowed the prairie lands into oblivion for the production of wheat, corn and other crops. 

What Tallgrass Remains

Today most of these grasslands are gone. What remains, however, is one of Kansas National Parks which gives you an opportunity to experience the incredible beauty of days gone by. It’s located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas.

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve protects a small portion of these grasslands. It’s one of the rarest and most endangered ecosystems in the world. And visitors to this scenic wonderland can see the beautiful grasslands which once covered much of America.

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve was created by legislation passed on November 12, 1996. It created the 10,894 acre preserve to protect a sample of what was once a vast tallgrass prairie ecosystem.

Stephen F. Jones & Enclosed Ranching

In addition to experiencing these magnificent tallgrasses, visitors can tour a restoration of cattleman Stephen F. Jones‘ ranch called Spring Hill Farm and Stock Ranch.

Stephen F. Jones was a pioneer in what was called “enclosed ranching” whereby cattle movements are limited by stone walls, fences or barbed wire.

Because of his leadership, grasslands which would have otherwise been decimated were saved instead.

A National Historical Landmark District

In 1997, the Jones Ranch was designated a National Historical Landmark District. Today visitors can take tours of his 1881 limestone Second Empire house, the three-story limestone barn, and other outbuildings.

And, while you’re in town, I recommend you take a drive along the 47-miles of the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway on K-177. You’ll marvel at the breathtaking scenery. Just imagine a time when it covered 170 million acres of North America.

CHECK OUT: LIST OF 128 BEST U.S. MONUMENTS RANKED

Check Out Our Grand Teton Film

More Than Just Parks is the ONLY place you can go to find expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

GRAND TETON 8K is the culmination of nearly a month spent filming in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range. Encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range.

Journey with More Than Just Parks as we explore a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic beauty. This is Grand Teton. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

To make this film happen we spent nearly a month in Grand Teton National Park during June & July. Of all the films we’ve shot this one features the most wildlife. We captured bison, elk, moose, bears, foxes, beavers, and more.

Grand Teton is situated just South of Yellowstone and while it still sees a significant amount of visitors each year it is far less than its northern counterpart. As one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world Grand Teton is in a class of its own.

Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, jaw-dropping vistas, and high-alpine beauty comprise this western wonderland.

Kansas National Parks FAQ

Why Trust Us About Kansas National Parks?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of Kansas National Parks

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

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Check Out Our Comprehensive Guide

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about some amazing places to visit in Kansas.

If you’re interested in learning more about our national parks then please check out our complete rankings of all 63 of them.

List Of 8 (Must-See) National Park Sites In Kansas

1. Brown V. Board Of Education National Historic Site
2. Fort Larned National Historic Site
3. Fort Scott National Historic Site
4. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
5. Nicodemus National Historic Site
6. Pony Express National Historic Trail
7. Santa Fe National Historic Trail
8. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Helpful Articles

National Parks: All 63 National Parks Ranked By Experts

National Monuments: Ultimate List Of National Monuments

Landmarks: 25 Famous Bucket List Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

Park Rangers: A Brief (& Informative) History Of America’s National Park Rangers

Gifts: 50 BEST National Park Gifts For The National Park Fan In Your Life

Books: 45 BEST National Parks Books

Revolutionary War Sites: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America

Civil War Sites: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America

Civil Rights Sites: 10 BEST Civil Rights Sites In America

National Parks In Movies: Look Familiar? 25+ CLASSIC Movies Filmed In The National Parks

Television Shows: Look Familiar? 10+ CLASSIC Television Shows Filmed In The National Parks

The post 8 EPIC Kansas National Parks (in Photos + Helpful Tips) 2023 appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts! In this article, we provide you with 10 amazing facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Some Basic Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a national park located in the state of New Mexico. The park covers an area of 46,766 acres and is known for its stunning views, deep canyons, and unique geological formations.

One of the main attractions of Carlsbad Caverns National Park is its network of underground caves and caverns, which are home to a variety of geological formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. The park is also home to a number of hiking trails, offering the opportunity to explore the park’s unique and varied terrain.

In addition to its natural beauty, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites, including the historic Rattlesnake Springs and the visitor center, which offers exhibits and programs about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and unique underground environments in the United States.

Here Are Some Of The Basic Facts:

• Location: New Mexico
• Acreage:  73.07 miles
• Visitation: 440,691 visitors in 2019
• Lowest Elevation: Of the three major levels, the deepest is 1,027 feet belowground.
• Average annual precipitation: The park averages 14.9 inches of annual precipitation
• When Did It Become A National Park? On October 25, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge created Carlsbad Caverns National Park

CHECK OUT: 20 SURPRISING New Mexico National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts

Top 5 Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts

1. It’s One Of Over 300 Limestone Caves

If you’re interested in origin stories then one of the most interesting Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that Carlsbad Caverns is one of over 300 limestone caves in a fossil reef laid down by an inland sea about 265 million years ago.

CHECK OUT: 10 MUST-SEE Historic Sites In New Mexico

2. Native Americans Knew About The Existence Of The Caves For Possibly Thousands Of Years

For me, one of the most intriguing of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts involves that fact that twelve-to-fourteen thousand years ago, American Indians lived in the Guadalupe Mountains.

The Mescalero Apache, Zuni Pueblo, and other groups were well acquainted with the area. Some of their cooking ring sites and pictographs have been found within the present day boundaries of the park.

According to the National Park Service, the Mescalero Apache and the Zuni Pueblo were aware of the existence of a cave in the Carlsbad area that they called Jadnut? udebiga (Home of the Bat) and Asho:sti an alaluckwa (Bat Cave) respectively.

They used the area around the cave entrance for cooking, and there are multiple mescal cooking pits and a cave painting that can be found there.

While there is no evidence that these native peoples explored deep into the cave, they were certainly aware of its existence.

The cave, known as the Bat Cave, is a limestone cave, located in the park and has a rich cultural and historical significance. The cave is protected and not open to the public.

CHECK OUT: 11 AMAZING Facts About Acadia National Park

3. European Explorers Stumbled On The Entrance To Carlsbad Caverns

By the 1500s, Spanish explorers were passing through present-day west Texas and southeastern New Mexico.

In their explorations, they stumbled upon the gaping mouth of what is now known as Carlsbad Cavern.

While several claim to have been the first to have entered the cave they have been mostly forgotten by history.

CHECK OUT: 11 AMAZING Facts About Arches National Park

4. A 16 Year Old Cowboy Is Credited With The First Cave Exploration

Another of the extraordinary Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is the incredible story of the first credited cave exploration involves a sixteen year old cowboy.

 Jim White was rounding up cattle one evening when he spotted smoke from a wildfire off in the distance. He went into high alert. Fires could be just as devastating then as they are now.

White rode closer to see what was happening. How big was it? Was it moving quickly? What direction was it burning? White rode to the fire so he could report back to camp with the most accurate information possible.

He Saw Thousands Of Free-Tailed Bats

As White approached the cave, however, he realized that it wasn’t smoke he was seeing. It was bats. Thousands-upon-thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats.

Jim White was a cowboy, miner, and explorer who discovered the cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park in the early 20th century.

He constructed a ladder which he anchored at the mouth of the cave and descended using only one hand while his other hand held his only light source. After sixty feet, he landed on the cave floor, and his light barely penetrated the darkness surrounding him.

White’s exploration of the cave continued for many years, and he is responsible for naming many of the features which are associated with the caverns today such as “Devil’s Armchair,” “Devil’s Den,” and the “Witch’s Finger.”

He also discovered many other caves in the area, which he explored and mapped. White’s discoveries and explorations helped to open up the cave to the public and increased interest in the area.

CHECK OUT: 10 AMAZING Facts About Badlands National Park

5. The Largest Cave In Carlsbad Caverns Is Over 100 Miles

One of my favorite Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that, since 1984, explorers have mapped over 145 miles of passages and have pushed the depth of the cave to 1,604 feet (489 m).

As of July 2019, Lechuguilla is one of the ten longest caves in the world (one of the four longest in the United States) and the second deepest limestone cave in the country.

A Fascinating Backstory

The cave has a fascinating backstory. According to the National Park Service, Lechuguilla Cave was known until 1986 as a small, fairly insignificant historic site in the park’s backcountry. Small amounts of bat guano were mined from the entrance passages for a year under a mining claim filed in 1914.

The historic cave contained a 90-foot entrance pit which led to 400 feet of dry, dead-end passages.

The cave was visited infrequently after mining activities ceased. However, in the 1950s, cavers heard wind roaring up from the rubble-choked floor of the cave. Although there was no obvious route, different people concluded that cave passages must lay below the rubble.

A group of Colorado cavers gained permission from the National Park Service and began digging in 1984.

The breakthrough, into large walking passages, occurred on May 26, 1986.

What followed has become some of the world’s most exciting cave exploration in one of the finest known caves on the planet.

Rescue in Lechuguilla Cave

In 2014, a National Park Service volunteer caving team entered Lechuguilla Cave inside Carlsbad Caverns National Park, with the purpose of performing re-rigging and replacement of 20-year-old ropes that park cavers use for exploration in the Boulder Falls area of the cave.

Shortly after the team descended into the cave, one of the members became ill, suspected to be due to heat exhaustion and dehydration.

The team leader, Andy Armstrong, called for rescue assistance and a three-member rescue team responded: Carlsbad Caverns cave technicians Stan Allison and Shawn Thomas, and a caver/paramedic from Carlsbad Fire Department.

They descended 180-feet into the cave and administered intravenous fluids to the stricken caver, J.L. Gomez, a Carlsbad Caverns volunteer.

After receiving three bags of IV fluid and resting for many hours, Gomez improved enough to make the 180-foot ascent out of the cave with limited help from the team.

He was able to hike back to his vehicle with the other team members unassisted and no further medical treatment was required.

CHECK OUT: 16+ FASCINATING Grand Canyon Facts

Top 10 Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts

6. Carlsbad Caverns Has A Bat Flight Program

Just when you thought we couldn’t come up with any more unbelievable Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts we’ve come up with another one. Carlsbad Caverns has a wonderful Bat Flight Program. It runs from late May through October.

No reservations are required for this program which takes place at the Bat Flight Amphitheater, located at the Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Cavern.

You’ll be treated to a Ranger talk beforehand. And then you’ll see the main event around sunset, which is when thousands of bats begin their daily exit from the caverns in search of insects to eat. 

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

7. The Big Room In Carlsbad Caverns Is The largest Accessible Cave Chamber In North America

Another truly intriguing of the Carlsbad Caverns National Parks Facts is that Carlsbad Caverns include a large limestone chamber, named simply the Big Room, which is almost 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet high at its highest point.

The Big Room is the largest chamber in North America and the thirty-first largest in the world.

CHECK OUT: Helpful List Of National Parks By State (With Printable Map)

8. A Wide Variety Of Wildlife Can Be Found At Carlsbad

Another of the extraordinary Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is that there are 67 mammal species, 357 bird species, 5 fish species, and 55 amphibian and reptile species found in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Mammals that can be found living in Carlsbad Caverns National Park include: cougars, coyotes, foxes, wolves, bobcats, otters, weasels, badgers, skunks, bats, and shrews.

9. Visitors To The Caverns Can See The Wonders Of The Lower Cave

One of the most popular tours at Carlsbad Caverns is the Lower Cave Tour.

Visitors can see the evidence left behind from the 1924 National Geographic Expedition and other explorations.

Highlights of this tour include “The Rookery,” with countless nests of cave pearls, the “Colonel Boles Formation,” and an incredible diversity of cave formations.

Included in the tour is a descent of sixty feet of ladders and a knotted rope to hang onto as you slowly walk backward down a slope at the tour entrance.

10. There Are Some Rare Microbes That Haven’t Been Discovered Anywhere Else In The World

One of my favorite Carlsbad Caverns National Park Facts is one of the least known. There are some rare microbes that haven’t been discovered anywhere else in the world.

In Lechuguilla Cave, scientists are researching clusters of extremophile microbes, which are thought to be a possible cure for cancer.

Rare, rock eating (chemolithoautotrophic) bacteria are also believed to occur in the cave.

Why Trust Us About Carlsbad Caverns National Park?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of Carlsbad Caverns

List Of Carlsbad Caverns Facts

1. It’s One Of Over 300 Limestone Caves
2. Native Americans Knew About The Existence Of The Caves For Possibly Thousands Of Years
3. European Explorers Stumbled On The Entrance To Carlsbad Caverns
4. A 16 Year Old Cowboy Is Credited With The First Cave Exploration
5. The Largest Cave In Carlsbad Caverns Is Over 100 Miles
6. Carlsbad Caverns Has A Bat Flight Program
7. The Big Room In Carlsbad Caverns Is The largest Accessible Cave Chamber In North America
8. A Wide Variety Of Wildlife Can Be Found At Carlsbad
9. Visitors To The Caverns Can See The Wonders Of The Lower Cave
10. There Are Some Rare Microbes That Haven’t Been Discovered Anywhere Else In The World

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then sign up below!

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The post 10 AMAZING Facts About Carlsbad Caverns National Park appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Overview: Summer in Zion National Park

Summer in Zion National Park ushers in hot weather and massive crowds. Days are hot, and nights are warm, with highs reaching into the 100s and lows in the high 60s.

Every summer, millions of tourists pack into the 15-mile-long Zion Canyon, so trails, shuttle stations, and roads are typically quite crowded.

Luckily, Zion has instituted a wonderful shuttle system to keep cars off the road in the main canyon and improve the visitor experience.

Despite the massive influx of visitors, there are still spots where one can escape the crowds. If you’re looking to find solitude check out Kolob Canyon, Kolob Terrace, Lava Point, and Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon.

Summer Monthly Temperatures in Zion National Park

Summer Activities in Zion National Park

Summer is a beautiful, albeit hot and crowded, time to visit Zion National Park. Popular Summer activities in the Zion National Park include:

• Hiking The Narrows
• Driving the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway Scenic Drive
• Exploring Kolob Terrace and Lava Point
• Hiking Angels Landing

Things to Pack

Map: I use this one.

Guide: I recommend this one – James Kaiser is the gold standard when it comes to national park guide books.

Sandals: We recommend these sandals that we love and these sandals which have straps.

Insect Repellent: You hope not to need it, but you want to have it. We typically bring an Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent with us just in case.

Sunscreen: For many of us, visiting national parks in the summer means lots of sun. Seriously, some of these parks can zap you if you don’t wear sunscreen. We happen to like this one because it works AND it’s not full of a bunch of chemicals.

Details About Zion National Park

Location: Springdale, Utah

Established: November 19, 1919

Size: 323,431 acres

Native Land: Hopi, Navajo, Northern Ute, Pueblo of Zuni, Southern Paiute

Visitors: 4,320,333 (2018)

Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle (or $80 for America the Beautiful Pass)

The Zion Film

ZION is the culmination of nearly a month spent exploring Zion National Park during peak fall color. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

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The post SUMMER in Zion National Park (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: National Parks Near Long Beach

National Parks near Long Beach. There’s so much more to the great state of California than the Queen Mary.

In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible national parks that are within a day’s drive of downtown Long Beach.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Long Beach is a great place to live on the Pacific Coast and offers plenty of community events, convenient access to beaches, incredible entertainment, and more.

And it’s home to some amazing national parks which are within a day’s drive (or less) of the city.

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

Now let’s go ahead and share those 7+ reasons why you’ll want to make that day’s drive from Long Beach to one of these amazing places.

Best National Parks Near Long Beach

1. Channel Islands National Park

Distance From Long Beach: It’s 104 miles from Long Beach to the Channel Islands National Park. There are four travel options.

Resources: Where to Stay

Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of California, encompassing five of the eight Channel Islands.

The park was established in 1980 to protect the unique natural and cultural resources of the islands, which are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including many that are found nowhere else in the world.

The Chumash people, who have lived on the Channel Islands for thousands of years, have a rich cultural history that is tied to the land and sea. They used the resources of the islands to sustain themselves and developed a complex society with unique traditions, arts, and beliefs.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Channel Islands were used for agriculture, ranching, and military purposes, and many of the native species and ecosystems were impacted by human activity. In the mid-20th century, concerns about the preservation of the islands led to the creation of a national park to protect their unique resources.

The Channel Islands Today

Today, Channel Islands National Park encompasses over 249,000 acres of land and sea, including a variety of habitats, from rocky cliffs and sandy beaches to deep-sea canyons and kelp forests.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the island fox, the spotted skunk, and the bald eagle, as well as many rare and endangered species.

The park also provides opportunities for visitors to experience the rich cultural and natural history of the Channel Islands, including hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

About This National Park Near Long Beach

The Channel Islands National Park is a collection of five islands off the coast of Southern California. It includes Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara islands.

The park is known for its unique and diverse ecosystems, including beaches, cliffs, kelp forests, and maritime caves. It’s also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

Visitors to Channel Islands National Park can engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including:

1. Hiking: There are several trails for visitors to explore, offering scenic views and opportunities to see wildlife.
2. Camping: The park has several designated camping areas for visitors to spend the night and experience the natural beauty of the islands.
3. Kayaking: The protected waters around the islands are perfect for kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the coastline and observe marine life.
4. Snorkeling: The clear waters around the islands provide an excellent opportunity for snorkeling, with a rich variety of marine life to observe.
5. Wildlife viewing: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and several species of whales and birds.
6. Boating: Visitors can also take boat tours around the islands to see the unique landscapes and wildlife from the water.
7. History & Culture: The islands have a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the Chumash people and the history of the islands at the park’s museum.

RELATED: 6 AMAZING National Parks Near San Diego You’ll Love

2. Death Valley National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Four hours & 19 minutes via US-395 N.

Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay

Death Valley National Park is located in the Mojave Desert in California and Nevada and was established as a national park in 1994.

The park is known for its extreme and diverse landscape, including the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin, which lies 282 feet below sea level), towering mountain ranges, and vast sand dunes.

The history of Death Valley is rich and varied. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Timbisha Shoshone people for thousands of years.

The area was later explored by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in the 18th and 19th centuries, and in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a popular destination for miners and settlers who were seeking their fortunes during the California Gold Rush.

The Park Has A Fascinating History Of Human Settlement, Mining & Transportation

Death Valley also has a fascinating history of human settlement, mining, and transportation. In the late 19th century, the area was a hub of mining activity, and several boomtowns, including Furnace Creek and Rhyolite, emerged.

The area was also an important stop along the 20-Mule Team Borax route, which was used to transport borax from the mines in Death Valley to the railhead at Mojave.

Today, Death Valley National Park encompasses over 3 million acres of land and includes a diverse range of habitats, from lush oases and canyons to barren salt flats and sand dunes.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the iconic desert bighorn sheep, and provides visitors with opportunities to experience the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Things To Do In Death Valley

Here are some of the top things to do in the park:

1. Explore Badwater Basin: Visit the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and walk on the salt flats that cover much of the basin.
2. Take a scenic drive: Drive along scenic routes like the Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette, which offer stunning views of the park’s colorful landscapes.
3. Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Learn about the history and geology of Death Valley at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, which has exhibits, maps, and information about the park.
4. Hike in the park: Death Valley has many trails that range from easy to strenuous, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.
5. Star gaze: Death Valley has some of the clearest skies in the world, making it an ideal place for stargazing. Visitors can attend ranger-led programs or visit one of the park’s designated stargazing areas.
6. Visit historic sites: Explore the history of Death Valley by visiting historic sites like the Harmony Borax Works, Rhyolite Ghost Town, and Scotty’s Castle.
7. Enjoy outdoor recreation: Death Valley has many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and wildlife watching.
8. Visit the park in spring: Death Valley is at its most beautiful in the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the landscape is dotted with vibrant colors.

RELATED: Death Valley National Park

Check Out Our Death Valley Video

MTJP | Death Valley: In the remote far reaches of the Mojave Desert lies the largest national park in the continental United States. Hidden here in the hottest place on earth is another world full of diverse life and colorful landscapes. Join us as we take life to the extreme and explore Death Valley.

Filmed primarily in 8K. To make this film we spent weeks in California’s (& Nevada’s) Death Valley National Park, mostly in February and March when the temperatures are more manageable. We traversed hundreds of miles hiking most of the parks trails to capture the park like never before.

As the largest park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley is massive – over 3 million acres! We visited destinations like: Eureka Dunes, The Racetrack Playa, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point, Charcoal Kilns, Aguereberry Point, Badwater Basin, Darwin Falls, and more.

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Death Valley National Park Guide!

3. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Two hours & 30 minutes via CA-91 E.

Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California and was established as a national monument in 1936 and as a national park in 1994.

The park is named after the iconic Joshua trees, which are found in the park’s unique and diverse landscape.

The history of Joshua Tree National Park goes back thousands of years, when the Pinto Culture, Serrano, and Cahuilla people lived in the area and used the resources of the land to sustain themselves.

The park’s unique landscape, including its towering rock formations, was formed by millions of years of geological activity and erosion.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area was used for mining, ranching, and farming, and several small communities, including Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms, emerged.

The park’s popularity as a recreational destination grew in the 1920s and 1930s, and the area was designated as a national monument in 1936 to protect its unique landscape and resources.

Today, Joshua Tree National Park encompasses over 790,000 acres of land and includes two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the iconic Joshua tree, the desert tortoise, and the rattlesnake, and provides visitors with opportunities to experience the unique beauty of the desert, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Joshua Tree National Park Guide.

Things To Do In Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park offers a range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do in the park:

1. Rock Climbing: Joshua Tree is known for its climbing opportunities, with thousands of routes for climbers of all skill levels.
2. Hiking: There are several hiking trails that offer a variety of experiences, from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks.
3. Stargazing: The park is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing, due to its clear, dark skies.
4. Wildlife Watching: Joshua Tree is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and roadrunners.
5. Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive through the park to enjoy its unique landscapes, including Joshua tree forests, desert plains, and rock formations.
6. Photography: With its dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations, Joshua Tree is a popular destination for photographers.
7. Camping: Joshua Tree offers several campgrounds for those who want to spend the night in the park.
8. Ranger-led Programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including walks, talks, and campfire programs, to help visitors learn about the park’s history and natural resources.
9. Visiting the Oasis Visitor Center: The Oasis Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the park and its resources, with interactive exhibits and a gift shop.

Check Out Our Joshua Tree Video

MTJP | Joshua Tree is the culmination of nearly a month spent exploring Joshua Tree National Park. We chose Joshua Tree because of its unique landscape. Its immense boulder piles, colorful cactus fields, endless desert expanses, and one-of-a-kind Joshua trees make for a spectacular setting.

This film was shot entirely in 4K. We decided to capture this film during the winter months to spare ourselves from the extreme temperatures of Summer. Joshua Tree is home to some of the darkest skies in the United States and as such we chose to feature the stars heavily.

Filming locations include: Skull Rock, Arch Rock, Keys View, Wall Street Mill, Cholla Cactus Garden, Jumbo Rocks, Cottonwood Springs, & more.

More National Parks Near Long Beach

4. Pinnacles National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 26 minutes via I-5 N.

Pinnacles National Park is known for its unique geology and diverse array of wildlife, as well as its extensive hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

The park is located in the Gabilan Range of the California Coast Ranges and is home to a series of towering rock formations known as the Pinnacles. These towering formations are the result of volcanic activity that occurred over 23 million years ago, followed by millions of years of erosion that carved the rock into its current shape.

Visitors to the park can explore a variety of trails that wind through the rugged landscape, offering views of the towering rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife.

Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the High Peaks Trail, which takes visitors to the top of the tallest peaks in the park, and the Balconies Cave Trail, which takes visitors through a series of caves and crevices in the rocks.

In addition to its stunning geology, Pinnacles National Park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including California condors, black-tailed deer, and several species of bats. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing and offers a range of climbing routes for climbers of all abilities.

RELATED: 10 [EPIC] Things To Do At Pinnacles National Park

5. The Queen Mary

Distance From Long Beach: 8 minutes via Queens Way.

We’re More Than Just Parks so we’re giving you more than just parks.

Since our focus in this article is Long Beach why not explore one of the grandest ships of all time.

The Queen Mary’s creation and launch was nothing if not extraordinary and her story is rich with history, elegance and grandeur. From the time her construction began in 1930 in Clydebank, Scotland, the Queen Mary was destined to stand in a class all her own.

Despite suffering economic setbacks during the Great Depression, which stalled construction on the ship for several years, Cunard Line spared no expense on building the Queen Mary – which was originally known as job #534.

On May 27, 1936, the Queen Mary departed from Southampton, England embarking on her maiden voyage. She boasted five dining areas and lounges, two cocktail bars and swimming pools, a grand ballroom, a squash court and even a small hospital.

The Queen Mary had set a new benchmark in transatlantic travel, which the rich and famous considered as the only civilized way to travel. She quickly seized the hearts and imaginations of the public on both sides of the Atlantic, representing the spirit of an era known for its elegance, class and style. (Source: The Queen Mary)

Things To See & Do

The Queen Mary nearby attractions and tours offer everything from state-of-the-art rides to walks through historic neighborhoods. Experience world class attractions in Greater Los Angeles. You’ll also find an array of unique shops featuring souvenirs, one-of-a-kind treasures, clothing, memorabilia, historic documents, artwork, and more.

From the ship’s groundbreaking construction and royal launch as the most luxurious and technologically advanced ocean liner at the time, to her duty as a troopship during World War II, to her golden days of the 1950s, to her earning the nickname, the “haunted ship,” the Queen Mary’s history is full of action, adventure, romance and paranormal activity.

Now you can explore the ship from bow to stern, inside and out, and hear unique stories, facts and insights about the Queen Mary from expert tour guides. (Source: The Queen Mary Tours & Exhibits)  

6. & 7. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 14 minutes via I-5 N.

Sequoia National Park was established on September 25, 1890, making it our country’s second oldest national park. 

Kings Canyon was established fifty years later on March 4, 1940.

Together, these two parks offer a truly unique experience for travelers looking to experience some of America’s most amazing natural wonders.

The Tallest Trees In The World

Of course, you’re going to want to be sure to visit the two stars of these two parks. The General Sherman Tree is the world’s largest tree, measured by volume. It stands 275 feet (83 m) tall, and is over 36 feet (11 m) in diameter at the base. It’s located in Sequoia National Park.

The General Grant Tree is located in Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park. The General Grant Tree is the second-largest tree in the world, standing 267 feet tall, and nearly 29 feet wide at the base.

RELATED: General Grant Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Second Tallest Tree

Of course, these two iconic two trees are named after the two victorious Civil War Generals Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman.

RELATED: General Sherman Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Largest Tree

8. Yosemite National Park

Distance From Long Beach: Five hours & 27 minutes via CA-99 N.

Yosemite National Park has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The land was originally home to indigenous tribes such as the Miwok and Paiute, who lived in harmony with the natural environment and revered the iconic features of the park, such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, which protected the area as a public trust and marked the beginning of the national park system. This was the first time in history that a government set aside land for preservation and public use.

Over the years, Yosemite National Park became a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. In the early 20th century, the park’s infrastructure was developed, including roads, lodges, and campgrounds, to accommodate the growing number of tourists.

However, despite its popularity, Yosemite National Park has faced its share of challenges, including pollution, overuse, and damage to the natural environment. In the 1960s and 1970s, a movement to protect the park’s resources led to the creation of the Wilderness Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, which established new standards for environmental protection.

Today, Yosemite National Park continues to be one of the most visited national parks in the country, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its stunning scenery, unique geology, and diverse wildlife. The park remains an important symbol of conservation and a testament to the power of preservation and public ownership.

Things To Do At Yosemite

Yosemite National Park offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some popular things to do in the park:

1. Hiking: Yosemite is a hiker’s paradise, with hundreds of miles of trails that wind through pristine wilderness, past waterfalls and lakes, and up to panoramic vistas. Some popular hikes include the Yosemite Falls Trail, Half Dome, and El Capitan.
2. Rock Climbing: Yosemite is one of the world’s premier destinations for rock climbing, with its iconic granite cliffs offering challenging routes for both beginner and experienced climbers.
3. Scenic Drives: Yosemite Valley is a beautiful destination in and of itself, but the park also offers several scenic drives that offer stunning views of the park’s diverse landscapes, including Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road, and the Mariposa Grove.
4. Wildlife Watching: Yosemite is home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears, deer, coyotes, and mountain lions. Visitors can also see birds of prey such as hawks and eagles, and many species of fish in the park’s streams and rivers.
5. Photography: Yosemite is a photographer’s dream, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife offering endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
6. Camping: Yosemite has 13 campgrounds located throughout the park, offering a unique way to experience the park’s wilderness.
7. Rafting and Kayaking: The Merced River that flows through Yosemite Valley is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking in the summer months.
8. Winter Sports: Yosemite is also a popular winter destination, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

If you want to learn more about this amazing park, then check out 10+ (AMAZING) Yosemite National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

List Of National Parks Near Long Beach

1. Channel Islands National Park
2. Death Valley National Park
3. Joshua Tree National Park
4. Pinnacles National Park
5. The Queen Mary
6. Sequoia National Park
7. Kings Canyon National Park
8. Yosemite National Park

National Parks Near Long Beach FAQ

Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Long Beach?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of National Parks Near Long Beach

List Of National Parks Near Long Beach

1. Channel Islands National Park
2. Death Valley National Park
3. Joshua Tree National Park
4. Pinnacles National Park
5. Sequoia National Park
6. Kings Canyon National Park
7. Yosemite National Park

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation. 

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below! 

Name *

First

Last

Email *

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The post 7+ EPIC National Parks Near Long Beach You’ll Love (Photos + Guide) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: National Parks Near Dallas

National Parks near Dallas. There’s so much more to the Lone Star State than the Dallas Cowboys. In this article, More Than Just Parks goes deep in the heart of Texas.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Dallas is home to more than a dozen neighborhoods and districts that each have their own distinct vibe and attractions. From spectacular museums and performing arts venues in the Arts District, to the buzzing nightlife of live music at cool bars in Deep Ellum, Dallas has a place for everyone.

It’s also a place that has some amazing national parks within a day’s driving distance.

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning a trip to the Lone Star State then one book that I highly recommend is: Texas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!

Now let’s go ahead with 5 wonderful reasons why you’ll want to hop in your car and make a day’s drive from Dallas to one of these truly amazing places.

Best National Parks Near Dallas

1. Big Bend National Park

Distance From Dallas: Seven hours and 39 minutes (535 miles) via I-20 W.

It’s a full day’s drive from Dallas to Big Bend National Park, but well worth the trip. This magnificent park, which is often referred to as Texas “gift to the nation,” is famous for its natural resources and recreational opportunities. It’s also rich in cultural history.

Big Bend National Park is a vast wilderness that encompasses over 800,000 acres of land and is one of the largest national parks in the country.

The park is known for its diverse landscape, which includes rugged mountain ranges, sprawling deserts, and scenic canyons, as well as the Rio Grande, which forms its southern boundary. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, and river trips.

RELATED: 12 AMAZING Facts About Big Bend National Park

Check Out The Chisos Mountains

One of the main attractions of Big Bend National Park is the Chisos Mountains, which rise abruptly from the surrounding desert floor and provide a stunning backdrop for visitors. The park is also home to a variety of unique plant and animal species, including black bears, mountain lions, and numerous bird species.

In addition to its natural beauty, Big Bend National Park has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. The park is home to several ancient Native American rock art sites and the ruins of early homesteads, stagecoach stops, and military outposts.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors or simply want to escape to a peaceful and scenic destination, Big Bend National Park has something to offer everyone.

2. Big Thicket National Preserve

Distance From Dallas: Approximately four hours (267 miles) via I-45 S.

Big Thicket National Preserve covers over 100,000 acres of land and is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country.

The preserve is named after the “Big Thicket,” a dense thicket of forest, wetlands, and prairies that provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species.

The Big Thicket is home to a unique mixture of species from both the eastern and western parts of the United States, including many rare and endangered species. Some of the notable plant species found in the preserve include carnivorous pitcher plants, giant cane, and the purple pitcher plant.

The Park Is A Valuable Habitat For Wildlife

The Big Thicket also provides a valuable habitat for wildlife, including numerous species of birds, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, and mammals, like the American black bear and the Texas pine snake.

The preserve is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and canoeing.

In addition to its biological diversity, the Big Thicket has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The preserve is home to several historic sites, including cemeteries, churches, and homesteads, as well as the locations of important events in the state’s history, such as the “Wild Horse Desert” and the “Steamboat Era.”

RELATED: 18 SURPRISING New Mexico National Parks

3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Distance From Dallas: Seven hours and 32 minutes (508 miles) via I-20 W.

It’s a long car drive from Dallas, but it’s a magnificent national park. In 2022, Guadalupe Mountain National Park celebrates its 50th year as a national park. You can join the celebration with some wonderful hikes and backpacking trails where you will be treated to the beauty of the American Southwest.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park covers over 80,000 acres of land and is known for its stunning scenic beauty and unique geological features.

The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, which rises to an elevation of 8,751 feet and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also known for its impressive fossilized reef system, which was once part of an ancient sea and is now preserved in the form of towering cliffs and canyons.

RELATED: 10 FASCINATING Facts About Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Park Is Home To A Diverse Array Of Plant & Animal Life

In addition to its geological wonders, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including many species that are unique to the area. Some of the notable species found in the park include black bears, pronghorns, and various bird species, such as the peregrine falcon.

The park offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, and scenic drives. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the ruins of an old mining town, as well as the remnants of a Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach station.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a beautiful and peaceful escape, Guadalupe Mountains National Park has something to offer everyone. With its unique combination of scenic beauty, geological wonders, and rich cultural history, it is truly one of the crown jewels of the national park system.

More National Parks Near Dallas

4. Hot Springs National Park

Distance From Dallas: Four hours and 22 minutes (287 miles) via I-30 E.

Hot Springs National Park is a protected area located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park was established in 1921 to preserve the unique geothermal hot springs that have been sought after for their therapeutic properties for thousands of years.

The hot springs in Hot Springs National Park have been used for healing and relaxation by Native American tribes for centuries, and by the late 19th century, the city of Hot Springs had become a popular destination for people seeking the health benefits of the hot springs.

The arrival of railroads and improved transportation helped to spur the growth of the city and its reputation as a health resort.

As the popularity of the hot springs grew, concerns arose about the exploitation and commercialization of the resources. In 1832, the federal government set aside a portion of the hot springs for public use, and in 1877, the Hot Springs Reservation was established to protect the hot springs from private development and to ensure public access to the thermal waters.

Today The Park Is A Popular Tourist Destination

In 1921, the Hot Springs Reservation was renamed Hot Springs National Park and was officially established as the country’s 18th national park. Today, Hot Springs National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to soak in the hot springs, enjoy the natural beauty of the park, and learn about the rich history of the area.

The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, as well as a range of cultural and historical resources, including the Fordyce Bathhouse, which served as a hub of activity and entertainment during the early 20th century, and the Grand Promenade, a historic walkway that offers stunning views of the park and the city of Hot Springs.

RELATED: 6 SURPRISING Oklahoma National Parks

5. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Distance From Dallas: Approximately eight hours (543 miles) via I-35 S.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area located in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. The refuge was established in 1946 to provide habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife, and to conserve the unique natural resources of the region.

Laguna Atascosa covers over 97,000 acres and includes a diverse range of habitats, including freshwater marshes, tidal flats, dunes, and coastal prairies.

This variety of habitats provides a home for a wide range of wildlife, including over 400 species of birds, as well as threatened and endangered species such as the ocelot and the Gulf Coast jaguarundi.

An Important Stopover For Migratory Birds

The refuge is also an important stopover for migratory birds, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and neo-tropical migrants. The refuge provides habitat for nesting, resting, and feeding during these birds’ long journeys between their breeding and wintering grounds.

In addition to its wildlife and habitat, Laguna Atascosa is also significant for its cultural and historical resources. The refuge encompasses lands that were once used by the indigenous Karankawa people, and by Spanish and Mexican settlers.

Today, the refuge provides opportunities for wildlife observation, fishing, hunting, and environmental education, and is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and valuable resource, and plays a critical role in the conservation of the Rio Grande Valley’s diverse wildlife and habitats.

By protecting and managing these important natural resources, the refuge helps to ensure the survival of a wide range of species and contributes to the preservation of the region’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.

RELATED: 16 SURPRISING Texas National Parks

National Parks Near Dallas FAQ

Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Dallas?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of National Parks Near Dallas

List Of National Park Sites Near Dallas

1. Big Bend National Park
2. Big Thicket National Preserve
3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
4. Hot Springs National Park
5. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

To Learn More About The Lone Star State:

1. Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites: New Edition by Laurence Parent.
2. Texas Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit by John Mallon.
3. Lone Star: A History Of Texas And The Texans by T.R. Fehrenbach.
4. History of Texas: A Captivating Guide to Texas History, Starting from the Arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors in North America through the Texas Revolution to the Present by Captivating History.

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested joining the adventure, sign up below!

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The post 5 EPIC National Parks Near Dallas You’ll Love (Photos + Guide) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Summary: Glacier National Park Facts

Glacier National Park Facts! In this article, More Than Just Parks provides you with 15 amazing facts about one of America’s most magnificent national parks.

More Than Just Parks is your one-stop-shop when it comes to learning everything you’ll need to know about America’s national parks. We’ve got expert guides, beautiful photos, helpful tips, breathtaking films and so much more.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind some of these natural wonders. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing some of the incredible stories about these beautiful places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

More Than Just Parks takes a deeper dive with its national park facts. We’ve done our homework so that you’ll get more than you bargained for.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Facts About Glacier National Park

Some Basic Facts About Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a national park located in the state of Montana, on the border with Canada. It is known for its stunning landscape, which includes towering mountains, forests, lakes, and glaciers. The park covers over 1 million acres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, mountain goats, and elk.

One of the main attractions of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic roadway that crosses the park and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park also has numerous hiking trails, including the famous Highline Trail, which takes hikers along the crest of a ridge with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its natural beauty, Glacier National Park has a rich cultural history. It is home to the Blackfeet Nation, who have lived in the area for thousands of years and continue to have a strong presence in the park. The park also has a number of historic lodges and buildings, including the historic Belton Chalet and the Lake McDonald Lodge.

Overall, Glacier National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor recreation. It is a place of breathtaking beauty and a testament to the power of the natural world.

About Glacier National Park

Before we get to all of the wonderful things that you can do at Glacier, let’s begin with a short history lesson. Don’t roll your eyes. I promise it will be short and remember I don’t give any homework. After all I’m retired. And grading homework was never that much fun anyway.

As for Glacier, it officially became a national park in 1910. Fast forward to 2019 [I told you the lesson would be brief] and Glacier National Park is the 10th most visited park, making this one of the most popular national parks to visit in the United States.

Looking for things to do in Glacier National Park on your next trip? Check out our article: 15 EPIC Things to Do in GLACIER National Park (Photos + Map) 2022

Here Are Some Basic Facts About Glacier

• Location: Montana
• Acreage: The country’s 10th national park, Montana’s Glacier preserves 1 million acres of glacier-carved peaks and valleys, pristine turquoise lakes and streams, and dense ancient forests for all to enjoy. 
• Visitation:  Glacier National Park in the United States attracted a total of approximately three million visitors in 2021.
• Highest Elevation: Mt. Cleveland is the park’s tallest peak, listed at 10,466 feet.
• Lowest Elevation: The lowest is the Middle Fork River near West Glacier at 3,215′.
• Average annual precipitation: In the driest corners of the park, along the northeast and northwest edges, rainfall averages 23 inches (58.4 cm) a year, while the lowlands of the west side receive about 30 inches (76.2 cm) of precipitation on average.
• When Did It Become A National Park? On May 11, 1910, President William Howard Taft signed a bill into law establishing Glacier National Park. 

CHECK OUT: 8 AMAZING Alaska National Parks (Helpful Guide For Visiting)

Glacier National Park Facts

Top 5 Glacier National Park Facts

1. The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Glacier Were The Kootenai

If you’re interested in origin stories then one of the most fascinating Glacier National Parks Facts involves the Kootenai.

10,000 years ago Native Americans known as the Kootenai made their seasonal rounds in the landscape that is now Glacier National Park. 

The Kootenai people lived along the Kootenai River in Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia.

They were hunter-gatherers, and salmon was an important staple to their diets. They built winter villages of cone-shaped houses made from wooden poles and rush mats.

2. Lewis & Clark Enjoyed Spectacular Views Of Glacier National Park

If you’re interested in stories about famous explorers then one of the more interesting Glacier National Park Facts is that, according to their records, while Lewis & Clark never actually set foot in Glacier National Park, they did enjoy spectacular views of the land.

Legend also has it that the Corps of Discovery’s encounter with the Piegan Indians led to a fifty years of distrust between the Blackfeet and all whites irrespective of their intentions.

It’s also worth noting that this was the only time during the two explorers historic journey that they actually were forced to take lives in order to defend themselves.

One of the Corps of Discovery got into a scuffle with a Piegan who grabbed his gun. Reuben Field pursued him and wrestled his gun away from the man at which point Field was forced to draw his knife and stab the man to death.

If you’re interested in taking a deeper dive and learning more about the remarkable explorations of Lewis & Clark then I recommend: Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West by Stephen Ambrose.

CHECK OUT: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (MUST-SEE)

3. A Man Who Lived Among The Native Americans Christened The St. Mary Lakes

I love stories about the interesting people who became a part of the history of America’s national parks. In the case of Glacier, one of these people was a man by the name of Hugh Monroe.

According to the National Park Service, in 1817, Monroe came out of Edmonton House. His assignment was to learn the Blackfeet language and assure future trades at Edmonton House.

Hugh Monroe had no idea that this job would change his life. He was only seventeen years old when he was adopted by the Blackfeet people.

Later, Monroe married a Blackfeet woman, Sinopah, and together they raised a family.

It was through Monroe’s good reputation and history with the tribe which the way was paved for other whites to come into the area.

The First Caucasian To Discover St. Mary Lake

Historians believe that Monroe may have been the first Caucasian to discover the St. Mary Lakes. As a matter of fact, he may have been the first Caucasian to see Glacier National Park.

Between 1836 and 1845, Monroe held a ceremony to name the lakes at Glacier after the Virgin Mary.

He christened the St. Mary Lakes, which is another one of the fascinating Glacier National Park Facts.

4. A Railroad Tycoon Helped To Establish Glacier National Park

The Great Northern Railway was the first, and for decades, the only major transportation system to bring people to Glacier National Park.

Another incredible Glacier National Park Fact is that James J. Hill, president of the Great Northern Railway, and his son Louis, were among the earliest supporters of a national park.

The Hill’s were enthusiastic advocates for the preservation of Glacier’s lands.

They funded and led a public relations campaign to convince Congress to designate this area as a national park. Congress agreed and President William Howard Taft signed the bill into law on May 11, 1910.

See America First

James J Hill understood that the Great Northern could not grow and prosper unless their were interesting places for passengers to travel.

Louis Hill, who was a passionate advocate for America’s public lands, led a campaign to encourage Americans to “See America First.”

People traditional traveled to Europe for summer vacations, but the Hills believed that they could give Americans an opportunity to have a comparable vacation experience while remaining in the United States.

While visitors can now travel to Glacier by car, they can still ride the rails too.

Travelers can take Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the Midwest to East, ride through the Marias Pass at the highest point on the railroad’s route and stop at Beltron Depot to visit the park.

CHECK OUT: 11 FASCINATING Crater Lake National Park Facts

5. Glacier National Park Helped To Give Birth To “Parkitecture”

One of my favorite Glacier National Park Facts is that, as part of his “See America First” campaign, Louis Hill wanted to rival Europe’s Swiss Alps.

To do this he adopted the design features of Swiss Chalets as part of the accommodations offered at Glacier National Park.

Hill spent $200,000 to build a chain of hotels that were what he referred to as “chalet colonies.”

In doing so, Glacier National Park helped give birth to what became known as “Parkitecture.” It was an innovative new design which would transform the park into what Hill and his supporters called the “American Alps.”

Louis Hill took great pains to ensure that the lodges were built to last, even taking a break as the manager of the Great Northern to focus on making sure the design and construction of the Glacier Park Lodge.

Once the hotel was up Hill ushered visitors into the park and into his lodge where then, as today, folks enjoy amazing scenery both from the lodge and through Jammer bus tours, hiking and other activities.

Other Glacier Park Lodges include:

Lake McDonald Lodge: Located on the shores of Lake McDonald this lodge is one of the most popular in the park. Lake McDonald Lodge offers lodge rooms and cabins.

Silver Wolf Log Chalets: Located just minutes from the park’s west entrance, Silver Wolf Lodge offers a quiet retreat from kids, noise and everyday routine.

Top 10 Glacier National Park Facts

6. A Cattle Queen Was One Of The Early Visitors To Glacier National Park

Just when you thought we couldn’t come up with any more unbelievable Glacier National Park Facts we’ve come up with another one. One of the most interesting people to become a part of the Glacier National Park story was the “Cattle Queen of Montana.”

Mrs. Elizabeth Collins, wife of rancher Nathaniel Collins of Choteau, Montana, became the first woman to ride the train with her cattle from western Montana to Chicago and may have also been the first Caucasian woman to see the spectacle that would become Glacier National Park.

Collins came from a small farm town in Iowa. In a man’s world, she came to Montana where she gained employment as a mining camp cook before becoming a miner herself.

Mrs. Collins went back to ranching, but a couple of years later got “gold fever” and headed for the Klondike. Eventually she returned to Choteau where she tended her sick husband until he died. Finally, the “Cattle Queen” sold her ranch and moved to California.

Here’s A Glacier National Park Fun Fact

Now here’s a fun fact. There was a 1954 movie titled, The Cattle Queen of Montana starring Barbara Stanwyck and Ronald Reagan.

Though the film’s title may have been inspired by the real life story of Elizabeth Collins, the film itself was the story of a defiant female rancher Sierra Nevada Jones (Barbara Stanwyck) who swept into Montana, received a hostile welcome from a tribe of Native Americans after attacking her cattle and leaving her father dead.

If you’re interested in learning about the real “Cattle Queen of Montana,” however, then I recommend: The Cattle Queen of Montana by Charles Wallace and Elizabeth Smith Collins.

CHECK OUT: 10 EPIC Montana National Parks Worth Visiting

7. An Influential Editor & Conservationist Nicknamed Glacier The “Crown Of The Continent”

One of my favorite Glacier National Park Facts involves George Bird Grinnell: America’s First Environmentalist.

Grinnell was the editor of Forest and Stream magazine. He first came to Glacier National Park in 1885. He would return for the rest of his life.

Grinnell gave the park its nickname: the “crown of the continent.”

Now how many folks actually have a national park landmark named after them? George Bird Grinnell had three!

As one of the first Americans to visit and record his impressions of Glacier, Grinnell would have the honor of having a glacier, a lake and a mountain named after him.

From the time he first dreamt of it becoming a national park in 1891, he worked tirelessly to gather support for this idea. Grinnell’s editorials in Forest and Stream, as well as his efforts to lobby political leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, would finally bear fruit when Glacier became a national park in 1910.

To learn more about George Bird Grinnell, I recommend: Grinnell: America’s Environmental Pioneer and His Restless Drive to Save the West by John Taliaferro.

Learn More About The Greatest Environmentalist You’ve Never Heard Of: George Bird Grinnell – America’s First Environmental Activist

8. Glacier National Park Features An Engineering Marvel

Stephen Mather, who became the first direction of the National Park Service, wanted to have a road built in Glacier National Park. It would be not just any road however. It would be an engineering marvel.

Between 1921 and 1933, when the entire length of Going-to-the-Sun Road was opened to the public, it cost $2.5 million, 490,000 pounds of explosives and three lives to build – built by men armed with shovels, hammers, hemp climbing ropes and explosives, according to the April 1937 issue of Pacific Builder and Engineer.

It is one of the world’s most dramatic roadways.

Since its dedication, millions of motorists have passed through the entrance gates and ventured into the park’s wild interior, transported on a two-lane roadway to an otherworldly landscape.

9. The World’s First International Peace Park Is At Glacier

Another truly amazing Glacier National Park Fact is that it’s the world’s first international peace park.

In 1932, Waterton Lakes National Park (Alberta, Canada) was combined with the Glacier National Park (Montana, United States) to form the world’s first International Peace Park.

What Is An International Peace Park?

So, what is an International Peace Park? A “Park for Peace” is a special designation that may be applied to any of the three types of Transboundary Conservation Areas, and is dedicated to the promotion, celebration and/or commemoration of peace and cooperation.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Parks for Peace can serve several purposes.

They may celebrate the endurance of peace and the commemoration of peace in a region: for instance, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is a good example of a Park for Peace established to celebrate longstanding peaceful relations between Canada and the USA. 

The Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning that it is a place of special significance to the world.

10. The Night Of The Grizzlies Changed How People Interacted With Bears At Glacier

One of the most compelling Glacier National Park Facts concerns an event in park history which became known as The Night Of The Grizzlies.

Before I relate the fateful events of that night, it’s important to know that before 1967 the park made it easy to get much closer to grizzly bears than the National Park Service recommends today.

At a matter of fact, in a practice that was popularized by Yellowstone National Park and used in other western parks, the bears regularly visited sources of human food while visitors watched these huge animals tear apart trash dumps.

Things Changed On August 12, 1967

On the afternoon of August 12, 1967, seven young park employees set off on long hikes for overnight camping. That night, Julie Helgeson, at a campsite near Granite Park Chalet, was attacked and killed by a grizzly; Roy Ducat was severely mauled.

That same night Michele Koons was also killed by a grizzly while camping at Trout Lake; Paul Dunn and three other campers escaped by climbing trees.

For everyone involved, it was an unforgettable night of crisis, intense fear, bravery and, ultimately, grief. But it was also a night that marked a watershed moment for bear management, a night that many would later say, “changed everything.”

So, what’s the moral of this story? Seeing a bear in the wild is a special treat for any visitor to a national park. While it is an exciting moment, it’s important to remember that bears in national parks are wild and can be dangerous.

Their behavior is sometimes unpredictable. Although rare, attacks on humans have occurred, inflicting serious injuries and death as was evidence in Glacier National Park by the tragic events of August 12, 1967.

It’s important to stay safe around bears which is why the National Park Service provides a helpful website for doing just that.

Check Out This Helpful Website In The Event That You See A Bear In A National Park

Top 15 Glacier National Park Facts

11. The Mountain Goat Is The Official Symbol Of Glacier National Park

Now here’s another one of those interesting Glacier National Park Facts. Often considered the official mascot of Glacier National Park, mountain goats are some of the most popular sights in this spectacular Montana national park.

Also known as Rocky Mountain Goats (Oreamnos americanus), these fascinating hoofed mammals are endemic to the high mountains of western North America.

In Glacier National Park, you can find mountain goats pretty much everywhere at higher elevations, above the tree line and on steep cliffs.

12. The Number Of Glaciers At Glacier National Park Is Shrinking

Glacier National Park is home to 26 glaciers, down from approximately 150 in 1850.

That number is expected to continue its rapid decline as climate changes shrink their size, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Of the existing glaciers, the largest is Harrison Glacier, at 1.6 million square meters.

By 2030, however, Glacier may no longer be home to any glaciers.

13. The Going To The Sun Road Appeared In The Classic Film The Shining

If you’re a film buff then this Glacier National Park Fact is one you’ll most certainly enjoy.

Going-to-the-Sun Road is shown in the opening credits of the 1980 film The Shining.

You can see aerial flybys of Wild Goose Island. Jack Torrance (portrayed by Jack Nicholson) is traveling along the north shore of Saint Mary Lake, through the East Side tunnel and onward, going to a mountain resort hotel for his job interview as a winter caretaker.

If You Want To Learn More About Which National Parks Played Cameo Roles In Some Of America’s Best Loved Films Then Check Out: Look Familiar? 25+ CLASSIC Movies Filmed In The National Parks

14. There Are 762 Lakes In Glacier National Park

If you enjoy spending time on the water then here’s another of those Glacier National Park Facts that you will appreciate.

There are 762 lakes in Glacier National Park. Of these, 131 are named.

The largest lake in the park is Lake McDonald, at 9.4 miles long, 1.5 miles wide, and 464 feet deep. While Lake McDonald isn’t considered a prime fishing lake, visitors flock to catch a sight of the many wild animals that live along its shore, including moose, black bears, and mule deer.

The park is also home to 2,865 miles of streams, the longest of which is Upper McDonald Creek at 25.8 miles.

15. Glacier Features 71 Species Of Mammals, 276 Species Of Birds & 1,990 Total Species Of Plants

If you love seeing the flora and the fauna then we’ve saved the best of the Glacier National Park Facts for last.

Plant and animal species thrive in Glacier National Park, with 71 species of mammals, 276 species of birds, and 1,990 total species of plants documented.

Wildlife tours are popular among visitors, and sightings are frequent in the warmer spring and summer months.

Why Trust Us About Glacier National Park?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

Map Of Glacier National Park

List Of Glacier National Park Facts

1. The Earliest Peoples To Inhabit Glacier Were The Kootenai
2. Lewis & Clark Enjoyed Spectacular Views Of Glacier National Park
3. A Man Who Lived Among The Native Americans Christened The St. Mary Lakes
4. A Railroad Tycoon Helped To Establish Glacier National Park
5. Glacier National Park Helped To Give Birth To “Parkitecture”
6. A Cattle Queen Was One Of The Early Visitors To Glacier National Park
7. An Influential Editor & Conservationist Nicknamed Glacier The “Crown Of The Continent”
8. Glacier National Park Features An Engineering Marvel
9. The World’s First International Peace Park Is At Glacier
10. The Night Of The Grizzlies Changed How People Interacted With Bears At Glacier
11. The Mountain Goat Is The Official Symbol Of Glacier National Park
12. The Number Of Glaciers At Glacier Is Shrinking
13. The Going To The Sun Road Appeared In The Classic Film The Shining
14. There Are 762 Lakes In Glacier National Park
15. Glacier Features 71 Species Of Mammals, 276 Species Of Birds & 1,990 Total Species Of Plants

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below!

Name *

First

Last

Email *

Submit

Tips for Visiting Glacier National Park (or any national park)

Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

• Sticking to trails
• Checking the weather before going out on a hike
• Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
• Avoid ledges with steep drop offs

Helpful Related Articles:

Best Things to Do Glacier NP: 15 Epic Things to Do at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Itinerary: Ultimate 3 Day Glacier National Park Itinerary

Glacier National Park Hikes: 15 Best Hikes in Glacier National Park

Montana National Parks: 10 Amazing Montana National Parks to Visit

Grand Teton Hikes: 18 EPIC Grand Teton National Park Hikes (Photos + Guide)

Grand Teton Guide: Grand Teton National Park Ultimate Guide

Things to Do Grand Teton: 17 EPIC Things to Do Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton Maps: The Best Maps for Grand Teton National Park

Things to Do Yellowstone: 15 BEST Things to Do Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone Facts: 10 AMAZING Yellowstone National Park Facts

Best Airports Near Yellowstone: The BEST Airports Near Yellowstone National Park

The Wyoming National Parks: 10 EPIC Wyoming National Parks: The Complete Guide (+ Photos)

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The post 15 AMAZING Facts About Glacier National Park (Sure to Surprise) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

About My Travels in Saguaro

I’ve spent a great deal of time hiking in Saguaro National Park over the years and I have to say (outside of the peak summer heat) it’s a fantastic park to wander some trails. So let’s explore the best hikes Saguaro National Park has to offer.

In 2021 I visited Saguaro in the late fall with a small crew to create our SAGUARO film (you can see that below). In the making of that film we roamed more trails than I can count looking to capture the park from every angle.

From dry washes to winding mountain trails, canyons to flat desert, we hiked it all and I found each and every trail and viewpoint to be endlessly fascinating. Maybe it’s something about this desert, or maybe it just appeals to me, but I was constantly finding new plants, animals, and terrain features to be fascinated and enamored with.

So enough introduction, let’s dive into these hikes I’ve been talking about and maybe you’ll find a few that interest you!

Saguaro National Park Video

Watch our short film on Tucson’s Saguaro National Park in stunning 8K. This film was brought to you by Visit Tucson and features the wide variety of beautiful scenery and amazing recreational activities available in Saguaro National Park.

Things to Know Before You Hike in Saguaro National Park

Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months I suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee.

Sunscreen: For many of us visiting national parks means lots of sun. Seriously, some of these parks can zap you if you don’t wear sunscreen. We happen to like this one because it works AND it’s not full of a bunch of chemicals.

Cell Service is actually pretty great in the park thanks to it’s close proximity to the city of Tucson.

Waterproof map with hikes: This one is the best one out there.

Water: Drink it. Lots of it. Don’t forget it in the car.

The Best Time to Visit Saguaro National Park is during the winter when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Food options are endless near Saguaro thanks again to the bustling city of Tucson. Not only are there plenty of food options within short driving distance of the park, but there are some really fantastic restaurants, grocery stores, and just about anything else you could possibly want or need in terms of food and supplies.

Dogs are not allowed on trails in most national parks due to their potentially disruptive presence with the natural ecosystem. The basic rule is they are allowed where cars can go so be sure to check the rules before bringing along your furry friend.

Getting to Saguaro National Park

Deciding where to fly in to visit Saguaro really all comes down to balancing the rental car and plane ticket costs. Sometimes you’ll get a great deal on flights and a rental car in Tucson, and sometimes it will make sense to fly into Phoenix because the rental car or flight is that much cheaper.

Thankfully no matter what you choose, both options are very simple, straightforward, and inexpensive compared with most parks.

• Closest Airport: TUS – Tucson International Airport (25 minutes driving from the Eastern District)
• Cheapest Airport: PHX – Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (An hour and a half driving from the Western District)

My recommendation is definitely flying into Tucson and renting a car from there because you’re basically in the park at that point. You could even bike from the airport if you wanted! The airport is serviced by every major domestic airline and flights are typically not expensive.

Best Hikes Saguaro National Park

1. Loma Verde Trail

• Distance: 3.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Time: 1.5 hours

The Loma Verde Trail is a 3.8 mile loop that offers a terrific variety of scenery.

Loma Verde is my favorite trail in the park thanks to the amazing array of plant and animal life you can experience in a relatively short hike.

You’ll hike through a seasonal wash and eventually reach the Loma Verde Mine, an abandoned gold and copper mine. From there you’ll take a right on Pink Hill Trail and come upon an incredible view of the cactus forest below.

A few more turns and you’ll head right back.

2. Wasson Peak Hike

• Distance: 6.7 miles
• Elevation: 1833 feet
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

If you go very early in the morning, before sunrise, the Wasson Peak hike can be incredible. From the top you’ll have panoramic views of the surround desert and mountains stretching far into the distance.

The hike is challenging, but not so much that it should disqualify the average visitor. The perspective from the top of Wasson Peak is sensational and offers a commanding view of the incredible scenery surrounding you.

Beginning at the Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area you’ll start out on the Sandero Esperanza Trail for almost 2 miles before taking a left onto the Hugh Norris Trail. Once you’ve made you’re left the Hugh Norris Trail will take you all the way there.

Finding your left turn onto the Hugh Norris Trail can be easy to miss as the sign is set back a bit from the wash you’re hiking in and there are several user trails beforehand that can serve to confuse you. I’ve seen more than a few people miss the sign and come traipsing back asking me where to go to get to Wasson Peak so keep a sharp eye out!

The hike is several miles and more than 1500 feet of elevation gain so make sure you’re well prepared and whatever you do, avoid hiking during the afternoon when temperatures can soar into triple digits. Bring plenty of water!

3. Desert Discovery Trail

• Distance: 1/4 mile
• Elevation: None
• Time: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This beautiful 1/4 mile paved loop trail takes visitors through a perfect subsection of the Sonoran Desert. Here visitors of all abilities have the opportunity to a close up look at what makes this part of the world so special.

Along the trail you’ll find a multitude of species of labeled desert plants along with interpretive signs full of fascinating information about how life works in this one-of-a-kind desert wonderland.

There are also a number of shelters with benches, perfect for stopping and taking in the views or resting from the desert heat.

4. King Canyon / Gould Mine Loop

• Distance: 2.4 miles
• Elevation: 380 feet
• Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy

This is a great loop trail that takes hikers through prime Saguaro country. There’s some climbing up some rocky steps, but nothing difficult. Be aware of bees in the area and if you hear them swarming get away from them quickly.

A warning about bees in Saguaro National Park: Saguaro National Park is unfortunately home to some colonies of africanized bees. These bees are extremely territorial and become aggressive when they feel threatened. If you hear them swarming or making their presence felt leave the area immediately. These bees can cause fatal injuries in rare instances.

5. Freeman Homestead Trail

• Distance: 1 mile loop
• Elevation: 100 feet
• Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

Here’s another great trail for hikers of all ages and abilities. Hiking this easy one mile loop offers up close views of this one-of-a-kind desert. Who knows, you may even bump into a rabbit!

6. Ridge View Trail (via Hope Camp Trail)

• Distance: 2 miles
• Elevation: 400 feet
• Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This trail with a very modest elevation gain offers beautiful views of Rincon Peak and the surrounding desert as you go.

Depending on the time of year you visit wildflowers can be seen carpeting the hillside towards the end of the trail. Also season waterfalls can be sighted from the trail’s end.

7. Garwood Trail

• Distance: 3.3 miles (out and back)
• Elevation: 200 feet
• Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This is a great trail that takes hikers through a quintessential Saguaro forest and continues up towards the Rincon Mountains.

There are many options to continue hiking to Garwood Dam though the elevation gain picks up quite a bit.

8. Manning Camp Trail

• Distance: 15.4 miles
• Elevation: 4,560 feet
• Time: 6-9 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult

Hiking to Manning Camp

Manning Camp is an old cabin built by former Tucson Mayor Levi Manning as a family retreat. The camp is home to six campsites and typically has water available. A permit is required.

The hike up to Manning Camp involves over 4,500 feet of elevation gain and takes backpackers from the hot and dry desert floor into the cool pine forests high in the Rincon Mountains.

Hiking to Manning Camp is no joke. This arduous undertaking is not recommended for anyone who isn’t prepared for a grueling hike.

For those who are prepared, the hike offers sensational views and incredible changing scenery as you climb higher into the mountains.

9. Wild Dog Trail

• Distance: 1.8 miles
• Elevation: 180 feet
• Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy

Hiking Saguaro’s Wild Dog Trail

This is another easy trail that’s great for visitors of all skill levels. Lots of opportunities to see wildlife and plenty of interesting looking saguaros.

Wildflowers are common in spring and provide a beautiful punch of color as you enjoy your hike.

10. Bike Saguaro National Park East

Biking in Saguaro National Park

Okay it’s not hiking, but Saguaro National Park East’s one-way loop road is perfect for biking. Plus bikes can be rented from any one of the many many bike rental shops in Tucson.

Morning is the best time as you’ll feel like you have the park to yourself and will see plenty of birds fluttering across the road and perching on top of saguaros. Javelina Rocks is the perfect spot to stop and take in the views after a great ride.

List of the Best Saguaro National Park Hikes

1. Loma Verde Trail Hike
2. Wasson Peak Hike
3. Desert Ecology Trail Hike
4. King Canyon / Gould Mine Hike
5. Freeman Homestead Hike
6. Ridge View Trail Hike
7. Garwood Trail Hike
8. Manning Camp Trail Hike
9. Wild Dog Trail Hike
10. Bike Saguaro National Park East

Map of Saguaro National Park Hikes

Saguaro National Park Hikes FAQ

Summary of Saguaro National Park Hikes

Saguaro has a great range of hiking opportunities for visitors of all skill levels. From grueling 15 mile hikes up mountains, to easy half mile paved loops, and everything in between, Saguaro is full of adventures.

That’s a wrap folks! If you enjoyed this post about the best hikes in Saguaro National Park please leave us a comment below!

Further Reading (Best Saguaro National Park Hikes)

• Saguaro National Park – The Complete Guide
• 11 Amazing Things To Do in Saguaro National Park
• Arizona National Parks
• All 63 US National Parks Ranked

Pin Best Hikes Saguaro National Park

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