state park driving tour

Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

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Self-Guided Driving Tour

The following are loosely listed in order of how you might encounter them on a driving tour of Sedona, starting in the Village of Oak Creek off Hwy 179 and continuing to the “Y” at Hwy 89A, heading west and then doubling back along Hwy 179 toward Uptown Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon along Hwy 89A. Many include easy to advanced hiking in order to reach the best viewpoints, but several can be viewed from a parking lot or on the side of the road. (Be careful parking roadside… traffic in Sedona can be very busy!)

Important: Don’t forget to start at the Coconino National Forest South Gateway Visitors Center at 8375 State Route 179, or the visitors center in Uptown Sedona, to purchase your Red Rock Pass parking permit.

You can start this self-guided tour at any of the points below and simply go back to the top of the list and work your way down. Since most Sedona visitors begin their visit by entering the area from the south, (from Phoenix, off I-17) we’re starting our list there.

From the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, where you can pull into the Coconino National Forest parking lot for the Bell Rock Pathway to view Bell Rock and Cathedral Butte. This turnoff on the east side of the road is about 1.1 miles north of the National Forest’s South Gateway Visitors Center.
Return to Highway 179 and head north 2.8 miles to Back O’ Beyond Road, turning west off the Highway and see spectacular Cathedral Rock.
Return to Highway 179 and continue north 0.5 miles to Chapel Road, then 0.8 miles east on Chapel Road up the hill to the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Continue on Highway 179 and go to the “Y” at the junction of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. You’re now in Uptown Sedona.
From Highway 179, take Schnebly Hill Road. This 38-mile winding and picturesque route ultimately ends at an intersection with Interstate 17. You may choose to go the entire way or turn around and head back down to Highway 179 – it’s up to you. (If you do go all the way up to Interstate 17 and want to come down a different way, you can either go south 38 miles to exit 298 and come back up to Sedona through the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, or head north on the 17 and come down Oak Creek Canyon 27 miles on Highway 89A.)
Back at the divergence of Highway 179 and Schnebly Hill Road, continue around the world-famous Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Shopping District and follow to the “Y” – a traffic circle at the intersection of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. An exit to the right of the Y will take you to Uptown Sedona, where you’ll find shops, hotels, galleries and restaurants with public free parking lots and on-street parking. Best to get out and stroll a while here… there’s too much to see from your car windows!
Leave Uptown and head west on Highway 89A 1.1 mile, turning south on Airport Road (keep your eyes out… there is no traffic light here). A short, steep climb up the hill to Airport Mesa, home of one of Sedona’s vortex spots and perhaps the most popular scenic viewpoint at sunrise and sunset.
Return to Highway 89A and head through West Sedona where you’ll find more shops, dining, hotels and galleries. From Airport Road, travel 2 miles west to Dry Creek Road at which you make a right and head north up Boynton Canyon. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. Boynton Canyon is also home to the renowned Enchantment Resort.
Back out on Highway 89A to the west 1.1 miles is Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Red Rock Loop, aptly named, creates a complete loop that passes through Red Rock State Park, one of Sedona’s most popular hiking, picnicking and photography spots. From here, many iconic photos of the view from Red Rock Crossing to Cathedral Rock have been taken.
Complete the loop on Lower Red Rock Loop and return to Highway 89A. From here, your trip doubles back 5.5 miles toward Uptown Sedona, and continues up Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll pass Midgley Bridge and Indian Gardens, both great places to stop and take photos. (If traveling north to south, you’ll enter Uptown Sedona about 7.1 miles from Slide Rock.)
Just 7.1 miles from Uptown Sedona is Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular attraction, Slide Rock State Park. With easy walking trails, wading in the creek and a natural waterslide, this park is open year-round but is most popular (read: crowded) in the summer months with visitors and families looking for some cool, natural water play. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 2.8 miles from West Fork.)
Another 2.8 miles up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A will take you to the trailhead for the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon Trail, an easy 3-mile and extremely popular day hike. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 6 miles from the Oak Creek Vista.)
Nearly 6 miles of winding switchbacks up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A is the Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Look for a well-marked and ample parking lot on the east side of the highway. Don’t miss this opportunity to stretch your legs and view Oak Creek Canyon from its apex as it runs south. Breathtaking year-round, it’s a sight to behold in winter, fall, summer or spring. (If returning from I-17 in the north, the turnoff is about 8.3 miles down the canyon.)
From here, you can either turn around and head back down Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A south or continue 6.4 miles to the junction of Highway 89A and I-17. If you continue north toward Flagstaff and the I-17, you can either take I-17 south to Schnebly Hill Road or the full 38 miles to exit 298 and return to your starting point in the Village of Oak Creek.

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Ultimate Utah State Park Road Trip with Itinerary

July 30, 2020
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Visiting Utah’s National Parks has always been on our bucket list . While we originally had plans for an international trip this summer, we decided on our midwest road trip instead. In this article, we will cover two different routes depending on if you would like to adventure over through Arizona to stop at Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon. For our trip, we started from flying JFK to LAS and opted to do a one way rental from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City. You could also do this trip opposite from Salt Lake City to LAS if you would like. Prior to our trip, we checked out the amazing TWA Hotel off of JFK’s airport terminal . If you have overnight, this is a great option for JFK airport. Now let’s get to the Ultimate Utah State Park Road Trip.

Route Options

I have two different options for routes for a Utah National Park Roadtrip. We did Route 2, however, it is going to be more driving for Route 2, so it really depends on how much time you have. I included how many days you should spend in each, as well as what hotel we booked along our travels. I highly recommend getting an annual America the Beautiful National Park Pass if you will be visiting more than 2-3 national parks. These are $85 for the year and will save you money upon entry of each park. You can get more information on the nps.gov website. I will also include the breakout of prices for each place.

14 hours 4 minutes driving and you can start in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

Zion National Park

Bryce canyon national park, capitol reef national park, goblin valley state park, arches national park.

Canyonlands National Park

Salt Lake City

Route 2:

20 hours 21 minutes, and you can still start in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas

This route actually crosses into Arizona a bit also.

Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Natural Bridges National Monument

Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Number of Days: 1-3 days

Park Price: $25 per vehicle for a 7 day pass *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Starting our trip off in Las Vegas made the most sense to have a one-way drive. We drove from LAS to Zion National Park. Due to new COVID regulations, you now need a Zion National Park Shuttle Ticket prior to entering the park. Because of the new rule, we only had one day in Zion National park and decided to maximize our time there. The shuttle ticket is in addition to your park entrance fee.

Shuttle tickets

As of June 30th, 2020, you can purchase a shuttle ticket in advance or the day prior at 9:00 am MT on a rolling window. Shuttle tickets cost $1 USD per person and you may purchase at Recreation.gov . Advance tickets seem to be released mid-month for the following month. We were able to get a ticket at 9:00 am the day prior for an 8:00 am shuttle time. The shuttle tickets are released in one-hour time slots, and you have one hour to utilize the ticket to go up the mountain. So if you got an 8 am shuttle ticket, you could go up from 8:00 am-9:00 am. The tickets sold out immediately so be ready prior to the sale time. If you don’t get a shuttle ticket, you can bike or walk up the path, which I believe is about 11 miles.

The top few trails we have heard of to hike at Zion National Park are: Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Canyon Overlook at Zion. We decided to do Angels Landing first, then the Narrows since we would be walking in water. Lastly, we were able to fit in Canyon Overlook as well. Canyon Overlook is good if you don’t have a shuttle ticket as you can just drive and park at the lookout spot to hike.

Angels Landing

A few things to note were that some trails are closed during COVID. We had wanted to hike Angel’s Landing but it was closed at the chains. You can hike up to Scout’s lookout point though, which was absolutely worth the views! Angels Landing took us about 2 hours round trip to hike and walk around the top. It is a pretty well-paved path with an incline. Also, note people do get fined if you hike past the chains when they are closed. It was a $10,000 fine we heard that some people took the risk and had park rangers waiting for them at the bottom.

The Narrows

The Narrows Hike was open, but only from the bottom up and you had to turn around and come back. The Top-down option was not open at the time of our visit. We walked for about 3 hours and turned around and came back. It was so unique each turn we took. The views were worth waking in the water for hours. There were actually some points you could get onto land here and there, so you weren’t in the water the entire time.

Canyon Overlook

Canyon Overlook at Zion was a short/easy one-mile hike that we saw plenty of kids on. The one took us about 45 minutes round trip, and that included taking photos and hanging out at the top. There were a few sketchy spots so be sure to keep kids close by.

We were able to hike all 3 in one day, but, we were SUPER tired by the end of the day and had hiked about 18 miles.

Drive time: 2 hours 39 minutes

Number of Days: 1-2

Park Price: $35 per vehicle for a 7 day pass *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Bryce Canyon National Park was probably my favorite park out of all of Utah National Parks. It was incredibly unique with all of the hoodoos to see. We got up early to watch the sunrise over the hoodoos, which is highly recommended. There is a spot called ‘sunrise point’ that you can easily walk up to bright and early. I suggest getting there early as there were a lot of people as the sun rose!

After watching the sunrise, we were able to hike the Navajo trail which took a couple of hours. We brought a sandwich in our bags and plenty of water which was the perfect amount. These were the only two hikes we did at Bryce Canyon National Park and we were able to finish it in a morning. I would have liked to stay an extra day here though as it really did have some incredible views.

Overview:

Route 2 Add-in:

If you are going to add in these few options, keep reading. If you are going to stick to Route 1, you can skip down to Capitol Reef National Park. This route does add a few extra hours of driving, but if you have the time I think it’s worth it.

Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

Drive time: 2 hours 39 minutes from Bryce Canyon

Number of Days: 1-2 (if Antelope Canyon is open)

Park Price: $10 for parking at Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is separate from the National Park Pass, as you need to pay for parking. Parking was $10 and it was a quick walk up to the bend. There were two rest stops along the way. This was a wide path trail that was extremely easy to hike, so fun for all ages. We probably spent maybe about an hour here taking photos and enjoying the viewpoint. There were plenty of people but it was easy to get some shots without anyone else in it.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is only 10 minutes away from Horseshoe bend. As of July 22nd, 2020, Antelope Canyon is closed through August 16th, 2020. They are expected to hear another update from the Navajo Nation Government from August 11th-15th, 2020. I honestly expect this to stay closed until the foreseeable future as a protection for the Navajo Tribe. You can follow along for more updates on antelopecanyon.com/updates .

*Note if Antelope Canyon is open and you also have a desire to see the 4 corners, it is about a 3-hour drive from Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. This is also located on Navajo Tribe Land, so based on if Antelope Canyon is open I would imagine it follows along the same lines of 4 corners.

Drive Time: 3 hours 27 minutes

Number of days: 1 or even a half day

Park Price: $10 *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Forest Gump Hill

Driving up through Natural Monument National Park from Horseshoe Bend we were able to stop and take a photo at the famous “ Forest Gump Hill”. This was basically right after we passed into Utah and we actually just happened to notice other cars pulled over to take pictures, so we did too.

One main reason we visited Natural Bridges National Monument is that they were the first park to ever be the world’s first “International Dark Sky Park”. Natural Monument National Park was open at the time, however, the visitor center was not. You can drive up to the visitors center and get some information outside, but note that no rangers were around. Also, note that there is no cell phone service in this park.

We opted to drive the one-way paved highway, Bridge View Drive. This scenic 9-mile drive has stops along the route that we were easily able to see all of the bridges from the short walk to the viewpoint lookout. There are 3 main bridges that were formed by the erosive action of moving water. We arrived later in the day and decided to watch the sunset over the last bridge, Owachomo Bridge, that was the shortest hike down to it. The other two bridges were Sipapu Bridge and Kachina Bridge.

Watching the sunset over Owachomo Bridge was pretty magical. There was nobody else around the entire time we were there, and we got to watch the stars come out one by one for hours. Slowly the full moon came up and distorted the dark sky view, but it was a magical experience.

If you are someone who enjoys going to all of Utah’s National Parks, but maybe want smaller crowds, and having the park to yourself, this is a park I would 100% recommend. It is so unique and peaceful to just listen to nature’s sounds.

Natural Bridges National Park

Drive Time: Route 1: 2 hours 6 minutes [Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef]

Route 2: 2 hours 45 minutes [Natural Bridges National Monument to Capitol Reef]

Number of days: 1-2

Park Price: $20 for private vehicle for a 7 day pass. *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Capitol Reef National Park in Utah’s National Park road trip has an assortment of hikes including short, medium, and long distances. They also have hikes to natural bridges, an arch, or even hiking through a creek. If you are looking for a quick hike to stretch your legs while driving through, Hickman Bridge might be a good choice. Only two miles round trip, this hike follows the Fremont River, and is even easy enough for kids!

Hickman Bridge in Capitol Reef National Park

You could easily spend a few days in Capitol Reef National Park to explore what it has to offer. Your best bet is to stay in a local hotel until you are ready to move on, then stop by Goblin Valley State Park along your travels to Moab.

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Drive Time: 1 hour 22 minutes from Capitol Reef and 1 hour 35 minutes from Moab

Number of Days: 1-2 days or even a half day

Park Price: $20 for a private vehicle for 2 day pass

The Valley of the Goblins is the most well-known attraction of Goblin Valley State Park. They also offer 6 miles of hiking trails. There are some pretty easy hiking trails that can get you to sites such as the three sisters, Carmel Formation, Molly’s Castle, and Carmel Canyon Narrows.

One thing to note is that Goblin Valley State Park is not included in Utah’s National Park and does not include entry with the Annual America the Beautiful Park pass. Entry into Goblin Valley State Park is $20 per vehicle for a private vehicle.

Hotel Booked: Stayed in Moab

Drive Time: 1 hour 35 minutes from Goblin Valley State Park

Number of Days: 2-3 days

Moab is such a great little town for a hotel stay to visit a bunch of Utah’s National Parks. If you would prefer, you could always set up camp in Moab and drive out to a bunch of the places as day trips that are about 1-2 hours away. There was a great brewery that also served Gelato. I was impressed with how delicious the gelato was too! We visited Arches National Park and Canyonlands from Moab. We did both in the same day, but you could definitely spend a day or two in either park.

Drive Time: 10-15 minutes from Moab

Number of Days: 1-2 days

Park Price: $23 for a private vehicle for 7 day pass *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Arches National Park has over 2,000 Natural Stone Arches, which makes it the densest concentration of arches in the world. There are plenty of great trails in Arches National Park. One of the most famous, however, would be Delicate Arch. You might actually recognize this arch as one of Utah’s National Parks Icon. Do you know where?? If not, it is located on Utah’s license plate. Delicate Arch is a moderate to difficult trail according to nps.gov, with the trailhead being a super easy paved path. Eventually, it leads you onto a steady climb on the rockface. Then you will finally reach a narrow pathway to walk before finally reaching your destination.

Watching the sunset at Delicate Arch was pretty magical. After it set, and most of the crowds dipped away, we were able to stargaze with a handful of other people. We hiked back in the dark fairly easily with a few others who watched the sunset. It was nice being in a bigger crowd with more flashlights to see where we were going.

One thing to note is there is actually a viewpoint trail where you can see Delicate Arch from afar. Because of the distance, this is actually an easy half-mile trail to walk.

Arches National Park at sunset for Delicate Arch

Canyonlands

Drive Time: 35 minutes

Number of Days: 1-2

Canyonlands was about 45 minutes from Moab or Arches, therefore we were able to sneak in a quick trip before sunset. Mesa Arch was an incredibly easy hike, only being about .5 mile hike. It was a pretty cool arch to hike out to, however, this was one of the more crowded areas we saw along our travels.

Canyonlands National Park- Mesa Arch

‍♀️Arches National Park- Delicate Arch

Drive Time: 3 hours 45 minutes from Moab

During our time in Salt Lake City, mostly everything was shut down due to the pandemic and restrictions. We were able to snag a great meal at Blue Iguana with our friends over at Award Travel 101. The food was delicious and we were even able to walk through Temple Square a little bit. We mostly used this time to re-pack our belongings and then fly out the following morning.

Basic Recap

Road tripping through Utah National Parks was an incredible adventure. Being able to book a one-way rental car made it even easier to not backtrack. I was extremely impressed with all of the national parks and state parks that Utah had to offer. During our trip, we took us about 7-10 days, but we really could have easily spent a day or two additional in each park we visited. Depending on how much time you have, you could revise this itinerary to be a 5 day trip with only a few of the parks mentioned, or spread it out over 2-3 weeks.

Have you road tripped through the national parks? Where were your favorite spots? Would love to hear it!

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Updated: May 14, 2023

If you love the idea of seeing the peaks, canyons, lakes, rivers, streams, and rolling hills across the Ozarks region but lack the desire (or ability) to hike the trails -- you're in luck! There are several opportunities to take in the sights, both natural and tourist-driven, by car.

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The top Ozarks region driving tours provide plenty of places to pull off and take in stunning views of the natural geography, including waterfalls. These tours are terrific for mixed generation or mixed ability families .

Jean Petit State Park Scenic Drive

Since 1923, Jean Petit State Park has been a spot of beauty and inspiration nestled in the Arkansas Ozarks. The entire park encompasses 3,471 acres located approximately 50 miles from Little Rock.

While there are treasures hidden deep in the natural wooded mountainscape, you'll also be able to take in some sights from the comfort of your car. The Jean Petit State Park driving tour includes miles of scenic roadway along with 15 curated stops inside and outside of the park, including:

Museum of Automobiles

Petit Jean’s Gravesite

Petit Jean Airport

Winrock International (Organization dedicated to global agriculture research)

Winrock Farms

Historic 1886 Lutheran Church & Camp

Scenic Red Bluff Drive

Mary Ann Richter Memorial Overlook

CCC Overlook

Lake Roosevelt & Lake Bailey

CCC Native Rock Bridge

John Walker Pioneer Cabin

Cedar Falls Overlook (100 Yard hike from road)

Historic Mather Lodge

CCC Water Tower (Unique Rock Structure)

Bear Cave Rock Formations

Palisades Overlook

Glade Top National Forest Scenic Byway

The Mark Twain National Forest , which spans more than one million acres across the southern half of Missouri is also home to several scenic drives. Among them, the most notable drive is the Glade Top National Forest Scenic Byway which includes 10 notable stops.

Stops include:

Hayden Park

Smoke Tree Scene

Arkansas View

Watershed Divide

Caney Picnic Area

Wolf Junction

Big Creek Basin

McClung Glade

The Lake Tenkiller Loop & Scenic Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Did you know that Tahlequah, Oklahoma is home to the oldest main street in the state? On top of that unique claim-to-fame, the area is also home to Cherokee Nation filled with centuries of history and is just a few miles from an abundance of raw beauty at Lake Tenkiller.

In downtown Tahlequah, make some room for Presley's Burgers or a cup of fresh grind coffee from DRIP. Spend some time shopping a unique collection of local shops before hitting the road via the Cherokee Hills Scenic Byway.

The journey begins on Route 10 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma offering spectacular views of the Illinois River. Then the route takes drivers through Gore, Oklahoma on Highway 100 and then into Cherokee Country on highway 82.

Travelers can experience breathtaking views along the shoreline of Lake Tenkiller and among the foothills of the Cookson mountains as the route heads through Cookson, Oklahoma. It then heads into West Siloam Springs, OK/Siloam Springs, AR where it ends the 86-mile route at the state line.

Stops Include:

Natural Falls State Park

Tahlequah History Trail

Cherokee Heritage Center

Trout Capital Mural in Gore, Oklahoma

Blue Doors at Tenkiller (Art meets Unique Lodging)

Talbot Library & Museum

Pine Creek Cove State Park

Garrett Historic Home

Overstreet-Kerr Historic Farm

Spiro Mounds Archeological State Park

Fort Gibson Historic Site & Interpretive Center

Fairfield Mansion

Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge

Sycamore Springs Ranch

Make the most of your time in the Oklahoma Ozarks with a unique stay in a tiny home built out of a grain bin or a lakefront cabin. Find a vacation rental near Lake Tenkiller.

Plan Your Trip to See the Ozarks Today

If hiking, boating, floating, and generally spending too much time in the outdoors isn't your ideal family vacation, there is an alternative. Here we have rounded up our favorite ways to see all the beauty that the Ozarks have to offer - by car. There are plenty of opportunities to eat well, shop, see the sights, and immerse yourself in culture and history throughout the area on your scenic driving tour. Get the best deals on a luxury rental car at Economybookings.com to add a flare of style to your travel.

Experiences

The Ultimate Road Trip to Arizona’s National Parks and Monuments

By: Author Bram Reusen

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

There are no fewer than 24 National Park Service (NPS) units in Arizona, including 3 national parks and 12 national monuments , and a number of other Arizona national monuments managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

Collectively, they protect a wide variety of landscapes and sites, ranging from massive canyons and imposing rock formations to unique biotopes, ancient cliff dwellings and Native American pueblos.

While Arizona’s best known for its desert scenery and Wild West history, let’s not forget that people have called this region home for many thousands of years.

The state’s wild, ancient and mysterious landscapes inspired Native Americans to create some of the most fascinating legends and myths in North America.

You can discover and learn about these centuries-old cultures by visiting one or more of the various tribal lands in the state.

The most popular and convenient one to visit is the Navajo Nation , which is very tourist-friendly and manages a number of parks in Arizona. We’ll talk about two specific tribal areas in the Arizona national parks road trip itinerary below.

Road in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

This Arizona national parks road trip itinerary contains affiliate links. You can read more about our Terms of Use / Disclosure here .

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

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In this Arizona national parks and monuments road trip itinerary, I’ll focus more on the natural landscapes that make Arizona such a fantastic destination, rather than man-made and cultural sites.

A road trip in Arizona is virtually impossible without stumbling upon a ruin or historic site every once in a while anyway. Even when prioritizing natural parks in Arizona, there are always historic places present, or at least situated in the near vicinity.

This is an itinerary for adventurous people who’d like to do some scenic driving , hiking, camping and wildlife watching, with the occasional historic site thrown in for good measure.

When you follow the itinerary outlined below, you’ll drive from the iconic deserts of the south, via ancient Native American sites, to the massive canyons and iconic valleys in the north.

You’ll literally see what makes every Arizonan proud, according to the state’s license plates, which depict saguaro cacti and the state’s nickname, the “Grand Canyon State.”

You can start this epic Arizona drive in each of the state’s three major cities— Phoenix , Flagstaff or Tucson . This particular route passes by or through all of them, so you can start and end your road trip wherever suits you best.

The following Arizona national parks road trip itinerary takes in no fewer than eight amazing parks and runs in a counterclockwise direction.

This leaves the arguably best national park in Arizona, if not in the entire United States, for last, ending your road trip with a bang. You are, of course, free to do it the other way around, too, or to start in the middle. In this case, we’ll start in Phoenix and head south first.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona - Photo credit NPS

An International Biosphere Reserve, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument may not be the most famous of all national monuments in Arizona, but it has more than enough to offer to make this a worthy start of your road trip in Arizona.

Located in the far south of the state, bordering Mexico, it’s quite a drive from Phoenix to get there. But no worries, there’s plenty of time to stretch your legs in the park once you’re there.

What sets this park apart from literally any other park in the USA is that this is the only place in the country where organ pipe cacti grow in the wild. And there are countless of them.

Similar to other desert parks in Arizona, as you’ll see later in this post, the most popular things to do in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument are scenic drives, hiking and camping, and horseback riding.

There are a number of amazing (gravel) roads through the park, while a variety of hiking trails let people of all ages and abilities enjoy the wonderful desert scenery.

Spend at least: 2 days / 2 nights
Do this: scenic driving, mountain biking, hiking, camping, horseback riding
Stay here: Twin Peaks Campground
More information: https://www.nps.gov/orpi/index.htm

Saguaro at sunrise in Saguaro National Park, Arizona

The first American national park ever to be named after a plant, photogenic Saguaro National Park protects two sections of the Sonoran Desert home to millions of saguaro cacti.

This particular type of cactus dominates this part of the state in such numbers that references to “saguaro forests” are quite common.

Symbols of the American West, saguaros can grow up to 40-50 feet (12-15 meters) tall and reach an age of 150 years. They are the star attractions of Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona.

The park, in fact, is split up into two different districts—the Tucson Mountain District (TMD) and the Rincon Mountain District (RMD), situated respectively on the west and east side of Tucson.

If you’re looking for the best Arizona national parks near Tucson, this is the obvious choice. You should spend at least two full days here, one day minimum in each district.

I suggest starting in the TMD for the perfect introduction to this extraordinary landscape. There, just outside the park boundaries, is also where you’ll find the Gilbert Ray Campground , arguably the best campground near Saguaro National Park .

Once you’ve pitched your tent or parked your RV, head out for some amazing hiking , scenic driving, and sunrise and sunset watching.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, too. This may be a desert park, but life thrives here. Don’t be surprised to come across a tortoise, rattlesnake, coyote or javelina.

Do this: scenic driving, hiking, camping, sunrise and sunset watching, stargazing, wildlife spotting
Stay here: Gilbert Ray Campground
More information: https://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm

Petrified wood in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Red-colored badlands, blue-banded rock formations, historic Route 66, Native American sites and fossilized trees make up the remarkably varied landscape of Petrified Forest National Park , a half-day drive northeast of Tucson.

Named for its huge density of petrified logs, this is one of the world’s best places to see fossils from the Late Triassic, which was basically the dawn of the dinosaurs. That’s how old this place is.

Petrified Forest National Park allows you to walk where dinosaurs roamed and to stand where ancient forests fell.

You’ll explore an ancient river system that would’ve put every other river in the world today to shame. These arid landscapes may seem desolate and empty, but a closer look reveals an age-old geological and natural experiment that’s still ongoing to this day.

There is only one road through this Arizona national park, conveniently leading you past all its major attractions.

Absolute Petrified Forest National Park highlights are the Crystal Forest and Long Logs Trails , the Blue Mesa, Puerco Pueblo and camping in the Painted Desert wilderness.

Additionally, Petrified Forest is the only national park that preserves a section of Historic Route 66 , another major attraction.

Spend at least: 2 days / 1 night
Do this: cultural exploration, (wilderness) hiking, horseback riding
Stay here: overnight backpacking trip in the Painted Desert
More information: https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm

Aerial view of Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Arizona - Photo credit NPS

There are plenty of cliff dwellings all over the Colorado Plateau , from Chaco Canyon to Mesa Verde , but nowhere have people live for as long as they have in Canyon de Chelly.

For almost 5,000 years, people have called this canyon home, from the Ancestral Puebloans to the Najavo who still raise livestock and grow crops in the canyon.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument lies only about 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of Petrified Forest National Park. They’re both among the best northern Arizona national parks.

The park protects three major Arizona canyons and, as one of the lands that are part of the Navajo Nation, is one of the best places in Arizona to immerse yourself in Native American history.

Do this: hiking, canyon touring with a Navajo guide
Stay here: Thunderbird Lodge
More information: https://www.nps.gov/cach/index.htm

Another hour and a half north of Canyon de Chelly lies Monument Valley, arguably the most iconic place in the entire American West.

Although this is technically not one of the American national parks , it is a designated Navajo Tribal Park, which is essentially the Navajo Nation equivalent of a national park.

Thing is, though, that there’s no way I could leave Monument Valley out of a national parks of Arizona road trip itinerary, especially if the route would take you within two hours from this magnificent valley.

Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley’s landscapes are renowned around the world, made famous by Hollywood Westerns. This wide valley dotted with buttes, rock formations and sandstone towers is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Spend a day hiking, join a 4WD tour with a Navajo guide or explore the area on horseback. I mean, if there ever was a place to go horseback riding, this is it. Make sure to stick around for a night, too—the night skies are sensational.

Spend at least: 1 day / 1 night
Do this: hiking, scenic drives, guided tours, horseback riding, stargazing
Stay here: The View Hotel
More information: https://www.visitarizona.com/uniquely-az/parks-and-monuments/monument-valley-navajo-tribal-park

Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arizona - Arizona National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

A huge area of federal lands, comprising everything from lakes to canyons, deserts, geological formations and cliffs, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is one of Arizona’s most varied and popular holiday destinations.

The number of highlights is immense in this wonderful region, which is so large that it borders Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park , Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Canyonlands National Park in the north, and Arizona’s Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and Grand Canyon National Park (see both below) in the south.

It also shares a border with the Navajo Nation. This region is absolute heaven for a Utah and Arizona national parks enthusiast.

The main feature of Glen Canyon is Lake Powell, a man-made lake created by the Glen Canyon Dam in 1966. This winding lake with countless arms is literally a flooded canyon and has almost 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) of shoreline.

I don’t have to tell you that fishing and boating are a tremendously popular pastime in this national recreation area, one of the main purposes of which is just that—recreation.

You’ll also like to know that the very southern tip of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is where you’ll find Horseshoe Bend, a world-famous bend in the Colorado River.

When you’re in the area, definitely also take the time to visit Antelope Canyon , one of the world’s most beautiful slot canyons. It lies on Navajo land just east of the town of Page, the main hub in the region.

Spend at least: 3 days / 2 nights
Do this: boating, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking
Stay here: Lake Powell Resort
More information: https://www.nps.gov/glca/index.htm

The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona - Photo credit BLM

A quick and scenic drive west of Page lies Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, as opposed to the National Park Service, this remote and pristine area protects Paria Canyon and Paria Plateau, Coyote Buttes and Vermilion Cliffs.

Characterized by towering rock formations, impressive canyons and other geological curiosities, this is a superb destination for day hiking and multi-day desert treks.

If you’re planning a hike, remember to get a permit. You’ll need one for overnight trips in Paria Canyon and day hikes in Coyote Buttes South and Coyote Buttes North, which is the location of the area’s most well-known feature, The Wave.

When you go on a hike in these rugged lands, it’s critical that you’re aware of potential hazards and dangers, including overexertion, flash floods, extreme heat and wild animals.

Be aware of your surroundings, check the weather forecast, bring plenty of water and watch where you step.

Spend at least: 2 days / 1 night
Do this: (wilderness) hiking, camping, wildlife watching, stargazing
Stay here: Stateline Campground
More information: https://www.blm.gov/visit/vermilion-cliffs

Backpackers in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

As far as famous national parks in Arizona go, none are more revered and visited than Grand Canyon National Park.

Nothing can prepare you for your first view of the Grand Canyon. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen or documentaries you’ve watched, the immense scale of this place needs to be seen in 3D, not on paper or a screen.

Arizona’s nickname is “the Grand Canyon State” for a reason—it’s something to be proud of. This is the ultimate end of your once-in-a-lifetime Arizona national parks road trip.

The Grand Canyon overwhelms everyone. I can’t imagine anyone not being impressed by it. It’s spectacular, its dimensions are mind-boggling. Really, it’s almost impossible to grasp the sheer size of this thing.

This is a canyon that’s 277 river miles (446 kilometers) long, 18 miles (29 kilometers) wide at its widest point, and a mile (1.6 kilometers) deep.

It’s the obvious centerpiece of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park , which encompasses a section of the Colorado River and both the North and South Rims.

Often considered to be one of the Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which indicates its awesome significance to the world and humankind.

While many people spend only a day here, I think that’s just ridiculous. This is an enormous park and you should really do it justice by spending two or three days.

Beyond the many popular Grand Canyon overlooks , there’s plenty to see and do. Hike down into the canyon and along the South Rim—that’s two days right there —and spend day three driving the scenic Desert View Drive, one of America’s greatest national park roads .

Spend at least: 3 days / 2 nights
Do this: scenic driving, hiking, camping, stargazing, horseback riding, cycling, wildlife watching, river trips
Stay here: El Tovar Hotel
More information: https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm

To properly visit all the three Arizona national parks and five other parks and national monuments of Arizona included in this attraction-packed itinerary, you will need at least three weeks .

The suggested number of days for each park is the absolute minimum to get a real sense of what they are all about.

Grand Canyon National Park, for example, deserves three days, while Monument Valley can be experienced in one day.

Adding it all up brings us to a total of 17 days just in the parks alone. Include the necessary driving time and travel days to and from Arizona, and you’ll see that three weeks is an appropriate amount of time for this Arizona national parks road trip.

If you have less time available, however, it’s possible to leave out a few parks and focus on the major ones. For a two-week road trip around Arizona, I suggest the following itinerary:

Saguaro National Park (2 days) – Petrified Forest National Park (2 days) – Monument Valley (1 day) – Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (3 days) – Grand Canyon National Park (3 days)

To summarize, this is a quick overview of all the national parks and monuments in Arizona mentioned in this itinerary, including how long I suggest you stay there.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument — 2 days / 2 nights
Saguaro National Park — 2 days / 2 nights
Petrified Forest National Park — 2 days / 1 night
Canyon de Chelly National Monument — 2 days / 1 night
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park — 1 day / 1 night
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area — 3 days / 2 nights
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument — 2 days / 1 night
Grand Canyon National Park —3 days / 2 nights

As mentioned earlier in this post, you can start (and end) this Arizona national parks road trip in the state’s three major cities, whichever one is more convenient for you. This will most likely depend on available and affordable flights.

After you arrive in Arizona, you might want to rest up for a night before you kick off your road trip. Or vice versa, you might like to get a night’s sleep in first before hopping back on a plane afterward.

Here are some current deals on accommodation in Phoenix, Flagstaff and Tucson.

Phoenix Accommodation Deals
Flagstaff Accommodation Deals
Tucson Accommodation Deals

Alternatively, many people choose Las Vegas as their Southwest road trip starting point.

Situated in the southern tip of Nevada, “Sin City” is not only a gambler’s and partier’s paradise, but there are also several major American national parks near Las Vegas , such as Zion National Park and Grand Canyon National Park .

If you decide to fly to Las Vegas and begin your Arizona national parks road trip there, here are some deals for you.

Las Vegas Accommodation Deals

Have You Ever Been on an Arizona National Parks Road Trip? Which Parks Did You Visit? Tell Us About It in the Comments Below!

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Sunday 3rd of May 2020

Dag Bram, we went on a group tour last year to visit Southwest States and I must say I have learned a lot about where we were through your blogposts. I recommend them for travellers looking for tips and knowledge. Dankjewel and blijf gezond ! Groeten, Judy

Thursday 29th of August 2019

Starting in Tucson, what is your suggestion for an ideal start date to avoid heat and crowds? Thanks for this cool itinerary!

Bram Reusen

Thursday 7th of November 2019

Hey Deb! I think the last weeks of winter would be a great period to start this road trip. Sometime in March should be ideal!

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How to Plan Your US National Parks Road Trip | USA

A US National Parks trip is kind of a right of passage for anyone who loves the outdoors. Sleeping in barren deserts. Going off-trail to explore strange rock formations weathered over millions of years. Wading through knee-deep water in narrow canyons. Bagging peaks during the short summer when the highest altitudes are within reach. The trip is about varied terrains and diverse landscapes. Visit both Yosemite and Big Bend, and you’ll doubt that you’re in the same country. And the stuff in Utah? Well, that might as well be in another world.

But unlike the good ol’ days of the American road trip, the US National Parks are no longer well suited to an off-the-cuff style of travel. There’s a lot of competition for campsites and backcountry permits. Planning a US National Parks trip takes time and effort, and A LOT of time and effort, at that. But you’ll get every bit of energy you pour into planning back when you’re out there, experiencing some of nature’s greatest works.

Ready to go on an adventure? Here’s a massive guide to planning a US National Parks trip including everything from route planning to suggested itineraries to making reservations to costs.

Choose Your Route

1. pick your parks.

The US is a BIG COUNTRY. There are vast distances between the coasts and you can even expect long drives between parks in the same state. So where do you start planning a US National Parks road trip itinerary? Start by making a list of parks you want to see. Grab a guidebook or check out some of our featured Outlandish National Park Guides.

Focus on one park at a time and look at photos, watch videos, or check out things to do. Narrowing down your list of parks can be easy if you already know where you want to go, and very daunting if you don’t. If you fall into the second camp, ask yourself: how long do you have? What states are interesting to you? What season are you traveling in? What’s your overall budget for the trip?

Suggested US National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Ultimate centennial parks road trip.

There are 61 National Parks in the US, which is A LOT of ground to cover; around 14,498 miles if you go the most efficient way. In 2016, data scientist Randy Olson created an interactive map that optimized driving times to create the ultimate US National Parks road trip itinerary. It excludes parks in Alaska, Hawaii, and other territories) but still manages to cover 47 US National Parks.

Route 1: Grand Canyon to Everglades (map)
Route 2: Everglades to Badlands (map)
Route 3: Badlands to Zion (map)
Route 4: Zion to Lassen (map)
Route 5: Lassen to the Grand Canyon (map)

While that is the perfect, see-everything-save-on-gas route, obviously that won’t be the best route for everyone. You might want to spend some time in cities, pop into state parks, or skip some regions. If you’d rather customize your own National Parks road trip, here’s how you can go about it…

Other Suggested Road Trips

How to Plan a Utah National Parks Road Trip

2. Make Your Map

Once you have a shortlist, that means you can make a map.

Google My Maps is a complete lifesaver if you’re collaborating on trip planning or undertaking a complicated road trip itinerary. Add all the parks that you’re interested in to your map. This will give you a visual representation of which parks are nearest each other and which are way out of the way. From there, you can narrow your itinerary down further based on how much time you have or your other priorities.

Once you have your locations established, you can map directions between the two parks to determine drive time. In some cases, it can be quicker to alternate states (ie. Arizona and Utah) or more comfortable to add something into your itinerary to break up a long driving day.

Spend some time on this! Figure out how you can take the trip at your own pace while maximizing on everything you want to see.

Tip: Before you go, make sure that all the maps you need are available offline. Service can be spotty at best and you’ll always want to have your driving directions accessible.

3. Plan Your Time

Once you have a good idea of where you’re going, create a planner in Excel or Google Sheets. Begin with the first park you’re going to visit, and think about how much time you’d like to spend there. Consider how big the park is and what there is to do. Look at driving time between Park A and Park B and decide where you’ll sleep on your travel days. Then, do this park-by-park with this until you have a decent overview of your time spent in each park. It is tedious, but it’s a lot easier to do it this way than by trying to take in all the information and build an itinerary after.

Before looking in dates, take a look at all the activities that might require a backcountry permit or that otherwise limits access and establish your priorities. Check availability and book that first so that you don’t schedule your whole trip around something that might be booked up.

Once that’s out of the way, you can get onto your next step.

US National Parks Road Trip: Planning Your Road Trip Itinerary

When to Start Planning

You should start looking into your US National Parks trip no less than 6 months out. Reservations for NPS campsites and lodges almost all open 3-6 months in advance. If you’re planning backcountry travel, the permits are usually reservable 3-6 months out, too. Reservations for the most popular campsites and hikes sell out within seconds of going online (no exaggeration!). So, if you have your heart set on something specific, do your research early and set a calendar reminder so you don’t miss out.

Already late? Some parks have walk-up campsites and permits available for that very reason. There are also plenty of campgrounds and hotels outside of the park boundaries and hikes that don’t require backcountry permits. You should always be able to find a hike and a campsite, even if they’re not the exact ones you had in mind.

Budgeting & Costs

Wondering how much it costs to do a US National Parks trip ? The short answer is that it really depends on what type of trip you want. But since I know this is a cop out for an answer, I’ll give you the long answer, too.

Unfortunately, a US National Park road trip probably costs more than you’d expect. Some costs you’ll want to factor in for your own trip are: park entrance or your America the Beautiful Pass , vehicle costs, gas, food & drink, entertainment, gear, campsites & accommodation, and permits. Even with camping and cooking, the US is notoriously expensive. But don’t let this stop you from going! You can keep costs down by being thoughtful about which regions you visit, altering your standard of travel, and borrowing (rather than buying or renting gear. For example, on our 21-day road trip through Arizona and Utah, we spent around $1,500. This was mostly camping and self-prepared food with a few motel nights and 3-4 meals out each week. We also had the benefit of traveling with our own vehicle and splitting many of our costs in half.

Read More: How Much Does a US National Parks Road Trip Actually Cost?

Most of the US National Parks are at their peak business between May and August. Of course, this is more based around the summer holiday than what is actually the best time to visit.

The best time to visit the desert parks like Zion and the Grand Canyon is actually spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate and crowding is less. For summer travel, consider going to some lesser-known national parks like Capitol Reef to dodge the crowds, or go to parks like Glacier or Rocky Mountain that are only fully open in the summer. If you’re traveling in winter, consider parks in hotter regions like Everglades, Death Valley, or Joshua Tree . Most of the parks are open in some capacity year-round, but be sure to check details about when you’re visiting to make sure that you’re not surprised by closures or bad weather when you get there.

Making Reservations

The US National Parks have gotten seriously popular in recent years (it’s called the Instagram effect ). This trip is no longer the spontaneous journey it once was. Making reservations well in advance is unfortunately part of the new process. Here are a couple of the things you’ll want to look into.

Reserving Permits

Wilderness permits (sometimes called backcountry permits) are needed to hike or stay overnight in many protected areas. In most cases, your backcountry campsite reservation is the same thing as your permit to hike in an area.

At present, demand for backcountry permits in most US parks well exceeds the supply. This is essential from a conservation perspective, but it also means it can be a major source of disappointment if you don’t plan ahead.

Permits are typically bookable online 3-6 months in advance, and sell out in seconds in the most popular areas. If you’re planning a backpacking trip, you’ll often need several permits sequentially. If there’s something you have your heart set on, take some time to plan your itinerary well before bookings become available. Come up with option 1, 2, and 3. Familiarize yourself with the booking engine and pre-fill basic details like your email and address. While there are no guarantees, this will definitely give you a better chance to snag the more elusive permits.

You’ll have a better chance of getting a permit for popular sites you apply during shoulder season or travel during the weekdays. Being flexible with your dates is a huge help here.

Didn’t get your permit? Many parks have walk-up permits available. You’ll also sometimes be able to find alternate routes, or get permits for less-known hikes or backcountry sites that are just as awesome.

Booking Campsites & Lodging

Once you have your key dates anchored in, the next thing you should do is book your car campsites (or lodges if that’s more your style). There is no shortage of camping outside of the National Parks, but if you want to sleep inside the park boundaries, you usually need to book advance (or plan your travel days for early arrival if the sites are first-come-first-served).

Every park has an NPS website. Start by finding the page on accommodation within the park. Find out where each of the campsites are located within the park (they can sometimes be hours apart) and choose the best location before you book anything. Depending on how much effort you want to put in, there are sites like campsitephotos.com that post photos of campsites and suggest the best sites (ie. quiet, close to the bathroom, shaded by trees).

US National Parks Road Trip: Booking Campsites & Lodging

Once you know what you want, you’ll find most online campsite bookings are handled by recreation.gov . Bookings are relatively straightforward, but you will want to make sure that you book the proper resources (ie. a tent site vs an RV site).

Once your bookings are confirmed, it’s good to print them off and keep them where they’re easy to find (how about that glove compartment?). You won’t always have service in the campgrounds, and knowing your loop and site number will speed up your check-in process.

Before you Go

Preparing your vehicle.

Getting your vehicle sorted is a necessary step in planning a US Parks trip whether you’re renting a car or readying your own car for the trip. Some parks are easier to explore if you have a vehicle with high-clearance and 4WD though this isn’t always necessary.

If you own a car…

you have the benefit of traveling with a car that you know and trust. It’s generally cheaper to travel in your own vehicle, too! The main drawback is that you’ll be putting a lot of miles on your car.

Before leaving on your trip, schedule to have it serviced. Get the tires rotated, the oil changed, the fluids topped, the break pads tested, and everything else you can think of. You’re guaranteed to be in remote areas on parts of your trip, and you’ll want your car to be in the best possible shape. Just to be on the safe side, you might also want to upgrade your insurance policy, get a AAA membership. and gear up your car with a box or some emergency supplies.

Basics aside, there are lots of things you can get to make your car more comfortable for such a major trip! It’s going to be your home on wheels, after all. Take a look at some things you’ll want for your car.

If you’re renting…

You can choose any adventure vehicle you want! And the rental company will generally take care of the maintenance and insurance stuff for you. The big drawback is that this option tends to be more expensive and you might be less comfortable than you would in your own car.

Wanna rent a car? You can definitely do this trip in a standard car. Just be sure to choose a car with enough space for your stuff (and perhaps one with 4WD). And since you’re going to be driving it hard, be sure to check the insurance policy thoroughly to make sure it covers everything you need it to. Hertz has pickup locations across the country and their car rentals are competitively priced (starting from about $50 per day including tax). They also have a program for drivers aged 20-25 who are unable to rent a car from other major agencies. Check prices and availability on hertz.com .

Going for a campervan? You’ll get a bit of extra room and plenty of road trip steez. Escape offers fully equipped campervans which can be a really fun way to travel! While they don’t have 4WD or get as good of gas mileage, you might be able to save by having an indoor spot to sleep on the nights you may have splurged on a hotel. Check prices and availability on escapecampervans.com .

And as for the stuff… Make a list of everything you need on your road trip. There are some obvious items (like a tent, sleeping bag, and a cooler), but would you have thought to bring a power outlet adaptor or a pair of chains for your tires? It’s a delicate balance between being prepared and cluttering your car. Try to streamline your gear and have what you need without going overboard.

READ MORE: “ What to Pack for a US National Parks Trip” coming soon!

Hitting the Road

The best part about planning your National Parks road trip ahead of time is that it’s pretty easy by the time you finally go. The adventure of this kind of trip then changes of weather. The detours. The wildlife sightings and road closures. You do your best to prepare, then whatever the hell happens happens.

Photos of the Canyon on our Road Trip through Glacier National Park

What else do you want to know about planning your US National Parks road trip? Any questions you’d like answered or tips for planning your trip?

Taylor record.

I'm Taylor and this is Travel Outlandish. I’m an independent traveler kind of like you. I believe we deserve better than crowds of people and manufactured experiences when we explore. Whether you're going into the wild on a backpacking trip or planning a weekend in a foreign city, you'll find everything you need to plan something awesome on Travel Outlandish. Thanks for stopping by!

10 Comments

it is my dream to see one or more of these national parks. they are so unique and look so beautiful in photos! but im not a huge fan of road trips.

They are so beautiful! But most definitely require some time in the car. Utah is a good place to travel because driving times are usually 2-4 hours rather than entire days like you’ll get in other parts of the country.

Anthony @ Green Mochila

Such a great post that got me dreaming of the USA. Thank you for this moment of escape, Taylor! We’re grateful and happy that so much of nature is being preserved through National Parks. Hopefully it will stay like this for a long time still.

Hey, thanks so much Anthony! Going to these parks was the first thing I did when I moved back from Berlin – it was such a good way to remember the parts I love about the US. Hope the parks stay this way for a long time to come too

Ray Massucco

My wife and I, both in our 70’s, are planning a cross country trip in the summer of 2021 [assuming it’s not canceled; summer, not the trip]. We plan to rent an RV and want to hit at least 10-12 national parks. We will be leaving VT in late June and plan to be on the road for 8-9 weeks. Our three adult children and their families all live in Seattle, so we plan to hit there for about 2 weeks, then take a different roue home. Plan is to get back to Vermont in late August.

Where do we start?

Hi Ray! Sorry that I’m only just seeing your comment. Let me send you a quick email so I don’t miss your response.

Kim Birkner

Wondering about 6 parks with a dog & handicapped hubby, thinking Yellowstone, Pikes Peak, thru the Rockies to Grand Canyon to Bryce & Zion and ending with Yosemite. Thoughts? Thanks :}

Hey Kim. One hell of a trip! The drive through Utah on its own is worth it. * Here are all of my National Park Guides . * One thing that may be helpful is that all the parks have an accessibility page (ie. https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm ) that overviews trails, camping, and overlooks with accessible access AND most have a pet page too ( https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pets/visit.htm ). * You also should be eligible for a discounted America the Beautiful Pass ( https://store.usgs.gov/access-pass ).

Hope you enjoy your trip!

Go Wander Wild

This guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

You’re so welcome! Hope you enjoy your trip 🙂

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Three state park road trips to capture your wanderlust

July 19, 2022

Is there anything better than opening the car windows, cranking the tunes and going on a road trip in the summer? I don’t think so.

Maybe it’s the wind in my hair or the sense of adventure or the fact that it brings me back to feeling 17 again, but I love a good road trip. On my journey of running one mile at all 121 state parks in 2021 , I had an opportunity to go on several weekend road trips a month.

Each weekend, I’d load up my car and hit the road. I’d do my park runs during the day, then spend my night exploring cozy small towns while checking out local restaurants and breweries. I’d be joined by friends or my wife. Each road trip was a little different.

With 121 state parks dotting the Pennsylvania landscape, there are ample opportunities to explore state parks on weekend road trips.

Here’s a breakdown of three road trips that you can take to satisfy your need to take to the open road and discover Pennsylvania’s natural beauty.

U.S. Route 6 stretches more than 400 miles across the top of Pennsylvania. The two-lane rural highway goes from Ohio to New York – bringing you within more than a dozen state parks.

I came to know US Route 6 well as I spent hours on it heading from one state park to the other. Some of the state parks located a short distance off of US Route 6 include Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks (featuring the PA Grand Canyon), Cherry Springs State Park and Kinzua Bridge State Park .

It would take you days to see all the incredible parks along US Route 6. There’s also plenty of great small towns – such as Wellsboro and Coudersport – to stop for a great meal and even better shopping opportunities.

While Pennsylvania state parks don’t have a bad season, they really shine in the fall. Schedule a long weekend when the leaves are orange to see some of the magnificent scenery this commonwealth has to offer.

Colton Point - Bradley Wales Picnic Area

Colton Point State Park - Bradley Wales Picnic Area

Cherry Springs State Park. Photo credit to Jiang Ming.

Leonard Harrison State Park. Photo credit to Clare Dochat.

PA Route 32

Traveling along the eastern edge of Pennsylvania, Route 32 offers travelers a lot of bang for their buck when it comes to state parks. Over the course of 60-or-so miles, you can see five state parks.

Starting at Washington Crossing State Park , you can travel north to Ralph Stover State Park , Delaware Canal State Park, Nockamixon State Park , and then finally to Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center .

One of the most interesting state parks along this corridor is Delaware Canal State Park . At nearly 59-miles, the Delaware Canal State Park Towpath has something for everyone.

It provides visitors a scenic location to experience the big beautiful outdoors through activities, wildlife and learning.

It is enjoyed so much that it was named the Pennsylvania 2022 Trail of the Year.

In addition to the beautiful park you’ll be seeing, you’ll also have an opportunity to spend time in New Hope – one of Pennsylvania’s most celebrated small towns. In New Hope, you’ll find a charming small town with great food, wonderful people and plenty of ways to experience the outdoors.

I personally love this little stretch of Pennsylvania, so much so that I’m planning a biking weekend there this year. I just hope I can book a room before all the fall leaf-peepers grab them.

Nockamixon State Park. Photo credit to Brian Hare.

Washington Crossing Historic Park - Bowman's Tower View. Photo credit to Kristin Holland.

Ralph Stover State Park. Photo Credit to John Beatty.

Interstate 79

Along the western border of Pennsylvania lies Interstate 79. This 183-mile corridor runs from the order of West Virginia all the way up to Erie – bringing you in the path of a number of great Pennsylvania state parks.

Beginning in Pittsburgh and driving north, you’ll reach Point State Park , McConnells Mill State Park , Moraine State Park , Jennings Environmental Education Center , Maurice K. Goddard State Park and Presque Isle State Park .

The crown jewel of this road trip would be Presque Isle. It is arguably one of the best parks in the state. Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie.

As Pennsylvania’s only Great Lakes shoreline, Presque Isle offers visitors beautiful views, tons of activities, free tours, and countless opportunities for awesome photos.

The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is also my favorite state park learning center in Pennsylvania. You can read more about the center here.

While Presque Isle may get all the visitors, don’t sleep on the rest of the parks along Interstate 79. The Point State Park in downtown Pittsburgh offers the perfect setting for a sunset bike ride before grabbing dinner and drinks.

Moraine State Park offers visitors gently rolling hills, lush forests and clear waters. The central feature of the park is Lake Authur – which is 3,225-acre and provides 42 miles of shoreline.

If you were to drive a bit farther off the interstate, you’d see another half dozen state parks. But that would require several more hours of driving to and from the interstate.

Are there other road trips to state parks that I’ve missed? What’s your favorite stretch of road in Pennsylvania?

Moraine State Park. Photo credit to Suzanne Enos.

McConnells Mills State Park. Photo credit to Kyle Yates.

Presque Isle State Park. Photo credit to Rick Baker.

Christian Alexandersen ran one mile in each of Pennsylvania’s 121 state parks in 2021 and has been sharing with us stories and tips from his journey! To read more blog posts from Christian and other PPFF guest bloggers, visit our News page .

Subscribe to our weekly e-blast to stay up to date on News, Events, and Blog posts!

Featured image: Kinzua Bridge State Park. Photo credit to Jenn Stillman.

Save up to 20% for 2024 stays at Creekside Lodge in July & August.

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour

Named Top 10 US Safaris! Top-selling Custer State Park attraction.

Custer State Park Jeep Tours

Our buffalo safari tour will take you where only we can go: off-road to the private, interior dirt roads of the Park. Trek through the park in an open-air Jeep in search of pronghorns, elk, and the noble buffalo. Along the way, our guides will share historical and educational facts about the park and wildlife—and help you spot the critters. Don't forget to add this unforgettable expedition to your itinerary!

Jeep Tour Details

Named Top 10 US Safaris. Tours depart daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Duration 1 ½ to 2 hours. Exclusive access to private interior roads of the Wildlife Loop...best possible way to get up close!

Group in a jeep driving down the road with buffalo in the grass

The Sunrise Buffalo Safari was truly the highlight of our trip to South Dakota... it was a morning we'll never forget! – - The Traveling Newlyweds

At a Glance

1.5 to 2 hours
Book single seat tickets or reserve a Jeep privately for your party
Drivers offer animal facts, history, and more the whole way
Tour Wildlife Loop Road with exclusive access to private dirt roads...giving you access to twice the mileage of the Wildlife Loop. When the animals aren't along the main Loop road, only we can still get you there.
Named Top 10 Safaris in the US
Seat up to 7 adults per vehicle (For up to 8 guests, where there is at least one small child in the group, please book our private option).

01 Departure Times

Daily departures from 6am to 6pm during Prime Season
Departs from Creekside Lodge at the State Game Lodge Resort
Plan to arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for check-in, waivers, and loading. Late arrivals will be rescheduled (based on availability) to the next available tour, and seats book up quickly.
Steps required, assistance available
Adults: $69
All Children 11 & under: $59

03 Reservations

Advanced reservations are highly recommended
Please place your reservation online
Day-of reservations accepted based on availability by booking online or calling in
For questions, please call 605-255-4968 May 1 through mid-October
For questions, please call 888-875-0001 mid-October through the end of April
48-hour cancellation policy
Check-in at Creekside Lodge

04 Policies & Requirements

Must arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for check-in, waivers, and loading. Late arrivals will be rescheduled (based on availability) to the next available tour, and seats book up quickly.

Standard seatbelts available; any required car seats must be brought with you. Drivers will lend a hand loading and unloading, but guests must be physically able to take steps into and out of the Jeep. No pets.

Tours will often depart when raining; dress accordingly. Should the tour reschedule due to lighting, you will be contacted by the Safari Tour Staff.

Jeep Tour + Chuck Wagon Cookout

Want to take your expedition to the next level? Add a chuck wagon cookout to your Jeep tour! You'll start with a wildlife Jeep tour and then meet up with the Chuck Wagon Cookout in the mountain canyon for a chuck wagon feast and live entertainment with Western flair. You’ll also get your own souvenir cowboy hat and bandana to play the part. Departs daily from Creekside Lodge, early evenings.

Check availability, pricing, and menu options by booking online.

Lodging at Custer State Park Resort

Ready to start planning your trip? Explore lodging options and book your stay.

Activities Nearby

Needles Highway

A spectacular Custer State Park drive through pine and spruce forest meadows surrounded by rugged granite mountain spires.

Visitors riding horses during a guided trail ride

Guided Trail Rides

One of the most peaceful ways to explore the park's prettiest spots.

Hayride & Chuck Wagon Cookout

Evening scenic wildlife hayride followed by a steak dinner and live entertainment in the CSP backcountry.

Watersport Rentals

Available at Sylvan Lake Lodge and at Legion Lake Lodge.

No matter which lodge you find yourself drawn to exploring, our Custer State Park Resort stores have you covered.

Close-up shot of assorted food and beverages

There are several delicious dining options spread throughout the park, all open seasonally from the beginning of May through mid-October. Come hungry and ready to explore more them all.

Iron Mountain Road

The famed road to Mount Rushmore takes you through pigtail bridges, magnificent Black Hills scenery, and tunnels that frame the national monument.

Woman sticking out her hand to feed wildlife

Wildlife Loop Road

A wildlife hotspot. Travel through 18 miles of open grasslands and pine-speckled hills. Plan for photo ops!

State Park Entrance Passes

The state park entrance pass system works differently in each state. Many states offer some sort of pass that allows for unlimited entry at most state parks, while others offer park passes on a park-by-park basis. A few states do not charge entry fees to their state parks and thus do not offer an entrance pass. All fifty states are listed below, with a link to their official state park website and information on their state park entrance pass program. Find your state, order an entrance pass, and enjoy unlimited access to the natural beauty your state has to offer!

Alabama State Parks

Alabama issues annual passes on a park-by-park basis. Some parks do not issue annual passes; most of them because entry is free.

Alaska State Parks

Dave Bezaire & Susi Havens-Bezaire via Flickr

Alaska no longer issues annual camping passes, but you can purchase parking passes and boat launch passes. A Disabled Veteran's Annual Camping Pass is also available for free if you qualify.

Arizona State Parks

edwindavila via Flickr

Arizona offers a "Standard Annual Pass" that allows day-use access at all Arizona State Parks for pass holder and up to three additional adults in the same vehicle, with the exception of weekends (Friday-Sunday) and state holidays at the River Parks. A "Premium Annual Pass" day-use pass is also available, which allows park access on weekends and holidays. Annual passes may be purchased at any Arizona state park .

Arkansas State Parks

BaylorBear78 via Flickr.

Arkansas does not issue annual passes. Fees vary from park to park, some being entirely free, others having parking fees, and some having fees to use certain facilities (boat launch, swimming pool, etc.). Look up the specific park you want to know about on the Arkansas State Parks website .

California State Parks

MiguelVieira via Flickr

California offers a number of different state park passes. These include vehicle day-use passes, boat use passes, and passes for the disabled, elderly, or veterans. The passes are available through California Park's online store .

Colorado State Parks

Colorado's Annual Pass is valid for a full 12 months after you purchase it, not just for the calendar year. In addition to the standard pass, there are special passes for elderly, disabled, and low-income peoples.

Connecticut State Parks

Connecticut offers a special seasonal pass that allows unlimited vehicle access to any state park or recreation area that has a parking fee for no extra charge for the entire calendar year the pass was issued. Seasonal passes are available to both in-state and out-of-state residents.

The passes may be obtained at a park's regional headquarters, or at State Park and Forest Recreation Area entrance stations during hours when parking fees are in effect.

Delaware State Parks

The Delaware State Parks Annual Pass allow your vehicle and its occupants to enter most state parks without paying the daily entrance fees (some parks excluded). You may purchase an annual pass at any park office, at the central office in Dover, or online.

Florida State Parks

systemslibrarian via Flickr

Florida State Parks have a general state-wide entry fee. This can be avoided with the purchase of an Annual Entrance Pass (some parks excluded). The pass can be bought online or in person at most state parks.

Georgia State Parks

hyku via Flickr

Georgia offers an "Annual ParkPass". You can also get discounts at all of the state's historic parks by purchasing a "Historic Site Annual Pass". Passes may be purchased at any state park or historical site.

Hawaii State Parks

Hawaii has a tri-park pass that is effective for a year from the first date of use (365 days). The pass covers admission for an immediate family member traveling with you. There are also free passes available for volunteers and U.S. Military.

Idaho State Parks

Argyleist via Flickr

Idaho offers an "Annual State Park Passport" that allows you to bring your vehicle into any of Idaho’s state parks for the day as many times as you wish during the calendar year without paying the Day Use Vehicle Fee. There are also discounts for elderly, disabled, and low-income residents.

Illinois State Parks

Illinois does not charge entrance fees to their state parks . The only exception is at beaches, where there is a $1 fee.

Indiana State Parks

Drewski Mac via Flickr

Indiana provides annual calendar year passes for residents and non-residents. There are also permits for horses, motorized and non-motorized boats, and a discounted annual pass for senior citizens

Iowa State Parks

Mike Willis via Flickr

Iowa does not charge Iowa residents entrance fees for its state parks, and thus there is no annual pass. Annual passes are available for purchase for out-of-state visitors and non-residents.

Kansas State Parks

Kansas offers annual calendar year passes. The passes available are for vehicle entrance (a discounted version is available to seniors and the disabled), camping, and a trail permit that allows the use of the Prairie Spirit Trail.

Kentucky State Parks

Brent and MariLynn via Flickr

Kentucky does not offer annual passes to its state parks, but it does maintain a page that lists any current discounts you can receive on camping and lodging. Kentucky POWs can camp for free if they obtain a POW card issued by KY Dept. of Parks.

Louisiana State Parks

An Annual Pass is available for Louisiana State Parks that allows for unlimited day-use at all sites for all people in one non-commercial vehicle. The pass can be bought at any state park and is valid for a year from the day you purchase it.

Seniors will receive a discount for day-use entry if they show their driver's license.

In addition, anyone in possession of any National Parks Pass may be entitled to a 50% camping fee discount at any Louisiana State Park.

Maine State Parks

Alan Cordova via Flickr

Maine offers two type of passes: one for an individual or one that covers an entire vehicle. The passes can be bought at any state park or online.

Maryland State Parks

Maryland offers a "State Park Passport" for both residents and non-residents. The pass is good for an entire calendar year and offers unlimited day-use entry for everyone in the vehicle to Maryland's state parks and Cedarville State Forest, unlimited boat launching at most facilities, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.

Massachusetts State Parks

cerebros1 via Flickr

Massachusetts offers a "Parks Pass" to provide all visitors in one vehicle unlimited day-use parking access to state park facilities within. The passes are good for one calendar year and are offered to both residents and non-residents.

Michigan State Parks

Annual Motor Vehicle Permits are available at most State Parks and DNR Operation Service Centers. These permits give each vehicle's occupants access to 100 state parks throughout the year. The passes are available to residents and non-residents.

Minnesota State Parks

With the purchase of this permit, visitors have "unlimited access to special events, scenic places, historic sites, a whole roster of outdoor activities and just plain fun" at Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas. The annual permit is valid for a full year from the month of purchase. Annual permits can be purchased at state parks, the DNR License Center, REI metro locations or by calling the DNR Information Center.

Mississippi State Parks

Birdfreak.com via Flicker

Mississippi offers a variety of annual permits. These include passes for entrance, fishing, boat launching, marina slip use, and swimming / water slide / wave pool use. Passes can be purchased at the state park entrances.

Missouri State Parks

steve9567 via Flickr

Missouri does not charge entrance fees for its state parks , and thus there is no annual pass. Enjoy!

Montana State Parks

There is no entrance fee for visitors arriving at a Montana state park in a vehicle with Montana license plates. There is a fee for non-residents, however, and they may obtain an annual pass which allows free entrance to all state parks.

Nebraska State Parks

Jan Tik via Flickr

Nebraska offers an annual entry permit that is good for the calendar year that it is purchased for. Fishing and hunting permits are also available online.

Nevada State Parks

Nevada offers an Annual Entrance Permit that entitles the holder to enter all parks and use the facilities of the park without paying entry fees. There is also an All Access pass that covers the otherwise additional camping, boating and group use area fees. Both passes are valid for 12 months from the month of purchase.

New Hampshire State Parks

cliff1066 via Flickr

New Hampshire offers an individual and a family (2 adults and up to four dependents) season pass. Both give unlimited day-use of most state parks. In addition, gift certificates are available, as well as a "coupon book" that does not expire.

New Jersey State Parks

c h e e s e roc via Flickr

New Jersey offers a State Park Pass, which waives all daily walk-in or parking fees. The passes are available at all state park offices. New Jersey also offers a pass for senior citizens and the disabled.

New Mexico State Parks

Nicholas T via Flickr

New Mexico offers an annual permit for both day use and for camping. The latter is offered to both residents and non-residents. Both passes may be purchased in person at any state park.

New York State Parks

New York State offers a variety of "Empire Passes", which are annual passes that offer unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most of New York's State parks and recreational facilities. The Empire Pass is available for purchase online and at state park regional offices.

North Carolina State Parks

Beadmobile via Flickr

North Carolina offers an Annual Pass for unlimited access and free entrance to the state's parks. There are no discounts applied to the pass and there are additional fees for boating and camping.

North Dakota State Parks

An annual pass allows for unlimited entry into any state park. Annual permits may be purchased at the entrance station or park offices or online. A discounted annual permit is available to ND residents that are senior citizens or are disabled veterans.

Ohio State Parks

Ohio does not have an annual pass and does not charge entrance fees to state parks. Camping fees can be discounted if you hold a " Golden Buckeye " card, which is available to resident senior citizens.

Oklahoma State Parks

Oklahoma does not have an annual pass program and do not charge entrance fees at 31 out of 32 of their state parks. Resident and non-resident senior citizens receive a discount on overnight stays, and resident senior citizens have the day-use and entry fees waived. Disabled persons are also entitled to a 50% discount on camping fees.

Oregon State Parks

Oregon offers a 12- and a 24-month day-use pass that gives unlimited entry to any of the hundreds of day-use parks in the state. Fees are also waived for disabled veterans and for active military on leave.

Pennsylvania State Parks

Navin75 via Flickr

Pennsylvania does not offer an annual pass of any kind. Entrance to parks are free, but there are fees for a variety of other activities, which are detailed on the official state park website.

Rhode Island State Parks

sjwillis via Flickr

Rhode Island offers an annual pass that allows for unlimited entry to any of the beaches in the state park system.

South Carolina State Parks

scmikeburton via Flickr

The South Carolina "Park Passport" entitles the owners to free and unlimited entry into all South Carolina State Parks that charge an entrance fee. The hangtag pass is valid for one year from the date of purchase and can be transferred from one vehicle to another. The pass can be bought online or by visiting a South Carolina state park office.

A "Palmetto Pass" is also available to senior citizens, blind, or disabled residents of South Carolina and offers the same access as the Park Passport at half the price.

South Dakota State Parks

Annual Park Entrance Licenses are available for unlimited entry to South Dakota state parks. Entrance licenses can be purchased at local state park offices, by calling the South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation, or online.

Tennessee State Parks

beshagidt via Flickr

Tennessee does charge access fees to state parks but some parks may charge for certain activities.

Texas State Parks

The Texas State Parks Pass is an annual pass that offers unlimited visits to all Texas state parks, without paying the daily entrance fee. You can also receive exciting discounts on camping (restrictions apply), park store merchandise and recreational equipment rentals and are eligible for other specials.

The Texas "Parklands Passport" offers the same benefits and is available free of charge to senior citizens, disabled veterans, and disabled persons.

Nonprofit youth groups may purchase a "Youth Group Annual Entrance Permit" that allows entrance for children age 13-18 in groups of up to 50.

The Texas State Parks Pass is available at most state parks and historic sites.

Utah State Parks

Rob Lee via Flickr

The Utah State Park annual pass allows you, and up to seven guests in the same private vehicle, day-use entrance to all Utah State Parks. You will also receive a discount on camping reservations. A discounted version of this pass is also available to seniors.

Passes are available for purchase online and at state park entrance booths.

Vermont State Parks

Paraflyer via Flickr

Vermont offers annual vehicle, personal, fishing, and senior passes. A "punch card" pass is also available, which is good for ten visits.

Virginia State Parks

forestgladesiwander via Flickr

Virginia offers a variety of annual passes, which are good for one year from the point of purchase. Also available is a lifetime pass; the cost depends on your age.

Washington State Parks

Michael D Martin via Flickr

Washington State Parks offer a Discover Pass for day-use at all Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service sites.

West Virginia State Parks

urbanwoodchuck via Flickr

West Virginia offers an annual pass for unlimited free entrance throughout the year, as well as single day passes. Camping discounts are available to senior citizens and the disabled.

Wisconsin State Parks

Annual entrance stickers allow unlimited entrance to all state parks in Wisconsin. Also, an annual state trail passes allows biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, in-line skating and off-highway motorcycling at certain Wisconsin state parks.

Wyoming State Parks

Wyoming requires fees at nearly all of the State Parks & Historic Sites Facilities. Residents and non-residents can buy annual passes for day-use and overnight camping.

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25+ National Park Tours: Self-Guided Driving Bundle

Explore your favorite parks with us.

Tour Details

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Welcome to the national parks tours bundle.

Get the National Parks Tours bundle, spread across the country – from Acadia to Shenandoah, Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree. We bring to you 25 of the top US national parks & national monuments, all rolled into a single bundle. Spend your school holidays, long weekends, and time off from work in the lap of nature.

Best Price Guarantee

You won’t find a better value-for-money deal offering 25 top US National Parks in a single bundle!

Here are all the National Park tours the bundle includes.

Grand Canyon
Yellowstone
Grand Teton
Rocky Mountain
Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Joshua Tree
Canyonlands
Capitol Reef

Goblin Valley

Grand Staircase

Monument Valley

Great Smokies (including Cades Cove & Blue Ridge Parkway)
Death Valley
Hawaii Volcanoes
Red Rock Canyon

Mt Rainier Tour

White Sands

Also, Enjoy Bonus Tour of :

Horseshoe Bend & Page
Carlsbad Caverns
Salt Lake City

Grand Canyon South Rim Tour

Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive and awe-inspiring that you must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This Grand Canyon South Rim self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails and fills you in on the fascinating history of the canyon and the Native people who once lived there. So get out there and see something incredible! You can start the Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from the South or the East entrance.

Yellowstone Self-Guided Tour

Experience the raw power and beauty of nature on the Yellowstone self-guided tour. This enormous volcanic caldera has captured the American imagination for decades thanks to its explosive geysers, prismatic hot springs, and astonishing waterfalls. Home to some of the only wild bison and wolves on the continent, this park can’t be missed.

Grand Teton Tour

This self-guided driving tour will discover one of America’s most awe-inspiring national parks at Grand Teton. These impressive sawtooth mountains conceal all sorts of hidden treasures, from deep glacial lakes to historic homesteads. Drive through beautiful mountain passes, dig into the storied past of this mountain range, and go on hikes you’ll never forget. Plus, get to know the local wildlife on a real-life elk refuge on this Grand Teton tour!

Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

This self-guided audio tour will take an unforgettable drive through Rocky Mountain National Park! These beautiful peaks are loaded with hiking trails and astonishing vistas, and this comprehensive tour will introduce you to all of them. Visit stunning lakes and mountain passes, hear the history of the remarkable women who helped create the park, and learn about the Ute tribe and their legends. And, of course, don’t forget to snap a few photos along the way!

Mesa Verde Tour

Uncover ancient history with this self-guided driving tour through Mesa Verde, Colorado. Home to the world-famous cliff dwellings built nearly 1,000 years ago, this plateau has no shortage of breathtaking sights. Delve into the story of the Ancestral Puebloan people and their ingenious architecture as you admire these sprawling dwellings built into cliff faces. Take in sweeping vistas. Embark on unforgettable hikes through the high desert. And so much more!

Shenandoah National Park Tour

Take a scenic drive through Virginia’s verdant wilderness with this self-guided tour. Stop to snap photos from breathtaking overlooks along Skyline Drive—hike portions of the famous Appalachian Trail. Find out how this wild, remote place isn’t entirely what it seems. Plus, learn the history of Shenandoah National Park’s earliest inhabitants, from the Six Nations to the Iroquois Wars and beyond. This easy, picturesque drive is one you won’t soon forget!

Acadia National Park Tour

Maine is well known for its fall foliage. But you might be surprised to learn that this foliage is relatively new! These forests used to be entirely dominated by coniferous evergreen trees, like spruce and fir. Young deciduous trees now populate them. What happened? Learn more about it in our Acadia National Park Tour.

Sequoia National Park Tour

This self-guided driving tour takes you through enormous, ancient groves at Sequoia National Park. Witness the giant sequoias in all their majesty, including General Sherman, the most massive living thing on the planet. As you tour this jaw-dropping primeval forest, you’ll learn about the area’s early inhabitants, from the Paiute tribe to the founders of a secretive, ill-fated colony. Plus, take in jaw-dropping views of Kings Canyon with the Sequoia National Park Tour!

Joshua Tree National Park Tour

Explore the rugged, mystical beauty of Joshua Tree National Park with a self-guided driving tour. This raw desert landscape features incredible vistas, stunning rock formations, and eponymous cartoonish trees. As you drive on the Joshua Tree National Park tour and listen to stories around each bend in the road, watch for desert animals like the roadrunner, tortoise, and even bald eagle. Plus, enjoy a Bonus Tour of Palm Springs!

Arches National Park

Discover the gravity-defying wonder of Arches National Park! Find hidden life within the harsh, beautiful desert. Marvel at impossible rock formations and towering arches millions of years in the making, and learn how it all came to be. Along the way, listen to the riveting history of the tribes who lived here for thousands of years. Hear their legends of the trickster god who brought them to the desert and the portals through time that lie dormant throughout the park!

Zion National Park

See why early Mormon pioneers thought Zion National Park was heaven on earth! Visit natural wonders like the Temple of Sinawava and the Weeping Rock. Learn the land’s history, from its formation to the first people who lived here and inscribed petroglyphs on the canyon walls. See emerald pools, staggering mountain peaks, and much, much more. This tour works by car, bike, or shuttle, so you can see the park however you want to!

Bryce Canyon National Park

Marvel at the towering hoodoos dots Bryce Canyon, which must be seen to be believed! Dive into the history and legends of the tribes who lived here, including the harrowing tale of giants who were turned to stone and became the hoodoos we see today. Visit the groves of Earth’s oldest trees and hear the spooky story of the curse which afflicts anyone who studies these ancient, gnarled plants too closely.

Explore the movie industry’s and Navajo history’s “Wild West” as you drive through Monument Valley’s dramatic landscape. This self-guided audio tour along a 17-mile Navajo route allows you to enjoy the incredible panoramas while learning about Navajo culture, tribal history, and movie stardom.

Grand Staircase (or as we call it, Grand Stare-case)

Unearth hidden secrets at the Grand Staircase! Hidden within this towering staircase are clues to the land’s long history, and we’ll help you uncover it all. Learn about the dinosaur fossils people have found here, including a T-Rex skeleton! Visit a petrified forest, sparkling waterfalls, and sweeping vistas. Plus, hear the legends of the tribes who lived here, including the tale of when Coyote tried to catch the sun.

Canyonlands National Park

Venture into the staggering beauty of Canyonlands, home to the gorgeous red desert and more canyons than you can shake a stick at. Stand atop breathtaking vistas, hear the legend behind Dead Horse Park, and get a great look at the Colorado River. Then, hike the Aztec Butte trail to glimpse fragments of ancient history! Finally, catch an unforgettable sunset at Grand View Point, which earns its name.

Capitol Reef National Park

Step back at Capitol Reef as you tour the remnants of a preserved pioneer town. Explore striking contrasts as you move from a desert filled with colorful rocks to verdant orchards along the riverside. Then, visit the site of ancient petroglyphs. Archeologists are still deciphering to this day!

Tour Utah’s captivating Goblin Valley State Park with this GPS-guided driving tour! This peculiar park is filled with countless strange rock formations that must be seen to be believed. Witness the many “goblins” from on high at Goblin Overlook or get up close and personal in the Goblin’s Lair. Visit towering formations like Molly’s Castle and Wild Horse Butte and find out how all these unusual sights came to be. Plus, see ancient art at the Temple Mountain Wash Pictograph Panel, featuring images painted centuries ago!

Great Smoky Mountains Tour

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and discover why it’s the most visited National Park in the country! Tour these famous mountains while learning about Cherokee history and legends, Appalachian life, and much more. We’ll point you to all the best spots to take in the timeless wonders of the mountains. There’s no better way to see Clingman’s Dome, Cades Cove, or Rainbow Falls than on the Smoky Mountains tour!

Cades Cove Tour

Discover gorgeous natural scenery and rich history at Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains. This scenic loop packs a ton of sights into a small space. Check out sparkling waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and historic churches all in one place! Plus, learn the fascinating history behind this cove, including how the Civil War once threatened to tear it apart.

Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Drive Tour

Experience the southeast’s most beautiful sights along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway! Cruise from the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to historic Roanoke, Virginia, on this scenic, one-of-a-kind highway bathed in blue mist. Snap photos from jaw-dropping overlooks, spot incredible wildlife, and uncover the fascinating history and legends of the Cherokee as you drive. This self-guided driving tour reveals the parkway’s best sites and their hidden history!

Death Valley Tour

Experience the harsh beauty of a land like no other: Death Valley. Famed for its record-breaking temperatures, this valley also serves some sizzling scenery, from sprawling salt flats to rainbow-colored badlands and soaring mountain ranges. This self-guided driving tour shows you the best spots in the park and fills you in on this area’s rich history. Follow in the footsteps of Gold Rush miners and hear their stories as you explore this bizarre, unforgettable valley.

Olympic National Park Tour

Where but Olympic National Park can you find beaches, mountains, and rainforest all in one place? This self-guided tour takes you through the most beautiful sites in this one-of-a-kind park. Cruise along the shores of a glacial lake, embark on hikes through lush old-growth forests, and take in views from lofty mountain vistas—all while hearing about the fascinating history of this landscape! Also included are bonus tours of Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and coastal beaches.

Badlands Tour

Unearth the long-buried past in Badlands National Park, a place like no other! This strange, alien landscape of rocky peaks hides tens of millions of years of history. Learn all about it as you explore with this self-guided driving tour, which takes you along the Badlands Wall and shows you the best overlooks, hiking trails, and more. Along the way, your virtual narrator will share fascinating stories about everything from fossils to Lakota history and beyond.

Glacier National Park Tour

Experience the crown jewel of the national parks with this self-guided driving tour of Glacier, one of Earth’s most pristine and awe-inspiring landscapes. Cruise past crystal-clear glacial lakes, hike across breathtaking alpine tundras, and discover the secrets hidden in this sprawling wilderness. Plus, learn about the Blackfoot Confederacy, an ill-fated gold rush, and much more.

Yosemite Tour

Explore one of America’s most incredible national parks without the hassle of a tour group! Witness towering waterfalls and majestic mountain peaks which capture the height of America’s beauty. Hike through the lush wilderness, picnic by pristine lakes, and stand atop breathtaking overlooks. Plus, dive into the surprising, unlikely history behind this immense park. There’s simply no place on earth like Yosemite.

Everglades Tour

Venture into a strange, diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on planet Earth! This self-guided driving tour of the Everglades takes you to the most remarkable sites in this one-of-a-kind national park and delves into the complicated, fraught history of the land along the way. Stroll along boardwalks shaded by lush jungle greenery, see alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat, and find out for yourself what makes this stretch of southern Florida so special!

Hawaii Volcanoes Tour

Witness the explosive majesty of Hawaii with this self-guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stand at the precipice of Kilauea Crater. Visit the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs. See the beauty of the Hōlei Sea Arch before erosion destroys it for good. Along the way, you’ll find out how volcanoes really work, what they’ve meant in the history of Hawaii, and so much more.

Saguaro National Park Tour

Explore scenic Saguaro National Park (East and West) with this driving tour, full of wild history, mountains, rich wildlife…. and of course plenty of iconic Saguaro cacti! Hear stories of greed and drama involving settlers, miners, and gangs as you cruise through forests of cacti and yucca! Discover breathtaking trails, learn about the ancient Hohokam people, and much more!

Petrified Forest National Park Tour

Discover the timeless beauty of Petrified Forest National Park with this self-guided driving tour. Journey through an ancient landscape where once-lush forests have turned to stone and vibrant desert vistas stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore trails that wind through the park, revealing a land frozen in time and bursting with geological wonders. Unearth the history of this unique landscape, filled with prehistoric creatures, early human inhabitants, and fascinating fossils.

Red Rock Canyon Tour

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This majestic haven has been sculpting the Nevada desert for millions of years, offering striking red sandstone formations, pristine wildlife habitats, and miles of hiking trails that will leave you breathless—spot desert bighorn sheep, wild donkeys, and even wild horses in this unforgettable landscape.

Explore scenic wildlife, take in majestic views, and dig into history and legends, with this self-guided driving tour of Mount Rainier National Park. Drive through lush forests full of Douglas firs. See majestic Comet Falls. Hear stories of homesteaders and mountain climbers who left their marks and learn about Mount Rainier’s volcanic secrets. Then hear about John Muir, the father of national parks and take in breathtaking views from Sunrise Point Lookout.

White Sands Tour

Experience rolling white dunes, mountain backdrops, and a hiking trail like no other with this self-guided driving and walking tour of White Sands National Park. Discover the secrets of this unique ecosystem and delve into its history as you hike the famous Alkali Flat trail through the dazzling dunes. Hear about prehistoric beasts, Apache warriors, and J. Robert Oppenheimer while you take in the park’s majestic scenery. This tour includes both a driving and a walking portion.

Horseshoe Bend Tour

Why do 2.2 million people visit a Riverbend each year? Find out with this self-guided tour of the unforgettable Horseshoe Bend! This jaw-dropping canyon, cut through by the stunning Colorado River, is famous for a reason. See it up close and learn how this one-of-a-kind feature formed! And since you are already planning a visit to Horseshoe Bend, we also suggest dropping by the town of Page, once a rugged work camp and now home to incredible sights and hikes.

Carlsbad Caverns Tour

Delve 750 feet underground with this self-guided walking tour of the unbelievably vast Carlsbad Caverns. Marvel at the enormous echoing spaces of the aptly-named Big Room. Immerse yourself in a strange new world in the cave system’s Twilight Zone. Learn how the weird and fascinating rock formations actually form. As you stroll along the Natural Entrance Trail and Big Room Trail, you’ll also hear all about the story of Jim White, perhaps the first explorer of these caves over a century ago.

Salt Lake City Tour

Immerse yourself in Salt Lake City’s heritage with this self-guided walking tour. Discover the world-famous Temple Square and delve into the heart of the city as you learn about its founders and their difficult journey across America. Marvel at the Utah State Capitol’s stunning architecture as you revisit the dramatic struggles that led to Utah’s statehood. Get to know Brigham Young, the man behind the myth, as you admire the Salt Lake City Tabernacle and the awe-inspiring Salt Lake City Temple. Don’t just visit the city—discover the history beneath the surface!

Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+ :

An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
Unlimited use throughout the year.
Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

How Does It Work?

Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

Preview The Tour

what do we do .

Well simply put, Action Tour Guide is an audio guide, map, and tour book – all in one app! We are a GPS-enabled app-based tour that narrates information based on your location right on your phone. You can experience our driving and walking tours at your own pace and literally at any time of the day!

My travel date changed, what do I do?

Changing travel date? No worries! All individual tours come with lifetime validity.

Do I need a phone network to operate your tour?

The tour works offline which means you do not need your phone network to enjoy the tour. However, we do suggest you download the tour at your home, hotel, visitor center, etc before you head out for a completely immersive experience.

Is this an entrance ticket?

No. We do not sell entry tickets of any kind. Kindly visit https://www.recreation.gov/ to buy your tickets & passes.

How many tours should I buy?

Since this is a driving tours bundle, you only need to buy 1 tour per car!

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Email: [email protected]

A selection of our favorite drives through the redwoods, along the coast and into the mountains. A little bit of everything.

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Lebanon County, PA news, events, and opinions.

Swatara State Park sets self-guided Bear Hole Trail driving tours on April 12 & 13

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The Memorial Lake State Park Complex and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are offering two day-long opportunities for people to take a self-guided driving tour of Bear Hole Trail at Swatara State Park .

The events run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday , April 12-13.

Read More: Eight of the best bicycle trails in and around Lebanon County

According to the event pages for the drive-through events, the self-guided tour begins at the Swopes Valley Trailhead and goes through five miles of the natural preserve, letting out at the Appalachian Trail Bridge near Lickdale.

The tour also includes four parking areas where people can get out and explore. The parking areas are located at the fossil pit, Daubert School, charcoal pit, and Bordner’s Cabin.

The speed limit throughout the route is 10 mph and all traffic is one way. The last vehicles will be allowed entrance to the drive-through is at 2:30 p.m. on each day.

The Memorial Lake State Park Complex includes Memorial Lake, Swatara, Boyd Big Tree Preserve and Ibberson conservation areas.

How to visit Bordner’s Cabin at Swatara State Park
A decades-long project almost dammed the Swatara Creek and radically altered northern Lebanon County

Programs are subject to change due to weather or staffing shortages. Please check the DCNR Calendar of events or Facebook page for cancellations or changes to programs.

Anyone with concerns or requiring special accommodations should contact park officials at least 72 hours prior to the event at 717-865-6470 or [email protected] .

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Junior High School to open for Lebanon’s 7th, 8th graders this 2024-25 school year

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Presque Isle Lights seasonal driving tour back at peninsula for fourth year

Get ready to load up in your car and head for a drive around the peninsula to see the fourth annual Presque Isle Lights.

The Presque Isle Partnership has strung lights and set up displays that can be viewed from your vehicle during a self-guided evening driving tour around Presque Isle State Park. The lights go on Dec. 1.

When are the lights on?

Lights will be on Fridays through Sundays in December and also Christmas Day, which is a Monday this year.

Some displays will be dark Dec. 24, 25 and 31 because they require battery packs and no one will be there to place and collect them on the holidays. Most displays will be lit those days, however.

The lights will go on at 6 p.m. and visitors must be through the park's front gates by 9 p.m. to drive around the peninsula.

How much does it cost?

Driving the 13-mile loop around the peninsula to see the lights is free. Donations, which benefit the park, will be accepted in the Vista 2 parking lot along Presque Isle Bay on every night of the event except Dec. 24, 25 and 31. Organizers encouraged people to donate online those nights.

Those who stop and make the suggested $5 donation per vehicle will receive a Presque Isle Lights commemorative button and a chance to win a $1,000 Country Fair gasoline card, officials said.

More seasonal fun: Where to find holiday entertainment around Erie between Thanksgiving and Christmas

Hot cocoa will be available for purchase on Fridays and Saturdays only in the fourth parking lot along the bay.

Where are the lights?

The Stull Center, the Public Safety Building, Waterworks picnic shelters and the Presque Isle Lighthouse are just some spots around the park where lights and displays will be set up. They are not continuous on the drive around the peninsula, with natural darkness between them.

Organizers have said that while it's a celebration of the season, the event also allows people to see the nature of Presque Isle after dark.

Why aren't there more lights?

While the state park is a major recreational attraction for millions of people each year, the peninsula is also a natural habitat and home to numerous plant and animal species.

Organizers have said they worked hard to develop an event that highlights Presque Isle's natural beauty and is also respectful of the environment.

They have added more lights, color and movement over the years but aim to keep it tasteful and not harmful.

In 2021, Presque Isle Lights fell victim to an unofficial Facebook event that took photos from HersheyPark and blended them with Presque Isle photos to portray the Erie County display as more glamorous and light-filled, disappointing some visitors.

Trouble in 2021: Presque Isle Lights was targeted by a fake Facebook event portraying a bigger display

Organizers caution potential visitors to seek out official Presque Isle Lights information at the partnership's website, discoverpi.com , or its Facebook page, facebook.com/PresqueIslePartnership , or call 814-838-5138.

Dana Massing can be reached at [email protected] .

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MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES MARYLAND PARK SERVICE

merkle natural resources management area and visitor center, critical area driving tour.

The 4.3 mile Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Driving Tour (CADT) is open for self-guided driving tours on Sundays from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. year round. The tour starts at Patuxent River Park and continues into Merkle Natural Resources Management Area, crossing the Mattaponi Creek. To access the Critical Area Driving Tour: take Croom Airport Road, off Croom Road to Patuxent River Park.

The 2-mile portion of the tour located within Merkle Natural Resources Management Area is open for hiking, biking, driving and horseback riding daily.

Resources Merkle Natural Resources Management Area homepage Jug Bay Natural Area Homepage

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Other experience Sedona & Red Rock State Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. Activity provider:Action Tour Guide. 3.8 / 5 53 reviews. ... Driving tours: use one tour per car and connect to the car speakers. Get support by calling, chatting, or emailing - all day long; Save up to 10%.
Ultimate Utah State Park Road Trip with Itinerary
Capitol Reef National Park. Drive Time: Route 1: 2 hours 6 minutes [Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef] Route 2: 2 hours 45 minutes [Natural Bridges National Monument to Capitol Reef] Number of days: 1-2. Park Price: $20 for private vehicle for a 7 day pass. *Included in America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass.
Top Scenic Ozarks Driving Tours
The Jean Petit State Park driving tour includes miles of scenic roadway along with 15 curated stops inside and outside of the park, including: Museum of Automobiles. Petit Jean's Gravesite. Petit Jean Airport. Winrock International (Organization dedicated to global agriculture research)
8 Arizona National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
To summarize, this is a quick overview of all the national parks and monuments in Arizona mentioned in this itinerary, including how long I suggest you stay there. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument — 2 days / 2 nights. Saguaro National Park — 2 days / 2 nights. Petrified Forest National Park — 2 days / 1 night.
How to Plan Your US National Parks Road Trip
It excludes parks in Alaska, Hawaii, and other territories) but still manages to cover 47 US National Parks. Route 1: Grand Canyon to Everglades (map) Route 2: Everglades to Badlands (map) Route 3: Badlands to Zion (map) Route 4: Zion to Lassen (map) Route 5: Lassen to the Grand Canyon (map)
National Park Road Trips
The trip is predominantly in the state of Utah but crosses into Arizona as well. The Grand Circle Road Trip includes parks: Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Grand Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park and more! While this road trip can be done in around 2 weeks, we recommend you allow ...
Three state park road trips to capture your wanderlust
Beginning in Pittsburgh and driving north, you'll reach Point State Park, McConnells Mill State Park, Moraine State Park, Jennings Environmental Education Center, Maurice K. Goddard State Park and Presque Isle State Park. The crown jewel of this road trip would be Presque Isle. It is arguably one of the best parks in the state.
PDF Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Tour Byway Map
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway Driving Guide Welcome to the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. This scenic drive will wind uphill and down through Ohio's natural crown jewels, past the six non-contiguous sites of the Hocking Hills State Park and the Hocking State Forest. GPS: N39º 32.184' W082º 26.683' (approaching the intersection of US 33 & SR 374)
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour
Custer State Park Jeep Tours. Our buffalo safari tour will take you where only we can go: off-road to the private, interior dirt roads of the Park. Trek through the park in an open-air Jeep in search of pronghorns, elk, and the noble buffalo. Along the way, our guides will share historical and educational facts about the park and wildlife—and ...
State Park Entrance Passes (All 50 States)
The Delaware State Parks Annual Pass allow your vehicle and its occupants to enter most state parks without paying the daily entrance fees (some parks excluded). You may purchase an annual pass at any park office, at the central office in Dover, or online. Continue to 9 of 50 below. 09 of 50. Florida State Parks.
25+ National Park Tours: Self-Guided Driving Bundle
Tour Utah's captivating Goblin Valley State Park with this GPS-guided driving tour! This peculiar park is filled with countless strange rock formations that must be seen to be believed. Witness the many "goblins" from on high at Goblin Overlook or get up close and personal in the Goblin's Lair. Visit towering formations like Molly's ...
Scenic Driving Tours
A selection of our favorite drives through the redwoods, along the coast and into the mountains. A little bit of everything. Scenic Driving Tours Brochure Redwood Scenic Parkway in Prairie Creek Redwoods SP Bald Hills Rd and Lady Bird Johnson Grove Fern Canyon via Davison Rd Trinity River National Scenic Byway - Willow Creek The Lost Coast Loop Avenue of the Giants - Humboldt Redwoods SP ...
Swatara State Park sets self-guided Bear Hole Trail driving tours on
The Memorial Lake State Park Complex and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are offering two day-long opportunities for people to take a self-guided driving tour of Bear Hole Trail at Swatara State Park. The events run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, April 12-13.
Presque Isle Lights driving tour offers seasonal display at state park
Trouble in 2021: Presque Isle Lights was targeted by a fake Facebook event portraying a bigger display. Organizers caution potential visitors to seek out official Presque Isle Lights information ...
Driving Tour
Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Driving Tour . Lo cation. Patuxent River Park 16000 Croom Airport Road Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 301-627-6074 Prince George's County. Merkle Natural Resources Management Area and Visitor Center 11704 Fenno Road Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 443-510-9920 Prince George's County. Access.

Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Self-Guided Driving Tour

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Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale

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Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour

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Ultimate Utah State Park Road Trip with Itinerary

Route Options

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Shuttle tickets

Angels Landing

The Narrows

Canyon Overlook

Route 2 Add-in:

Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

Forest Gump Hill

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Canyonlands

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How to Plan Your US National Parks Road Trip | USA

Choose Your Route

Suggested US National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Other Suggested Road Trips

2. Make Your Map

3. Plan Your Time

When to Start Planning

Budgeting & Costs

Making Reservations

Reserving Permits

Booking Campsites & Lodging