Summer is flying by, and we’ll all be wearing sweaters and boots before we know it. The end of summer is the perfect time to take a road trip that explores many of our country’s finest national parks. Warmer weather means you won’t have to worry about seasonal closures or snow.
Our country is full of beautiful scenic landscapes, and our national parks are the ultimate outdoor recreation areas. Many of them offer campsites, and all of them have unique scenery that’s always worth checking out. End your summer or start your fall with an amazing national park road trip.
First things first: pack outdoor equipment for a variety of weather conditions. You’ll want cozy sleeping bags and warm clothing for nocturnal temperatures. Purchase an America the Beautiful pass ($80), which allows access to national parks for you and all passengers. Military members qualify for a free pass, so that’s worth looking into. Check for rental car deals to find the right ride for your journey.
This route takes you through some of the Northwest’s best parks with 58 hours of driving time. We recommend allowing 14 days so you can truly enjoy the journey. You’ll start and end in California.
Stop 1: Yosemite National Park, California
Framed by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite is the perfect place to start. Climb the amazing Mist Trail, explore the Tuolumne Grove and spend the night at the Majestic Yosemite Hotel if you don’t feel like camping. Rafting, swimming, fishing and golfing are just a few of the many activities available here.
Stop 2: Badlands National Park, South Dakota
You’ll spend a couple of days driving through Nevada and Northern Utah before arriving at Badlands National Park. The scenery is unique and otherworldly — 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires. You can look for miles and see no signs of civilization, so this is where to go to really get away from it all.
Stop 3: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming and Montana
Our country’s first national park is the next stop. Famous for its gushing geysers and dramatic canyons, Yellowstone spans parts of Wyoming and Montana. Treat yourself to a respite from the outdoors at the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Yellowstone is definitely a two-day stop, so make sure you’re rested.
Stop 4: Glacier National Park, Montana
Be prepared for breathtaking scenery like nothing you’ve ever experienced. From crystal clear lakes (Lake McDonald and Swiftcurrent Lake) to hiking trails, waterfalls and the Grinnell Glacier, there’s a lot to see. Take the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road for some of the area’s best views.
Stop 5: Hells Canyon, Idaho
Drive through beautiful Western Montana and northern Idaho until you reach the scenic Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, bordering both Washington and Eastern Oregon. The mighty Snake River winds through the canyon, and several companies offer guided boat tours.
Stop 6: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake has a depth of 1,943 feet, making it the deepest lake in the country. The water’s intense blue color indicates its great depth and purity. Don’t miss the Sinnott Memorial Overlook, which features an indoor exhibit room and gorgeous lake views. Camp at one of the scenic campsites or spend the night in the Crater Lake Lodge at Rim Village.
Stop 7: Redwood National Park, California
Last but not least, cruise back into California and stop at Redwood National Park. Situated on a long stretch of Northern California coast, you’ll gaze at the beautiful redwoods and enjoy abundant wildlife sightings. Marine mammals like sea lions and gray whales are common, and you may even see Roosevelt elk and ospreys. Drive safely, obey park rules and don’t leave your litter behind.
Renting a vehicle gives you peace of mind — no wear and tear on your own car, and you can rent something that perfectly suits your needs for the trip.
Compare affordable rental cars for your national park adventure.