National Parks are popular summer destinations for people wanting to get out of the city and away from busy streets. But it cannot be easy to decide which park is best when there are so many options.
Here are five suggestions for hiking national parks this summer.
1) Rocky Mountain, Colorado
Located near Denver and surrounded by the great state of Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a favorite destination for hikers and adventurers alike. Enjoy some of America’s most breathtaking nature while taking in scenic views of snow-capped mountains and green forests on trails such as Trail Ridge Road, Milner Pass, or Tonahutu Creek. Be sure to stop at Bear Lake for some incredible photo opportunities along with Beaver Meadows Entrance Station, where you can interact with marmots.
2) Olympic, Washington
Located in the state of Washington, Olympic National Park boasts trails ranging from easy to challenging with features such as alpine meadows and old-growth forests. Visitors can stay overnight at three different campgrounds or rent out one of six cabins. Sunrise is particularly stunning on trails like Mount Storm King and Rialto Beach, where visitors will be able to see coastal birds and whales in the distance. The park also offers ranger hikes throughout summertime led by experienced hikers ready to share their knowledge about the area’s history and wildlife.
3) Yosemite, California
Yosemite is perhaps one of the most famous national parks due to its high visitors and jaw-dropping views. From the iconic Half Dome to emerald green pools, Yosemite offers a variety of trails that anyone can enjoy. The park is open year-round, with its most popular months being June, July, August, and September, when visitors can see snow on top of some peaks if they’re lucky. Don’t forget to stop at one of the many scenic outlooks to appreciate its beauty above the treeline or hike up to Vernal Falls to feel the spray from the waterfall below. If you’d prefer not to walk among large crowds, try hiking just before sunset when there is still plenty of daylight left for beautiful photos but fewer people around.
4) Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Visitors looking for an adventure should head to Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. The park is open throughout the summer, and visitors can kayak among glaciers, take a boat tour, or hike on trails that lead past towering cliffs and deep fjords. There are also opportunities to spot wildlife such as humpback whales, sea lions, puffins, black bears, mountain goats, musk oxen, minke whales, and even brown bears if you’re lucky. Many park areas require visitors to go on guided tours, so be sure to check ahead of time before making your reservation.5) Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton has great options for beginner hikers who may not feel comfortable heading out solo. More experienced hikers can venture out on their own and explore the park’s vast backcountry while staying overnight at designated campsites. The Jenny Lake Trail is a favorite of many, where visitors will experience green forests and the opportunity to take in incredible views of the Teton Mountain Range.