Yellowstone National Park, one of the most popular parks in the Western United States, is also a great choice. Located in Wyoming and Montana, this national park features awe-inspiring geological formations, dramatic canyons, hot springs, and an abundance of wildlife.
The park covers an area of 3,500 miles. Visitors can experience wildlife, beautiful scenery, and the largest concentration of geothermal features in the country. Yellowstone also has the largest free-roaming bison population in the world.
The best season to visit the park are spring and summer. You can hike the entire park within a week. Avoid crowds in summer if you're planning on a trip. You should carry plenty of water and sunscreen when visiting the park.
The park has numerous easy boardwalk trails. The Bear Gulch Cave Trail is a beautiful hike that winds through narrow canyons. A creek runs through the canyon. Along the trail, you can see bison and other wildlife.
The park has numerous waterfalls, gorges, and lakes. If you're looking to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, there are numerous epic hikes. You might be lucky enough to see bears or pronghorn in Lamar Valley. There are even chances to see bison and elk on your trip.
The park's stunning landscapes can be explored by bicycle or on foot. Panorama views of the park's magnificent mountains will reward you. There are many scenic drives that you can take. You can also tour the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
You can also visit nearby towns like Jackson, Wyoming, or West Yellowstone, Montana, if you have the time. The town of West Yellowstone has shops and restaurants, and there are plenty of lodging options available in the area.
If you plan on staying in the park for a long time, you'll need a recreation pass. You can also make reservations to camp or for other activities. These services are charged a fee so it is important to book ahead.
While the park's northern side is more deserted, its western side is lush. There are many trails you can explore and it is possible to spend as short as an hour exploring the park. A four-mile hike is possible to enjoy some of the park’s most spectacular views.
Whether you're an adventurer or just someone looking to take in the scenery, a trip to the national parks is a must-do for your next USA road trip. The National Park Service manages the parks and preserves wildlife for future generations. You can learn more on the Hello Ranger podcast as well as online about the parks.
Yellowstone, the Arches and Glacier national park are great options for a road trip. For those with limited time, you could consider a day-trip starting from Grand Teton at Glacier.