Tips for Visiting National Parks
Peer deep into canyons, hike up mountain peaks, walk in the steps of history—whatever your passion, you can pursue it at a National Park Service (NPS) site. Since 1916, the NPS has been responsible for protecting and maintaining over 400 sites across the country, including national parks, seashores, parkways, historic trails, and more. Whether you’re exploring a hidden gem close to home or embarking on an epic cross-country road trip to visit multiple parks, proper planning will help you make the most of your adventure.
From securing reservations at popular destinations to avoiding crowds and engaging in ranger-led programs, these tips will help you maximize your experience and create lasting memories at America’s most breathtaking landscapes.
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Plan Ahead for Pricing, Reservations, and Entry Requirements
Many national parks now require reservations, timed entry permits, or participation in a lottery system for high-demand attractions. Entry fees vary by park, typically ranging from $15–$35 per vehicle. The America the Beautiful Pass ($80 per year) grants access to all NPS sites and many other public lands.
For seniors aged 62 and older, a Lifetime Senior Pass is available for $80, or an Annual Senior Pass for $20. Both passes offer the same access as the standard annual pass and may include additional discounts on certain amenities. Passes can be purchased in person at federal recreation sites or online through the USGS Store. Keep in mind that online orders may take up to three weeks for processing and delivery, so plan accordingly.
If you’re visiting a high-traffic park like Arches, Yosemite, or Glacier, check the park’s website months in advance to secure necessary reservations. Some parks, like Yellowstone and Grand Canyon, do not require reservations for general entry but may require permits for specific activities, such as camping or backcountry hiking. Always confirm pricing and entry details before you go!
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Head to the Most Popular Places EARLY to Get Parking and Avoid Crowds
National parks have become increasingly popular, leading to congestion at the most famous sites. However, early risers know that the parks are less crowded, and parking spaces are plentiful before mid-morning. Mornings often provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities and cooler temperatures for hiking. By 10 AM, tour groups and large crowds begin to arrive, causing entry gates and parking lots to fill quickly. If you want to experience iconic spots like Old Faithful, Delicate Arch, or Angel’s Landing without the crowds, aim to arrive at sunrise.
Visit “Off the Beaten Track” Attractions in the Afternoon
Many park visitors only explore the top-rated attractions, leading to midday congestion at these sites. Instead, use the afternoon to discover lesser-known yet equally stunning areas. Hidden waterfalls, scenic backroads, and quiet meadows often provide incredible experiences away from the crowds. Ask a park ranger for recommendations, or do some research to find unique trails and viewpoints.
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Choose Guidebooks That Are Specific to Your Interests
Guidebooks are especially useful in larger national parks (like Yellowstone or Great Smoky Mountains) where attractions are spread out. The right guidebook can provide maps, trail recommendations, and historical context, helping you craft a personalized experience. We recommend you venture beyond the generalized resources and dive into some specialized guides. Whether you're into hiking, birdwatching, photography, or stargazing, expert guidebooks can enhance your trip and ensure you don't miss out on hidden gems.
Consult Park Rangers and Local Experts About Your Plan
Make the visitor center one of your first stops when you arrive at a park. Park rangers are an invaluable resource for up-to-date trail conditions, weather alerts, and lesser-known attractions. The visitor center will also have wildlife safety alerts and educational programming information. If you have kids, ask about family-friendly hikes or Junior Ranger programs. Many parks also have volunteers and local experts who can share their insights on the best places to visit based on your interests and activity level.
Look at the National Park’s Program Schedule Online Before You Arrive
National parks offer a wide variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, historical reenactments, wildlife talks, and stargazing events. These programs can enhance your visit and provide unique perspectives on the park’s history and ecology. Check the NPS website before your trip to see if any special events align with your visit. Some programs require advance registration, so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out.
National Parks Are Not Theme Parks—Be Careful and Show Respect to Wildlife and the Environment
While national parks welcome millions of visitors, they remain wild landscapes where safety is crucial. Follow Leave No Trace principles: stay on designated trails, pack out trash, and respect wildlife from a safe distance. Never approach or feed animals, as this can be dangerous for both visitors and wildlife. Each national park website has a dedicated safety section detailing specific guidelines, potential hazards, and current alerts for that park. Always check park guidelines before your visit to ensure you are informed about the latest safety recommendations and conservation practices.
Related Article: Leave No Trace at the Campground
Check Out the “Every Kid Outdoors” Program
Formerly known as Every Kid in a Park, the Every Kid Outdoors program provides all 4th graders with a free NPS America the Beautiful annual pass (an $80 value). This pass grants the child and their family free entry to all national park sites for an entire year. If you have a 4th grader, don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore America’s most treasured landscapes at no cost!
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Bonus Tip: Follow the general NPS accounts on social media while you are planning your trip for inspiring, educational, and humorous content. Then make sure you are following the individual NPS social media accounts for up-to-date alerts and information.
No matter how many parks you've visited or how many times you've returned to your favorites, there’s always something new to explore in our national parks. By planning ahead and following these tips, you’ll maximize your adventure and create lifelong memories in some of the most breathtaking places in the country.
