Tag: Pinnacles National Park

Scenic Drives That Lead to America’s Most Breathtaking National Parks

Scenic drives lead to some of America’s most breathtaking national parks offering spectacular views and wildlife experiences

There’s nothing like the open road especially when that road leads to volcanic landscapes, geysers, glaciers, and red-rock canyons.

In a country as vast as the US, every mile brings something unexpected and America’s national parks are no exception. From golden sand dunes to hardwood forests, from historic sites and iconic monuments to the winding trails that crisscross the United States, the National Park Service (NPS) has ensured that America’s most cherished places are protected. 

They’re not just scenic stops for photo ops. They’re full-blown adventures waiting to happen.

The US landscape is as varied as the cars and RVs that cruise through it from gator-filled swamps and glacier-carved peaks to Martian desertscapes and moss-draped rainforests. That’s why I created this list around 10 epic road trips that link the most iconic (and underrated) national parks by region—routes that are as much about the journey as the destination.

Whether you’re chasing golden hour through the mountains, carving corners on alpine passes, or pulling over to stare at something so beautiful it doesn’t look real, these road trips are for drivers, dreamers, and anyone with a full tank and zero plans to fly.

Grand Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How I picked these national park road trips

I didn’t just throw darts at a map. Each road trip on this list was chosen for its scenic driving routes, diverse landscapes, and access to multiple standout national parks—all within a realistic road trip radius. I focused on routes offering variety without needing a full sabbatical.

I considered:

  • Park proximity: Clusters of parks can be visited on a single trip without insane detours
  • Driving experience: Roads that are fun to drive from twisty mountain passes to wide-open desert highways
  • Landscape diversity: Routes that deliver contrast—think giant trees one day, red rocks the next
  • Seasonal timing: I chose road trips that can be realistically completed in one season with notes on the best times to go.

Sources included official National Park Service resources, travel advisories, weather data, regional visitor guides, and firsthand trip reports. And yes—I leaned on personal experience and a healthy obsession with planning the perfect national park road trip.

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Southwest canyons circuit

A rich tapestry of natural beauty and adventure

Consider this the Holy Grail of national park road trips. Start your road trip in Las Vegas or Phoenix and from there loop your way through the red-rock royalty of the Southwest. Each park you visit will feel like a different planet.

One of the most iconic parks, the Grand Canyon will amaze you with its sweeping scale while Zion’s tight slot canyons will transport you to a completely different world.

From here, head to Bryce Canyon for a surreal sunrise. See the Sinking Ship with wide views and the hoodoos light up like Christmas trees making cool shadows on the canyon walls. 

Capitol Reef is a quiet stunner with fewer crowds while Canyonlands delivers Martian vibes and backcountry soul. It is divided into four distinct districts—Islands in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the rivers themselves—each offering unique landscapes of mesas, arches, canyons, and other geologic formations.

The Arches are a completely different universe with their unique rock formations.

Each of these destinations provides a unique glimpse into the rugged and beautiful landscapes of the Southwest.

This road trip guarantees a fulfilling national park experience as it is overflowing with scenic beauty and equally stunning stops. Spring and fall are the best times to enjoy this road trip if you want to avoid intense heat and crowds.

Additional NPS sites along the Southwest canyons circuit:

Joshua Tree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. California’s crown Jewels

California’s most notable and cherished locations

California has everything from waterfalls, deserts, to granite cliffs and ancient forests. For a California-specific national park road trip start in San Francisco or Los Angeles and create your own triangle through the wild heart of the state.

Known for its majestic granite domes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, Yosemite is non-negotiable. Drive through Tioga Pass, gaze up at El Capitan, and hike to Glacier Point.

Next, head south to Sequoia and Kings Canyon. It’s amazing to see trees that are as tall as skyscrapers here and rivers roaring through glacial-carved canyons.

For a completely different scenic view, drop into Death Valley, the hottest, lowest, driest place in the country. Finally, end this epic California national park road trip adventure with some stargazing in Joshua Tree.

Additional NPS sites amid California’s crown jewels:

Mount St. Helens National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. The Pacific Northwest wonderland

Stunning natural beauty including tall mountains, steep cliffs, lush forests, towering trees, and rushing waterfalls

  • States covered: Washington, Oregon
  • National parks included: Olympic, North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier, Crater Lake

The Pacific Northwest Wonderland route is perfect if moody coastlines, moss-draped forests, and snow-capped volcanoes are your thing.

Leaving Seattle start your road trip by driving west to Olympic National Park. This park is unique because it allows you to walk from a rainforest to a beach and then to alpine meadows in a single day.

Home to grizzly bears, grey wolves, lynx, and wolverines, North Cascades National Park offers a true wilderness experience despite being only a three hour drive from Seattle.

Next, head to Mount Rainier. It’s a beast. Hike the Skyline Trail for views that’ll break your brain.

Then, continue south into Oregon and witness Crater Lake—renowned for its deep blue lake which is the deepest in the United States formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama approximately 7,700 years ago. 

Go on this road trip in summer when the roads are open and the fog lifts long enough for epic views.

Additional NPS sites in the Pacific Northwest wonderland:

  • Mount St. Helens National Monument
  • Lake Chelan National Recreation Area
  • Ross Lake National Recreation Area
  • Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve
  • John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Rocky Mountain High Country Traverse

Unique and immersive wilderness experience

  • States covered: Colorado, Utah
  • National parks included: Rocky Mountain, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Mesa Verde, Arches

For the Rocky Mountain High Country Route, start in Denver. Then, drive west into the heart of the Rockies.

Rocky Mountain National Park is an excellent national park for hiking to alpine lakes and seeing exciting wildlife. You can also drive along Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America.

From the Rocky Mountains, make your way to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. This leg is steep, dark, and dramatically underrated.

Next, head to Mesa Verde, a park unlike any other filled with ancient cliff dwellings and ancestral Puebloan history.

You’ll end your road trip in Arches, Utah. The place is excellent for hiking through sandstone arches amidst a red desert landscape.

This route is best done in late summer or early fall when the leaves are golden and the mountain passes are clear.

Additional NPS sites along the Rocky Mountain High Country Traverse:

  • Colorado National Monument
  • Dinosaur National Monument
  • Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
  • Hovenweep National Monument

5. Wild North: Glacier to Yellowstone

A journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States

  • States covered: Montana, Wyoming
  • National parks included: Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton

This national park road trip is for the wild hearts. Start in Glacier National Park near the Canadian border. You will be blown away by the sight of turquoise lakes and snowy peaks in front of you. The landscape makes every photo look edited.

Then take the Going-to-the-Sun Road, arguably the most scenic drive in America. It offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and glaciers. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Glacier.

From there, drive down into Yellowstone for geysers, bison, hot springs, and one big supervolcano. Watch Old Faithful erupt then lose your mind over the colors of Grand Prismatic Spring. It erupts approximately every hour and a half, making it a reliable attraction.

Grand Teton is next on this road trip, Yellowstone’s elegant next-door neighbor. The Tetons’ ascent from the valley floor is a revelation in person. The beauty of the jagged peaks hits you with a force that no photograph can quite capture.

Additional NPS sites near the Glacier to Yellowstone corridor:

  • Big Horn Canyon National Recreation Area
  • Fossil Butte National Monument
White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Desert Dream Trail

Mountain, desert, and river landscapes

States covered: Texas, New Mexico
National parks included: Big Bend, Guadalupe Mountains, Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands

This road trip may seem weird but it is vast, engaging, and wildly underrated. Start your road journey in Texas with Big Bend. The park boasts 150 miles of hiking trails through mountainous desert terrain and along rivers. Take time to admire the impressive canyons that the Rio Grande River has carved through the desert mountains. When night falls, the dark sky areas provide a memorable stargazing experience.

From there, head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Explore deserts and dunes, canyons and mountains, diverse flora and fauna, and much more. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers with more than 80 miles of trails winding from woodland canyons to lush springs. Plus, the park is also home to the highest peak in Texas.

As you pass through the Chihuahuan Desert and Guadalupe Mountains of West Texas and into southeastern New Mexico, filled with prickly pear, chollas, sotols, and agaves, you might never guess there are more than 300 known caves beneath the surface. Carlsbad Caverns contains 113 of these caves formed when sulfuric acid dissolved the surrounding limestone.

Finish strong with White Sands to see the gypsum dunes glow white as snow. White Sands National Park preserves not only major portion of this unique dune field but also the plants and animals that have successfully adapted to this constantly changing environment.

This trip is best in late winter or early spring before the intense heat kicks in.

Additional NPS sites along the Desert Dream Trail:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. East Coast Scenic Circle

Scenic driving experiences of coastal and mountain beauty

Think the East Coast can’t hang with the West when it comes to national parks? Think again. Start with Shenandoah and the legendary Skyline Drive for the East Coast Scenic Route. It’s particularly suitable for a beautiful fall-season drive.

Then head south to the Smokies to watch the magic of the mist, the mountain music, the elk sightings, and the firefly displays. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its diverse plant and animal life, ancient mountain beauty, and preserved Southern Appalachian mountain culture.

Walk among the largest remnant of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent and see national and state champion trees towering to record size amidst an astonishing array of plants and animals when you visit Congaree National Park.

From there, loop up to West Virginia’s New River Gorge, the newest national park and a whitewater mecca perfect for rafting. Or you can take on the trails perfectly suited for mountain biking.

Additional NPS sites along the East Coast Scenic Loop:

8. Alaska’s Road-Accessible Parks

Each park offers unique experiences and is a must-visit for those exploring Alaska’s natural beauty

  • States covered: Alaska
  • National parks included: Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords

You’ll need to head to Alaska for the ultimate wild road trip. You’ll need to time your visit for summer but the reward is next-level.

Denali is six million acres of wild land bisected by one ribbon of road. Travelers along it see the relatively low-elevation taiga forest give way to high alpine tundra and snowy mountains culminating in North America’s tallest peak, 20,310-foot Mount McKinley. Wild animals large and small roam un-fenced lands living as they have for ages. Solitude, tranquility, and wilderness await.

You should then head over to Wrangell-St. Elias which is the largest national park in the US spanning 13.2 million acres. Unlike many of Alaska’s parks, it is accessible by road though most of the park is only accessible via the McCarthy Road, a 60-mile dirt road known for being rough and challenging for vehicles.

Finish with Kenai Fjords. Located near Seward, it is known for its glaciers, rugged mountains, and beautiful waters. The park itself spans 669,984 acres and is home to wildlife such as whales, seals, moose, and bears. Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield Trail are accessible by road while most of the park can be explored via boat tours. It is a 12-mile drive from Seward and a 132-mile drive from Anchorage.

Additional NPS sites along Alaska’s Road-Accessible Parks:

  • Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park
  • Sitka National Historic Park

9. Florida’s Tropical Trio

Florida has 3 national parks among its 11 NPS sites

  • States covered: Florida
  • National parks included: Everglades, Biscayne, Dry Tortugas

Think national parks are all forests and mountains? Not in Florida. Start in Miami and explore Everglades National Park to get an excellent mix of alligators, airboat rides, and birdlife galore. It is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States and the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River.

Then, head to Biscayne, a mostly underwater park perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Explore over 600 species of native fish along one of the world’s largest coral reefs.

For a more remote experience, explore Dry Tortugas, a 19th century fort and snorkel picturesque blue waters with coral reefs and marine life. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Almost seventy miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Known the world over as the home of Fort Jefferson, a 19th century coastal fortress comprised of over 16 million bricks, the park also protects natural wonders above and below its pristine water’s surface.

This trip is best done in winter to avoid hurricane season and the brutal heat and humidity.

Additional NPS sites that compliment Florida’s Tropical Trio:

  • Big Cypress National Preserve
  • Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
  • Fort Matanzas National Monument
  • Gulf Islands National Seashore

10. The Great Lakes Explorer Route

A scenic road trip itinerary that covers destinations along Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Ontario, and Erie

  • States covered: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan
  • National parks included: Voyageurs, Isle Royale, Sleeping Bear Dunes

This underrated route has fresh air, fresh water, and fewer crowds.

Start in northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs. While it is best accessed by boat, you can cover it on a road trip by visiting nearby visitor centers and lakeside campsites. It’s a place of transition between upland and aquatic ecosystems, southern boreal and northern hardwoods forest types, and both wild and developed areas.

Then, take a ferry from Michigan to Isle Royale for its moose and remote, roadless appeal. Isle Royale has 165 miles of scenic hiking trails and 36 campgrounds for backpackers, paddlers, and recreational boaters. There is excellent fishing, historic lighthouses, and shipwrecks, ancient copper mining sites, and plenty of spots to observe wildlife. Isle Royale is accessible only by boat or float plane.

Finish with Sleeping Bear Dunes along Lake Michigan’s coast. The park has numerous quiet beaches, forest trails, and dunes with unlimited beauty to provide a sensory reset.  Plus, the park often provides a less intensely crowded national park experience than some major Western parks.

This route shines in late summer when the weather is warm and the crowds are gone.

Additional NPS sites along the Great Lakes Explorer Route:

  • Grand Portage National Monument
  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeside
  • Apostle Islands National Lakeside
Arches National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Fill the tank and hit the road

America’s national parks aren’t just places to visit—they’re landscapes to experience, drive through, and get lost in. Each road trip on this list is a chance to turn the wheel toward something unforgettable from glacier-lined highways to sun-baked desert trails.

Whether you’ve got a weekend or a whole season, these routes offer more than just park checklists—they’re built for detours, surprises, and stories you’ll tell for years. So pack the cooler, cue the playlist, and leave room for whatever memories you collect along the way.

Because the best part of any road trip is not just where you go—it’s how you get there.

Worth Pondering…

When I was about fifteen, I went to work at Yosemite National Park. It changed me forever. Nature had carved its own sculpture and I was part of it, not the other way around.

—Robert Redford

RVing is for the Birds: The Top 10 Birdwatching National Parks

Bird watching in national parks offers a unique blend of natural beauty and avian diversity making it a perfect activity for RV enthusiasts. Here are the top 10 national parks for birding, each offering a distinct experience for nature lovers.

National parks draw in millions of visitors each year. Many go to enjoy hiking but more and more people visit national parks for bird watching. National parks across the United States protect a range of threatened species remain a great place for birding.

Since there are about 900 species of birds native to the U.S. you’re almost guaranteed to see birds no matter which park you visit. But you’ll want to visit the park with the most bird species and the best viewpoints to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Is Big Bend bird watching better than Grand Canyon birdwatching? Which are the top 10 bird watching national parks? Read on to find out.

There are 423 parks managed by the National Park Service (NPS). Each park features different attractions but most include important cultural or historical sites. And, all have gorgeous landscapes for viewing and exploring. 

Still, don’t let the size of a park fool you. Just because a park is popular or is huge it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s one of the best bird watching locations. Some parks weren’t created for conservation so they may not have the most bird species. 

Experts with the birding app Birda ranked the top national parks for checking out the beauty of birds. Information was compiled from Audubon which used NPS data.

Here are Birda’s top 10 national parks for birding along with birding facts about each park.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Visit the park during the spring months as many sea birds begin their migration

  • Birds of Acadia National Park: Bald eagle, Atlantic puffin, peregrine falcon, Blackburnian warbler, and woodpeckers
  • Best bird watching spots: Jordan Pond, Precipice Trail, and Cadillac Mountain

This park boasts 261 species of birds. The birds of Acadia National Park include birds of prey, seabirds, and boreal birds. Many of the birds live there all year. Some birds stop in the park during their migrations north and south. 

The park is on the coast of Maine and includes beaches, lakes, cliffs, and mountains.

Wood stork © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Everglades National Park, Florida

The park is home to unique birds such as the roseate spoonbill, white pelican, reddish egret, snail kite, and painted bunting

  • Birds of Everglades National Park: Wood stork, Roseate spoonbill, White ibis, Green-backed heron, Snowy egret, Red-tailed hawks, Anhinga, Indigo bunting, and Red-bellied woodpecker
  • Best bird watching spots: Homestead, Anhinga Trail, Paurotis Pond, Nine Mile Pond, and Mrazek Pond

This park has over 300 species of birds (some sources even report up to 360) When Everglades bird watching, you can catch sight of birds of prey, land birds, and wading birds. Since millions of birds live in the Everglades your chances of spotting your favorite ones are high.

The Everglades are primarily wetlands. Located near Miami, this National Park is nicknamed the River of Grass.

Scrub jay © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 

California Condor has made a significant recovery in the park

  • Birds of Grand Canyon National Park: Peregrine falcon, California condor, Common raven, Steller’s pinyon, Red-tailed hawk, Scrub jay, and Canyon wren
  • Best bird watching spots: Grand Cnyon Village, Yaki Point and Lipan Point, Bright Angel Trail, and Hearst Tanks

This park hosts over 370 bird species. While some birds are of a more common species there are also rare birds including the California condor, Yuma clapper rail, and Mexican spotted owl. Expect to see plenty of Common ravens too as they hang around the parking areas, buildings, and campgrounds. 

While birding in Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll see everything from desert landscapes to lush pine forests to flowing rivers. This is a top birdwatching park as it was named a Globally Important Bird Area in 2014.

Find out more about Grand Canyon National Park:

Peregrine falcon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Olympic National Park, Washington

Birding is a year-round activity on the Olympic Peninsula

  • Birds of Olympic National Park: Bald eagle, Western gull, Red-breasted sapsucker, Woodpecker, Belted kingfisher, Steller’s and Gray jay, Blue grouse, Peregrine falcon, and Northern pygmy owl
  • Best bird watching spots: West Lake Mills Trail, Hoh Rainforest, Skyline Ridge Trails

You’ll find diverse scenery and even more variety birding in Olympic National Park. East of Seattle, this park is full of beaches, forests, waterfalls, moss, ferns, and mountains. There are more than 250 bird species in this gorgeous habitat.

5. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii

  • Birds of Haleakalā National Park: Hawaiian short-eared owl, Nene goose, Honeycreeper, Maui petrel, and Mauri Parrotbill
  • Best bird watching spots: Hosmer Grove Trail, right off the campground of the same name

Hawaii is one of the most remote archipelagos in the world so the birds found there are quite unique. Many birds are native only to this area, endemic, and have ancestors who landed on the island millions of years ago.

The park features rainforests and volcanic craters.

Turkey vultures © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Pinnacles National Park, California

A diverse array of species across its varied habitats

  • Birds of Pinnacles National Park: California quail, California condor, Turkey vulture, Golden eagle, Prairie falcon, Acorn woodpecker, and Steller’s jay
  • Best bird watching spots: High Peaks Trail, Bear Gulch, Chalone Creek, Balconies Trail

Although Pinnacles National Park is quite small and less visited, it is a great birding location with more than 160 bird species. In particular, you can see lots of woodland birds and birds of prey at this park. It’s one of few parks where you can see California condor, a species released here after being bred in captivity. 

The park has plenty of great camping spots and hiking trails through displaced volcanic formations. Be sure to check out the High Peaks Trail in search of those California condor.

Find out more about Pinnacles National Park:

Sandhill cranes © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana

Birding opportunities are diverse and rewarding

  • Birds of Yellowstone National Park: Bald eagle, American white pelican, Canada geese, Common loon, Osprey, Sandhill crane, Trumpeter swan, and American dipper
  • Best bird watching spots: Hayden Valley

There is no doubt that you’ll enjoy your Yellowstone bird watching experience as there are close to 300 bird species in this massive park. You’ll likely see other wildlife as well since this park is known for its wolves, bison, elk, and bears.

While bird watching in Yellowstone you’ll experience rivers, hot springs, forests, and valleys. Be sure to spend some time in the Hayden Valley where you’ll find both water birds and birds of prey.

Green heron © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

15 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline and encompasses four distinct ecosystems

  • Birds of Indiana Dunes National Park: Virginia rail, Red-throated loon, Green heron, Great blue heron, waterfowl, and warblers
  • Best bird watching spots: Cowles Bog, Paul H. Douglas Trail, Longshore Birding Platform, Great Marsh Trail

This National Park is home to 285 species of birds as well as the endangered Karner blue butterfly. It’s best to visit in the spring and fall when thousands of birds migrate through. Expect to traverse wetlands, prairies, dunes, and forests.

Ladder-backed woodpecker © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Migratory species are numerous

Birds of Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Gray and Bell’s vireo, Vermillion flycatcher, Cactus wren, Ladder-backed woodpecker, and varied bunting

Best bird watching spots: Rattlesnake Springs

The park has recorded over 357 bird species, showcasing both native and migratory birds. Over 300 of those species have been spotted at the Rattlesnake Springs within the park so you can easily spend much of your time there alone.  

The park is also a recognized Important Bird Area where you can spot almost any Eastern warbler including the Kentucky, Cape May, and Prothonotary varieties. Be sure to visit in the spring or fall for the best bird watching. 

Find out more about Carlsbad Caverns National Park:

Colima warbler © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Big Bend National Park, Texas

A birdwatching gem

  • Birds of Big Bend National Park: Vermillion flycatcher, Colima warbler, Mexican jay, Lucifer hummingbird, and Green kingfisher
  • Best bird watching spots: Rio Grande Village, Chisos Mountains, Cottonwood Campground, Dugout Wells, Sam Nail Ranch, and Blue Creek

Since Big Bend National Park borders Mexico it presents a unique opportunity to see birds that you don’t often see in more northern parks. This is especially true of the Colima warbler which you can’t reliably find anywhere else in the U. S. 

In this arid desert park, the Rio Grande is a lifeline of support for birds and 75 percent of all bird sightings have been near water, according to NPS.

Enjoy over 450 different bird species when birdwatching at Big Bend National Park. The diversity of the location and habitat includes desert springs and oak-pinyon woods which allows you to see a wide range of birds.

Find out more about Big Bend National Park:

Yellow-rumped warbler © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hidden gems: Less common bird watching parks

Although the following parks are less common for birding, they deserve an honorable mention.

1. Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Arizona and Nevada

Scenic vistas and diverse ecosystems

Lake Mead is a man-made body of water in the Mojave Desert that attracts birds year-round. What to expect:

  • 268 bird species
  • Waterfowl, ducks, and geese
  • Find the best birdwatching spots near the western shore

2. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

For a few weeks in the spring and again in the fall, hundreds of species pass through the desert areas

Death Valley does, indeed, contain life in the form of birds and other animals. It’s the hottest and driest National Park, so be sure to bring plenty of water. You can expect:

  • 357 bird species
  • Loggerhead shrikes, coots, Rufous hummingbirds and Meadowlarks
  • Find the best Death Valley bird watching in the Furnace Creek area—home to 330 species

3. Point Reyes National Seashore, California

A year-round destination for bird enthusiasts

Birders have recorded more bird species at Point Reyes National Seashore than at any other NPS sitr. Here’s what to expect:

  • 490 bird species
  • Diverse habitats with wetlands, fields, forests and coastlines
  • Snowy plover and Northern spotted owl

4. Cabrillo National Monument, California

Observe a wide range of species in their natural habit

Cabrillo National Monument is a historic site but is home to rocks, tide pools and more. What to expect:

  • 262 bird species
  • Seabirds and migrating vagrants
  • Migrating whales
Black-crested titmouse © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

By the way, I have a series of posts on birds and birding:

No matter which bird watching park you visit, you’re sure to spot some exciting bird species and make cherished memories. There are so many birdwatching locations to check out in the US, you’ll certainly need to make more than one trip!

Worth Pondering…

A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song.

—Chinese Proverb

10 Amazing Places to RV in May 2025

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in May

Freedom is something that dies unless it’s used.

—Hunter S. Thompson

Hunter S. Thompson refused to be bound by any conventions especially in his writing. As a reporter in the 1960s and ‘70s he made no attempts at objectivity and often anointed himself a main character in narratives he was dispatched to just observe.

This quote derives from one of the last career-spanning interviews he granted, a 2003 conversation with Salon. Thompson was speaking not about how he emerged as gonzo journalism’s leading voice but about complacency in general. Exercising our liberties is how we build a better world for ourselves, our communities, and future generations.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in March and April. Also check out my recommendations from May 2024 and June 2024.

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Mesa Verde National Park

After living atop the mesas for 600 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people moved their homes to the mesa walls and became cliff dwellers. They kept their crops and fields atop the mesa but lowered their harvest down to food storage rooms. There, they dwelled for another hundred years before beginning their migration further south. Descendants teach their children that their ancestors only inhabited such areas for a time before journeying on as their deity bid.

Today, Mesa Verde National Park protects the rich cultural heritage of 26 tribes and offers visitors a mind-perplexing glimpse into the lives of those who once lived here. You’ll also find guided and self-guided tours, hiking trails, camping, an evening program, stargazing, bird watching, and seasonal events.

Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival

If you’re craving Cajun or Creole music and food, there’s no better place to find it than at the Crawfish Festival.

At the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival (May 2-4, 2025) eat your weight in mudbugs, shimmy your way to victory in the zydeco dance contest, and set your lawn chair in front of the Crawfish or Festival stage to hear incredible local music. You’ll love cheering on the critters during the crawfish races. Back in your RV, make your own crawfish étouffée using the recipe from three-time Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival étouffée cook-off champion Mike Huval. 

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. This California National Park is a Mini Yellowstone

Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northeastern California has the four types of volcanoes found on Earth—cinder cones, composite, lava, and shield volcanoes—with 300 active domes. Lassen has a fraction of Yellowstone’s visitors but has many similar landscapes and geothermal sites.

You’ll come across sulfur vents, fumaroles, mud pots, wildflower meadows, mountain lakes, waterfalls, lava tube caves, and boiling hot springs. Don’t miss the Bumpass Hell trail leading to the largest of the eight hydrothermal areas and the easy-to-reach Kings Creek Falls.

There are more than 150 miles of trails in the park, 700 flowering plants, and 250 vertebrates. Hike the Cinder Cone Volcano in the park’s Butte Lake section and you’ll see breathtaking 360-degree views of the Painted Dunes and the volcano’s crater. The most famous volcano in the park, Lassen Peak also offers skiing in the winter.

Salt River Canyon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive

This classic Arizona scenic drive beginning in Globe and ending in Show Low is well worth taking because of the amazing landscape and the exhilarating thrills it offers with its winding, steep stretch. Plus, in addition to mountain scenery the journey is considered one of the many scenic canyon road trips in Arizona as it heads to the striking Salt River Canyon.

Starting at the intersection of US Routes 60 and 70 in Globe, this scenic mountain Arizona road trip route takes US Route 60 northeast across undulating terrain. Later on, it drops into the magnificent Salt River Canyon which provides sweeping vistas of rocky outcrops, meandering rivers, and vibrant rock formations.

The canyon, one of the most incredible places in Arizona is about 40 miles from Globe where there are many other scenic stops en route such as the ghost town of Seneca. In Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area, a pair of bridges—a modern vehicle bridge and a historic pedestrian bridge—span the river and look awe-striking. Of course, there are many more canyons in Arizona besides the Grand Canyon and Salt River Canyon for those hoping for more adventures.

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pinnacles National Park

Rock climbers and the endangered California condor seem to love the spires of Pinnacles National Park, located about two hours south of San Francisco. The cliffs were shaped by multiple volcanic eruptions about 23 million years ago plus wind and water erosion over the millennia. But as old as all that is, Pinnacles is the newest national park in California, joining the list in 2013.

A beautiful drive along Highway 101 or California State Route 25 gets you there past Big Sur, the coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the wine region in Monterey County. Once there, canyon bottoms full of piney chaparral and oak woodlands provide over 30 miles of trails.

The most popular hike is the High Peaks Loop. For other wildlife fanatics, the easy Balconies Cave Loop to the talus caves includes sightings of 13 types of bats (including the endangered Townsend’s big-eared bat) and opens up to an incredible vista of pinnacles.

Historic Mobile © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Celebrate spring in Mobile

Set along the Gulf of America at the head of Mobile Bay, Mobile is a historic city with beautiful old homes, lovely squares, and a vibrant cultural scene. This port city is also home to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, one of the main attractions along this stretch of coast.

Nestled on the shores of Mobile Bay and grabbing a slice of the gorgeous Gulf shoreline from the Florida Panhandle, Mobile is a cultural epicenter steeped in rich history and tradition. Its endless list of attractions comprises numerous historical landmarks, four listed as National Historic Landmarks, and a family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration with all the pomp and glamour but not over-the-top like its French Quarter counterpart.

But that barely scratches the surface regarding what Mobile has in store for first-timers. From a delectable dining scene featuring savory soul food and seafood to a buzzing nightlife that can’t be replicated, the city is a treasure trove of top activities in Alabama. Here is the ultimate guide to The Gateway to the Gulf including the top things to see and do.

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Badlands Scenic Byway

Rugged, ancient, and expansive, South Dakota’s badlands are a world unto themselves. Geologic wonders like buttes and spires rise overhead while the fossils of extinct species are buried deep beneath the grasslands. The Badlands Scenic Byway loops through Badlands National Park to showcase the best of the region from wildlife like prairie dogs and buffalo to numerous hiking trails and 16 official scenic overlooks.

The byway itself is a relatively unremarkable two-lane road that stretches just 39 miles of South Dakota Highway 240. Though the drive technically only takes about an hour to complete, plan to dedicate several hours or more to the excursion. The photo opportunities alone can keep you busy for an entire day.

I recommend starting your visit from the Badlands Northeast Entrance near Cactus Flat as opposed to the Pinnacle Entrance near Wall (of Wall Drug fame) so you can map out an itinerary at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center before heading out.

Black’s Barbecue, Lockhart © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. How to Eat Your Way through the Barbecue Capital of Texas

A road trip to Lockhart, Texas is an irrefutable barbecue rite of passage. About 35 miles southeast of Austin and boasting a population of about 13,000, the town is officially known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas according to the Texas Legislature. Its home to three famous barbecue joints and one underrated one.

Located near San Marcos, roughly half-way between Austin and San Antonio, Lockhart is a small town with a lot of flavor—in more ways than one! Its four well-known barbecue joints draw visitors from far and wide looking to sample the best barbecue in the great state of Texas. So put on your comfy pants, maybe consider a bib, and head to Lockhart for some of the best barbecue you’ll ever taste.

Here’s a close look at all four of these necessary stops which together make up a full day’s itinerary. Arrive armed with your appetite, good friends, and plenty of napkins.

Patagonia State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Mariachi Festival 

Happy 50th anniversary to one of southern Arizona’s most beloved destinations! Since April 1, 1975, Patagonia Lake State Park has been delighting visitors with its exceptional recreational opportunities, gorgeous scenery, and rich biodiversity. Patagonia Lake and the adjoining Sonoita Creek State Natural Area are designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society and offer world-class birding with a huge variety of avian species from raptors to waterbirds and more.

Cool off in the 265-acre lake with a refreshing swim or explore its tranquil coves by boat. If you don’t have your own, rent one from the park’s on-site marina. Anglers bring your gear—the lake offers excellent springtime bass and catfish angling opportunities. The spacious campgrounds provide a perfect base for extended adventures with RV sites that include electric and water hookups, comfortable camping cabins, and even boat-in campsites that help you disconnect from the hustle and bustle and simply relax in nature.

Join Patagonia Lake State Park at the 30th annual Mariachi Festival on May 17 to celebrate both the park’s milestone anniversary and Arizona’s rich cultural heritage. The festival features authentic mariachi bands and dancing performances, food trucks and wine tastings, and fun family activities against the backdrop of our beautiful lake and rolling hills.

Museum of Appalachia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Museum of Appalachia, Tennessee

The Museum of Appalachia is a living history museum, a unique collection of historic pioneer buildings and artifacts assembled for over a half-century by Irwin. The Museum portrays an authentic mountain farm and pioneer village, with some three dozen historic log structures, several exhibit buildings filled with thousands of authentic Appalachian artifacts, multiple gardens, and free-range farm animals, all set in a picturesque venue and surrounded by split-rail fences.

There are artifacts from some of the personalities of East Tennessee including Howard Baker and Dolly Parton. An impressive variety of handmade musical instruments demonstrates the ingenuity of the mountain folk. Other exhibits give you a glimpse into how they handled illness and death.

Check this out to learn more: Museum of Appalachia: Let the Past Touch Your Soul

Worth Pondering…

When April steps aside for May, like diamonds all the rain-drops glisten; fresh violets open every day; to some new bird each hour we listen.

―Lucy Larcom

7 National Parks for Colorful Wildflowers this Spring

Get ready for a colorful flower party of yellow, orange, white, and more this spring

National parks top the list of places to visit during the summer. But taking a trip in the springtime allows you to witness spectacular wildflowers. Planning is key for viewing blooms at their prime. Wildflower displays vary every year in every park. What they might see in photographs of a park one year may look very different in another year. Come with an open mind.

And do your research. Checking park websites, social media updates, and wildflower reports can help visitors catch peak bloom. Bloom times can vary by region, elevation, and yearly weather conditions.

Visit these seven national parks for stunning wildflowers this spring.

Joshua Tree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Joshua Tree National Park, California

The California haven offers a ruggedly beautiful landscape

Joshua Tree National Park sits amid two deserts—Colorado and the Mojave—and gets its namesake from the Joshua tree. The park is also renowned for rock climbing, 15 cacti species, and wildflowers that debut as early as January depending on the year and continue through the spring.

Some of the first flowers to debut are the California poppy, the state flower that paints the landscape with small orange flowers along with the desert Canterbury bells and its bright blue blossoms and yellow stamens. Look for them in lower elevations near the southern entrance or the Pinto Basin. Brittlebush, a desert shrub with fragrant bright, yellow blossoms, orange desert globemallow, and white pincushion flowers appear from early March to May in higher elevations—around 3,000 to 5,000 feet—in canyons and valleys. Spot them in Indian Cove and Jumbo Rocks.

Superblooms occur every five to 10 years in Joshua Tree. A superbloom is a phenomenon in desert environments when there is above-average rainfall typically in the late fall and early winter causing annual plants to bloom simultaneously. If you’re curious about whether it’s a superbloom year, I recommend monitoring the parks’ websites. They will have a sense of whether a real superbloom is going to happen based on that pattern of precipitation that happened earlier in the year.

Learn more about Joshua Tree National Park:

Capitol Reef National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Discover the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic wrinkle on earth

Many spring wildflowers begin to bloom in April and continue into the summer in Capitol Reef National Park which is known for its canyon, cliffs, and domes. One of the more spectacular flowers is the claret cup—it’s got these beautiful rose, red-colored flowers on these tiny cacti plants.

Desert Indian paintbrush is another favorite for its red and orange floral bracts that are easily spotted in southern and central areas of the park such as Cohab Canyon and Notom Road. For some of the best opportunities to see wildflowers get onto trails and backcountry roads.

Some years, there’s a superbloom of scorpionweed with beautiful purple flowers. You’ll see this landscape awash with purple, and it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Learn more about Capitol Reef National Park:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

More than 1,500 flowering plants including delicate spring beauties

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has more types of flowers—more than 1,500—than any national park giving it the moniker of “Wildflower National Park.” Spring beauty with white or soft pink blossoms and white bloodroot which gets its name from the reddish-orange sap found in the roots are some of the wildflowers visible in early spring.

In lower- to mid-elevations of the park, you’ll find 10 species of trillium known for three-petaled flowers including white trillium and white Catesby’s trillium that turn pink over time and hang down along with red-hued Vasey’s trillium. Look out for smooth Solomon’s seal for its small bell-shaped flowers that dangle off an overarching stem and small white strawberry flowers.

Time your visit with the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage (April 23-26, 2025), a four-day event with guided walks, exhibits, and activities related to flora and fauna.

Learn more about Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

A wonderland of towering cacti and awe-inspiring landscapes 

The giant saguaro is a cactus that is a symbol of the Sonoran Desert and the main feature of Saguaro National Park. Starting in mid-March, many springtime blossoms open including the white twist flower, white wild zinnias, yellow desert marigolds, pink fairy dusters and blue desert lupines. Go for a hike on King Canyon Wash Trail, Ringtail Trail, and the Sendero Esperanza Trail to spot them.

The saguaro cactus can be found throughout the park. The white flowers with yellow centers bloom in late April with peak bloom usually at the end of May. The cactus blooms are the star of the show. Many cacti species are in full bloom the first week of May such as yellow prickly pear, orange and yellow staghorn cholla, and pink fishhook pincushion flowers.

Learn more about Saguaro National Park:

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pinnacles National Park, California

Spot North America’s largest bird in California’s smallest park

Pinnacles National Park’s wildflower season is from March to May. In early March, many flowering shrubs begin covering the landscape with colorful hues such as yellow bush poppies, orange California poppies, purple fiesta flowers, and yellow monkey flowers.

By the time April rolls around, yellow suncups, various hues of lavender, and blue larkspur deck the tall stalks and purple-flowered bush lupine among others add to the vibrancy. Wildflowers can be seen almost anywhere within the park but hiking on Balconies Trail, High Peaks Loop, or Juniper Canyon Trail will give you closer views of wildflowers. Respect the flora when snapping photos. Stay on trails and avoid stepping into bloom areas for photos. 

Learn more about Pinnacles National Park:

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Home to wildlife, historic sites, beautiful views, and unique hiking trails

Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of hiking trails, spans hundreds of miles across the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is home to over 850 flowering plant species.

Wildflowers begin to bloom at the end of March and early April with lavender, blue, and white hepatica flowers, and small white or pale pink bloodroot blossoms. Purple and yellow violets, wild geraniums, and yellow marsh marigolds begin to appear in early April. The famous trilliums peak in April and May and include wake robin known for its red flowers and strong scent.

Many wildflowers can be seen in lower elevations near water including the Hughes River, Rose River, and South River. Shenandoah offers a wildflower calendar. If you’re curious about what wildflowers are in bloom ask the staff in the visitor centers.

Learn more about Shenandoah National Park:

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Cathedral-like canyons and majestic sandstone cliffs create a wondrous landscape

The high temperatures, limited rain, and drying winds of the desert can present a harsh environment for wildflowers. These unforgiving conditions make the abundance of Zion’s wildflowers seem even more spectacular, set against a backdrop of towering sandstone cliffs.

In the early spring, many plants take advantage of the seasonal rains to flower and reproduce quickly before the precious water is gone. Flowers like the desert marigold or the eye-catching slickrock paintbrush often take visitors by surprise with their brilliant colors in early-to-mid April.

Zion’s many springs and seeps also provide micro-habitats where temperatures are cooler and water is available year round. Throughout the summer on the Weeping Rock, Emerald Pools, and Riverside Walk trails you may see “hanging gardens” where flowers like shooting star, golden columbine, and scarlet lobelia cling to the cliff walls.

Learn more about Zion National Park:

Worth Pondering…

People from a planet without flowers must think we must be mad with joy the whole time to have such things about us.

—Iris Murdoch

These 4 California National Parks Need To Be On Your 2025 Bucket List

If you want to get outside and let nature awe you, the Golden State has what you’re looking for. Here are four bucket list worthy national parks in California.

Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to start making those travel plans. California is always one of the top destinations for RV travelers particularly those looking for outdoor adventures early in the year.

Some of the main attractions in California are its various national parks. California has the most national parks of any state in the US with a whopping nine designated sites. Unfortunately, visiting all nine may not be realistic in a single calendar year.

When considering all nine national parks which ones should be first on the bucket list for 2025? After comparing AllTrails park ratings and visitations numbers, here are the six California national parks to add to the bucket list in 2025.

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Who needs Yellowstone with this quiet alternative right in the Sierras?

Lassen Volcanic National Park is perhaps the most underrated national park in California despite having dramatic forest scenery and the fact that Lassen is in many ways a mini Yellowstone.

Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park takes a little bit of planning with the park’s high elevation in the Sierra Nevadas. The main road, Lassen Volcanic Scenic Highway closes for the winter months limiting access to the park’s best attractions particularly Bumpass Hell.

Since Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of several national parks you can really only visit in summer preparing early for a 2025 visit is a must.

The payoff? Beautiful granite formations covered in dense evergreens interspersed with bubbling mud pots, fragrant fumaroles, boiling pools, and cinder cones.

  • Entrance fee: $30/vehicle (April 15-November 30); $10/vehicle (December 1-April 14); valid for 7 days
  • Best time of year to visit: June-September
  • Top hiking trails: Bumpass Hell Trail, Lassen Peak, Cinder Cone Trail, Manzanita Lake Loop

Note: Need another reason to add Lassen Volcanic National Park to the bucket list for 2025? Lassen receives a fraction of the visitors that more popular destinations like Yosemite to the south or Yellowstone in Wyoming. This means that not only does the park offer incredible scenery it can be enjoyed with far more elbow room any time of year.

Plan ahead:

Sequoia National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Sequoia National Park

Salute to the largest tree in the world and wander among groves of giant sequoias

Continuing with the giant trees, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are undeniably the most famous destinations in California. The neighboring parks are often treated interchangeably so much so that an entrance fee for one grants access to both parks.

However, if there is only room for one on the bucket list in 2025 which of these giants should make the list? Most votes go for Sequoia National Park, home to the largest tree in the world, General Sherman.

In addition to protecting the world’s largest tree, Sequoia National Park has some of the highest-rated hiking trails in all of California edging out neighboring Kings Canyon. With 132 hikes to choose from (according to AllTrails), Sequoia is an outdoor paradise just waiting to be explored.

  • Entrance fee: $35/vehicle, valid for 7 days
  • Best time of year to visit: May-October
  • Top hiking trails: Tokopah Falls, General Sherman Tree Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock

Plan ahead:

Joshua Tree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Joshua Tree National Park

With some of the rarest trees in the world, Joshua Tree represents the meeting point of two unique deserts

While three national parks are dedicated to California’s giants, only one is reserved for one of its rarest. Joshua Tree National Park protects the heart of California’s desert landscape and is one of the only regions in the world that can support Joshua trees.

Situated at the intersection of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, Joshua Tree is uniquely diverse with a variety of plant and animal life that can exist nowhere else.

If the daytime sights aren’t enough reason to visit Joshua Tree, the night skies are sure to impress. A certified International Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree and its wide open skies are the perfect place for stargazing or simply camping under the moonlight.

  • Entrance fee: $30/vehicle, valid for 7 days
  • Best time of year to visit: October-May
  • Top hiking trails: Ryan Mountain, Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, Arch Rock Trail

Plan ahead:

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Pinnacles National Park

California’s newest national park is protecting some of its most vulnerable animal species

Originally a national monument, Pinnacles National Park is the newest of California’s nine national parks and an underrated alternative to giants like Yosemite.

As the name suggests, Pinnacles National Park features some mind-bending rock formations that jut dramatically out of the hills. Two major cave formations, Bear Gulch Caves and Balconies Caves offer a unique look at the geological forces that created the region.

What really makes Pinnacles National Park worth adding to the 2025 bucket list, however, is the wildlife. Pinnacles is home to some of America’s rarest creatures including Townsend bats and the critically endangered California condor.

California is home to the most endangered animals in America and Pinnacles is the perfect place to enjoy many of them while also exploring unusual landscapes and picturesque hiking trails.

  • Entrance fee: $30/vehicle, valid for 7 days
  • Best time of year to visit: October-May
  • Top hiking trails: Condor Gulch Trail to High Peaks Trail Loop, Moses Spring and Rim Trail Loop, Balconies Cave Trail

Alert: As a popular nesting area for the endangered California Condor trail closures are common in Pinnacles to protect fragile nesting sites. Always watch for signage and please respect the delicate ecosystems protected by Pinnacles National Park.

Plan ahead:

Worth Pondering…

National parks are sacred and cherished places—our greatest personal and national treasures. It’s a gift to spend a year adventuring and capturing incredible images and stories in some of the most beautiful places on Earth.

—Jonathan Irish, photographer

These National Parks Are the Warmest in Winter

Looking to take a winter national parks trip? These warmest national parks to visit in winter all have average daytime temps above 60 degrees for you to enjoy.

Some of the most beautiful national parks in the US are much less crowded and more affordable in winter. While visitors will have to brave the cold to explore some of the best national parks in the US to visit in winter, they are always worth it.

Fortunately, there are numerous destinations to escape the harsh winters for warmer weather. Summers in most of these parks are unbearable which means that they are warm enough to explore in winter. From tropical tourist spots to desert areas these are the warmest US national parks to include in a travel bucket list this winter.

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Average temperature of 40 °F – 65 °F

Situated just outside Tucson, Saguaro National Park is famous for being home to America’s largest cacti. With temperatures of above 100 on average in the summer, it is always challenging for travelers to see and appreciate the beauty of this park in the hot season.

Thankfully, winter comes with just the right amount of warmth to allow one to enjoy some of the most fun adventures in the park. Some of the fun activities to explore here include hiking, camping, scenic driving, and horseback riding.

Size: 91,327 acres

Entrance fee: $20 per motorcycle, $15 per person, and $25 per private vehicle

Things to do: Take scenic drives, camping, hiking, horse-back riding

2. Death Valley National Park, California

Average temperature of 60 °F – 70 °F

Famous for being the hottest place in the world, Death Valley National Park’s summer temperatures which can reach 130s can be unbearable. In winter, the weather is pleasant enough to explore various adventures including hiking, horseback riding, camping, mountain biking, climbing, and more.

In the cooler season, travelers will also get a chance to see snow-capped -peaks and wildflowers and take advantage of incredible photography opportunities. Tourists will have the best experiences of the park in January and February which are considered the coldest months.

Size: 3.4 million acres

Entrance fee: $15 – $30 standard

Things to do: Hiking, horseback riding, camping, mountain biking, climbing

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Average temperature of 39.4 °F – 64.1 °F

One of the underrated US national parks to visit in 2023, Big Bend National Park is best explored in winter when the temperatures are warm enough to enjoy its great outdoor adventures. With hundreds of bird species taking refuge in the park’s mountain range, there are numerous birdwatching opportunities to enjoy here.

One can go camping, hiking, scenic driving, or explore that park’s nature, including the unique fauna and flora, as well as the ecosystems that make up this beautiful destination.

Size: 801,163 acres

Entrance fee: $15 per person, $25 per motorcycle, and $30 per private vehicle

Things to do: Camping, hiking, and taking scenic drives

Joshua Tree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Average temperature of 60 °F

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most magical places in the U.S., perfect for stargazing thanks to its location away from major cities. For the best stargazing experiences visitors should head to the park’s east side. Situated in the High Desert at an elevation of 3,000-5,000 feet above sea level the park offers a lot for visitors to explore, including unique fauna and flora, a fascinating cultural history, and incredible geological features.

During a trip to this side of California, one can enjoy some of the best hikes through Joshua Tree National Park. The daytime temperatures average 60°F with the possibility of seeing a stunning dusting of snow in winter.

Size: 792,623 acres with 591,624 designated wildernesses

Standard entrance pass: $15-$30

Annual entrance pass: $55

Things to do: Camping, hiking, joining ranger programs, biking, climbing, and more

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pinnacles National Park, California

Average temperature of 44 °F – 62 °F

Pinnacles National Park is among the U.S. national parks that are warmer in winter and since it is tucked away in a very remote location in Central California not many people know about it. But it’s a perfect winter retreat that offers amazing experiences for visitors looking to relax and unwind in a peaceful place away from crowds.

The daytime temperatures average in the 60s and 70s with a rare possibility of snow usually at higher elevations. Some of the things to do here in the cooler season include backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, and camping.

Size: 26,000 acres

Entrance fee: $15 per person, $25 per motorcycle, and $30 per private vehicle

Things to do: Backpacking, camping, rock climbing, and hiking

White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Average temperature of 60 °F

The world’s largest gypsum dune field covers more than 275 square miles in southern New Mexico with White Sands National Park the centerpiece of this remarkable landscape. Great waves of white roll across the open plains of this 145,000-acre park with stark mountains rising in the distance.

Hiking up the dunes themselves is the best way to feel what makes these white waves so special—the tiny gypsum grains underfoot. Of the park’s half-dozen trails, the easiest is the half-mile Interdune Boardwalk. This wheelchair-accessible trail on an elevated boardwalk makes its way through the interdune landscape where the desert and its limited vegetation meet the barren dunes.

Size: 145,000 acres

Standard entrance pass: $15-$25

Annual entrance pass: $45

Things to do: Driving Dunes Drive, hiking, sledding, joining ranger programs, biking, climbing

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Average temperature of 60 °F

Carlsbad Caverns National Park contains more than 119 limestone caves that are outstanding in the profusion, diversity, and beauty of their formations. The main attraction of this national park is the show cave—the Carlsbad Cavern (and the Big Room in particular). Unlike most caves around the nation, one does not need a guided tour to explore the cave—visitors can walk on their own through the natural entrance or take an elevator from the visitor center. 

 The variety and quantity of sculptures of tubes, spires, ribbons, drapes, curtains, stalagmites, stalactites, totem poles, soda straws, and other fantastic sounding organic shapes inside the 8-acre room forms a grand gallery of art. If you look long enough, your visual understanding of it evolves. A visit is like attending an unveiling of a master work by the greatest artist on Earth—Nature.

Size: 46,766 acres

Standard entrance pass: $15

Things to do: Tour the cave, bat flight program, surface hiking, ranger-guided tour, night sky program

Worth Pondering…

A national park is not a playground; it’s a sanctuary for nature and for humans who will accept nature on nature’s own terms.

—Michael Frome

The 5 Newest National Parks: Where They Are + When to Visit

Representing a diverse array of landscapes, America’s newest national parks are located across five different states. Here’s what you can expect from each one.

In December 2020, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Fayetteville, West Virginia became America’s newest national park.

Established by the U.S. Congress and maintained by the National Park Service (NPS), the nation’s 63 national parks are protected areas of national significance. They represent diverse ecosystems with exceptional natural beauty. 

National parks have been set aside for everyone to enjoy and they are subject to different rules and regulations than other types of public land.

They encompass all types of terrain including mountains, valleys, deserts, forests, volcanoes—even rivers. And while you may already be familiar with some of the country’s most popular national parks (like the Grand Canyon, Zion, and the Great Smoky Mountains), the five newest national parks established between 2013 and 2020 are just as spectacular—and definitely worth a visit.

What are the five newest national parks?

The country’s newest national parks stretch from sea to shining sea. Here they are from most recent to least: 

New River Gorge National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. New River Gorge National Park

State: West Virginia

Established: December 27, 2020

Annual visitors: 1,707,223 (2023)

Best time to visit: Spring to fall

Known for its deep canyons and rugged, whitewater river, America’s newest national park—New River Gorge—is easily reachable from Interstates I-64 and I-79 and encompasses 70,000 acres of wooded, mountainous terrain, and waterfalls.

Trails wind through old mining towns that tell the story of Appalachia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, world-class whitewater rafting, and tubing down the New River.

Home to white-tailed deer, black bears, snakes, turtles, salamanders, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons, the park gets quite crowded in the summer but it experiences a more leisurely pace in the autumn when the changing leaves create stunning landscapes.

Don’t miss the park’s most iconic landmark—a mile-long steel arch bridge that spans the New River; it’s the longest in the western hemisphere and is viewable from the Canyon Rim Visitors’ Center—there’s even a wheelchair-accessible viewing deck that, on clear days, affords a glimpse deep into the gorge.

Here are some articles to help:

White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. White Sands National Park

State: New Mexico

Established: December 20, 2019

Annual visitors: 729,096 (2023)

Best time to visit: Spring or fall

Located in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico, White Sands‘ otherworldly landscape positively shimmers with each gust of wind as nearly three hundred square miles of white gypsum dunes shape-shift to spectacular effect. The best time to visit the area is at sunrise or sunset when the dunes take on bold red and orange hues.

Even in this harsh environment, you’ll find that life abounds—if you know where to find it. The park is home to jackrabbits, bobcats, frogs, salamanders, rattlesnakes, lizards, and box turtles, even white animal species that have evolved to blend in with the desert.

Visitors can explore the stark landscape themselves on foot, through a ranger-led hike, or even by backcountry camping. The park extends its hours during full moons in the summer and offers free live music and artistic performances in its amphitheater.

But perhaps the coolest way to experience the dunes is to sled down them: You can pack your own sled or for around $25 (or $15 used), you can purchase a plastic saucer at the visitor center.

Here are some helpful resources:

New River Gorge National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Indiana Dunes National Park 

State: Indiana

Established: February 15, 2019

Annual visitors: 2,765,892 (2023)

Best time to visit: Spring or fall

Less than an hour’s drive from Chicago, Indiana Dunes is located on the southern shores of Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

More suburban than other wilderness areas, Indiana Dunes features 15 miles of coastline and 50 miles of trails that traverse a range of habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and wildflower-filled prairies.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit to avoid the throngs of people—over two million visitors enjoy this park each year, rivaling it in popularity to Yosemite.

Activities include hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing on the lake or along the Calumet River but the park is best known for its birdwatching opportunities as the area is an important resting spot for more than 350 species of migratory fowl.

White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Gateway Arch National Park

State: Missouri

Established: February 22, 2018

Annual visitors: 2,422,836 (2023)

Best time to visit: Spring, fall, winter

Next to the Mississippi River in the heart of St. Louis, Gateway Arch is a 91-acre urban park that features the iconic Gateway Arch (the park’s namesake) which was designed by Eero Saarinen in 1965 to symbolize the “Gateway to the West.”

The grounds also encompass the Old Courthouse where pivotal Dred Scott slavery trials took place before the Civil War and a museum with exhibits detailing the history of American westward expansion. For a unique perspective of the famous Arch, you can hop aboard a riverboat cruise which also departs from the park.

But the park’s most popular attraction is the Arch itself—visitors can even go to the top of the 630-foot Arch via a 4-minute tram ride ($15 for adults). The topside viewing area offers panoramic vistas of downtown and the Mississippi River.

Winter is the best time to visit as the weather is usually mild and there’s little to no wait to take the tram to the top of the arch.

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pinnacles National Park

State: California

Established: January 10, 2013

Annual visitors: 341,220 (2023)

Best time to visit: Anytime but summer

Less than 100 miles from San Francisco and due west of the San Andreas Fault, the land that makes up Pinnacles National Park was formed from the remnants of ancient volcanoes millions of years ago and continues to be shaped by tectonic forces.

Within this landscape of chaparral and canyons, visitors can explore striking geological wonders including rock formations and hidden caves. Camping, hiking, and rock climbing terrain are especially popular as well as stargazing amongst its exceptionally clear skies.

Birdwatchers won’t want to miss the Condor Gulch Trail where 200 species of birds can be seen soaring above the cliffs from condors to prairie falcons, swallows, and even golden eagles.

With the extreme summertime heat—temperatures routinely exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer in July and August—visiting the park during the fall, winter, or spring months is recommended.

More like this:

More on national parks: 

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A brief history of America’s national parks

The National Park Service was formed by the Organic Act of 1916 although the country’s first national park, Yellowstone, was established nearly half a century before that, in 1872.

Through writing, painting, and photography, preservationists like John Muir, Nathaniel P. Langford, and Thomas Moran, among others, raised public awareness of these breathtaking areas in order to protect them from being developed in the 19th century. Between 1901 and 1909, President Theodore Roosevelt set aside 230 million acres of public lands that would later be designated as national parks, including:

In 1983, writer Wallace Stegner called the concept of the National Parks “America’s best idea” because they were inclusive spaces that unified people from all walks of life—something everyone could be proud of.

Worth Pondering…

National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.

—Wallace Stegner, 1983

The Best National Parks to Visit by Season

Best season to visit each national park

When planning a trip to the national parks one of the most important things to consider is the time of year that you are planning your visit. Most national parks have an optimal time to visit based on factors such as weather, crowd levels, and road closures.

In this article, I cover the best time to visit each national park based on these factors. First are the links to my posts about the best parks to visit, month-by-month. This is followed by two lists that illustrate the best months to visit each national park based on weather and crowd levels.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

When to visit the National Parks by month

Below is a series of 12 articles, one for each month of the year. Each national park is listed at least once and many are listed multiple times.

These guides take many factors into consideration: weather, crowd levels, special events, fall colors, the best time to go hiking, road closures, and my personal experiences in the parks. Since I haven’t been to all of the national parks I include only the parks we have visited on at least one occasion.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Best National Parks to visit by month:

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Complete list of the National Parks

This guide covers the best time to visit each national park based on weather, crowd levels, and my personal experiences in the parks. First are the links to my posts about the best parks to visit, month by month. I list each of the national parks we have visited in alphabetical order and indicate the best months to visit each of these parks.

This is followed by a list that illustrates the best time to visit each national park based on weather and crowd levels.

There are two different ways to use these tables.

If you have a particular month or season that you are planning your trip, you can look at that column (for example: May) and the parks that are listed for that month make great options for your trip.

If you have a park that you would like to visit (for example, Bryce Canyon National Park), scroll down to Bryce Canyon and the months listed are the best times to visit this park.

Petrified Forest National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Best parks to visit by month

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

When to visit national parks by month

  • Arches National Park (Utah): January, March, November, December
  • Badlands National Park (South Dakota): April, October
  • Big Bend National Park (Texas): March, April, November
  • Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah): March, April, November
  • Canyonlands National Park (Utah): March, April, November, December
  • Capitol Reef National Park (Utah): March, April, November, December
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico): February, July, August, September
  • Congaree National Park (South Carolina): March, May, November
  • Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): January, April, June, November, December
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina & Tennessee): May, September, October
  • Joshua Tree National Park (California): January, February, November
  • Lassen Volcanic National Park (California): June, July, August
  • Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado): May, September
  • New River Gorge National Park (West Virginia): June, October
  • Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): February, April, November
  • Pinnacles National Park (California): March, April, November
  • Saguaro National Park (Arizona): January, February, May
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (California): June, July, August
  • Shenandoah National Park (Virginia): May, September, October
  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota): June, July, September, October
  • White Sands National Park (New Mexico): February, March, November
  • Zion National Park (Utah): January, October, November, December

Worth Pondering…

Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.

—John Lubbock

The Best National Parks to Visit in March

If you are seeking the best national parks to visit in March, this guide’s for you! It will detail eight beautiful National Parks to visit in March, why you should go to them, and what to expect during this month.

The national parks are a treasure—beautiful, wild, and full of wonders to see. But there’s more to experience than taking in gorgeous scenery from your vehicle or lookout points. National parks are natural playgrounds, full of possible adventures.

The most famous offerings of the National Park Service (NPS) are the 63 national parks including Arches, Great Smoky Mountains, and Grand Canyon. But there are 424 NPS units across the country that also includes national monuments, national seashores, national recreation areas, national battlefields, and national memorials. These sites are outside the main focus of this guide.

Planning a trip to America’s national parks in March but don’t know which ones to visit? March brings warmer temperatures to most of the US. Travel begins to pick up during this month both because of the warmer weather and because families are hitting the road for spring break. There are many great national parks to visit in March which I cover in this guide plus eight bonus parks and two road trip ideas that links several of these national parks together.

Capitol Reef National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

About this National Park series

This guide is part of a series about the best national parks to visit each month. In this series, every national park is listed at least once and many are listed multiple times. It is a series of 12 articles, one for each month of the year.

These articles take into account weather, crowd levels, the best time to go hiking, special events, road closures, and my personal experiences in the parks. Based on these factors, I picked out what I think are the optimal times to visit each park. Since I haven’t been to all of the national parks I include only the parks we have visited on at lease one occasion.

For an overview of the best time to visit each national park, check out my Best National Parks by Season guide. This guide will cover the best time to visit each national park based on these factors. First are the links to my posts about the best parks to visit, month-by-month. This is followed by a list that illustrates the best time to visit each national park based on weather and crowd levels. Please note this overview will be posted following the completion of this 12 month guide in February 2024.

And at the end of this article, I have links to the other guides in my Best National Parks by Month series.

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

IMPORTANT NOTE: The information I provide for each national park does not include temporary road closures since these dates are constantly changing. Roads can close in the national parks at any time so I recommend getting updates on the NPS website while planning your trip. 

Visiting the National Parks in March

March is a great month to visit the national parks. With the warmer temperatures and the beginning of spring, the list of parks that you can visit without braving freezing temperatures gets larger. The days are getting longer, flowers start to bloom, and in some parts of the US, trees begin to get their first leaves.

Overall, park visitation still remains low for the year but there are a few hotspots that get busier as people visit the national parks for spring break. Even so, crowds are still quieter than the summer which is the busiest time to visit most national parks.

Best National Parks in March

Arches National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Arches National Park

Location: Utah

This small, easy to visit national park is a joy to explore. It’s also the feature photo for this post.

You can see several arches and unique rock formations without ever stepping out of your car. With just a little bit of walking you can visit many of the top sights in Arches National Park such as the Windows and Double Arch. And for those who like hiking don’t miss the Devils Garden Trail, a thrilling hike where you get to see eight arches and hike on a primitive trail.

Why visit Arches in March: March is a great time to visit Arches National Park because the weather is getting warmer and crowds are still relatively low for the year. In 2022, Arches National Park had 142,000 visitors in March. Peak visitation for that year was in May when 172,000 people visited the park. If you want to visit Arches with even lower crowds plan your visit from December through February but be prepared for freezing temperatures.

Weather: In March, the average high is 62°F and the average low is 37°F. Rainfall is very low. 

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:30 am and sunset is at 7:25 pm.

Top experiences: Hike to Delicate Arch, see Balanced Rock and the Fiery Furnace, visit Double Arch, Turret Arch, and Windows Arch, hike Park Avenue.

Arches National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: Hike the Devils Garden Trail. To reach Landscape Arch, one of the most iconic arches in the park, it is only 1.6 miles round trip. But for the ultimate adventure, continue past Landscape Arch to Double O Arch and Dark Angel and return on the Primitive Trail.

How much time do you need? One day in Arches is all you need to see the highlights but it will be a very busy day. With two to three days, you can visit the park at a more leisurely pace or go off the beaten path.

Plan your visit

Canyonlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah

Canyonlands National Park is one of my favorite national parks. Why? The landscapes, the hiking trails, and the off the beaten path experiences make this one of the top parks for those who crave adventure.

Journey below the rim of the Island in the Sky mesa for an unforgettable experience. Drive the twisting Shafer Canyon switchbacks onto the White Rim and then spend a few days driving through remote landscapes. Called the White Rim Road, this is one of the best experiences in the national park system.

You can also explore The Needles, where zebra-striped rocks form one of the most unique hiking destinations in the US.

Why visit Canyonlands in March: Just like Arches, park visitation remains relatively low and the warmer temperatures make March a better time to visit than the winter months. Canyonlands only gets a fraction of the visitors that flood Arches National Park so this park will feel delightfully empty compared to Arches. March is also a good time to drive the White Rim Road since permits are a little easier to get than late spring through early fall.

Weather: The average high is 54°F and the average low is 35°F. Rainfall is low. Even though Canyonlands sits next to Arches National Park it is at a higher elevation so the temperatures are a bit lower here.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:30 am and sunset is at 7:25 pm.

Top experiences: Visit the overlooks on Island in the Sky, watch the sunrise at Mesa Arch, go hiking in The Needles, drive Shafer Canyon Road, hike below the rim of the Island in the Sky mesa, and explore The Maze.

Canyonlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: Drive or mountain bike the White Rim Road. This is a 100-mile unpaved road that makes a loop around the Island in the Sky mesa. It takes 2 to 3 days to do this drive. It can be done in the winter but snow can close Shafer Canyon Road and cold temperatures will make camping uncomfortable for some people.

How much time do you need? You need at least two full days in Canyonlands National Park. Spend one day in Island in the Sky and one day in the Needles. But even more time is better if you want to venture deeper into the park.

Plan your visit

Capitol Reef National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Utah

Capitol Reef National Park is an underrated gem in the national park system.

This national park is full of many wonderful surprises. With an amazing scenic drive, hiking trails that rival those in Zion, rugged, remote areas to explore by 4×4, short, easy slot canyons, historical landmarks, and even delicious pie, this is another one of my favorite national parks.

Most people drive right through the heart of the park visiting the sights along Highway 24 which are nice. But those who venture farther into the park either on the hiking trails or the backcountry roads are rewarded with incredible views of remote, rugged landscapes.

Why visit Capitol Reef in March: Temperatures are finally getting a bit warmer and crowd visitation is relatively low. You could still have some cold mornings but Capitol Reef warms up nicely during the day and the cooler temperatures make this a great time to go hiking.

Weather: In March, the average high is 57°F and the average low is 34°F. Rainfall is low.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:40 am and sunset is at 7:30 pm.

Top experiences: Drive the 16-mile round-trip drive along Scenic Drive, drive Capitol Gorge Road, hike to Hickman Bridge, and watch the sunset from Sunset Point, hike to Cassidy Arch, and Loop the Fold.

Capitol Reef National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate Adventure: For the ultimate adventure, drive the Cathedral Valley Loop. This rugged, remote district of Capitol Reef National Park is one of the best backcountry experiences in the national parks if you like exploring by 4WD.

How much time do you need? Plan to spend three to four days in Capitol Reef. This gives you enough time to explore and hike the trails in the core of the park (along Scenic Drive and Highway 24) and venture into the backcountry, either in Cathedral Valley or by looping the fold.

Plan your visit

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fantasyland of hoodoos, bizarre rock formations, and sandstone pillars.

This is an extraordinary place to visit and its unique landscape sets it apart from other national parks. Although Bryce Canyon may not have the same sweeping, expansive vistas as the Grand Canyon, it’s still a breathtaking experience the first time you see this view.

Why visit Bryce Canyon in March: For the chance to see Bryce Canyon with a dusting of snow. Temperatures are a bit warmer than January and February but snowfall is a possibility especially at the beginning of the month so you don’t have to brave frigid temps for the chance to see Bryce Canyon covered in snow.

Weather: In March, the average high is 46°F and the average low is 23°F. There is a good chance of snow and on average Bryce Canyon receives about 13 inches of snow in March. Bryce Canyon has the highest elevation of the parks in Utah’s Mighty 5 making this the coolest one to visit (pun intended).

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:40 am and sunset is at 7:35 pm.

Top experiences: Some of the best viewpoints are right along the rim which is easily accessible by car or the shuttle (mid-April to mid-September): Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point. Hike the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop, a 3-mile hike past some of the best scenery in the park. Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point are also nice viewpoints.

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: Hike the Fairyland Loop Trail, an 8-mile strenuous hike.

How much time do you need? One day is all you need to see the views from the rim and hike one to two short trails in the park. I recommend another day or two for additional time to hike into the canyon. You won’t regret it.

Plan your visit

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pinnacles National Park

Location: California

Pinnacles National Park preserves and protects the mountains on the eastern end of Salinas Valley. These mountains are the remnants of an extinct volcano. The rocky pinnacles are a popular rock climbing destination and wildflowers in the spring draw the biggest crowds of the year. This park is also one of the few locations where you can spot the California condor in the wild.

This is one of the newest national parks (it became a national park in 2013) and least visited national parks (it was the 15th least visited park in 2022 with 275,023 visitors).

Why visit Pinnacles in March: March through May is the peak blooming season for the flowers in Pinnacles National Park. 

Weather: The average high is 68°F and the average low is 38°F. March is the end of the rainy season getting about 3 inches of rain during this month.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:15 am and sunset is at 7:12 pm.

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Top experiences: See the wildflowers in the spring, hike the High Peaks Loop, hike the Bear Gulch Cave Trail, explore the Balconies cave, spot California condors, enjoy the view from Condor Gulch Overlook, and go rock climbing.

How much time do you need? Pinnacles National Park can be visited in one busy day but for the best experience spend two days here which gives you enough time to visit both sections of the park.

Plan your visit

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Big Bend National Park

Location: Texas

Isolated, remote, wild, and rugged…this is Big Bend National Park.

Located in the southwestern corner of Texas within the Chihuahuan Desert is an extraordinary mountain range that is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

This is one of the most remote parks in the lower 48 states so crowd levels tend to be low all year. Even when it is at its busiest, Big Bend feels rather quiet.

Why visit Big Bend in March: We visited Big Bend in March and had a great experience. The weather was warm and in early March, crowds are low. The second and third weeks in March get busy because this is when Texans go on spring break. If you can, plan your visit for the first week in March to take advantage of great weather and low crowds.

Weather: The average high is 74°F and the average low is 47°F. Rainfall is very low especially this time of year. 

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 8 am and sunset is at 8 pm.

Top experiences: Hike the Lost Mine Trail, go star gazing, hike Santa Elena Canyon, go for a drive on Maxwell Scenic Drive, visit Boquillas del Carmen, hike to Balanced Rock, and hike to Emory Peak, the highest peak in the Chisos Mountains.

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate Adventure: For the ultimate adventure in Big Bend go on a half-day to multi-day canoeing trip on the Rio Grande.

How much time do you need? Spend at least three to four days in the park. Because of its large size and remote location, it takes a while to get here and you need a few days to explore it, so four days should work for most people.

Plan your visit

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Congaree National Park

Location: South Carolina

Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.

This is one of the smallest, least visited national parks in the United States (it was the 12th least visited park in 2022 with 204,522 visitors). A visit here is quick and easy to plan.

Walk the boardwalk trail through the forest, go kayaking or canoeing on Cedar Creek, go birdwatching and fishing, and, if you like, venture farther into the park on a number of other woodland trails.

Why visit Congaree in March: This is a good time to visit Congaree because it’s warm and mosquitoes aren’t too much of an issue (the worst time for mosquitoes is from late spring through summer). March is one of the wetter months to visit Congaree so there is also a good chance that you will see some flooding in the forests which is a very unique sight to see (the peak time for flooding is the winter months).

Weather: In March, the average high is 68°F and the average low is 43°F. Rainfall is above average for the year with park getting about 4 inches of rain this month.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:30 am and sunset is at 7:30 pm.

Top experiences: Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail, go canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek, hike the Weston Loop Trail, and hike to the General Greene Tree.

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: For the ultimate adventure go on a multi-day canoe trip on the Congaree River.

How much time do you need? One day in Congaree is all you need to see the highlights. Walk the boardwalk trails and go for a canoe trip on Cedar Creek.

Plan your visit

White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. White Sands National Park

Location: New Mexico

White Sands is a small, easy, fun park to visit. This national park protects the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. Sledding on the dunes is one of the best things to do here but you can also hike out farther into the dunes on several different hiking trails or take a ranger-guided tour.

Why visit White Sands in March: White Sands is one of the warmer national parks to visit in March and with temperatures in the low 70s the weather is great for hiking and exploring. We visited White Sands in March and had a wonderful experience. It’s cool enough to do a long hike without getting hot and the mild midday temperatures make this a great time to spend all day on the dunes. Just be aware that March is the busiest month to visit the park.

Weather: In March, the average high is 71°F and the average low is 33°F. This is one of the driest months to visit the park.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:15 am and sunset is at 7:15 pm.

Top experiences: Drive Dunes Drive, go sledding in the gypsum dunes, walk the Dune Life Nature Trail, take a ranger-guided hike, and go backcountry tent camping. 

White Sands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: Hike the Alkali Flat Trail. This trail makes a 4.5-mile loop through the gypsum dunefield. It’s the longest, toughest hike in the park but your treat is stunning views of untouched dunes.

How much time do you need? For the best experience, plan on spending one full day in White Sands National Park. Hike the Alkali Flat Trail first thing in the morning, before the crowds arrive and the temperatures climb. Midday, go sledding on the dunes and have a picnic lunch. You can also do one of the shorter hiking trails. At the end of the day, take the ranger-guided Sunset Stroll.

Plan your visit

4 more parks to visit in March

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Zion National Park

I would have included Zion as a top pick for March since the weather is gorgeous this time of year, but, and this is a big but, crowd levels skyrocket in March. In 2022, about 170,000 people visited Zion in February. In March, that number grew to 446,000 people. And that wasn’t even the highest month for visitation…June was a busier month with 570,000 visitors! 

The trend for traffic to jump from February to March is not unique to 2022. This has been occurring for the last 20 years.

If you plan to do a Mighty 5 road trip in March (it’s a great one!) you can include Zion, just be prepared for large crowds.

Grand Canyon National Park

In March, temperatures are beginning to warm up and with that the Grand Canyon begins to draw more crowds. Even though visitation picks up in March, it’s still a lot quieter to visit the park now than during the busy summer months.

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Saguaro National Park

The weather is pretty much perfect in Saguaro in March with daily highs of 75°F and low rainfall. But this is the by far busiest month of the year to visit the park so keep that in mind while planning your visit.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Like Saguaro, March is the busiest month to visit Carlsbad Caverns. But the weather is pleasant and this is a great time for a Texas-New Mexico road trip so if you also have plans to visit Guadalupe Mountains, White Sands, and/or Big Bend, it is worth including Carlsbad Caverns in your travel plans.

Bonus! 4 NPS sites to visit in March

Chiricahua National Monument

The most noticeable natural features in the park are the rhyolite rock pinnacles for which the monument was created to protect. Rising sometimes hundreds of feet into the air, many of these pinnacles are balancing on a small base, seemingly ready to topple over at any time.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Carved into a cliff 1,500 feet above the ground and featuring more than 20 rooms constructed in multiple stories, it’s a remarkably example of Sinaguan architecture. Today a short trail takes you to a viewing spot below the ruins, and museum exhibits help you imagine what life was like in this unforgiving desert landscape.

Tuzigoot National Monument

Tuzigoot is an ancient village or pueblo built by the Sinagua. The pueblo consisted of 110 rooms including second and third story structures. The first buildings were built around A.D. 1000. The Sinagua were agriculturalists with trade connections that spanned hundreds of miles. The people left the area around 1400.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

You can see many of Canyon de Chelly’s top sights from the rim roads but you’ll get a deeper understanding of its significance on a jeep tour with a Navajo guide. The only self-guided hike, the White House Trail, zigzags 600 feet down (and back up) to the spectacular White House ruins. Don’t miss the staggeringly tall spire known as Spider Rock; it rises 830 feet from the canyon floor.

March road trip ideas

Here are two great road trip ideas for March. The best time for both of these is in early March to avoid spring break traffic. If you are planning your visit for spring break, make your reservations well in advance because this can be a busy time to visit some of these national parks.

Texas & New Mexico

Combine Big Bend, Guadalupe Mountains, Carlsbad Caverns, and White Sands into one big road trip. Start in Las Cruces, New Mexico or El Paso, Texas and drive this loop.

Utah’s Mighty 5

Visiting all of Utah’s Mighty 5 (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches National Parks) is one of America’s best road trips. To do this, you need 10 days or more.

Saguaro

More Information about the National Parks

Best National Parks to visit by month

Worth Pondering…

Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.

—John Lubbock

Top 10 National Parks for Spotting Wildlife

The chance to spot a bear, bison, or bald eagle in the wild is one of the major reasons RVers visit America’s 63 national parks

The sky is broad, the land is rugged, and the air fills your lungs with joy. But for many adventurers, the true appeal of a trek through a national park is the fine detail: the living flora and fauna often rare and unusual that quietly populate the landscape.

U.S. national parks are each home to an average of 415 species of wildlife—often hundreds more—and over a thousand different plants. Yet there’s not really such a thing as the average national park. Each has its unique characters, families, sights, and sounds. From tiny but tough pikas to trumpeter swans and Dutchman’s breeches, these wild expanses are full of surprises.

So where are most of those surprises found? A recent report from vacation rental site Casago analyzed National Park Service data to find out which parks have the most wildlife and plants per 100 km² (38.61021585 square miles) and which have the greatest biodiversity overall.

Casago sourced the number of species of amphibians, birds, fishes, mammals, and reptiles in each national park from the National Park Service’s Integrated Resource Management Applications (IRMA) portal. They combined the figures to give the total number of animals overall and per 100 km² in each park and calculated additional figures just including birds. And then they did the same for plant species.

Dear in Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Key findings

  • Congaree in South Carolina has the greatest density of wildlife species with 362 per 100 km²
  • However, Biscayne in Florida has more overall: a total of 1,002
  • Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico boasts 194 bird species per 100 km², the highest density
  • Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio has the densest plant biodiversity of all at 935 species per 100 km²
  • The Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee have the highest number of plant species overall: 2,278.
Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Number of species per square kilometer: 362

Life of all kinds from tiny synchronous fireflies to 160-foot-tall loblolly pines crowds this park’s bottomland hardwood forest ecosystem 18 miles from Columbia, South Carolina’s capital. Congaree is also laced with rivers and lakes that sustain its astonishing biodiversity. 

Paddling the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is a great way to look for wildlife. Most commonly you see what we call the creepy-crawlies including fishing spiders with leg spans wider than your palm and red-bellied water snakes. Other residents you might encounter include barred owls, river otters, pileated woodpeckers, and sometimes, alligators gliding on the water.

2. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Number of species per square kilometer: 317

Located 20 miles southwest of Cleveland, Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a mixed ecosystem of oak-hickory forest, meadows, and wetlands sheltering a variety of animals. From the boardwalk at Beaver Marsh watch for water-loving mammals (river otters, muskrats, beavers) or snapping turtles that can weigh as much as 55 pounds each. It’s neat to see the old-timers covered in moss. 

More than 200 bird species live or migrate through the park including nesting peregrine falcons (near the Route 82 Bridge) and bald eagles (hike the Towpath Trail north from Station Road Trailhead). Check the park website for occasional birding walks or ranger talks.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Number of species per square kilometer: 286

The poster child for Carlsbad Caverns is the Brazilian free-tailed bat. Every summer, hundreds of thousands of the furry, big-eared creatures roost in these honeycombed limestone caves in southeastern New Mexico attracting crowds at sunset with their spectacular outflight. But it’s just as exciting to come just before dawn and watch the bats return; the bats tuck their wings and execute speedy dives back into the caverns.

The Brazilians are one of 17 bat species that nest at Carlsbad. You might also encounter ringtails (a small, raccoon-like mammal), porcupines, peccaries, and cave swallows.

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Pinnacles National Park, California

Number of species per square kilometer: 255

Driven to the brink of extinction in the 1980s, the mighty California condor now soars again over this landscape of twisty volcanic peaks in central California. Intense recovery efforts including a captive breeding program and the establishment of two distinctive wild-flying populations have brought the population of the largest birds in North America from just 22 in in 1982 to 347 condors today. 

Eighty-nine of the birds are thought to live in and around Pinnacles. If you have binoculars, you have a good chance of seeing condors flying over the ridge behind the main campground in the mornings and evenings.

Other Pinnacles standouts include golden eagles, peregrine falcons, an exceptionally high density of prairie falcons, and more than 400 species of bees.

5. Acadia National Park, Maine 

Number of species per square kilometer: 242

The Atlantic Ocean meets the cliff-lined Maine coast at this popular park on Mount Desert Island providing habitat for wildlife with feet and flippers. From the shore or a sea kayak (try Castine Kayak Adventures or Coastal Kayaking Tours) scan the water for the dorsal fins of harbor porpoises and the sleek heads of harbor and gray seals.

On land, you might spot beavers, snowshoe hares, or if you’re lucky a mink or bobcat. In between in the intertidal zone tide pools hold translucent anemones, sea urchins, snails, and sea stars. Acadia also draws loons and songbirds and fall, rangers and volunteers conduct an annual hawk watch from Cadillac Mountain, Acadia’s highest point.

Pronghorns near Wind Cave National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

Number of species per square kilometer: 235 

Located at the edge of South Dakota’s Black Hills National Forest this park may be best known for its unique boxwork cave geology. But wildlife watchers also come for the herds of American bison, elk, and pronghorns grazing above on the mixed-grass prairie. 

Wind Cave is part of an ecosystem restoration and species recovery program that’s been going since the early 20th century. Populations of all three ungulates have rebounded since then and in 2007, biologists also returned the critically endangered black-footed ferret to the grasslands. Drive the 3.7-mile Bison Flats Road or hike the steep, challenging Boland Ridge Trail for the best chance to see animals.

7. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Number of species per square kilometer: 223 

Contrary to its name, water makes up 99 percent of this park located on and around a seven-island archipelago some 70 miles off the coast of Florida. Visitors must catch a seaplane or ferry from Key West to get to this remote part of the Florida Keys but they’re rewarded with excellent coral reef and seagrass habitats. 

The part of the park’s name that does make sense: Five species of threatened or endangered sea turtles (Tortugas in Spanish) nest here; visitors might see them swimming or on the sandy beaches.

Book a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to explore the reefs where green sea turtles, nurse sharks, barracudas, and decorator crabs live amid elkhorn and staghorn corals. Divers can also access the Windjammer wreck site where an iron-hulled ship that sank in 1907 provides a home for marine life. 

8. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

Number of species per square kilometer: 219

In western Colorado, the 2,722 vertical feet between this sparsley visited park’s canyon rim and the Gunnison River below support multiple wildlife habitats. Experienced climbers and hikers who venture into the inner canyon, find collared lizards and mule deer near the rim and bighorn sheep scampering along the middle of the cliffs. Trails are extremely steep, covered with poison ivy and require a wilderness permit to use.

It’s easier to access the Gunnison River by driving down East Portal Road where anglers fish for brown and rainbow trout and nature-lovers might run into river otters and ringtails. 

9. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Number of species per square kilometer: 217

Located in central Kentucky this national park holds the longest known underground cave system in the world. Mammoth’s 426 miles of caverns are home to 160 species from animals that merely visit (think bats) to those that can’t live anywhere else. Long-legged cave crickets pick their way up the walls, eerily eyeless white cave fish swim the underground waterways, and black-spotted orange cave salamanders lurk under rocks. 

If you’re going into the cave system, stop and slowly look around. You might see some of the small, inconspicuous vertebrates that are thriving in complete darkness.

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Number of species per square kilometer: 215 

The glowing orange hoodoos and rocky walls of Bryce Canyon National Park might seem stark but the arid Utah landscape teems with life. Scan carefully for short-horned and side-blotched lizards basking among the boulders and look out for the venomous Great Basin rattlesnake under the canyon rim. 

Small, furry mammals like the golden-mantled ground squirrel, Uinta chipmunk, and Utah prairie dog are easy to see throughout the park but you’re less likely to spot larger predators such as mountain lions and black bears.

Take only memories

A wildlife trip to a national park makes for a welcome alternative to urban life and the computer screen. But to stand your best chance of spotting some gems and avoiding harm to the park’s natural life, leave no trace.

  • People only, no pets
  • Keep quiet and stay still where possible
  • Dress in natural tones and don’t wear scent
  • Keep your distance and never feed wildlife
  • Take only memories (and photos); leave only footprints
  • And don’t forget to look at the clouds

Worth Pondering…

Nature is a mutable cloud which is always and never the same.

—Ralph Waldo Emerson