Travel to Popular Parks Without a Plan

The annual number of visitors to national parks has exploded recently. In 2023, national parks reported 325.5 million recreation visitors, an increase of 12 million visitors from 2022.

A number of popular national parks have implemented reservation requirements in an effort to control the crowds. When planning your visit, make sure you research reservation requirements, know what is open within the parks, and whether you can drive your car or will need to take a shuttle. Don’t show up without accommodation booked, thinking you can just have a spontaneous trip, especially during peak season. Nothing would be worse than buying flights and booking hotels only to get all the way to the park and not be able to go in because you don’t have a reservation.

These national parks will require reservations in peak season:

• Arches National Parks 
• Glacier National Park (Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork)
• Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise Corridor and Sunrise Corridor)
• Shenandoah National Park (Old Rag)
• Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake Road Corridor and “rest of park”)
• Yosemite National Park 
• Zion National Park (Angels Landing)

Leave a Trace

The first rule of national parks, or any outdoor environment, is to leave no trace. Simply put, this means to have as minimal an impact on the environment as possible. This means not only leaving nothing behind (like trash), but also applies to not tampering with the environment by taking things with you. For example, you shouldn’t pick wildflowers or collect stones to bring home as a souvenir 

Get too Close to Wildlife

There are news stories of national park visitors getting gored while trying to snap a selfie with or even pet bison. Although the animals may look adorable, you have to remember that these are wild animals, and you must keep your distance. It’s for your safety and the animals’ safety. 

Most national parks require you to stay a minimum of 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators like bears and wolves. If animals react to your presence, you are too close. 

If you’re bad at eyeballing distances, a good trick is to follow the “rule of thumb.” If your thumb can cover the entire animal you’re looking at on the horizon, you’re at a safe distance.

Remember that national parks are wild places, so even if you think an animal needs help, don’t approach it. A pair of visitors to Yellowstone National Park infamously decided a baby bison looked cold and loaded it in their car to “rescue it” by taking it to a ranger station. The ranger tried to reintegrate the calf with its herd, but it was rejected by its mother and had to be euthanized. The tourists were fined for interfering with the wildlife. 

Underestimate Hikes

It can be easy to underestimate trails in the national parks. Many trails are short and leave directly from a parking lot, lulling hikers into a false sense of security. Unfortunately, these trails are still in the wild, and things can easily go wrong. Hikers have gone missing and died in national parks on trails that are as short as half a mile round trip. 

Even if you’re going on a short walk, wear proper footwear and carry plenty of water and supplies.

Get Distracted by the Scenery When Driving

Vehicle crashes are the second leading cause of death in national parks. Roads within national parks are attractions in their own right, winding through stunning scenery. 

As tempting as it can be, keep your eyes on the road when driving through national parks. There are plenty of pull-offs where you can take a break to snap a photo or admire the view. 

Always stay alert for wildlife, especially at dusk and dawn when animals are most active. Keep an eye out for human visitors as well, who may unexpectedly dart into the roadway. Go slow and always follow the speed limit. Many roads are twisty and run alongside steep drop-offs. Exercise extra caution when driving at night, as there won’t be any street lights. 

Feed the Wildlife

The National Parks Service (NPS) doesn’t mince words. “Feeding wildlife is actually a form of animal cruelty.” When animals become accustomed to human-provided food sources, they may lose their natural foraging behaviors and become dependent on humans for sustenance. This also makes wildlife more comfortable around humans, increasing the risk of aggressive encounters.Being fed by humans lures animals into populated areas, like roads, where they are more likely to be hit by a car. 

Additionally, many human foods are unsuitable for wild animals and can cause malnutrition, disease, and even death. Even if you’re not intentionally feeding wildlife, leaving food scraps behind on a hike or picnic, littering, or not properly securing your food can have the same impact. 

Go Off Trail

Going off trail can be dangerous for both you and the environment. Veering off designated paths can easily damage or kill plant species and contribute to trail erosion. In many national parks, it can be extremely easy to get lost, which is why it’s important to stay on the trail. 

Fly Drones

Drones have crashed in geysers in Yellowstone National Park, fallen into the Grand Canyon, and disturbed wildlife—which is why they are banned from national parks. 

Unmanned aircraft, aka drones, are banned in all national parks, so please leave them at home.

The post 8 Things You Should Never Do in National Parks appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Yellowstone encapsulates the American West. The very first national park in the country, it attracts huge crowds, especially during the summer months. There is a lot to do here, with five park entrances, several geyser basins to see, and miles of trails to explore. 

If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, this guide covers everything you need to know. From what to do to the best places to eat, we’ll help you create an itinerary that aligns with your interests and trip duration. If you want to see most of what Yellowstone offers, your trip should be at least 3-5 days. However, you can touch the main highlights in a day or two if you don’t have longer.

Where is Yellowstone National Park Located?

Yellowstone is a massive 2 million acres of land that sits atop a dormant volcano. Primarily located in Wyoming, the park spills over into Idaho and Montana. There are five entrances to Yellowstone:

• North entrance through Gardiner, Montana
• Northeast entrance through Cook City, Montana
• South entrance through Grand Teton National Park
• East entrance through Cody, Wyoming
• West entrance through West Yellowstone, Montana

Yellowstone is a popular road trip destination, so visits here are typically combined with Grand Teton National Park, Glacier National Park, Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore, or Rocky Mountain National Park.

Inside Yellowstone Park, a road network connects to form a figure of ‘8’. The main loop, Grand Loop Road, lets visitors see the major attractions in the park. Driving along each side of Grand Loop road will reveal waterfalls, lakes, geysers, and hot springs. Bisecting Grand Loop Road is Norris Canyon, where you can visit museums and even more waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Yellowstone

There are a lot of activities to try and places to visit in Yellowstone National Park, from sighting wildlife to hiking and camping. There are approximately 900 miles of trails to explore in the park.

Yellowstone’s unique geothermal activities will make your experience worthwhile and unique on each visit. You can go back for years and still discover something new every time. For first-time visitors to Yellowstone, though, this is a great starting point to see the best of the park.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is the most famous of nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone. Named for its frequent and predictable eruptions, this geyser has been erupting on a pretty reliable schedule since Yellowstone became the first national park in 1872. Old Faithful is so predictable that you can check eruption times on the NPS website to help plan your visit.

There are three ways to watch Old Faithful eruptions: sitting by the boardwalk, hiking up to Observation Point, or from Old Faithful Inn’s viewing deck. The boardwalk surrounds the geyser, but this area is always packed with tourists. Get here 30 minutes early to secure a good seat to watch the show. 

To get a bird’s eye view, hike up to Observation Point. This short but strenuous uphill hike is  1.1-miles round trip. The extra effort is worth it since you’ll be away from the crowds and still get a stunning view as Old Faithful spouts jets of steam and hot water. 

Lastly, you can find a more comfortable spot on Old Faithful Inn’s porch. Grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the view. Other things you can do around Old Faithful include joining a historic Old Faithful Inn tour, going to the visitor center, and grabbing a meal at one of the several restaurants. 

Note: Old Faithful erupts roughly every hour and thirty minutes, give or take 10 minutes. The eruption usually lasts between 2 to 5 minutes. Check Old Faithful’s next predicted eruption time.

Upper Geyser Basin

Although Old Faithful is the most popular attraction in the Upper Geyser Basin, there are other amazing things to see and do here. Several geothermal features make this basin one of the best zones in the park to see geysers, hot springs, and thermal pools. 

You can walk all the Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk trails in two hours and hike to Geyser Hill. You’ll find Grand Geyser, Solitary Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Grotto Geyser. Grotto geyser erupts only every 8 hours, but it can keep going for several hours once it starts. 

For a beautiful sight, visit the Morning Glory Pool. It’s quite far away, but this hot spring is worth it.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is Yellowstone’s most impressive hot spring. It’s the third-largest hot spring in the world, and its vibrant gradient of colors is created by microbes that grow in hot water. The yellow microbes’ color blends with the brilliant blue of the spring to form the greens and then along the edges, and as the water cools, they change to orange and brown. These colors can also vary depending on the time of year.

Visiting this rainbow-colored thermal pool is one of the best things in Yellowstone National Park. You can get up close to Grand Prismatic Spring with the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk trails or get the full mesmerizing view from the Overlook. Plan to visit on a sunny afternoon when the steam has lifted and the pool’s colors are brilliant.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a valley formed by the Yellowstone River. This ever-changing canyon reflects the park’s complex geologic history in picturesque colors and shapes. You’ll find many overlooks and hiking trails to explore here. There are two rims along each side of the river, the North Rim and the South Rim. These two rims help you access various scenic overlooks that offer different perspectives of the river valley.

Popular viewpoints include:

• Artist Point: Aptly named, this South Rim overlook is arguably the best spot to take an iconic picture of the canyon. It’s also a short walk from the parking lot, so it should be top on your list to visit.
• Brink of the Lower Falls: A downhill trek to this observation point puts you at the edge of the Lower Falls as the water thunders. This is the best place to understand the river’s immense power.
• Lookout Point: Located along the North Rim, this overlook offers stunning views of the Lower Falls.
• Red Rock Point: This is another hike down the canyon that has great views of Lower Falls.

Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin has many geothermal features, like the Upper Geyser Basin. It’s also one of the most unique thermal areas in the park, as it’s always changing. These changes can include the formation of new mud pots, chemical changes to water, and increased activity of certain geysers. Norris Geyser Basin consists of two major basins, Back Basin and Porcelain Basin. 

The larger Back Basin is where you’ll find Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser. Its major eruptions are highly unpredictable but can shoot hot, steaming water more than 300 feet in the air. Other thermal pools and geysers include the Porkchop Geyser, Emerald Spring, and Green Dragon Spring.

Porcelain Basin might be considered more thrilling thanks to soft blue thermal pools and noisy fumaroles that capture your attention.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is a large network of hot springs close to Yellowstone’s north entrance. These springs are very different from other thermal areas in the park. At Mammoth, steaming hot water spills out over travertine layers, depositing white chalky minerals on the surface and sculpting gorgeous terraces.

You can spend an hour or more strolling the boardwalk past each viewpoint here or check out one or two overlooks for a quick visit. 

Hike to the Peak of Mount Washburn

A popular part of Yellowstone for hiking and camping, Mt. Washburn offers panoramic views of the park. The moderately-challenging hike to the peak of Mt. Washburn is about 1,400 feet and takes 3-4 hours round trip. There are two trails you can hike up here. Dunraven Pass trailhead offers a more scenic walk, while hiking from Chittenden Road is about a mile shorter. Dunraven is 6.2 miles roundtrip, and Chittendon Road is 5 miles roundtrip.  

You’ll usually see pica, chipmunks, and sometimes even bighorn sheep. This hike is best done on a clear day and in groups because this is grizzly territory. Bring your bear spray and avoid hiking in September when the bears are getting ready to hibernate.

Fairy Falls

One of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls, Fairy Falls, is worth a visit. It’s an easy hike to get here, and you can plan a visit to Fairy Falls with the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.

Start from the Fairy Falls parking lot, which is the same lot used when visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. On the 2.7-mile hike, you’ll be trekking through a forest, so you may come across bears and other wildlife.

Sight Wildlife in Hayden and Lamar Valleys

Lamar and Hayden Valley are two popular spots to watch bison and other wildlife in Yellowstone. Lamar Valley is especially touted as the best area to see diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, pronghorns, coyotes, and wolves. An hour from Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley is far from other attractions but worth the long drive. The best times to view wildlife are in the mornings and evenings. Plan to leave your lodge early or tour other attractions during the day and save this for last. 

Hayden Valley is centrally located and easier to access, but this also means it gets more crowded. You’ll see bison herds in the distance or along the roadside if you get lucky. You should also be prepared to get stuck in animal traffic jams. Bison are known to stop in the middle of the road, blocking traffic in both directions. 

Note: You should always watch bison from the safety of your car. These animals have been known to charge tourists and can do great damage. Park in a turnout to view the bison, or if you have a sunroof, crack it open for an unobstructed view.

Artist Paintpots

Artist Paintpots is a small area off Grand Loop Road south of Norris Geyser Basin. It contains a few large hot springs, geysers, and the oddities that are mud pots. You’ll walk about half a mile down the trail from the parking lot to the Paint Pots. It might feel like a long walk to get there, but watching the bubbling mud pots is worth it. 

Most thermal features here are on Paintpot Hill, so you’ll love the view from the upper boardwalk trail. Remember to climb carefully, as some of the steps are uneven.

Preparing for Your Yellowstone Trip

Yellowstone National Park Fee

Yellowstone’s entrance fee is $35 per car, valid for seven days. This pass covers everyone in your vehicle. There’s also a motorcycle 7-day motorcycle pass for $30. 

If you plan to visit other national parks on your trip, such as Grand Teton and Glacier National Parks, you should opt for the America the Beautiful Pass. This pass is valid for one year and costs $80. Purchasing the annual pass will save you money on your trip and also get you free admission to all other national parks and federal recreation sites for 12 months.

There are other discounted entrance passes for certain ages and social groups. Senior citizens, for example, can get a lifetime senior pass valid in all national parks for $80 or an annual pass for $20. And for US families with a fourth grader, you all get into National Parks free during their school year and the next summer as part of the Every Kid Outdoors program.

What to Bring On Your Trip to Yellowstone

Bring a spotting scope or some good binoculars to see Yellowstone like a pro. Known for vast herds of bison and elk and a thriving wildlife population, you don’t want to miss your chance to sight critters in the park. If you’d rather not buy a spotting scope, rent them from stores in West Yellowstone or Gardiner (starting at $25 a day). 

Invest in good hiking shoes to hike some of Yellowstone’s popular sights. While a few of these trails are pretty easy, you’ll usually walk long distances up and down steep heights. You need comfortable footwear that protects your feet from rugged terrain and fatigue.

Most importantly, travel light. Yellowstone Park has no public transportation, so you’ll likely be driving from one part of the park to another. If you’re camping or staying at different lodges, the last thing you want is to pack up lots of stuff every time you transfer.

Be a Cautious Traveler

While cases of people dying in Yellowstone are rare, they do happen. Avoid petting or feeding animals in the park, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Don’t venture off designated trails, try to swim in thermal pools, or walk over delicate ecosystems just for a better shot. When you’re in bear territory, stay in groups and carry bear spray.

We must respect the environment and leave areas just as we met them to benefit future travelers. Remember to properly dispose of waste, pack out what you bring to the trail, minimize campfire impact, and be considerate of other hikers. 

When to Visit Yellowstone

The best time to visit Yellowstone is from June through October. Many park roads are closed due to snowfall from November to May. You can visit the park in the winter, but you must get around by snowmobile or snow coach. 

Needless to say, expect huge crowds in the summer months, especially in July and August. Almost 2 million visitors travel to Yellowstone in this period. Expect to find a popular attraction like Old Faithful always crowded, and locating a parking spot at midday is almost impossible. 

To avoid the most crowds, head out early in the morning, and be prepared to venture into the backcountry. Crowds thin out significantly after a few miles on boardwalk trails, and most people don’t go beyond the most popular attractions. Take advantage of this to escape people and discover hidden gems all over Yellowstone.

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming. You can catch flights to nearby airports and then drive down to Yellowstone. Here are the options:

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Montana: 80 miles
• Idaho Falls Regional Airport, Idaho: 110 miles
• Yellowstone Airport, West Entrance of Yellowstone: 3 miles
• Yellowstone Regional Airport, Cody, Wyoming: 55 miles
• Jackson Hole Airport, Jackson, Wyoming: 70 miles
• Salt Lake City International Airport, Utah: 325 miles
• Rapid City Regional Airport, South Dakota: 440 miles

Yellowstone Airport at the park’s west entrance is the closest option, just 10 minutes away from Yellowstone. However, only two airlines fly here, reducing your options significantly. Bozeman airport is a popular choice—it’s about 1.30 hours away from Yellowstone and connects to over 20 US cities. 

Where to Stay In Yellowstone

The best place to stay in Yellowstone depends on your travel plans. Yellowstone is massive, with five park entrances and multiple villages and towns in and around the park. We recommend staying in two different areas if you spend three or more days here. Switching accommodations can help you reduce travel time within the park. If you’d like to stay in one place, Canyon Village is centrally located to many attractions in Yellowstone.

Inside Yellowstone Park

Nine hotels offer over 2,000 rooms and cabins inside Yellowstone Park, including the Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Twelve campgrounds are also available around the park; some require reservations, while others are on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re camping in Yellowstone, be conscious of your surroundings; you’ll share the territory with predators like grizzly bears. 

Lodging Outside Yellowstone

Staying in one of the towns outside the park will increase your drive time but can save you money and take you away from crowds. Popular towns to stay at are West Yellowstone and Gardiner in Montana and Cody, Wyoming.

Some top Hotels in these areas are:

• Terra Nova Cabins is a cozy hotel in a quiet area of West Yellowstone. It’s 20 minutes to the northwest entrance of Yellowstone National Park, and you’ll love the scenic drive. 
• Wagon Wheel Hotel takes inspiration from the natural beauty of the surrounding Yellowstone area. Its rooms have a rustic-chic vibe, with most having walls of wood. 
• Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites is an upscale hotel in Cody, Wyoming. It has a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and an onsite restaurant.
• Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village is an affordable hotel in Cody. Rooms are laidback with minimal decor and a fitness center. The Inn is 52 miles from the east gate of Yellowstone National Park.
• Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel offers a unique experience in Gardiner. Guests sleep in well-furnished romantic tipis, and there’s a mini-market and onsite bar. In the evenings, you can share s’mores and drinks over a campfire.

Where to Find Food and Drinks in Yellowstone

You’ll find restaurants and stores selling snacks and drinks at major tourist areas in Yellowstone. Remember to stock up on water and snacks before hiking. Popular areas include Canyon Village, Grant Village, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, and Tower Falls. You’ll find everything from marina stores to cafeterias.

For gourmet meals, venture outside the park to the Grill at Sage Lodge, Montana, which serves meat dishes like bison fillet and chicken-fried rabbit. Gardiner is also popular for its eateries and restaurants. 

You can also build a picnic from the stores to have lunch on the trail. I recommend Mammoth Terrace Grill or Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli for snacks and light fare.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Yellowstone National Park appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The last federal government shutdown began in late 2018 and lasted for 34 days before ending in early 2019. During this time, a significant impact on travel was seen. 

Here’s what travelers should be prepared for if the government shuts down again.

Air Travel

Air Traffic Controllers and TSA agents are considered “essential” government employees and will still be required to work during a shutdown. However, these essential workers will not be getting paid until the shutdown ends—during the last shutdown, many employees called out of work (some to work other jobs to make ends meet). This resulted in air travel issues, including a ground stop at New York’s LaGuardia Airport after 10 air traffic controllers called out for the day.

At one point during the last shutdown, 10 percent of TSA agents nationwide didn’t show up to work, leading to long security lines at many airports.

The shutdown could have lingering effects on the air travel industry long after it ends, as the hiring and training of air traffic controllers would be halted during the shutdown. 

National Parks

National Parks will likely be officially closed during a government shutdown. However, gates may remain open at some parks so travelers can enter at their own risk. Park rangers will probably not be available to help if needed, and all services inside parks, including restrooms and visitor centers, will be locked and inaccessible. 

According to the National Parks Conservation Association, about a third of national parks closed completely during the last shutdown. Many parks that stayed open reported vandalism, overflowing trashcans and restrooms, and damage due to unsupervised visitors. 

Does Travel Insurance Cover a Government Shutdown?

If you’re dreading long airport lines and want to cancel your trip, you’ll need to have purchased a Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance policy for it to be covered due to a government shutdown. 

According to travel insurance site Squaremouth, even Travel Delay coverage won’t apply during a government shutdown, explaining, “The most common covered reason under Travel Delay is a delay of a common carrier due to inclement weather or a mechanical breakdown. Other covered reasons include being involved in a traffic accident on the way to the airport, lost or stolen passports or travel documents, or an injury or sickness that causes you to be late. However, delays in line for a security checkpoint are not covered.” This also means that if you encounter an unexpectedly long security line due to the shutdown and miss your flight, you won’t be able to get compensation. 

The post How a Government Shutdown Would Impact Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon

When should you travel to avoid the heaviest crowds and the most intense heat? Should you visit the North Rim or the South Rim? Where’s the best place to stay? For answers to these questions and more, read the following tips for planning a trip to the Grand Canyon.

South Rim vs. North Rim vs. Grand Canyon West

Grand Canyon National Park is split into two sections: the South Rim and the North Rim, located more than four hours apart by car. Then there’s Grand Canyon West, located on the Hualapai Native American Reservation, four hours from the South Rim and nearly seven hours from the North Rim. If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon and your time is limited, where should you go?

The South Rim is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon for a reason. It has more viewpoints than the North Rim, with more expansive views of the canyon’s depth, as well as a wider range of lodging options and other visitor services. It also has plenty of hiking trails and activities like river rafting and mule rides. If you’re looking for classic Grand Canyon views, this is the place to go.

Popular with hikers and photographers, the North Rim is the South Rim’s quieter, more heavily forested cousin. While the views may be less spectacular, many travelers prefer the North Rim for its undisturbed wildlife and pristine trails.

The key draw at Grand Canyon West is the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon for dizzying views on all sides—including right under your feet. (Important note: The Skywalk does not permit cameras or phones. Professional photos are available for sale.) This isn’t the best bet for avid hikers, as there are only two (relatively easy) trails here, but other activities include zip-lining, pontoon boat rides, and touring a Native American village. Grand Canyon West is the closest part of the canyon to Las Vegas, making it a convenient, though long, day trip.

Note that because Grand Canyon West is located on Native American land, it requires a separate entry fee than the North and South Rims, which are administered by the National Park Service.

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, consider visiting the South Rim any time other than summer—especially if you’re hoping to hike all the way down to the bottom of the canyon, where temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. Summer is also the busiest time of year; lodging in the park is expensive and sells out quickly, and viewpoints along the rim can be jammed with crowds.

The South Rim is open all year round, and you’ll find pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Even a winter visit can be rewarding; bundle up and enjoy the sight of the canyon dusted with snow.

Thanks to its higher altitude, the North Rim has a cooler climate and is closed between mid-October and mid-May. Fortunately, this part of the park sees fewer visitors and isn’t usually crowded even during the summer high season. Consider visiting in the fall, when the Kaibab National Forest erupts in vibrant colors.

Grand Canyon West, open year-round, is less crowded outside the summer months.

Getting to the Grand Canyon

Most visitors to the Grand Canyon fly into Las Vegas or Phoenix. There’s also a small airport in Flagstaff, just an hour from the South Rim, and some North Rim travelers fly into Salt Lake City. No matter where you land you’ll need to rent a car, as public transit is extremely limited in this part of the U.S.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you might need to park your car and take a shuttle bus to get around. Grand Canyon West is closed to private vehicles and operates a hop-on, hop-off shuttle around the park, while certain parts of the South Rim are only accessible by bus. A shuttle service makes the 4.5-hour trip between the North and South Rims; it’s particularly handy for rim-to-rim hikers. The North Rim is fully open to private vehicles.

One fun alternative way to arrive at the South Rim is via the Grand Canyon Railway, which runs from the town of Williams, Arizona, into the heart of the park, allowing for a half-day of exploring before returning in the afternoon.

Grand Canyon Lodging

The most convenient Grand Canyon lodging options are within the national park or Grand Canyon West rather than in nearby towns, but these options tend to book up quickly—sometimes months in advance. When planning a trip to the Canyon, reserve your accommodations first.

The South Rim section of Grand Canyon National Park is home to half a dozen lodges, including the venerable El Tovar, which dates back to 1905 and has hosted former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton. Another option is the Bright Angel Lodge, situated at the top of the park’s most popular trail. There’s also an RV park near the main visitor center, as well as two campgrounds.

If you can’t find lodging within the South Rim section of the park, there’s a handful of options in nearby Tusayan, as well as dozens of hotels (mostly chain motels) in Williams and Flagstaff, each a little more than an hour from the park entrance gates.

The North Rim has just two places to stay inside the park: the Grand Canyon Lodge, which offers motel rooms and cabins, and the North Rim Campground. If these are booked, consider the Jacob Lake Inn, 45 miles away, or head farther afield to Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona.

The most unique place to stay at Grand Canyon National Park is Phantom Ranch, located on the canyon floor. The only ways to get there are to hike or ride a mule down.

If you want to stay overnight within Grand Canyon West, you can book a cabin at Hualapai Ranch; each one features a front porch where you can relax and enjoy the desert views.

Grand Canyon Hikes

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, leave time for a hike or two.

The simplest walk at Grand Canyon National Park is the Rim Trail, which stretches for 13—mostly flat—miles along the top of the South Rim. Much of it is paved and wheelchair-accessible, and you can enter and leave the path at any viewpoint.

If your fitness allows, try to hike at least part of the way into the Grand Canyon; you’ll get a completely different perspective than you do from the top.

The most popular South Rim trail into the canyon is the Bright Angel Trail, which is well maintained and offers some shade along the way. Another good option is the South Kaibab Trail—it is a little steeper and has less shade, but boasts slightly more dramatic views if you’re only doing part of the trail. While both of these trails go all the way to the bottom, you can easily transform each of them into a day hike by turning around at one of the mile markers and going back the way you came.

The North Rim offers a variety of day hikes ranging from less than a mile to about 10 miles round-trip. It’s possible to hike into the canyon from the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail and back out of the canyon via one of the trails on the South Rim (or vice versa); this is recommended only for fit, experienced hikers.

For information on all the trails listed above, see the day hiking information page on NPS.gov.

The National Park Service strongly recommends against hiking down to the river and back in a single day, even if you’re a veteran hiker. Instead, plan to overnight at Phantom Ranch or one of several backcountry campgrounds within the canyon.

Keep in mind that it usually takes twice as long to come back up the trail as it does to go down, and that temperatures at the bottom of the canyon can be up to 20 degrees higher than those at the top. Hundreds of hikers are rescued each year from the canyon due to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or injury.

Grand Canyon West offers just two hiking trails, one easy and one moderate, and neither one goes into the canyon.

One intriguing Grand Canyon hike to consider is the 10-mile (each way) track to Havasu Falls, the famous turquoise cascade you’ve probably seen on your Instagram feed. It’s located on Native American land between the South Rim and Grand Canyon West. Reservations are required (and limited). To learn more, see the NPS website.

Mule Rides, Rafting Trips, and Helicopter Tours

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, don’t forget about other activities besides hiking, like riding a mule into the canyon. (Why a mule? They’re more sure-footed than horses.)

From the South Rim you can ride a mule to the Colorado River and spend a night or two at Phantom Ranch, or take a shorter two-hour ride along the rim. (See GrandCanyonLodges.com.) From the North Rim you can take one- or three-hour rides along the rim or part of the way into the canyon. (See CanyonRides.com.) Book as far in advance as possible to guarantee yourself a spot.

Dreaming of rafting the Colorado River? You can take a guided trip in the national park with options from a half-day to more than two weeks, or plan your own trip with a permit from the National Park Service. To plan a one- or two-day rafting trip at Grand Canyon West, visit GrandCanyonWest.com.

Finally, one of the most incredible ways to view the Grand Canyon is from the air. Numerous companies operate helicopter tours over the canyon, including Grand Canyon Helicopters and Papillon.

General Grand Canyon Travel Tips

As soon as you arrive, stop by the visitor center—especially if you have limited time. Park rangers can help design an itinerary to make the most of your visit, suggest hikes to suit your fitness level, and recommend the best viewpoints for sunrise and/or sunset.

The desert heat can be deadly, so hikers should pack plenty of water as well as salty snacks. Bring a reusable bottle that you can fill up at water stations located throughout the national park. Start hiking early in the morning to avoid the midday sun. If you get a headache or start to feel dizzy or sick to your stomach, stop to rest and rehydrate.

The South Rim is located at 7,000 feet above sea level, and the North Rim is at nearly 8,300 feet. Some travelers may experience fatigue, headaches, or other symptoms of altitude sickness.

Stick to the trail. Not only does this protect the landscape, but it also protects you. Numerous tourists have died after falling from the rim of the canyon.

The most crowded viewpoints at the South Rim are those nearest the parking lots and bus stops. To avoid getting a hundred other people in every photo, walk along the Rim Trail in either direction. Often you can snap great shots along the trail or find your way to a less congested viewpoint.

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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Although fall means fewer crowds (and perhaps the chance to more easily spot wildlife) in popular parks, the weather can be unpredictable, and some facilities even close up after the summer season. Be sure to contact your park for details on what’s open and what’s not before planning your trip.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia might be the first place that comes to mind when you think of fall colors at national parks—the destination attracts thousands of leaf peepers in autumn, so be prepared for some crowds. But it’s totally worth it—traverse the park’s more than 125 miles of hiking trails to discover amazing views, take a ranger-led bird-watching walk among the changing leaves, or rent a kayak and take in the scenery from the water.

When to Go: Peak fall colors generally pop up around mid- to late October. Check out recommendations for the best times to visit and see past foliage reports at Maine.gov.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Texas

You might be surprised to learn that the Texas Hill Country is a prime place for leaf peeping down south. Head to Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, where you can get a side of American history with your foliage. The park is home to the LBJ Ranch (also known as the Texas White House), which is surrounded by wild brush country. Here, sumacs, oaks, and haw hollies become awash with intense fall hues during autumn.

When to Go: You’ll likely find the best foliage from mid-October through November.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

This park’s famed cave system—more than 400 square miles of explored underground caverns that make up the world’s longest—is the reason most visitors make the trip. But don’t overlook the scenery aboveground. Forests of oaks, hickories, gum trees, and dogwoods on rolling Kentucky hills become a mosaic of fall colors this time of year.

When to Go: Early to mid-October is the best time to check out the foliage in this park. Cave tours run less frequently in the autumn, so make sure to book in advance if you want to explore underground as well.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

We love the sweeping views of water and the eyeful of beautiful fall colors that Sleeping Bear’s sky-high dunes afford during this time of year. Visitors can get even better views from the air: Board a helicopter or hot-air balloon and view fall foliage on an aerial tour.

When to Go: You’ll find peak colors in the region from late September through mid-October. Check Michigan.org’s Fall Color Map to see the status of local foliage.

Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania

Just a short drive from Philadelphia, Valley Forge is the site where General Washington and his Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War. Here, visitors can learn about life in the 18th century as well as explore an expanse of lush parkland, including more than 3,000 acres of grassland, wetland, and deciduous forest, which become awash with rich colors in autumn.

When to Go: Peak foliage in Pennsylvania will hit around mid-October. Plan a weekend trip to take advantage of the in-park bike rentals.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

There are about 100 native tree species in America’s most-visited national park, most of which turn kaleidoscopic come fall. Changing leaves are complemented by autumn wildflowers: delicate asters and other varieties furnish pops of color.

When to Go: Check out the Smoky Mountains’ 2023 Fall Foliage Forecast, or check leaf status via live feed from the Smoky Mountain webcams.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Since Shenandoah’s more than 300 square miles of parkland are so heavily forested, it’s a gorgeous place to be when the seasons change. Look for oak and chestnut trees, which are abundant in the park, as well as splashes of autumn pigment from sassafras, sumac, and poison ivy. (Yes, poison ivy leaves change color in the fall. Just don’t get too close.)

When to Go: Take a peek at the park’s Mountain View Webcam for a real-time look at the changing leaves. Expect the best colors in early October in more elevated parts of the park and late October to early November in more low-lying areas.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Fall foliage in this enormous, wild expanse of alpine forests and Rocky Mountains in Montana is quite the sight. But fall is a wonderful time to visit if you want to see wildlife, too. The National Park Service website says that there are fewer people in the park and more animals—including grizzlies, wolves, and eagles—out and about during autumn.

When to Go: Early-changing trees like aspens and cottonwoods start donning their autumn colors in September. A “second autumn” begins when the deciduous trees in the more mountainous regions of the park start to change in mid-October.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park’s jaw-dropping sky-high cliffs provide the perfect points for seeing miles of mesas and forested land decked out in reds, oranges, and golds. Climb to the top of Zion’s massive sandstone cliffs to get sweeping bird’s-eye views of the autumn scenery.

When to Go: Fall colors in Zion begin at higher elevations, showing the best colors in late October and early November.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia

Peep the leaves in well-tread Harpers Ferry, where 70 percent of the land is covered with forest. Fun fall activities sweeten the deal: Visitors can explore living-history museums on Shenandoah Street or join in on an interactive 19th-century skills workshop.

When to Go: The best time to catch the fall colors is mid-October through early November. Follow Harpers Ferry on Facebook for the latest foliage updates.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Close to Cleveland and hugging the winding Cuyahoga River, this national park is a Midwestern sanctuary for fall foliage seekers. There’s so much to do: Hike along more than 125 miles of trails, take part in a Canalway Questing adventure, or go bird-watching (look out for the bald eagles). One of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the fall colors is to hop onboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which rolls through the park past lush woods, meadows, the Cuyahoga River, and historical small towns.

When to Go: The best colors flourish in mid-October. Check the National Parks Service for the best times to plan a seasonal trip.

Yellowstone And Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

These parks are so close that they almost touch, and they offer amazing autumn colors against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, waterfalls, forests, and lakes that reflect the changing leaves. Hikes, horseback rides, and ranger-led treks are fabulous ways to see the foliage. Or get a bird’s-eye view with a hot-air balloon ride or a trip on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

When to Go: Head to Wyoming in September and early October to see the foliage.

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Just be warned, since lodging within the bounds of national parks is limited, many accommodation options sell out early, so you may have to book up to a year in advance to snag a room. Spontaneous travelers may have luck with last-minute cancellations, so it doesn’t hurt to call the hotel the night before or in the morning if you’re already in the area. 

Inn at Death Valley, Death Valley National Park

The Inn at Death Valley appears like an oasis in the desert as you drive through Death Valley National Park. Towering palm trees surround a glimmering spring-fed pool that beckons to hot and dusty travelers. 

The AAA four-diamond-rated resort is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the national parks. Built in 1927, the hotel was a famous vacation spot for celebrities, including Marlon Brando and Clark Gable. Following a recent $155 million renovation, the resort maintains its old-school glamor while adding modern amenities. 

Death Valley National Park is the largest Dark Sky National Park in the United States. Inn guests can catch the nightly astrological show from the stargazing roof deck (designed to minimize light pollution).

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Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon National Park

You can’t buy your way into the most exclusive hotel in the national parks—the only way to score a room at Phantom Ranch is by winning the monthly lottery (or by getting lucky and snagging a last-minute cancellation spot). As the only hotel inside the Grand Canyon, the hotel’s popularity is understandable. And yes, we do mean inside the canyon itself not inside the park—Phantom Ranch occupies an exclusive location on the floor of the Grand Canyon.

Accommodations are rustic, featuring a bunk in a shared dorm (dorms are currently unavailable due to construction) or private cabins. Pack lightly, as there are just two ways to get to Phantom Ranch: on foot or via mule. You’ll be rewarded for the journey with something few people experience: a night sleeping at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

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Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park

Imagine watching Old Faithful erupt from the comfort of your bed—book a geyser basin view room at the Old Faithful Inn for a mind-blowing stay. This charming hotel, built in 1903 out of local logs and stone, is one of the largest log-style structures in the world. 

If you’re on a budget but still want to be close to all the action, the Inn offers affordable hotel rooms with shared bathrooms (unfortunately, you won’t get geyser views from these rooms). 

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Volcano House, Volcanoes National Park

Perched on the rim of Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Volcano House offers incredible views of the caldera and Halema’uma’u crater. The boutique hotel features just 33 guest rooms, so you must book early to secure a reservation. 

If you’re not lucky enough to score a room at the Volcano House, be sure to stop by for a meal in the hotel’s restaurant, where you can enjoy local cuisine while gazing out floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rim.

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Ross Lake Resort, North Cascades National Park

Let the waves lull you to sleep in one of 15 floating cabins at the Ross Lake Resort. Built atop log floats in one of the most scenic spots in the North Cascades National Park, the resort is only accessible via boat—so you’ll practically be guaranteed peace and quiet. 

The small resort books up quickly, but there is a waitlist you can join if you can’t find a reservation.

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Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park

Set on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake inside Glacier National Park, the star attraction at Many Glacier Hotel is the views. Partially renovated in 2016, the rustic five-story hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including suites and family rooms, but no air conditioning or television. 

The hotel’s picturesque Ptarmigan Dining Room is a popular spot for non-guests to take a break while admiring Glacier’s scenery. 

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Crater Lake Lodge, Crater Lake National Park

Set on the edge of the caldera, nearly 1,000 feet above the water, Crater Lake Lodge offers majestic views of the deepest lake in the United States. Lake-view rooms are coveted, and reservations can be booked starting a year in advance (and generally fill up immediately!)

Like most hotels within the national parks, Crater Lake Lodge is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October.

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Ultima Thule Lodge, Wrangell – St. Elias National Park

Checking into Ultima Thule Lodge involves a commercial flight to Anchorage, followed by a charter plane to McCarthy, where you’ll be met by the resort’s private plane for your third and final flight. The long journey is worth it, as you’ll land in a pristine wilderness area untouched by roads or maintained trails. 

The lodge is the perfect base camp to explore Wrangell – St. Elias National Park, the largest and least-visited national park in the United States. 

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The Awahnee, Yosemite National Park

The grand elegance of The Awahnee makes sense when you learn that the hotel was built in the 1920s under the hopes that it would draw more affluent visitors to visit Yosemite National Park. No expense was spared, and the property was constructed out of more than 5,000 tons of stone and 30,000 feet of lumber to create a building that seamlessly blends in with the national surroundings. 

For a royally indulgent vacation, book the Mary Curry Tresidder Suite, where Queen Elizabeth stayed on her trip to the park in the 1980s.

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Triangle X Ranch, Grand Teton National Park

Live out your cowboy dreams at Triangle X Ranch, the National Park System’s only dude ranch. Located inside Grand Teton National Park, this family-owned ranch offers float trips, guided fishing trips, and of course, horseback riding—all set against a majestic mountain range backdrop.

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Table of Contents

Click to explore the most beautiful places in each region.

1. Alberta
2. British Columbia
3. Manitoba
4. New Brunswick
5. Newfoundland and Labrador
6. Nova Scotia 
7. Ontario 
8. Prince Edward Island
9. Quebec
10. Saskatchewan
11. Northwest Territories
12. Nunavut
13. Yukon 

Alberta 

Banff National Park     

Perhaps the most obvious place to start when discussing the most beautiful places in Canada is Banff National Park and its magnificent Lake Louise. Take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for an incredible view of some of the world’s most dramatic mountain scenery, then explore the park’s stunning waterfalls, forests, and glacier lakes, including vibrant Lake Louise, an unlike-anywhere-else oasis in the Canadian Rockies. 

Where to stay: Elegant Mount Royal Hotel has a Banff-themed library, rooftop hot tubs, a lobby museum, and modern decor that echoes the destination.  

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Jasper National Park   

Jasper is the Canadian Rockies’ biggest national park, and it’s packed with snow-covered peaks, translucent lakes, roaring waterfalls, inspiring highways, and large populations of wildlife including moose, caribou, wolves, and grizzlies. Step out onto the kilometer-long, 918-foot-high, glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk—if you dare. 

Where to stay: Airy Glacier View Lodge opened in summer 2019 and offers tours of the Athabasca Glacier, tall windows with views of icefields and steep mountains, gourmet dinners, and live musical performances every evening.  

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Abraham Lake  

When considering beautiful places to visit in Canada, don’t overlook Abraham Lake, on the Kootenay Plains’ North Saskatchewan River. Peer into its crystalline surface to see eerie methane bubble formations trapped in frozen bright blue water. These underwater oval towers of gas turn the manmade reservoir into a bucket-list destination for any Instagrammer worth his or her salt.  

Where to stay: It may be about 80 miles from Abraham Lake, but the epic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is worth the drive. This gilded resort showcases one of the prettiest places in Canada by way of lovely accommodations right on Lake Louise. Guests get to borrow bikes and canoes for a discounted rate.  

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British Columbia 

Victoria  

Victoria is British Columbia’s fairy tale-like capital—easily one of the most beautiful cities in Canada—and Butchart Gardens is the jewel in its flowery crown. Besides touring these enchanting gardens, things to do in Victoria include visiting the expansive Royal BC Museum, strolling salty Fisherman’s Wharf, and exploring idyllic Beacon Hill Park.

Where to stay: Victoria’s stately Fairmont Empress is famous for many things, its classic afternoon tea chief among them. Service and accommodations are as regal as you’d expect.  

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Vancouver Seawall 

The 17-mile Vancouver Seawall allows for one of the most exhilarating bike rides you’ll ever take. Ride (or walk) the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path for wide, glittering views of the Pacific and plenty of entry points into dynamic Stanley Park. Stop to enjoy the beaches and other fun surprises along the way. While in Vancouver, you may as well visit a couple more of the prettiest places in Canada: the immersive Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and 4,100-foot-high Grouse Mountain.

Where to stay: At the impressive Fairmont Waterfront, service is so bespoke that even your shampoo bottle is personalized with your name on it. 

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Whistler 

If you’re aiming to see the most beautiful places in Canada, you could do far worse than Whistler in winter. It’s got sheer white mountain peaks, world-class skiing and snowboarding, an inviting apres-ski village, zip-lines through snow-covered trees, and fantastic places to eat and sleep.   

Where to stay: For magical views, book Nita Lake Lodge, which has luxurious guest rooms, a spa, three restaurants, and a shuttle that takes you to the base of Whistler Mountain.  

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Glacier National Park  

Amid the massive Canadian Rockies is Canada’s own Glacier National Park and its jaw-dropping beauty. The namesake geographical features take the form of icefields, waterfalls, and brightly hued lakes, making for some of the most resplendent natural scenery on Earth.  

Where to stay: In the park, you can camp, use an RV, or book a hut or cabin. There are no hotels in Canada’s Glacier National Park, although the town of Revelstoke is nearby, and its Poppi’s Guesthouse hostel gets high marks for coziness, friendliness, and affordability.  

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Great Bear Rainforest 

Into wildlife adventures? The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the best places in Canada to see grizzly bears catching salmon in wild rivers, whales breaching, eagles soaring, and wolves roaming. In Klemtu on the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, you’ll find mossy forests, untamed fjords, and natural hot springs. As the name implies, ursines frolic everywhere, including the rare white “spirit bear.”

Where to stay: The indigenous-owned Spirit Bear Lodge offers exclusive access to wildlife-viewing areas and cultural sites within the Kitasoo Xai’xais territory. Accommodations are homey and dinners are communal.  

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Okanagan Valley

It seems like no list of beautiful places would be complete without a wine country. Okanagan Valley lies to the east of Vancouver is home to over 100 wineries, and accounts for more than 80% of the wine produced in British Columbia. Gorgeous lakes, vibrant green landscapes, and warm temperatures make for ideal scenery and climate for grape growing. Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, Covert Farms Family Estate and Silver Sage Estate Winery.  

Where to Stay: Rather than the usual hotel, Poppi’s Guesthouse is a boutique guesthouse with the coziness of a home—prepare your meals in a communal kitchen, relax on the second floor balcony, or borrow a bike to take a scenic ride along the river.  

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Yoho National Park 

The Kootenay Rockies’ Yoho National Park is named for the Cree word meaning “awe,” and it’s easy to see why—its imagery seems out of a movie. You’ll see intense blues and greens, dramatic peaks, the immense Takakkaw Falls, and gem-colored Emerald Lake, making this park one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Hiking trails and scenic drives let you take in the full force of this stunning wilderness. Don’t miss Yoho’s Burgess Shale, a paleontological jackpot containing 500-million-year-old fossils of more than 120 types of marine animals.

Where to stay: The historic, cabin-style Emerald Lake Lodge has balconies and wood-burning fireplaces right on the shores of the famous lake, amid towering mountains.  

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Manitoba 

Cape Churchill  

Cape Churchill, Manitoba, is the polar bear capital of the world. If your idea of impressive scenery involves endless stretches of ice and dozens of polar bears striding across it, head up to the Arctic to experience one of the most beautiful places in Canada. In October and November, Hudson Bay freezes over and thousands of polar bears migrate to its ice, although climate change is already taking effect. Local tour guides in tundra rovers get you up close to see the endangered white creatures.  

Where to stay: At Churchill’s Lazy Bear Lodge, accommodations are simple but comfortable. It’s a rustic log cabin with a huge stone fireplace and a location that’s walking distance from town. The lodge’s beluga whale tour is highly recommended.  

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New Brunswick 

Fundy National Park  

Fundy National Park, on the Bay of Fundy, has the world’s highest and lowest tides. This means that you can walk out onto the ocean floor during low tide, then kayak alongside landforms like the must-see Hopewell Rocks when the Atlantic refloods the bay. Elsewhere in the park, hike through the Acadian Forest to see dozens of lovely waterfalls, explore sea caves, attend festivals and outdoor concerts, or drive Fundy Trail Parkway to see some of the prettiest places in Canada.

Where to stay: Fundy National Park has three hip campgrounds, as well as Fundy Highlands Motel, which offers simple, comfortable, dog-friendly chalets right on the bay.  

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Gros Morne National Park  

The iconic image of Gros Morne National Park is Western Brook Pond, whose name makes it sound small. It’s actually a massive freshwater fjord around which dramatic cliffs plunge into a glacier-formed gorge. Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also home to the Tablelands, a geological rarity where earthquakes have forced the earth’s mantle up for all to see. There’s also Green Point—sheer cliffs full of ancient sea fossils—as well as waterfalls, dwarf forests, moose and caribou, and Gros Morne Mountain, which is among the planet’s oldest peaks.

Where to stay: Neddies Harbour Inn, a boutique property in the national park, provides unbeatable views over the Bonne Bay fjord, as well as a peaceful atmosphere and an excellent restaurant.  

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Nova Scotia 

Cabot Trail  

Nova Scotia’s 185-mile Cabot Trail loops around Cape Breton Island, making for one of North America’s most memorable drives. In addition to providing gorgeous coastal views, the highway takes you to small fishing villages, the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, golf courses, museums, galleries, and artisan boutiques. It also passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where moose, bears, and eagles roam, and where autumn’s vivid colors secure Cabot Trail’s spot among the prettiest places in Canada.

Where to stay: Keltic Lodge is a historic, well-appointed resort right on the Atlantic in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Amenities include in-room fireplaces, verandahs, a golf course, a heated swimming pool, and a satisfying restaurant.  

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Ontario 

Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls isn’t just one of the most beautiful places in Canada—it’s one of the most beautiful places in the whole world. And though Americans tend to think of it as a U.S. attraction (of course), the Canadian view of the famous falls is actually even better. Come in summer to be treated to nightly fireworks over the mist.

Where to stay: The city around Niagara Falls is pretty touristy, so it’s worth the effort to drive about 13 miles north to a charming little town called Niagara-on-the-Lake and its elegant Charles Hotel, where guest rooms have fireplaces, private verandahs gaze over Lake Ontario, gardens bloom with flowers, and service is superlative.  

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CN Tower 

Those in search of Canadian urban wonders can look no further than the CN Tower, the defining feature of Toronto‘s skyline, punctuating postcards all over Ontario. The tower’s observation deck has glass floors, its 360 Restaurant rotates, and its heart-pounding EdgeWalk lets you strap in and hang off a five-foot-wide ledge more than 1,000 feet high. This iconic structure is prettiest when it illuminates after dark.

Where to stay: The Shangri-La Hotel, set in a 66-floor glass-encased skyscraper, epitomizes modern luxury with its artistic decor, high-tech amenities, and hammam-inspired spa. And it’s within easy distance of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada.  

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Prince Edward County  

Prince Edward County, a detached peninsula on Lake Ontario’s north shore, is ideal for both beach lovers and oenophiles. The region’s limestone bedrock makes for great wine grapes, which is why there are more than 40 vineyards here. There are also expansive fields of sunflowers and lavender, more than a dozen breweries, hundreds of farms, and plenty of talented chefs who put all this local bounty to good use. PEC was relatively unknown until recently, when it gained something of a buzz among urbanites, artists, gourmands, and hipsters.  

Where to stay: The colorful Drake Motor Inn opened in spring 2019, full of whimsy and modernized nostalgia. Its 12 rooms are all retro-chic, and the entire property pays playful tribute to the bygone days of road travel.  

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Prince Edward Island 

Prince Edward Island National Park  

Prince Edward Island National Park is easily one of the most beautiful places in Canada, especially its windswept Greenwich section. Visitors can explore red sand beaches, wavy dunes, mystical forests, boardwalk trails, and the idyllic places that formed the setting for L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables.

Where to stay: Dalvay by the Sea, a national historic site on the north shore, was built in 1895 in Queen Anne Revival style. Its 25 rooms—each one unique—remain furnished in antiques from that ornate era.  

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Victoria-by-the-Sea  

Victoria-by-the-Sea is a storybook village full of small-town seaside charm, including a photogenic lighthouse, red sand beaches, and artisan shops and galleries. Historically known for its fishermen, it’s now more populated by artists and creatives who leave an inspired mark on their lovely municipality.  

Where to stay: The historic Orient Hotel is an inviting bed and breakfast that provides wonderful views of the water from almost every guest room. 

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Quebec 

Old Montreal  

Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada—and one of the most interesting, too, what with its amalgam of European and North American culture and engaging attractions like Olympic Park’s Biodome and Botanical Garden. The prettiest part of the city, however, is Old Montreal, founded as a French colony in 1642, with intricate architecture to match. If you ever feel like going to Europe without crossing the Atlantic, visit Old Montreal’s resplendent Notre-Dame Basilica, browse its stately Bonsecours Market, gawk at its colonial-era mansions, and watch the St. Lawrence River’s dynamic Old Port at work. 

Where to stay: The newish Four Seasons Montreal puts forth its brand’s usual level of service and comfort—which is to say, it’s an excellent place to stay. Adding to the appeal is its central location in the Golden Square Mile, its fine cuisine, and its proximity to high-end shopping at Holt Renfrew Ogilvy.  

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Quebec City  

Ask Canadians which is the most beautiful city in Canada, and most will respond the same way: Quebec City. It’s hard to overstate how magical this French-speaking town is—its fairy-tale charm pervades every cobblestone street. Quebec City, the only fortified city north of Mexico, also features colonial-era architecture, the bustling St. Lawrence River, and a rich, palpable history. It boasts four distinct seasons, each more beautiful than the next. Just outside of town, Montmorency Falls is almost 100 feet taller than any of Niagara’s three falls, making for a truly underrated natural wonder.

Where to stay: The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is the world’s most photographed hotel for good reason: Its legendary castle-on-a-hill look makes it an icon of Old Quebec. The elegance continues inside, in terms of both decor and hospitality par excellence.  

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Mont-Tremblant 

A popular ski destination, Mont-Tremblant has a European flair that, outside of Europe, you can only find in Quebec. Eighty miles northwest of Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is one of the top ski destinations in North America. There is something for everyone at Mont-Tremblant, you can shop, ski, ride a gondola, ice skate- all while taking in the glorious scenery around you. You must be sure to visit le P’tit Caribou, which is considered one of the best apres ski spots in the world. 

Where to Stay: Le Grand Lodge is a Scandinavian-style log hotel that has everything you need for the perfect vacation to enjoy the mountains: a restaurant, bar and spa for when you want to wind down, a free shuttle to the ski village, ski rentals, and more. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate daily from 4-5 after a day of skiing. 

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Saskatchewan 

Grasslands National Park  

Saskatchewan’s Grasslands National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada, but in a bit of an unexpected sense: The grandness here isn’t so much village charm or even distinctive nature attractions. It’s more the vast golden prairies, the open country, the huge skies, and the roaming herds of bison that provide their own type of wild gorgeousness. One great way to take it all in is via a brand-new scenic road called the Badlands Parkway. Perk up your Instagram feed with photos of the park’s iconic red Adirondack chairs, or scour the hoodoo spires for dinosaur fossils.

Where to stay: Sky Story Bed & Breakfast in nearby Val Marie earns high marks for its warm hospitality, delicious breakfasts, and friendly cats.  

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Northwest Territories 

Great Slave Lake  

If seeing the northern lights is on your bucket list, plan to visit Yellowknife and Great Slave Lake, in the Northwest Territories. In winter, this remote Arctic region transforms into one of the most beautiful places in Canada, thanks to its position north of the 60th parallel, placing it firmly inside the aurora oval. This, plus a flat landscape far from the ocean, makes Yellowknife one of the world’s best places to see nature’s most spectacular light show. Prepare to see deep, glowing greens and purples dominating the skies over North America’s deepest lake.  

Where to stay: The Explorer Hotel is an eco-conscious hotel with stunning views of the aurora, with two restaurants and a polar bear exhibit for your enjoyment in the lobby.

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Nunavut 

Baffin Island  

Baffin Island, above the Arctic Circle, is Canada’s largest island—it’s bigger than Great Britain. But it’s among the prettiest places in Canada because of Auyuittuq National Park, where icy fjords and glaciers dominate the landscape with their intense blues and bright whites. This surreal expanse of tundra is home to wildlife like you’ve never seen: narwhal, ringed seals, snow geese, Arctic foxes, caribou, and, yes, polar bears.  

Where to stay: The Frobisher Inn is the largest full-service business hotel in the Eastern Arctic, and is also the perfect family hotel—with two restaurants, a cafe, and a fitness center. 

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Yukon 

Whitehorse Region  

The Yukon is full of beautiful places to visit in Canada, and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a thrilling way to take them in. This scenic narrow-gauge railway was built in the late 1800s for the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, it still connects Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon’s capital city. The memorable ride takes passengers, many of them on shore excursions from Alaska cruises, into wide expanses of rugged scenery, over and through impossible bridges and tunnels, and past wildflower-packed meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers at a speed that allows appreciation for the sheer magnitude of it all.  

Where to stay: Northern Lights Resort & Spa, true to its name, is well positioned to see the winter aurora borealis. Book a glass chalet or a log cabin and enjoy this much-loved B&B’s saunas, warm hospitality, and highly personalized service.  

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From sand sledding to spelunking, these fun adventures will make for an unforgettable national park trip this summer. 

Sand Sledding, White Sands National Parks

Sledding in the desert? It can be done at White Sands National Park. The park’s beautiful white dunes not only look like snow, but can be sledded on just like you would on a wintery hill. 

Since the sand isn’t slippery like snow, you’ll want to use a waxed plastic snow saucer (buy at the park’s gift shop or bring your own) for the best results.

Monitor Whales for Science, Channel Island National Park

Why not help whales while you watch them? If you’re headed out whale spotting in Channel Island National Park, you can become a citizen scientist for the day by downloading the official Whale Alert app. 

Use the app to report sightings of whales, and the data is used to help prevent whale ship strikes and entanglements. 

Ride the Grand Canyon Railway, Grand Canyon National Park

Travel in style through Grand Canyon National Park aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. This historic train whisks passengers on a 65-mile scenic trip from Williams, Arizona all the way to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and back.

Unique train cars offer observation domes, open-air platforms, and oversized windows from which to observe the park’s scenery.

Get Your Dog Sworn in as a Bark Ranger, Various Parks

You might never live out your dream of becoming a park ranger for the National Park Service (NPS), but your dog can become an official Bark ranger, which is the next best thing. At various parks throughout the US, dogs and their owners can take Bark Ranger classes. 

Participants will learn the four important BARK principals:

• Bag your pet’s waste
• Always leash your pet
• Respect Wildlife
• Know where you can go

Upon completion of the course, dogs will earn the right to wear a special Bark Ranger collar tag that shows off their new important position with the NPS. 

Watch the First Sunrise in the United States, Acadia National Park

From October 7 to March 6, Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the country where the sun rises. Since you can drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, this morning ritual is hugely popular, and you’ll need to make a vehicle reservation in advance in order to visit. 

Or, make the sunrise even more special by hiking to the top (no reservation required). 

Become a Park Employee for a Day, Everglades National Park

Considering a career change to become a NPS ranger? Try the job on for size first at Everglades National Park’s Park Employee for a Day Geocache Trail. 

Find five caches hidden along the Main Park Road, each of which contain real-world case study about the park. Log your find and share your solution to the problems, which helps provide valuable feedback to the park.

Watch a Sled Dog Demonstration, Denali National Park

If you want to watch the adorable sled dogs of Denali National Park in action, the best time to visit is actually in the summer. During the winter, the dogs are hard at work helping rangers patrol the park.

In the off-season, June through early September, sled dog demonstrations are held three times daily so visitors can witness this traditional Alaskan method of transportation. 

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In order to keep certain parts of America’s park system from getting overrun with visitors, some parks have instituted a lottery system for entrance. Here are some of the best worth trying your luck at.

Coyote Buttes North Lottery

The Wave is a surreal-looking natural sandstone rock formation that undulates across the desert landscape of Coyote Buttes. In order to protect this fragile formation, only 64 people are allowed to visit it each day, with 48 individual permits (and/or 12 group permits) being given away in advance in an online lottery and the remaining 16 individual permits (and/or 4 group permits) drawn during a daily lottery. Applicants must pay a nonrefundable $9 fee each time they apply (and can only enter the lottery once each month) and can choose up to three potential visitation dates per month. The lottery is run four months ahead, so if you want to visit the Wave in May, apply in January. If you win, the permit cost is $7 per person, and you’ll receive a route map with photos of landmarks and GPS coordinates to help you find your way along the 6.4-mile backcountry hike to the Wave.

Fun fact: The Wave’s popularity is in part due to its feature as desktop wallpaper on Windows 7, which gave cubicle-dwellers everywhere something to dream about while trapped at their desks.

Private Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Lottery

Want to raft down the Grand Canyon, but don’t want your experience ruined by a terrible guide or annoying tour groups? Apparently a lot of people feel the same way, as permits for 12- to 25-day self-guided raft trips from Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek formerly had a 27-year waitlist. In 2006, the NPS decided that the insanely long waiting list would be replaced by a lottery.

This weighted lottery gives preference to those who were on the old waitlist, as well as people who have not been rafting on the Colorado River recently.

The main lottery is held once a year during the first three weeks in February, and follow-up lotteries are held throughout the year to reassign spots from any cancelled trips. There is $25 fee to apply for the lottery and, for winners, a $200-$400 trip deposit, a $20 entrance fee, and $90/person river permit.

Guided Bear Viewing at McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and Refuge

In the summer, up to 144 wild brown bears a day descend on McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and Refuge to fish for the thousands of salmon that swim past during their upstream migration. Can’t bear to miss that? Enter the lottery and you might be one of the lucky 10 people per day that are allowed to view the spectacle between June and August.

The program limits the number of people who may be present at McNeil River Falls (or the other viewing locations) to no more than 10 individuals, so as not to disturb the bears. If you win one of the 185 permits available, you’ll be allowed to camp at the campground, visit the sanctuary, and attend guided bear viewing sessions over a designated four-day period.

Half Dome Cables Lottery

A 14-mile hike seems tough enough to weed out most people, but not at Yosemite’s most famous attraction, Half Dome. Despite the fact that this incredibly hard hike involves scrambling up steep granite domes using steel cables and wooden planks as makeshift stairs to reach the summit, the hike attracts hundreds of visitors every year.

The steel cables are only up from late May to mid-October, and may be taken down early or put up late due to weather conditions. During this season, only 225 daily permits (225 for hikers and 75 for backpackers) are issued to summit Half Dome.

The lottery runs March 1 through March 31, and you designate a specific date or range of dates you would like to climb. Feeling spontaneous? Around 50 permits are made through a daily lottery that you can enter two days before your chosen hiking date. You’ll pay $10 to enter the lottery and $10 for a permit if you’re successful.

Phantom Ranch Lottery

Phantom Ranch is one of the most exclusive accommodations in the world, and it’s not because of the cost (which starts at a very reasonable $65 per person for a dorm room). Located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Phantom Ranch is only accessible by hiking or riding a mule the approximately 7.5 miles down, or by rafting in via the Colorado River.

The ranch recently changed its reservation system to a lottery system, which can be entered here. Occasionally, a few beds will open up due to cancellation, and those can be searched for here.

The lottery is even more exclusive this year, as the dormitories traditionally reserved for hikers are close until further notice (private cabins are still available).

The lottery is held monthly between the 1st and 25th and runs 15 months ahead (so entries made in January 2021 will be for reservations in March 2022.) Unlike most of the other lotteries, this one is free to enter.

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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To determine the best state park alternatives to over-crowded national parks, we used data provided by Google Maps that analyzed the ratings of state parks within a 100-mile radius of the most-visited national parks.

Avoid the crowds at the five most-visited national parks in America and opt for these top-rated nearby state parks instead. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: 14,161,548 Visitors

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the US by a huge margin—it hosts more than double the amount of tourists compared to Zion National Park, the second most-visited park on the list. 

The main reason for the park’s popularity? It’s one of just a few national parks that doesn’t charge an entry fee. The park’s location, spanning North Carolina and Tennessee, puts it within easy driving distance for many Americans as well, adding to the appeal. 

Where to Go Instead: Seven Islands State Birding Park (20 miles away). Set on 416 tranquil acres along the French Broad River in nearby Knox County, Tennessee, this state park offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. More than 190 species of birds call this park home, hence the name. 

Zion National Park: 5,039,835 Visitors

Otherworldly sandstone cliffs, thrilling slot canyons, and some of the most famous trails in the country make Zion National Park a must-visit. Unfortunately, the park’s fame means it’s extremely crowded in peak season—so much so that visitors have to use often crowded shuttle buses to get around the park as the main road is closed to private vehicles. 

Where to Go Instead: Snow Canyon State Park (34 miles away). Similarly stunning sandstone scenery awaits just a short drive away from Zion National Park at the less-visited Snow Canyon State Park. There are more than 38 miles of hiking trails to explore, along with chances to spot rare wildlife like peregrine falcons and gila monsters. 

Yellowstone National Park: 4,860,242 Visitors

Yellowstone had its busiest year on record in 2021, up 28 percent from 2020. If you want to avoid the crowds in the park, avoid coming in July, which is the most-visited month—a record-breaking one million tourists visited in July 2021. 

One way to leave the crowds behind? Get out of your car and do a few hikes. According to Yellowstone National Park, most visitors stay within a half mile of Yellowstone’s road corridors and parking areas. 

Where to Go Instead: Buffalo Bill State Park (66 miles away). There might not be famous geysers or prismatic hot springs at Buffalo Bill State Park, but there is plenty of history to be found. The park is home to the ranch house and barn that celebrity showman Colonel William F. Cody (Buffalo Bill) built. Right next door, the Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area offers camping, hiking, and boating. 

Grand Canyon National Park: 4,523,677 Visitors

On peak fall weekends, visitors to Grand Canyon National Park can expect to wait in lines of up to two hours to get inside the park via the South Entrance. Although the Grand Canyon is certainly a must-see, if you can’t face the crowds, there are plenty of hidden gems nearby. 

Where to Go Instead: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (94 miles away.) As the name implies, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park encompasses miles of blush colored dunes and sandstone canyons. All of the dunes are open for hiking, sand sledding, or exploring, and about 90 percent can be used for ATV riding. 

Rocky Mountain National Park: 4,434,848 Visitors

Rocky Mountain National Park has become overwhelmed with tourists, so in an effort to limit the crowds, reservations are required to visit between May 27 through October 10, 2022. If you weren’t fast enough to snag a timed entry reservation, don’t worry—there’s plenty of natural beauty nearby.

Where to Go Instead: State Forest State Park (29 miles away). Hoping to see a moose on your trip? You’ll likely have better luck at State Forest State Park than you would at Rocky Mountain National Park. The state park is the “moose viewing capital of Colorado,” with over 600 of the giant creatures roaming around. For your best chance of a sighting, download State Forest’s wildlife viewing guide, which offers tips for seeing animals and identifying different types of tracks.

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