If you’ve ever tried to navigate in a place where your phone has weak or no celluar service, you probably wished you could take advantage of offline phone GPS. Fortunately, you can: GPS signals are raining down around us at all times, and your phone can connect to them without any real reliance on your cellular company, impact on your data plan, or dependence on the phone mode you are in. These signals are free for all of us to use, so long as we have the right apps and a device with which to connect.

In fact, you can even use an older, retired phone as a GPS unit, so long as the apps will still run on the operating system. Then, once you get back to civilization, your regular smartphone will still be fully charged and ready to go.

How Accurate Is My Phone GPS Without Data?

Most of the apps I have used measure GPS coordinates to tenths of a second, which is accurate within four to 11 meters, depending on where on the planet you are plotting (accuracy improves as you move toward the poles).

If that isn’t close enough, technology is in development that will make some phones accurate to within 10 centimeters.

You Don’t Have to Be Offline to Use a Phone as GPS

Many of the most popular uses for GPS are for folks who are off the grid without access to Wi-Fi or cellular connections, but the technology’s usefulness is not limited to the backcountry by any means. First, we all know that cell coverage is hardly ubiquitous even in developed areas; heck, my kid’s central New Jersey soccer practice field shows “no service” so often that some parents drive a mile down the road during practice to connect.

Another benefit is preserving battery life; GPS uses are particularly beneficial when you are doing things in areas where cellular service is available but poor, which causes your phone to burn up battery life trying to connect. Using offline phone GPS can also help you conserve data. This is useful when traveling abroad, where data plans are often costly and limited.

Finally, many location-based apps gobble up data voraciously. Your phone’s GPS tracking allows you to use them in offline mode, incurring no data penalty so long as you preload maps and information while connected to Wi-Fi.

Certainly, your cellphone can do more without a cell connection than you might think; here are five of the best.

Track Your Flight in Real Time

Let’s start with my favorite way to use phone GPS without data: to track the flight I’m on in real time. There are a few apps that do this, but I use Flyover Country, created by University of Minnesota researchers and funded by the National Science Foundation.

The app offers options to view road maps, terrain maps, and satellite maps, including information on geology, underwater core samples, mammal and dinosaur fossils, and landscape features for various destinations as you pass over them in flight.

To use the app you need to input and preload all the data along the route while still on a Wi-Fi or cell connection. Then, once you go into airplane mode, all that information is available as you fly, along with your ground speed and altitude.

You’ll need a window seat for this to work well; in fact, on some flights I have found that I had to have the phone almost against the window to obtain and hold a reliable GPS signal.

Go Backcountry Hiking

Smartphones are becoming go-to tools for many hardcore backcountry travelers, who can spend days or even months out of range of cellular signals. Many find phones more space- and weight-efficient than dedicated GPS units, particularly since phones can take photos, too.

This excellent how-to guide makes a compelling case for a smartphone as your go-to GPS tool. It includes some very good battery life management tips, noting that some phones can last five to 10 days without a charge with careful use.

A few of the best backcountry navigation apps include Gaia GPS, AllTrails, iPhiGeNie, and ViewRanger.

Track Your Fitness

A booming number of fitness applications work with offline GPS, including MapMyRide, Strava, MapMyRun, Runkeeper, and MapMyFitness. For most of these, using your phone GPS without data will allow you to track your run, walk, hike, or other outing offline. While you need a connection to take advantage of some of the apps’ features, using them on GPS-only mode preserves on battery life and data usage, which can be a helpful upside when you are tracking long bike rides or runs.

Fitness Armband for Your Phone

The most quintessential time to save data and money is during your workout, complete with a robust armband of course.

Note Your Exact Location

There are all kinds of ways this can be useful, such as saving your spot in an airport parking lot or sharing your location with someone else to facilitate a meetup. I know folks who have used GPS coordinates on their phones to mark and/or share things like trailheads, campsites, turn-offs for dirt roads, fishing spots, waterfalls, and abandoned ruins.

The free My GPS Coordinates app (available for iOS and Android) has functions to email or text your coordinates directly from the main screen, and even shows the accuracy of the GPS signal (it tracks my office desk within 16 to 33 feet depending on signal access).

To share locations you obviously need connectivity, but you can log them using GPS and then share or recall them later.

Use Mapping Apps Offline

Finally, there are heaps of full-featured offline mapping applications, including the ubiquitous Google Maps and Apple Maps. Many of these are unfortunately somewhat limited when it comes to GPS-only navigation; Google Maps, for example, allows you to pre-download a 50-square-kilometer map for temporary offline use, which will help in some situations but isn’t much use on a longer road trip. To find alternatives, see 10 Best GPS App and Navigation App Options for Android and The 5 Best Offline GPS Apps for iPhone.

Cell Phone Car Mount

Make navigation a little safer with a car mount stand, adaptable to almost all smartphone sizes.

Ed Hewitt is a seasoned globetrotter who brings you a biweekly glimpse into the latest travel news, views, and trends—and how they could affect your travel plans.

The post No Signal? 5 Ways to Use Your Phone GPS Without Data appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Outdoor clothing company KÜHL decided to find out what the top ten most dangerous national parks in America are by analyzing data from all 63 national parks. 

The study looked at statistics from the National Parks Service and data from Google Maps, and assigned each park a weighted score using the following criteria:

• Number of total deaths from 2007-2023
• Number of missing persons from 2007-2023
• Frequency of search and rescue missions from 2013-2020
• Number of visitors to each park from 2007-2022
• Amount of trail closures, alerts, and cautions due to animal presence
• Number of park rangers
• Proximity to hospitals

The Top 10 Most Dangerous National Parks in the United States

The most dangerous parks had more search and rescue missions, higher incidents of trail closures, and higher fatal incident rates than average. These are the most dangerous national parks according to the study:

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
2. Wrangell-St.Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska
3. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
4. North Cascades National Park, Washington
5. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
6. Big Bend National Park, Texas
7. Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska
8. Kings Canyon National Park, California
9. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
10.  Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

The Top 10 Safest National Parks in the United States

The safest national parks had lower-than-average numbers of missing persons and fatalities, minimal trail closures, and were well-staffed with rangers. According to the survey, these are the safest national parks:

1. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
2. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
3. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
4. National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
5. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
6. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
7. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
8. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
10. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

What Are the Leading Causes of Deaths in National Parks?

Falls are the leading cause of death in national parks, accounting for 20.3 percent of fatalities. 

Other main causes of death in national parks include:

• Falls (20.3%)
• Drowning (12.9%)
• Motor vehicle crashes (11.8%)
• Other transportation (3.5%)
• Hypothermia (3.4%)

National Park Safety Tips

Many national park incidents could have been prevented by following basic safety tips.

1. Don’t lose your life for a photo. Stay away from steep dropoffs, cliff edges, and barriers.
2. Obey all posted signs within the park.
3. Be prepared with appropriate gear and adequate amounts of food and water.
4. Always check the weather forecast and change your plans if storms are predicted.
5. Stay on marked trails.
6. Let someone know where you will go inside the park and when you’ll return.
7. Maintain a safe distance from wildlife at all times. 
8. Exercise caution when swimming in national parks. Never swim alone, and always wear a life jacket aboard watercraft.
9. Pack an emergency kit with first aid supplies.
10. Be careful when driving—don’t get so distracted by scenery that you forget to concentrate on the road, and don’t stop suddenly to look at wildlife or take photos. 

The post The 10 Most Dangerous National Parks in America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights are caused by energized particles from the sun entering the Earth’s upper atmosphere at high speeds. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers a more scientific explanation of the northern lights, saying, “When a solar storm comes toward us, some of the energy and small particles can travel down the magnetic field lines at the north and south poles into Earth’s atmosphere. There, the particles interact with gases in our atmosphere resulting in beautiful displays of light in the sky. Oxygen gives off green and red light.”

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

The best places to see the northern lights are northern destinations with minimal light pollution, clear skies, and dry weather. 

Iceland

You don’t have to venture too far outside the brightly-lit downtown area of Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, to see the northern lights. Within the city itself, you’ll find Perlan, a famous Icelandic observatory rising 61 meters above Reykjavik. The glass-domed top structure offers a warm indoor spot to wait for the light show.

If you weren’t lucky enough to spot the Aurora at Perlan, the planetarium has an immersive northern lights video show that’s the next best thing.

Alaska

Alaska is by far the best place in the United States to see the northern lights. Although the northern lights can be seen statewide, the best places to see them in Alaska are the Interior, Arctic, and Southcentral regions due to their locations under the auroral oval. 

If you’re based in Fairbanks, we recommend booking a northern lights guided tour, which will take you away from city lights. These tour operators monitor weather conditions and aurora forecasts and take groups to spots where there’s the best chance to see the lights. Choose one of the tours that allow you to book a multi-day window instead of a specific date—that way, you’re not locked into a tour on a night that ends up being rainy or cloudy.  

Canada

If you want to see the northern lights in summer, you can actually view them during all four seasons in Canada (but you’ll have the best luck from December to March). Destination Canada recommends the Northwest Territories as the best place in Canada to see the northern lights. In the Northwest Territories, the aurora is visible on an average of 240 nights per year. 

Hoping to spot the lights in the Edmonton area? Sign up for this free email alert that will let you know if there might be an aurora that night.

The Faroe Islands

Some of the most spectacular auroras in the world can be spotted on the Faroe Islands. These far-flung islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are difficult to reach, but their remote location helps with the northern lights viewing, thanks to minimal light pollution.

The peak season for aurora viewing on the Faroe Islands runs from late October to early March.

Sweden

You can see the northern lights from anywhere in Sweden, but for the most brilliant auroras, go north to Swedish Lapland. This isolated swatch of land offers pitch-dark nights and crisp conditions that are optimal for the lights. 

The best time to see the northern lights in Sweden is between 6 pm and 2 am, and the colors are generally most vivid between 10 and 11 pm. 

Norway

Statistically, the best time to see the northern lights in Norway is during March, April, September, or October. Visitors in the winter months will also have a good chance of seeing some aurora activity. 

One of the best methods for hunting the northern lights is by boat, as you’re away from land (and light pollution). In Norway, plenty of companies offer overnight northern light cruises that cross the Arctic Circle, guaranteeing stunning scenery during the day (even if the aurora spotting is not guaranteed). 

Greenland

Want to see the northern lights on your summer vacation? Head to Greenland, where the Aurora Borealis can be seen as early as the end of August. (However, late September is when the northern light season really kicks off.)

Greenland’s position as the northernmost country, along with minimal light pollution and hundreds of clear sky days each year, make it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. 

Scotland 

If you’re hoping to see the northern lights in the United Kingdom, it makes sense to head north to Scotland. Northern Scotland lies at the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska, making it one of the best spots to see the lights. 

For a magical experience and the best chance to witness the ‘Mirrie Dancer’ as the northern lights are nicknamed in Scotland, go to the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye, which is home to nine Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights

Since the northern lights can only be seen after dark, September through April are the best times to see them. The northern lights occur year-round but are not visible to the human eye when the sun is out—In many northern destinations, the days are too long in the summer to create dark enough conditions to see the phenomenon.

The best time of night to see the northern lights varies by destination but is generally between 10 pm and 2 am. 

Northern Lights Tracker

Find out where you’ll have the best chance of seeing the northern lights by using a northern lights tracker like this one from the National Oceanic  And Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The tracker shows a short-term forecast for auroras around the world.

5 Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights

1. Find a viewing spot with an unobstructed view toward the north
2. Time your trip for when the moon is least visible (a full moon will diminish your ability to see the northern lights)
3. Avoid light pollution
4. Plan a multi-night trip so you have better odds of seeing an aurora 
5. Ask your hotel reception to call your room and wake you up if the northern lights occur

The post Where Can You See the Northern Lights? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Warm Winter Clothes That Pack Thin

Here are essential foundation pieces for your winter travel wardrobe—they’re warm, sleek, and easy to pack.

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Outdoor Shell Pants

It’s important that shell pants be both warm and waterproof (but not too warm, as you don’t want to overheat when you’re moving.) Helly Hansen’s Verglas Infinity Shell Pants are designed to perform on the mountain, offering extreme waterproofing combined with breathability, for pants that can handle even the most extreme weather. If conditions change quickly, full side zippers allow you to take the pants off (or put them on) without removing your boots.

Made from a 50 percent recycled face fabric and a PFC-free durable water repellent treatment, these pants are lightweight and good for the environment.

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

You don’t have to choose between warmth and style with Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. This jacket has a sleek silhouette while maintaining the benefits of a traditional puffer jacket, made from water-resistant fabric and packed with compressible recycled polyester insulation. When not in use, the jacket packs down into its own tiny carrying case.

Plenty of pockets will keep your valuables close by and secure.

Biofleece by ADAY

Although fleece is one of the warmest fabrics for winter, it can come at a high environmental cost. Many fleeces are made from plastic polyester, which sheds microplastic pollution when washed. ADAY has set out to change this with their new eco-friendly biofleece. This line uses a biodegradable material for its soft fleece fabric. The biofleece line is available in a Zoom-call appropriate high-neck sweatshirt and active pullover.

Duofold’s Thermal Clothing

Champion’s Duofold clothing line is an inexpensive, high-performing collection for men and women. Its fabric is designed to trap your body heat while wicking away moisture, creating a thermal layer between the clothes and your skin to keep you warm without adding bulk. Duofold can outfit you from top to bottom, with shirts and long johns.

NAVISKIN Fleece Lined Leggings

Leggings are the perfect layer under your winter clothes, and the NAVISKIN Fleece Lined Leggings have side pockets big enough to hold your phone or wallet and a zippered back pocket for small valuables. The moisture-wicking fleece lining also provides warmth without weighing you down.

Heat Holders’ Thermal Socks

Warm socks are key to winter comfort, but if you try to wear bulky ski socks with your regular boots, you’re basically asking for blisters. Heat Holders’ Thermal Socks claim to be “seven times warmer than a basic cotton sock” but aren’t stiff or too thick. They look like regular socks on the outside but have a plush lining to help you stay warm.

Berkshire’s Fleece-Lined Tights

One way to keep warm on a frigid day is by wearing fleece-lined tights, like Berkshire’s Cozy Tights, under your winter clothes. They look like normal black tights but have a nice, cozy fleece lining, which makes them feel like pajamas. And they’re way warmer than jeans, especially when paired with tall boots.

Terramar’s Thermalsilk Line

Though silk doesn’t sound super warm, it can be, especially when it’s combined with thermal fabric, as it is in Terramar’s Thermalsilk line. This engineered fabric is designed to adjust to your body temperature and lock in warmth, while preventing odors and offering four-way stretch comfort. Plus, it’s incredibly lightweight and thin for the level of warmth it provides.

ColdPruf’s Base Layers

ColdPruf is a great line for warmth on a budget. The company makes reasonably priced shirts, leggings, and long johns that perform just as well as some of the high-end brands, thanks to a unique blend of polyester and merino wool. Its Thermachoice Rating System lets you know exactly what type of weather and activity each piece is designed for.

Helly Hansen Verglas 3 Layer Shell Jacket

Designed for backcountry activities like skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, Helly Hansen’s Verglas Shell Jacket will keep you warm (but not sweaty). The PFC-free water repellent treatment on the hard shell exterior can withstand even heavy snow or rain. Layer underneath for colder days or wear the shell solo when it’s warmer.

Under Armour’s UA Storm Fleece Gloves

Keep your hands warm but nimble with a thin glove that lets you easily grasp things with your fingers, like Under Armour’s Storm Fleece Gloves (available in men’s and women’s sizes). These water-repellent gloves provide a layer of insulation from the cold and the wet winter weather, plus feature suede tips on the thumb and index finger so you can use your phone without removing the gloves.

Arcteryx’s Atom Hoody

Arcteryx’s Atom Hoody is one of the warmest packable jackets out there, thanks to its Coreloft insulation. It’s a lightweight outer layer that’s great for outdoor activities like hiking or snowshoeing. Best of all, it has a sleek look rather than the “puffy” design of most other packable parkas. Available in men’s and women’s sizes.

Smartwool’s Merino Wool Line

If you’re looking for an all-around great base layer to throw on under your winter clothes, you can’t go wrong with Smartwool’s entire line. This is wool redesigned—Smartwool lost the itch and heaviness of traditional sheep’s wool and replaced it with stretch, moisture-wicking power, and wind resistance, thanks to its nylon facing.

Caroline Morse Teel doesn’t let cold weather stop her travels. Follow her on Instagram TravelWithCaroline.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. 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. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The Thinnest, Warmest Winter Clothes for Packing appeared first on SmarterTravel.

While Switzerland is considered by many to be the world champion when it comes to scenic train trips, some of the best Amtrak routes can take you to the most scenic areas the United States—with some routes some stretching into Canada.

Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America

This compilation is focused on scheduled Amtrak routes that operate mainly in daylight—so you won’t miss sights. These routes complete their itineraries in a single day, or in long daylight segments on an extended overnight trip.

East Coast: The Adirondack

The general consensus for the best of the scenic Amtrak routes in the east is service on the Adirondack, between New York and Montreal. The 10-hour day trip operates daily in both directions, and gives you a double-header of great views: It travels along the east bank of Hudson River between New York and Albany, where you pass the Palisades, West Point, and wooded hills. It also travels along the West bank of Lake Champlain, a popular summer activity lake-valley area nestled between the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains.

The northbound trip is daylight through the scenic areas throughout the year. The southbound trip sees more daylight in summer; in winter you hit the Hudson valley after dark. In the fall foliage season, Amtrak usually adds a dome car to the train between Albany and Montreal, which operates every other day in each direction. And if you want off before getting to Canada, you can still see all the highlights by starting or ending your trip at Rouses Point, in New York.

Elsewhere in the east, several other Amtrak one-day trains operate through scenic areas:

Empire Service: Three daily trains and between New York and Buffalo give you the Hudson Valley plus some very attractive areas of Upstate alone the Mohawk valley as soon as you get out of the heavily industrialized areas near Albany. The Lake Shore Limited New York section does this trip too, as does the Maple Leaf. And nine shorter Empire trips plus the Ethan Allen Express between Rutland and New York all run the Hudson segment, too.

The Vermonter: Service runs daily between St Albans, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.; the scenic portion between St Albans and New Haven passes through nice mountain scenery in the Berkshires and Connecticut. Daylight hours are best going northbound. You can access the North end most easily through Essex Junction, just a few miles from Burlington. Forget the New Haven-Washington segments unless you like urban landscapes.

The Pennsylvanian: This Amtrak route operates daily between Pittsburgh and New York, but the scenic areas are over the former Pennsylvania main line between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This trip includes the famous Horseshoe Curve; daylight viewing is best eastbound.

Lake Shore Limited, Capitol Limited, and Cardinal: Three overnight long-distance Amtrak trips to/from Chicago go through the Appalachian range during daylight hours. They carry coach seats along with sleepers for folks who want to do the full trips.

The Boston section of Lake Shore Limited between Albany and Boston includes the Berkshires in western Massachusetts along with the Mohawk valley; daylight is good in both directions. The Capitol Limited operates daily between Chicago and Washington, but the scenic area is between Pittsburgh and Washington. Daylight viewing is best eastbound, although that means a 5:20 am departure from Pittsburgh.

The Cardinal operates three days a week between Chicago and New York, but the important scenery is between Cincinnati and Washington on the former C&O main line. Daylight viewing is best eastbound. The schedule isn’t great in either direction, with 1:30 am arrival and 3:30 am departure at Cincinnati. You can get most of the good stuff beginning or ending in Charleston, or you can take the overnight to/from Chicago.

The California Zephyr

Rail enthusiasts generally rate the California Zephyr between Chicago and Emeryville (San Francisco) as the best of the Chicago-to-coast Amtrak routes. It passes daily through two different areas of top mountain scenery: Denver to Grand Junction through the Rockies, and Reno to Emeryville through the Sierras including the infamous Donner Pass. The entire three-day, two-night trip is timed for good daylight viewing through both scenic areas in both directions. The daytime run between Chicago and Omaha is forgettable, but many opt for the full journey. Again, you have a choice of comfortable coach or sleeper accommodations.

Three other long-haul train routes that span from east to west are popular with railfans:

The Empire Builder: A daily two-night, three-day trip from Chicago to Portland or Seattle, the Empire Builder skirts Glacier National Park as it passes through the northern Rockies. The Portland section adds the spectacular Columbia River Gorge. The trains are timed for daylight in the Glacier Park area, at least in summer, with eastbound schedules good all year, but the best segment is between two remote stops: Shelby and Whitefish Montana. Spokane might be a logical place to start or end the trip on the West end, but the arrival and departure times are 12:37 a.m. and 1:15 a.m. Spokane would also seem to be logical for the Portland section, but the best eastern end for the Columbia Gorge is Pasco, Washington, and the best daylight viewing is westbound. Many go for two overnights between Portland or Seattle and Minneapolis-St Paul.

The Southwest Chief: Daily service is between Chicago and Los Angeles, traces the route of the famed Super Chief and almost matches its former two-night, one-day schedule. The best scenery is between La Junta Colorado and Albuquerque, in both directions.

The Sunset Limited: Service is three times a week. It links New Orleans and Los Angeles through the bayou country between New Orleans and Houston with the best daylight viewing westbound, and West Texas and New Mexico desert and mountains between El Paso and Tucson with good daylight viewing in both directions.

West Coast: Coast Starlight

The daily Coast Starlight links Los Angeles and Seattle on a two-day, one-night itinerary, and it’s another consensus favorite. The top scenery is between Los Angeles and San Jose, a stretch formerly known as the Daylight route, where the track hugs the spectacular California Coast between Oxnard and San Luis Obispo, including some more isolated sections. Timing for daylight is good in both directions. The other daytime segment, between Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Portland crosses some nice mountain areas: It’s no match for the California Zephyr, but it makes a good bookend on the two-day trip.

Two other short West Coast Amtrak routes offer good scenic potential:

Pacific Surfliner: Multiple daily trips duplicate the Coast Starlight itinerary between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, and they add 11 daily runs on the coast-hugging Los Angeles-San Diego segment as well.

Amtrak Cascades: Service runs between Eugene, Oregon, through Portland and Seattle, to Vancouver, B.C., including some nice scenic spots. No train makes a through trip between Eugene and Vancouver, but five operate daily between Portland and Seattle; two extending to Eugene and two different trains run to Vancouver.

Long-Haul Land Cruises

If you’re interested in a long-haul “land cruise,” most railfans would recommend the two-night California Zephyr or the Empire Builder between Chicago and the West Coast, and the one-night Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle. They would also recommend sleeper accommodations, which include all meals, access to showers, and other first-class benefits. Sleepers are a lot more expensive than sit-up coach seats: A couple occupying a roomette on the California Zephyr for early June, for example would pay $779, compared with $276 in Coach. But if you’re a real rail freak, the sleeper is part of the whole experience. Amtrak has in the recent past offered two-for-one sleeper tickets as flash sales—which are probably more likely in the off-season, or winter.

Off-Amtrak Bonus: VIA Rail’s Canadian

And I couldn’t complete this report without mentioning North America’s premier rail land cruise: VIA Rail’s The Canadian between Toronto and Vancouver. The four-night marathon route includes spectacular mountain scenery in Alberta and British Columbia and interesting isolated country between Winnipeg and Toronto. This train operates twice weekly over the entire routes, with an additional section added on the same schedule between Edmonton and Vancouver from May to October. It sells out early, especially for summer travel. Summer fares are generally a lot higher than winter ones; check ViaRail for promotions, especially on its regular Discount Tuesdays.

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

The post The 15 Most Scenic Amtrak Routes in North America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket

Travel clothes that do double duty are invaluable, and this jacket from Columbia gives you three outerwear options in one. The waterproof shell and fleece lining can be worn independently or zipped together for extra warmth. Although thin and lightweight, the outer shell is designed to lock in body heat, perfect for rainy autumn days. The removable hood and adjustable cuffs add extra customization.

Arc’teryx Men’s Atom Hoody

The Arc’teryx Men’s Atom Hoody is a packable jacket that delivers the warmth needed in a whole host of situations and environments. Insulated with lightweight, water-resistant Coreloft™, this hoody maintains thermal performance if exposed to moisture, and compresses into the tiny nooks of your backpack when not in use.

L.L.Bean Quilted Riding Jacket

Most easy-to-pack winter jackets look like activewear and are tough to pull off on a city trip, but L.L.Bean’s Quilted Riding Jacket is the ultimate winter coat that can do both. Its classic design goes with any outfit and won’t make you look like a tourist who just wandered into town off a hike. Thanks to the insulated synthetic lining, it will keep you warm without weighing you (or your suitcase) down. Want to layer this jacket? It has adjustable waist tabs that let you customize the fit based on what you’re wearing.

The North Face ThermoBall Eco Hoodie 2.0

The ThermoBall Eco Hoodie, available for women and men, is water-resistant and made of recycled polyester and nylon, made with ThermoBall™ Eco Insulation that performs even in wet conditions. Best of all, this jacket packs down into its own chest pocket, which transforms into a zippered carrying case when not in use.

Columbia Women’s Mighty Lite Hooded Jacket

Omni-Heat lining and insulation give Columbia’s Mighty Lite Jacket plenty of warmth. It comes in a range of colors and can be found for a surprisingly low price when on sale. This lightweight coat won’t add much bulk to your bag and has a handy interior security pocket to stow valuables.

Obermeyer Women’s Tuscany II Jacket

Based in the snow sports mecca of Aspen, Colorado, since 1947, Obermeyer knows a thing or two about cold and wet weather. It’s developed a patented HydroBlock Sport fabric tested to resist nearly 400 inches of rain (and roll stain-causing liquids right off). Find it in the Tuscany II Jacket, which also uses another unique Obermeyer material: Thermore Classic insulation, which is thin and light but still warm. The hood is removable and adjustable, as is the faux fur trim.

Patagonia PrimaLoft Nano Puff Coat

Patagonia’s PrimaLoft Nano Puff Hoody (available for men and women) is the lightest jacket I’ve ever owned. The women’s version weighs just 10 ounces (the men’s is 12.8 ounces), yet is ultra-warm and water-resistant. Unlike some other methods of insulation, you can feel good about this jacket: Its 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester.

The Antora Triclimate Jacket

The North Face’s versatile Antora Triclimate Jacket (available for women and men) is a three-in-one coat that’s perfect for travel: You can wear the waterproof shell or comfy inner liner by themselves, or combine them to make a warm winter jacket. The hood and wrist cuffs are adjustable for a better fit and to accomodate ski and general winter gear. This breathable coat is designed for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Lululemon Pack It Down Jacket

The Pack It Down Jacket can be folded up into its own small carrying case, making it one of the best packable down jackets for women. The fabric is weather-resistant, and the 700-fill-power goose down is certified to the Responsible Down Standard. You can remove the hood to further cut down on weight and space.

Arc’teryx Men’s Cerium Hoody

The Cerium Hoody from Arcteryx is incredibly lightweight—just 11.9 ounces—yet it’s surprisingly warm thanks to its combination of goose down and synthetic insulation. (Note that on rainy or extremely cold days, it’s best combined with a weatherproof shell.)

Caroline Morse always packs lightweight winter jackets for travel to cold destinations. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for style and travel photos from around the world.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. 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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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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Bar Harbor, Maine

The East Coast is an autumnal classic for leaf-peepers and Maine offers the best of the best. While there is plenty to do in the town itself, from museums to ghost tours, it’s the adjacent Acadia National Park where the season truly shines. Hike, drive, or bike the meandering paths and roads criss-crossing the park or take a kayak out on Jordan Pond to take in the foliage reflected on the water. 

Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Bar Harbor

The Holiday Inn Bar Harbor is pet-friendly, perfect for hikers looking to have an adventure with their furry friend on one of Acadia’s many pet-friendly hiking trails. The cozy atmosphere of La Bella Vita, the hotel’s in-house Italian eatery and wine bar, will warm you right up after a day of exploration as you enjoy stunning views of Frenchman’s Bay. 

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Napa, California

Did you know that grape vines change color too? Wine country in autumn is a sight to see, when not only the leaves on the trees but also the sprawling vineyards become drenched in oranges and golds. Take a Napa Valley wine tour to enjoy the foliage (drink in hand), or take to the skies in a hot air balloon to see the seasonal colors from a new perspective.

Where to Stay: Hotel Napa Valley

This Victorian-era boutique hotel exudes the quintessential vibes you want from a foliage excursion. Indulge in a complimentary breakfast served in the property’s wine cellar each morning and then hop in the car to head to one of several scenic wineries less than 20 minutes from the property.

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Duluth, Minnesota

Experience lakeside foliage in Duluth, Minnesota, a city situated on the coast of Lake Superior. With 129 city parks and over 300 cumulative miles of trails for everything from hiking and biking to horseback riding and cross-country skiing, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Visit Duluth suggests setting aside time to go birding, as migratory species can be seen in spades just off Skyline Parkway during the fall season.

Where to Stay: Lift Bridge Lodge

Located just off Lake Superior, this property features a number of beautiful outdoor spaces, private balconies, and lakeview rooms, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the autumn scenery even after returning to your hotel. 

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New York City, New York

Generations of singers have been crooning about autumn in New York and for good reason. Every year, the notoriously fast-paced city comes alive with fall color. Grab a latte and stroll around Central Park to enjoy the crisp air and changing leaves. Make a day trip out to one of the city’s many botanical gardens, located anywhere from Staten Island to the Bronx to Brooklyn.

Where to Stay: The Park West Hotel

Located on the edge of Central Park, a room at the Park West Hotel will have you waking up to a vibrant show of colors just outside your window. It’s conveniently located on the Upper West Side just a short drive to many famous attractions, including the Museum of Modern Art and the iconic Rockefeller Center.

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Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville provides access to some spectacular foliage spreads in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the town is also an attractive regional destination in itself. Go shopping and grab a meal at the Downtown Mall to enjoy some historic architecture coupled with the fall colors. A drive down the Blueridge Parkway or a day trip to Shenandoah National Park will get you out of the city and into the heart of some of the best foliage in the state. 

Where to Stay: The Draftsman Charlottesville

The Draftsman is located right in downtown Charlottesville, just five minutes from the Downtown Mall. They offer room types ranging from Premiere Queens to Luxury Suites and all are pet-friendly. Make sure to book a mountain view room to watch the fall colors break over the nearby Blueridge Mountains.

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Seattle, Washington

If you’re looking to elevate your seasonal beverage tastes beyond pumpkin spice, this is the city for you. Known for its coffee culture, you can’t go wrong ducking into any of the cafes that dot the city for an autumn pick-me-up while taking in the sites. The Washington Park Arboretum offers visitors the full color palette of the season with a wide range of deciduous trees, from dogwoods to Japanese Maples to towering oaks. Just two hours outside the city you’ll find a riot of fall color at Mount Rainier National Park, where you can leaf peep on horseback on a guided trail ride with Echo River Ranch.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sorrento

Hotel Sorrento is located in the heart of the city with easy access to its most famous attractions and, in line with the often spooky spirit of the season, its own resident ghost. But don’t worry— while most haunted hotels are chilling, you’ll find that this one is pretty chill. Alice Toklas, the inventor of the modern day “special” brownie, is said to roam the fourth floor.

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Aspen, Colorado

Aspen’s namesake trees put on quite a different show than those in the Northeast and Midwest, washing the town in hues of yellow and gold. The area’s many hiking trails become windows to a new world, surrounding visitors on all sides with towering white trunks and a golden canopy. Don’t miss a photo op with the Maroon Bells—some of the most photographed mountains in the United States—while they’re decked out in their autumn leaves.

Where to Stay: The Little Nell

The Little Nell is a luxury ski resort nestled in the mountains of Aspen.Guests take advantage of the stunning foliage by joining one of many seasonal activities offered, from off-roading to fly-fishing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did the term leaf peeping start?
A: “Leaf peeping” refers to tourists, also called leaf peepers, who travel to destinations in search of beautiful fall foliage. A surprisingly divisive term, many people think “leaf peeping” is a product of the social media era, but the phrase can be found in print as early as 1966 in a Vermont newspaper.

Q: When should I go leaf peeping?
A: Leaves tend to change earlier in the season the further north and higher above sea level you travel. Peak foliage times can vary even within a single state, especially with inland versus coastal destinations. Many states keep up-to-date foliage maps (predictive maps that show when foliage should be at its peak in different areas), that you can check when planning your fall vacation.

Q: What major US city is the best to see fall foliage?
A: There is no one best US city to see fall foliage. The best city for leaf peeping depends on the timing of your trip, the type of foliage you’d like to see, and the activities you enjoy. If you’re a city-explorer, plan a trip for mid-October to Manhattan. If you’re all about the outdoors, Aspen in September will be a good fit. 

Q: What are the different kinds of foliage?
A: Only deciduous trees—your classic oaks and maples, etc.—change color and lose their leaves in the autumn. Coniferous trees—spruce, pine, and other needle-leaved trees—will remain, as their common name implies, evergreen. 

Q: How to pronounce foliage?
A: According to Webster’s dictionary: fō-lē-ij (listen below)

Q: Is there still foliage in November?
A: Many places in the United States are past peak by the time November comes around, but you can still catch fall colors in the southernmost areas of the country.

Ed Perkins contributed to this article.

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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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