This post was created by Ruschtotheoutdoors (text) and Steve Hynes (images).
It all started with Yellowstone. In 1872, President Ulysses Grant signed the area into law as the first national park. Since then the United States has legally protected 62 additional areas. Together, the much-loved parks attract over 300 million visitors per year. These national treasures vary widely, from those with indoor lodging to many that are rough wilderness areas, but all featuring amazing terrains! It’s little wonder then that some people make it a goal to visit as many national parks as they can. Which one will you visit next?
Our photographer, Steve Hynes, provided these vibrant photos of four national parks. Read on, study his special photos, and let our text and images help you make your decision. It’s a perfect time since as of this writing, the U.S is celebrating National Park Week. (April 17 to 25)
Bryce Canyon National Park
Located in southwestern Utah, Bryce Canyon is indeed a national treasure. Of course, the park’s most popular attraction is the actual Bryce Canyon (a jumble of large, natural amphitheaters found within the first three miles of the park). But visitors are also wowed by the Pink Cliffs, Red Rocks, and its spectacular views that seem to go on for days. The National Park has the largest collection of spires of rock, also known as “hoodoos,” in the world.
Bryce Canyon’s Grand Staircase also makes this area special. The Staircase is a huge pattern of sedimentary rock that stretches south for 100 miles. In fact, it also travels through Zion National Park and into the Grand Canyon. Due to its rock layers, the Grand Staircase preserves more of our planet’s history than any other place on Earth. Overall, Bryce Canyon is said to be one of the most beautiful places in Utah. The red, orange, and white colours of the rocks are breathtaking! Note: Don’t miss the most popular overlooks in the park: Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point. If you’re looking tp get more physical, try mountain biking, horseback riding, or hiking along its more than 50 miles of trails. Whether you trek the Navajo Trail or Peek-a-Boo Loop, you’re sure to enjoy this outdoor paradise!
Visitor Center Physical Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, UT-63 Bryce, Utah 84764 GPS Coordinates: Latitude: N 37° 38′ 24″ / Longitude: W 112° 10′ 12″ Hours: 24 hours. Visitor Center and Fee Booths are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Fees: Varies
Death Valley National Park
Whether it’s the popular Badwater Basin or little known treasures like Titus Canyon, you’ll find many places to explore within the National Park. The 3,373,063 acre region is the “hottest, driest, and lowest” national park in the U.S. Tourists may be scared off by the startling name, but the area actually offers a rich mix of habitats. Still, much of the park (93%) is officially designated wilderness, so special care should be taken (See “Considerations.”) Visit and you’ll be rewarded with views of barren salt flats, rugged mountains, deep canyons, sweeping sand dunes, and spring-fed oases. Don’t miss the popular features of the Park including Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Artist’s Drive, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Visitor Center Physical Location: Many people use the street address for the Death Valley Post Office. It is situated about 400 meters south of the visitor center: 328 Greenland Blvd. Death Valley, CA 92328 GPS Coordinates: N 36°27.70
W 116°52.00 Hours: 24 hours. Fees: Varies
Glacier National Park
No trip to Montana would be complete without a visit to Glacier National Park. Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, cascading waterfalls, mountain and glacial lakes, and beautiful valleys are the backdrop for the ultimate hiking experience. No doubt you will see plenty of wildlife during your adventure. Bear, moose, and mountain goats along with some endangered species like Canadian Lynxes and wolverines, inhabit the park. In addition to hiking, visitors to the Park often enjoy camping, boating, fishing, and guided tours.
Although Alaska is a better place to see glaciers, with forethought, you may view some glaciers during your visit. Most stand within “shadowy niches” along the Continental Divide, obscured by snowfields. A few glaciers, however, can be seen from the road. Several others can be seen via a short hike, while still others can be studied closely after a hearty trek. Visit in late August or early September if you are set on viewing a glacier. Note: In addition to viewing the glaciers, be sure to travel the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road and visit Lake McDonald, Iceberg Lake, and Logan Pass during your visit.
Headquarters Physical Location: 64 Grinnell Drive, West Glacier, MT 59936 Hours: 24 hours. Fees: Varies Note: The Park is now using an online reservation system (ticketed entry) for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor between the park’s West and St. Mary Entrances from May 28 to September 6, 2021.
Grand Canyon National Park
Did you know that the Grand Canyon is considered one of the natural wonders of the world? You’ll find that a visit to Grand Canyon National Park is an unforgettable experience. And while you’ve probably seen many photos of the iconic Park, no doubt, these images pale in comparison to viewing the natural formations first-hand. (Still, Steve Hynes’s photo makes us feel like we are almost there!)
Since the Grand Canyon is almost 450 km long, you’ll have to plan your trip and choose between the four Rims before you visit. Most travelers opt for the popular Southern Rim or the West Rim. The Southern Rim offers spectacular views that you have probably seen via images. The West Rim features a glass floor of a Skywalk that looks down into the canyon below.
No matter which part of the Park you plan to tour, you’re sure to enjoy the timeless beauty of the natural area. Note: If you don’t enjoy hiking, you’ll be glad to learn that you will have the ability to tour by car and still see many sights.
Visitor Center Physical Location: There are several Park entrances. Visit the Park website for more information
Hours: 24 hours. Fees: Varies
Considerations
Review these tips for a successful visit to your chosen National Park.
Park Tips
- Check the Park website for news alerts, payment advice, pet regulations, and information about possible, mandatory reservations
- Most of the Parks offer the ability to purchase a site-specific digital pass on Recreation.gov before you arrive
- Many of the Parks offer the ability to purchase an annual pass
- Some National Parks are quite remote. Learn what amenities are available in each area before you travel. Cell and wifi can be extremely limited
- In hot and remote parks like Death Valley, stay on paved roads in summer. If your automobile breaks down, stay with it until aid arrives. Carry extra drinking water in your car in case of emergency.
- Read “Travel Tips” as published by the National Park Service
- Learn more about Entrance Fee-Free Days here
Hiking Tips
- Be prepared. Wear suitable clothing and foot attire, bring a first aid kit, carry a lot of water, and bring snacks
- Check the weather and conditions in the park before you begin your hike
- Let someone back at home know your plans
- Try to hike with at least one other person. Always stay together and let the slowest hiker set the pace
- Plan your route. Review trail maps before departing
- Keep track of your time and distance
- Stay on marked trails and take plenty of breaks
- Avoid hiking in extreme heat
- Be aware of your surroundings. In wilderness areas, like Glacier National Park, consider wearing bells or speaking loudly so as not to startle bears on backcountry trails
Photo Credits
All photos provided by Steve Hynes of https://www.outoftheoffice4good.com
About the Photographer
Steve Hynes lives with his husband on both coasts of the U.S.A. With his recent bi-coastal move, Steve says that “we are ready for even more hiking, travel, and adventure.” His locations provide him with many opportunities to gather research and photographs for his outdoor travel blog, outoftheoffice4good.com.
References
National Geographic: National Parks
National Park Service: Home
U.S. World News & Report: Best U.S. National Parks