US National Parks:
The Complete Guide

• Where are America's National Parks located?
• When is the best time to visit the US National Parks?
• Visiting the US National Parks - Do's & Don'ts
• US National Parks wildlife
• Best US National Parks for hiking
• US National Parks activities
• The best US National Parks

Give wildlife space

Seeing a herd of bison meandering vast green hills is a truly unforgettable experience. In order to keep these gentle giants wild - as well as any other animal you might spot throughout the National Parks - you must never approach or feed them. Doing so can interfere with their young, cause them distress, or land you in danger. 

Stay on the path

Not only do the trails provide you with spectacular scenery and the best viewpoints along the way, but they also keep you safe. Marked paths are regularly checked by park rangers. In addition, marked trails ensure the flora and fauna can flourish. Straying from the routes provided can damage the environment, which can have a knock-on effect on the wildlife living there.

Take only pictures

To ensure that every generation can enjoy the US national parks for years to come, you should leave the environment in its natural condition, without taking anything but pictures. Rocks, plants and feathers are not souvenirs, and removing them can have a negative impact on the habitat and wildlife that lives there.

Don’t smoke

There are strict laws against smoking in place throughout the US national parks. Smoking cigarettes and vapes is only allowed in designated smoking areas, preventing damage to habitats and wildlife. Cigarette litter can trigger huge wildfires, destroying many acres of forest and the inhabitants within it, so you must ensure you clean up after yourself.

Bear

Where can you find them?: Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Katmai, Denali

Bears have had a strong impact on culture and history, long before the first national park came to be. The US National Parks now provide an important home for three species of bear - grizzly bear, black bear and polar bear. While they once roamed the Western region of North America, now they inhabit a much smaller range. These apex predators can often be spotted in Yellowstone National Park.

Elk

Where can you find them?: Yellowstone, Grand Teton

Native to North America, elk are the most commonly found mammal in Yellowstone National Park. In the summer months an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 elk roam in up to seven herds. Grazing on a diet of vegetation and tree bark, elk are vital to the growth of the ecosystem.

Bison

Where can you find them?: Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt

As the largest land mammal in North America and an iconic symbol of the American West, the bison is a truly majestic animal to observe across numerous National Parks. Once almost extinct in 1889, there are now as many as 50,000 in the wild today. The largest bison herd in North America can be found in Yellowstone National Park, often grazing on the grassland. Between July and August you may see newborn calves.

Wolf

Where can you find them?: Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Katmai, Denali

Another fantastic example of successful wildlife conservation, wolves thrive in the National Parks of the US. While they were once hunted to extinction in the 1930s, they have since been reintroduced, with an estimated 500 wolves residing in the Greater Yellowstone area. Spotting one of these elusive canines is an exhilarating experience - you’re most likely to spot them during dawn and dusk.

Bald eagle

Where can you find them?: Yellowstone, Acadia, Everglades, Katmai

As the national symbol of the USA, the bald eagle is a beloved bird found throughout the USA. With huge talons and a mighty wingspan of around 2 metres, they are easily recognised as one of the most iconic birds found across North America.

Marmot

Where can you find them?: Denali, Grand Teton, Yosemite, Yellowstone

A type of large ground squirrel, marmot thrive in mountainous regions such as the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada range, and the Black Hills. They can also be found in rough grassland, typically living in burrows. Marmots can be sociable creatures, and communicate with loud whistles.

Cycling

By bike is a great way to take in the scenery of North America’s National Parks, with opportunities for road cycling as well as mountain biking. Arches National Park boasts the Arches Park Road, stretching from the visitor centre to the iconic Devil’s Garden. Meanwhile, Grand Teton National Park offers beginner-friendly easy cycling with the Teton mountain range rising alongside you. For an introduction to mountain biking head to the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park, featuring some tough climbs and stunning sandstone cliffs.

Kayaking

North America’s National Parks feature some of the most pristine waters for a range of water-based activities. By far one of the most popular is kayaking, offering an alternative perspective of the natural landscape. Experienced visitors can kayak on their own where eligible, while others can make use of a park-authorised guide.

Snake River in Grand Teton, meanwhile, is a scenic stretch of water that cuts through the rugged Wyoming landscape. For a slightly different kayaking experience, Everglades National Park in Florida is home to marshes and mangrove forests. While some kayaking trails are more challenging to navigate, others provide a more serene, bird-watching experience.

Climbing

For those epic, hard-to-reach viewpoints, climbing in US National Parks is a big hit. It’s important to check for required permits at your chosen national park, and ensure you’re preserving the environment around you.

Yosemite National Park is considered one of the world’s greatest climbing destinations, with an abundance of imposing walls, crags and canyons. One of Yosemite’s most famous climbs - and one of the most technically challenging - is El Capitan, first conquered in 1958. Alternatively, Zion National Park offers a combination of beginner-friendly and challenging climbs, with sandstone cliffs reaching up to 2000 feet high. The sun-soaked East Temple wall has eight routes varying in skill level, but can get very hot in the summer months.

Rafting

With so many winding waterways throughout the US National Parks you’ll find rapids and fast-moving currents that are perfect for rafting. The Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park is a firm favourite, taking thrill seekers on a journey of historic rock formations. Yosemite’s Merced River, meanwhile, runs beneath the famous Half Dome and El Capitan, and certainly packs a punch.

Rafting

With so many winding waterways throughout the US National Parks you’ll find rapids and fast-moving currents that are perfect for rafting. The Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park is a firm favourite, taking thrill seekers on a journey of historic rock formations. Yosemite’s Merced River, meanwhile, runs beneath the famous Half Dome and El Capitan, and certainly packs a punch.

Photography

Visit any of the US’s 62 National Parks and you’ll find yourself struggling to put down your camera. These vast natural landscapes are inspirational for photographers of all skill levels. In addition there’s no shortage of wildlife subjects to photograph provided you have the patience to wait for that perfect picture. Popular photography spots include Mormon Row Historic District in Grand Teton National Park, and Landscape Arch in Arches National Park.

• Yellowstone
• Arches
• Zion
• Bryce Canyon
• Canyonlands
• Capitol Reef
• Yosemite
• Grand Teton

Every season offers a different perspective of Yellowstone National Park. For the sunniest weather summer is, of course, an idyllic time to visit, however you’ll find the park at its busiest due to summer holidays. Beat the crowds in April for a chance to see bear emerging from hibernation, while mating season for elk begins in September. 

Old Faithful

Every season offers a different perspective of Yellowstone National Park. For the sunniest weather summer is, of course, an idyllic time to visit, however you’ll find the park at its busiest due to summer holidays. Beat the crowds in April for a chance to see bear emerging from hibernation, while mating season for elk begins in September. 

Grand Prismatic Spring

As the third largest hot spring in the world, Grand Prismatic Spring is a must-visit when exploring Yellowstone National Park. It spans 370 feet in diameter and 121 feet in depth, with bright bands of orange, yellow and green encircling the vibrant blue centre. 

Mammoth Hot Springs

Often described as a cave turned inside out, Yellowstone’s Mammoth Hot Springs are a unique formation of hot springs, formed from travertine in strange and intricate shapes. There are two terraces to explore with approximately 50 hot springs. Liberty Cap - found on the Lower Terrace - is a firm favourite, standing at 37 feet tall in a cone shape. Orange Spring Mound - found on the Upper Terrace - meanwhile, earns its name through its vibrant colour produced by bacteria and algae.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

As one of the most well-known landmarks in the park, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is over 24 miles long and up to 4,000 feet wide. The most popular viewpoint to admire the canyon is at Artist Point, providing a sweeping view of the Lower Falls. If you’re eager to get up close to the waterfall, embark on the steep descent on Uncle Tom’s Trail.

Yellowstone Lake

The largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Lake is a haven for bird life and trout. Whether you’re relaxing on the shore or out canoeing on the water, the views of this expansive lake are breathtaking. Keen anglers can enjoy a spot of fishing with a permitted licence, though cutthroat trout must be released.

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley boasts some of the best opportunities in Yellowstone to spot bison, pronghorn, wolf and bear. Often nicknamed America’s Serengeti for its large populations of wildlife, Lamar Valley is within close proximity to the Northeast and North Entrances. Whether you’re driving or hiking, make sure to bring binoculars and your camera.

Hiking

Through 3,500 square miles, there are countless hiking trails to choose from. From challenging, steep out-and-back routes for experienced trekkers, to family-friendly trails, you’re guaranteed to find a scenic route to enjoy.

Horse riding

By horseback is a great way to soak up the sights and sounds of Yellowstone National Park. From entire day trips to overnight backcountry rides, you’ll find licensed guides on hand to give you the ultimate equestrian experience.

Snowshoeing

In winter, with a thick blanket of snow covering the park, snowshoeing is a popular outdoor pastime. Yellowstone boasts numerous trails for snowshoers, and with a knowledgeable guide you can venture off into the backcountry in search of wildlife.

Yellowstone Lake cruises

Enjoy a guided tour of Yellowstone’s largest lake, learning about the history of this scenic district. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for elk and bison drinking from the shoreline, as well as eagle and shorebirds soaring overhead.

Delicate Arch

Out of the 2,000 arches in the park, Delicate Arch is widely regarded as the icon of Utah. Standing unsupported by nearby walls or structures, and looming over a large sandstone basin, Delicate Arch is a serene rock formation that’s sure to delight photographers. You can hike the Delicate Arch trail for an epic view of the arch up close, though you should expect to scramble up some red rock on the way.

Landscape Arch

Taking the crown as the longest arch in Arches National Park, Landscape Arch stretches through the Devil’s Garden area. At its thinnest point the arch is just 6 feet thick, yet the rock spans 290 feet. While the trail beneath the arch has been closed due to falling rock, the Devil’s Garden Trailhead is a challenging trail ending at Landscape Arch.

Double Arch

The tallest arch in the park, Double Arch is an impressive, looming combination of archways, joined at a 90-degree angle. Surrounded by vegetation - including Utah’s state flower, the sego lily - you’ll find an easy, flat hike to the Double Arch.

Devil’s Garden

The Devil’s Garden area of Arches National Park comprises rock fins, arches and hiking trails. The main Devil’s Garden trail is a moderately challenging hike where you’ll spot plenty of arches. Parts of the trail are steep, but within the Devil’s Garden you’ll spot Landscape Arch, Partition Arch, Navajo Arch and Double O Arch.

Hiking

Wherever you decide to hike in Arches National Park, you’re guaranteed to see spectacular rock formations. The Double Arch trail is a popular, family-friendly route on mostly flat ground, while the Landscape Arch trail is slightly longer but no more strenuous. For those looking for a challenge, the Devil’s Garden Primitive Loop is the longest, trickiest trail in the park.

Arches Scenic Drive

Connecting all the hotspots throughout Arches National Park, the Arches Scenic Drive provides easy access to stunning viewpoints. The drive is 22 miles long, and if you have 4 to 5 hours, you can spend around 10 minutes at each viewpoint along the way. Alternatively, if you’re on a tighter schedule, drive to the Windows Section to marvel at the largest arches in the park.
 

4x4 Tours

To truly get off the beaten track, a 4x4 tour ticks all the boxes. A half-day 4x4 tour will take you to areas that most visitors may never see, with a knowledgeable guide on hand to answer all your questions.

Angel’s Landing

One of the most recognisable hiking trails in the world, Angel’s Landing reaches an elevation of 5,790 feet with views over Zion Canyon. This strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart, but you’ll find a chain railing to guide you along the way. As one of Zion’s most popular landmarks, this trail can be slow-moving in the summer, and experiences plenty of exposure to sunlight.

The Narrows

Another of Zion National Park’s most popular landmarks, the Narrows is the aptly named narrowest section of Zion Canyon. With walls stretching up to a thousand feet tall, it’s one of the best hikes for immersing yourself in the geology of the park. However, it’s important to note that this hike involves walking through the Virgin River. Waterproof boots or aqua shoes are imperative to ensure your feet are comfortable throughout this moderately challenging trek.

Checkerboard Mesa

With an unusual pattern of cracking - much like a chess board - Checkerboard Mesa is a 6,520 feet mountain immediately southwest of Zion’s entrance. The unique lines and striking colours of this summit make it a popular landmark for photographers. You can get up close to Checkerboard Mesa by embarking on the hiking trail.

Weeping Rock

An easily accessible landmark, Weeping Rock is an impressive alcove where sandstone has eroded away. Water trickling down through the formation is eventually squeezed out, creating the appearance of a weeping rock. Here, you’ll find a paved trail and viewing area, as well as a charming garden and stream flowing beneath the wall. To get to Weeping Rock you’ll embark on a short, easy walk, making it an especially suitable landmark for families.

Hiking

Covering over 146,000 acres, Zion National Park is undoubtedly a hikers paradise, boasting bucket-list worthy trails for hikers of all skill levels. Perhaps the most iconic - and one of the most challenging - is Angel’s Landing, rewarding adventurers with vistas over Zion Canyon. For a more family-friendly walk, the Emerald Pools Trail is a popular route following a stream to a series of protected pools.

Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

If you’re looking to cover plenty of ground, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a 25-mile road providing direct access between Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon and Zion National Park. Surrounded by impressive geological formations as well as a scattering of scenic hikes, the drive is a great way to soak up the scenery of Zion on a time limit.
 

Human History Museum

Displaying artefacts from the permanent collection of Zion National Park, the Zion Human History Museum presents the fascinating history of the park. From the impact of the water flowing through Zion Canyon to the Native Americans and pioneers of the area, this museum is a fantastic hub of Zion’s human and geological history.

Horse riding

Admire Zion’s landscapes from a different perspective as you explore the national park by horseback. On a guided horse riding tour of Zion National Park you’ll visit stunning viewpoints and tackle winding trails. Depending on your skill level there are relaxing one hour rides along the Virgin River, as well as more immersive three hour rides.

Canyoneering

Master the art of canyoneering, a high-energy activity encompassing hiking, scrambling and even rappelling down beautiful canyons. Carved by rushing water and high winds, Zion National Park is renowned for unforgettable canyoneering experiences, offering routes to suit beginners to experts. Get up close to these intricate formations in the safety of a harness and accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Farview Point

Earning its name for the vast views spanning almost 90 miles, Farview Point is a popular spot. On a clear day you’ll see as far as Navajo Mountain thanks to the fantastic air quality in Bryce Canyon National Park. You may also see the peaks of the Henry Mountains and Navajo Mountain. While there are no hiking trails branching from Farview Point, it’s a fantastic destination for wildlife watching.

Bryce Point

One of the best viewpoints in Bryce Canyon National Park, Bryce Point is famous for spectacular sunrises. Looking over the many hoodoos of Bryce Amphitheater, watch as the sun sets the formations alight, creating outstanding photography opportunities. Bryce Point is also the starting point for the moderately strenuous Peek-A-Boo Loop trail.

Rainbow Point

Situated along the main road in Bryce Canyon National Park, Rainbow Point offers beautiful views across the Pink Cliffs and the surrounding hoodoos . It’s often recommended to spend a few minutes here to understand the geographical landscape of the park, before taking the short walk to Yovimpa Point where you’ll see the Grand Staircase.

Thor’s Hammer

One of the most distinctive rock formations in Bryce Canyon National Park, Thor’s Hammer is named after the God of Thunder’s unmovable hammer. It’s doubly appropriately named since thunderstorms and lightning are a frequent occurrence in the park. One of the best ways to see Thor’s Hammer is by driving or hiking to Sunrise Point.

Hiking

On foot is one of the best ways to get up close to unique rock formations in Bryce Canyon National Park. With an interconnected labyrinth of hiking trails, there are a number of walks to suit a range of abilities. One of the easiest hikes is Sunset to Sunrise Point, covering a pathed section of the Rim Trail and encompassing views of the Bryce Amphitheater. The Queen’s Garden trail, meanwhile, is a moderate hike venturing into the heart of the canyon.

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive spans the main park road (18 miles), from the park entrance to the Rainbow and Yovimpa Viewpoint. It’s recommended that you start at these viewpoints and work your way back towards the visitor centre. The entire scenic drive takes around two to three hours, with viewpoints located short distances from car parks along the way. Viewpoints include Black Birch Canyon, Natural Bridge, Bryce Point and Sunset Point.
 

Stargazing

In 2019 Bryce Canyon National Park was certified as an International Dark Sky Park. With very little light pollution and outstanding night sky quality, stargazing here is a popular pastime. From presentations delivered by qualified experts to ranger-guided full moon hikes, there are multiple opportunities to learn more about the constellations above, or simply soak up the serene night skies.

Horse riding

Witness the beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park from horseback on a half-day or full-day trail ride. Guided by a knowledgeable crew, you’ll learn about the history and geology of the hoodoos as you descend towards the canyon. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a complete beginner, you’ll be well looked after by your horse and crew as you admire the landscape from a different perspective.

Mesa Arch

Stretching 27 ft long, Mesa Arch creates a stunning frame of the canyon and mountains. On a short, easy hike you’ll reach the Mesa Arch. Arguably the best time to arrive here is at sunrise to really enhance the fiery, orange colour of the rock, but be aware that this is a very popular hiking trail and is likely to be busy.

Aztec Butte Granary

Built by the Anasazi - a civilisation from as early as 1,500 B.C - the granaries of Aztec Butte are a fascinating example of historic architecture. Built into alcoves of a steep-sided mesa, these granaries can be seen on the moderately-difficult Aztec Butte trail.

Chesler Park

Get up close to the Needles - weird and wonderful sandstone spires - by exploring Chesler Park, a circular meadow of fauna surrounded by tall rock. The Chesler Park Loop itself provides panoramic views from a serene meadow, but can be steep and uneven in sections.

The Great Gallery

One of the best-preserved collections of canyon rock art, the Great Gallery is a group of life-size red, brown and white paintings with the largest standing at over two metres in height. On a hike in Horseshoe Canyon you’ll come across these ancient artworks as well as numerous other depictions of animals.

Upheaval Dome

Widely regarded as one of the most puzzling geological formations in Canyonlands National Park, Upheaval Dome is an 1,000 feet deep crater. There are two possible theories for its origins, one being a meteorite crash site, and the other being the eroded remains of a salt dome. There are two moderately challenging hikes that you can take to overlook this impressive crater.

Hiking

With hundreds of miles of hiking routes to explore, Canyonlands National Park is the perfect destination for both beginner and experienced trekkers. The Island in the Sky and the Needles are the best districts for well-marked trails, while the Maze is more suitable for backpacking. Mesa Arch and Grand View Point are two of the most popular easy hikes, while Upheaval Dome and Aztec Butte are more strenuous.

Stargazing

Awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, Canyonlands National Park is awash with stars on a clear night. Whether you choose to stargaze alone or accompanied by a ranger, you’ll be awestruck by the constellations that you’re able to see with just the naked eye.
 

Camping

With so much space to explore in Canyonlands National Park, camping is a great way to extend your time and make the most of the great outdoors. There are campsites in Island in the Sky and the Needles districts, each with basic facilities available (such as toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings).

Mountain biking

Canyonlands National Park boasts hundreds of miles of idyllic four-wheel-drive roads for mountain biking. The Island in the Sky’s White Rim Road is one of the most popular amongst mountain bikers, and provides beautiful views from below the mesa top. With some steep sections to tackle, the White Rim Road can be a challenging ride. Elephant Hill Road in the Needles district, meanwhile, is one of the most technical, challenging roads in Utah, and should only be tackled by expert mountain bikers.

Capitol Dome

Towering at 800 feet above the Fremont River, Capitol Dome is an imposing, iconic landmark of Capitol Reef National Park. While not technically a dome but a collection of sandstone finds, it’s an impressive rock formation nonetheless, and is best viewed from the Hickman Bridge trail.

Behunin Cabin

While this quaint sandstone cabin may look unassuming at first, this ancient structure has stood the test of time since 1883, once housing some of the early settlers of the Fremont River area. The Behunin Cabin housed a family of fifteen for a year before they moved on to the town of Fruita, but is a well-preserved example of the simple structure settlers once lived in. Renovated in the 1960s, the Behunin Cabin can be found on Highway 24.

Hickman Bridge

One of the geological highlights of Capitol Reef National Park, Hickman Bridge is a staggering natural arch looming over the Fremont River. At just under two miles on a well maintained trail, the Hickman Bridge hike is popular for its views of the bridge, river, and distant landscapes.

Fruita

Established in 1880 by Mormon settlers as the town of Junction, Fruita was then Nowadays Fruita is a well-preserved historic town with orchards of over 3,000 fruit, berry and nut trees. Visitors can pick from the orchards during the picking season - mid-June to October - and explore the schoolhouse and Gifford Homestead. Under the ownership of the National Park Service, Fruita is also the administrative centre of Capitol Reef National Park.

Upheaval Dome

Widely regarded as one of the most puzzling geological formations in Canyonlands National Park, Upheaval Dome is an 1,000 feet deep crater. There are two possible theories for its origins, one being a meteorite crash site, and the other being the eroded remains of a salt dome. There are two moderately challenging hikes that you can take to overlook this impressive crater.

Hiking

With hundreds of miles of hiking routes to explore, Canyonlands National Park is the perfect destination for both beginner and experienced trekkers. The Island in the Sky and the Needles are the best districts for well-marked trails, while the Maze is more suitable for backpacking. Mesa Arch and Grand View Point are two of the most popular easy hikes, while Upheaval Dome and Aztec Butte are more strenuous.

Mountain biking

Canyonlands National Park boasts hundreds of miles of idyllic four-wheel-drive roads for mountain biking. The Island in the Sky’s White Rim Road is one of the most popular amongst mountain bikers, and provides beautiful views from below the mesa top. With some steep sections to tackle, the White Rim Road can be a challenging ride. Elephant Hill Road in the Needles district, meanwhile, is one of the most technical, challenging roads in Utah, and should only be tackled by expert mountain bikers.

It’s important to remember that some facilities - such as campgrounds, trails and roads - can be closed due to snowfall in winter. To avoid closures and enjoy the best conditions, visit Yosemite between June and September.
 

Half Dome

Named after its unique shape, Half Dome is a granite rock formation that can be hiked or climbed. Rising more than 4,737 feet above Yosemite Valley, it’s not for beginner hikers, involving a steep final ascent with the assistance of steel cables. These cables allow hikers to reach the summit of Half Dome without the use of rock climbing equipment, making it more accessible. However, you should be well prepared for a 10 to 12 hour hike.

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is home to around 500 giant sequoias. One of the most famous trees in the grove is the Grizzly Giant, standing at more than 90 feet tall and estimated to be around 2,995 years old. Nearby the Grizzly Giant is the California Tunnel Tree. In 1895 a man-made tunnel was carved through the trunk to allow stagecoaches to pass through. Nowadays the tunnel is too small for most cars, but can still be walked through to inspect the inside of this magnificent tree.

El Capitan

From many viewpoints in Yosemite National Park, El Capitan dominates the skyline. Standing at 3,000 feet above the valley, it has become a symbolic beacon of the park, and a challenging climb to be conquered. However, for a more peaceful way to enjoy El Capitan, simply reach one of the many viewpoints and wait for the Firefall. Enjoyed during mid to late February, watch as El Capitan’s eastern flunk becomes awash in golden red with the setting sun.

Tuolumne Meadows

For a laid-back wildlife-watching experience, Tuolumne Meadows is a serene grassland surrounded by granite peaks. Wildflowers bloom in the spring making it particularly popular for photographers, but thanks to the wide open space, you’ll rarely run into crowds.

Glacier Point

Overlooking Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and the high country, Glacier Point is perhaps the most iconic viewpoint in Yosemite National Park. At an elevation of 7,214 feet, it’s also a brilliant spot for bird watching. Glacier Point is accessible by the Glacier Point Road from June to October, and can also be reached via a moderately strenuous hike on the Four Mile Trail.

Hiking

From gentle out-and-back hikes to jaw-dropping climbs to a summit, Yosemite National Park has a multitude of hikes suitable for all skill levels. The Half Dome hike is Yosemite’s most challenging and requires a permit, but is a truly rewarding experience to conquer. The Glacier Point Trailhead hike, meanwhile, is an easy trip to one of the best viewpoints in the park.

Cycling

Yosemite National Park provides over 12 miles of paved bike paths, giving you a unique perspective of the scenery. While cycling is prohibited on hiking trails and off-road, there’s plenty of landscape to be admired while enjoying the fresh air. Bikes can be hired during the warmer season, with trailers and tandems available.

Rafting

Yosemite National Park provides two main rivers for rafting. The Merced River is perhaps more suitable for beginners due to the smaller rapids, but be aware that during April and May the waves are at their largest. Passing through the grassy canyon, you’ll be surrounded by oak and pine trees, with hillsides in full bloom during the spring. The Tuolumne River, on the other hand, offers an ample step up for thrill seekers. Thundering through boulders and spectacular scenery, you’ll catch glimpses of Half Dome as you sail down the rapids.

Horse riding

Follow in the hoofprints of the early pioneers as you explore Yosemite National Park on horseback. From gentle two-hour rides to immersive half-day adventures, you’ll soak up the landscape with your sure-footed companion to guide the way. It doesn’t matter if you have no prior horse riding experience. The Yosemite National Park ranches provide teams of experienced horses and mules to ensure you enjoy the journey.

Climbing

Yosemite National Park is considered one of the world’s greatest destinations for climbing. Thanks to the vast size of the park there are a wide range of climbs to suit all skill levels. However, by far the most challenging and famous is El Capitan, requiring years of experience and determination to conquer. Half Dome is another iconic summit that draws countless climbers every year. But if you’re new to climbing and not sure where to start, you’ll find the Yosemite Mountaineering School a fantastic place to begin your bouldering adventure.

Mormon Row Historic District

After Mormon settlers arrived in the 1890s the community of Grovont was established, comprising 27 homesteads. Today you’ll find well-preserved barns, including the John Moulton Barn which entices photographers from around the world. Nestled beside the jagged Teton mountain range, these impressive barns have stood the test of time to become an iconic landmark in Grand Teton National Park. Pronghorn, elk and moose are also commonly found grazing in the area.

Jackson Lake

Enlarged by the construction of the Jackson Lake Dam, Jackson Lake spans 15 miles of glacial water tucked into the base of the Teton mountains. Since its expansion it has become a hotspot for water activities, including boating, swimming and fishing. There are also a number of hiking trails, as well as ‘beaches’ along the shore for relaxing.

Chapel of the Transfiguration

Built in 1925 the Chapel of the Transfiguration frames a view of the Cathedral Group of mountains. In its earlier years it offered spiritual refreshment to ranchers and passing tourists in the surrounds of the Teton Range. Now, with space for just 65 visitors, this quaint building provides a unique place for worship and reflection in Grand Teton National Park.

Hiking

There are over 250 miles of hiking trails to explore in Grand Teton National Park. From rugged canyons to vast glacier lakes, you’ll soak up plenty of beautiful scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters along the way. For beginner hikers the Jackson Lakeshore Trail is an easy, predominantly flat trek with views across the water to the Teton mountains. Alternatively, the Jenny Lake Loop is an easy but longer walk, with an alternative - but certainly no less stunning view - of the mountains.

To step it up a gear, the Lake Solitude Trail is a more strenuous trek, taking you through Cascade Canyon and ending up at the serene alpine Lake Solitude. For the ultimate trekking challenge embark on the Surprise, Amphitheater and Delta Lakes Trail, climbing a rewarding 3,667 feet.

Wildlife watching

Grand Teton National Park’s wildlife is often overlooked in favour of large US national parks. However, on just a simple hike through this rugged landscape, you’ll find a haven of thriving wildlife. Grizzly and black bear are common residents of the ecosystem (always stay at least 100 feet away from bear, wolf and bison), while moose and elk can often be spotted at a water’s edge.

Oxbow Bend is one of the best wildlife viewing areas, with river otter, osprey, bald eagle and beaver all in abundance around the water. Mormon Row, on the other hand, is home to nearby bison, pronghorn and coyote.

42-Mile Scenic Drive

Hit multiple points of interest throughout Grand Teton National Park on the 42-mile Scenic Drive. On this loop drive there are designated places for you to stop and take in the scenery safely. Between May and October each year, you can drive to popular locations including:

• Oxbow Bend
• Snake River Overlook
• Jackson Lake Dam
• Mormon Row
• Cunningham Cabin

Boating

With numerous lakes to choose from, boating is a popular pastime in Grand Teton National Park. You can opt to embark on a scenic cruise with a guided boating service, or rent kayaks and canoes for a serene paddling experience. Thrill-seekers will love thundering down the Snake River on a whitewater raft, while families can enjoy a steady float on the water.