Plan ahead
Look into conditions, access, and what supplies you’ll need before leaving home.
Choose Your Next Adventure
Hover over a category in the menu, then select a park.
From mountain peaks and desert rock formations to old-growth forests and coastal waters, there’s a landscape for every kind of explorer.
High country, alpine lakes, and sweeping views
Rocky Mountain
Explore a landscape of high peaks, evergreen forests, and open meadows. Scenic drives and hiking routes offer ways to experience different elevations and habitats.
LandscapeMountains and alpine lakes
Good forScenic drives and hiking
PackLayers and drinking water
Plan a thoughtful visit
Check current conditions before setting out, stay on marked trails, and allow time to adjust to elevation.
Jagged peaks reflected in clear mountain lakes
Grand Teton
The dramatic Teton Range rises above lakes, forests, and open valleys. Visitors can enjoy viewpoints, walking trails, and opportunities to observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
LandscapePeaks, lakes, and valleys
Good forPhotography and day hikes
RememberGive wildlife plenty of space
Make the most of your visit
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and check trail and road conditions before you travel.
Glaciers, wildflower meadows, and forest trails
Mount Rainier
Forests, waterfalls, meadows, and glaciers shape the scenery around this prominent volcanic peak. Weather and trail conditions can vary across the park.
LandscapeVolcanic mountain and forests
Good forMeadow walks and viewpoints
PackRain gear and sturdy footwear
Before you go
Check forecasts and park updates, and avoid walking through fragile meadow vegetation.
Striking desert plants and rugged rock formations
Joshua Tree
Two desert ecosystems meet in a landscape of boulders, open skies, and distinctive Joshua trees. The park is popular for hiking, climbing, stargazing, and photography.
LandscapeDesert and boulder fields
Good forStargazing and day hikes
PackWater, sun protection, and a map
Desert safety
Plan around heat, carry enough water, and stay on established routes to protect desert plants and soil.
Vast desert scenery and colorful mineral landscapes
Death Valley
This expansive desert park features salt flats, dunes, canyons, and mountains. Visitors should plan carefully because temperatures, distances, and conditions can be challenging.
LandscapeSalt flats and desert ranges
Good forViewpoints and scenic drives
PackExtra water and sun protection
Travel prepared
Check conditions before traveling, carry supplies, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during extreme heat.
Natural stone arches and sculpted desert rock
Arches
Explore a desert landscape shaped by time, with natural stone arches, fins, and balanced rocks. Trails and overlooks provide different ways to see these distinctive formations.
LandscapeSandstone and desert formations
Good forShort hikes and photography
RememberStay on marked trails
Protect the landscape
Use established paths, carry water, and avoid climbing on fragile formations unless an area is open for it.
Rainforest, mountains, and rugged Pacific shoreline
Olympic
A visit can take you through lush forest, mountain scenery, and coastal environments. The park’s different regions offer a wide range of trails and natural features.
LandscapeForest, mountains, and coast
Good forNature walks and varied scenery
PackWaterproof layers and sturdy shoes
Explore responsibly
Check weather and access conditions, and follow local guidance when visiting beaches and forest trails.
Towering trees and quiet forest trails
Redwood
Walk beneath towering trees and explore a landscape of forests, prairies, and coastal scenery. The park offers a peaceful setting for short walks and longer hikes.
LandscapeRedwood forest and coast
Good forWalking and forest photography
RememberLeave plants and natural objects in place
Enjoy the forest
Stay on designated paths to help protect tree roots and the surrounding habitat.
Layered mountain views and rich forest habitats
Great Smoky Mountains
Forested ridges, streams, and historic areas make this mountain park a destination for scenic drives, walking trails, and learning about local natural and cultural history.
LandscapeForested mountains and streams
Good forScenic routes and hiking
PackComfortable shoes and rain layers
Plan ahead
Check for road and trail updates, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Rocky shorelines, island trails, and ocean views
Acadia
Coastal scenery, forested trails, and rocky viewpoints make Acadia a rewarding place to explore. Visitors can choose from walking routes, scenic stops, and shoreline experiences.
LandscapeRocky coast and forest
Good forViewpoints and coastal walks
RememberWatch your footing near the water
Enjoy the coast safely
Check weather and tide conditions, and stay well back from waves and exposed ledges.
Island scenery and marine life off the California coast
Channel Islands
These islands offer a chance to experience coastal habitats and ocean views. A visit may require extra planning for transportation, supplies, and changing weather.
LandscapeIslands and coastal waters
Good forWildlife viewing and exploring
Plan forTransportation and supplies
Prepare for an island visit
Check transportation information and bring what you need for your visit, including water and weather-appropriate clothing.
Clear waters, islands, and underwater habitats
Biscayne
Much of this park is water, with coastal areas and marine habitats to explore. Visitors can learn about the environment from shore or plan activities on the water.
LandscapeCoastal waters and islands
Good forBoating and marine-life viewing
RememberFollow water safety guidance
Respect marine habitats
Follow park guidance on water activities and avoid disturbing wildlife or sensitive underwater areas.