Plan Ahead
With more than 280 million people visiting the national parks and monuments each year, most during the spring and summer, it's bound to get a little crowded. To ensure you've got a place to stay after a busy day of hiking and time to see all of the sights, give yourself at least six months to begin planning. Most in-park hotels and campsites sell out quickly, so the more time you have to plan, the better chance you have to book a room or campsite for a decent price. In addition, remember that many trails and roads aren't open year-round, so planning ahead is a must.
No matter the season, think layers. Some parks can change up to 25 degrees in just a few hours, so it's key to come prepared. Raincoats, sturdy hiking shoes, thick socks and hats are advised for most of the parks, especially those with rugged mountain trails, lush forests and rocky coasts. Check the National Park Service's website to look at the individual trip planning guides for each park -- they'll detail seasonal temperatures and help you pack accordingly.
If you can swing it, opt for an off-season visit. Without the crowds of the high season, you've got a better chance to enjoy some of the most popular landmarks, such as Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, in peace. In many of the parks, autumn brings an added splendor with stunning arrays of brightly colored leaves and winter offers extra outdoor adventure, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Rentals
If you can, skip the car and enter the park via foot, bike or boat. These options bring a much lower sticker price (up to a 50 percent discount) and allow for a more unique adventure. You can even explore the trails, canals, caves and monuments up close.
There's a reason all of the trails in the parks are clearly marked, and it's not just to prevent you from getting lost. Staying on the trail ensures your safety and the safety of the unique wildlife that call that park home. In addition, straying far from the trails can also destroy the fragile landscape.
Don't Approach Or Feed Wildlife
Despite warnings from park rangers and ample signs, many tourists forget this critical rule when they spot a bison, bear or bald eagle. It's important to remember that these animals are wild and could view you trying to pet or feed them as a threat. Even those gentle looking dear or Elk pose a serious threat when approached by people. Avoid accidents by also securing your campsite and making sure it's free of leftover food.
A Smartphone isn't Smart
While many of the parks have modern conveniences like well-stocked grocery stores, gas stations and lodges, they often lack cell phone service. No matter the carrier, signals in most parks will be seriously spotty. Avoid pricey roaming charges by turning your phone off when you have no bars. Since service is so hit or miss, ensure you have maps and directions in case you get turned around.
Look Into Annual Passes
If you're planning to visit more than one park (which you should!), look into getting an annual pass from the Park Service. For just $80, you'll gain access to all 2,000-plus federal recreation sites, national parks and monuments for an entire year.
Take (and keep) the Map
Since many parks don't have solid cell phone coverage, take advantage of the free map the park rangers hand you when you enter the park. These will not only help you navigate around the tricky roads and trails, but will also give you insight as to where visitors centers, gas stations and other park amenities are located. Most importantly, many maps will show you where the big sights are and how long it can take to get there from the park's entrances.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
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