18 National Parks to Discover on a Cross-Country Road Trip

A few summers back, I had the incredible opportunity to undertake a three-month, 13,000-mile journey across the country on my motorcycle. With some bungees securing my fly rod, camping gear, and a bag of clothes and tools to the bike, I set out to uncover the nation’s backroads and breathtaking parks.

You don’t need a motorcycle to embark on a similar adventure. With a few weeks of vacation and some thoughtful planning, anyone can embark on a road trip to explore the extensive network of U.S. national and state parks and forests.

How to Plan Your National Park Road Trip

Before you hit the road, think about whether you want this to be a round trip or if you’d prefer to fly back. If you choose the latter, look into a repositioning rental and ensure you rent your vehicle with a credit card that provides primary car rental insurance (like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, or United Explorer Card).

For those planning a one-way journey, you'll need to arrange a flight back home. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is just a short drive from Grand Teton National Park, is served by United, Delta, American, and Frontier airlines. If your trip concludes at North Cascades National Park, you'll be only 120 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

If you're driving up to 13 hours a day, it's wise to bring along a solid credit card that offers points on gas purchases. For instance, with the Citi Premier® Card, you can earn 3x points when refueling, along with 3x points on various travel expenses, 2x points on dining and entertainment, and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Here's another tip: Purchase a national park pass to save on entrance fees. An annual pass, available from the National Park Service for only $80, is valid for entry into any national park for 12 months. Current U.S. military members can get an annual pass for free, while seniors aged 62 or older can choose between a $20 annual pass or an $80 lifetime pass.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Situated along the coast of Maine, Acadia stands as the Northeast's sole national park. Here, the mountainous terrain meets the Atlantic Ocean, forming a rugged, rocky shoreline that evokes images of the western landscapes. Consider spending a night or two at Bar Harbor's latest gem, the Inn on Mount Desert. While in the vicinity, take a scenic drive along the loop road, making stops at iconic sites like Otter Cliffs and Jordan Pond. If the summer crowds become overwhelming, venture to the Schoodic Peninsula for a quieter experience. In the fall, the summer tourists fade away, allowing the stunning foliage to beautifully frame the cliffs and coastline.

When you're set to kick off your national park road trip, head south for roughly 13 hours to reach Shenandoah National Park. Consider breaking up your journey with a stop in either Boston or New York City. Distance: 780 miles.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah stretches along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, encompassing 200,000 acres of protected lands and more than 500 miles of hiking trails. The rolling hills descend into lush valleys and farmland, offering accessible views from various points along Skyline Drive, the park's main thoroughfare. For accommodations, consider the Residence Inn or Fairfield Inn & Suites in Harrisonburg, available for 17,500 Marriott points per night. If you're seeking a challenging hike, don't miss Old Rag, but make sure to arrive at the trailhead early to beat the crowds.

Next, drive south for approximately five and a half hours to Pisgah National Forest. Distance: 330 miles.

Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Home to some of the tallest peaks on the East Coast, North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest boasts grassy balds—treeless summits blanketed with native grasses and shrubs—that offer hikers stunning, unobstructed views and a rare "alpine" ambiance for this region. The nearby town of Asheville features a variety of lodging options, from Hyatt Place Asheville Downtown ($198 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night) to The Omni Grove Park Inn (starting at $239). Be sure to stop in town to enjoy classic North Carolina barbecue at 12 Bones Smokehouse.

The journey to your next stop, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, takes just over two hours, providing ample time to explore both locations. Distance: 100 miles.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

In 2017, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was the most popular national park in the United States — and for good reason. With over 800 miles of hiking trails winding through some of the oldest mountains on the planet, combined with the region's renowned southern hospitality, the Smokies are a must-visit at any time of year. However, the park is particularly breathtaking in the fall when vibrant foliage blankets the landscape. Consider staying overnight at The Park Vista, a DoubleTree by Hilton in Gatlinburg, Tennessee for $104 or 31,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Alternatively, you can find a cozy lodge or cabin rental in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike or drive up to Clingman's Dome — Tennessee's highest peak — for sweeping 360-degree views of the mist-shrouded mountains.

The journey to your next destination, Ozarks National Forest, will take about 11 hours. Fortunately, the most straightforward route will take you through Nashville and Memphis, both excellent places to break up the drive. Distance: 750 miles.

Ozarks National Forest, Arkansas

Arkansas boasts deep valleys and rolling mountains nestled within the wild expanse of Ozarks National Forest. Hike to the 209-foot Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls, the tallest waterfall between the Appalachians and the Rockies; explore the charming town of Fayetteville; and rest your head at The Chancellor Hotel. If you're eager for some autumn leaf-peeping, head to the Sylamore District of the Ozarks, where the nearby Mountain View area hosts various fall festivals and bluegrass concerts.

The next leg of your journey to Great Sand Dunes National Park will be another lengthy drive: just over 12 hours. You can tackle it all at once or break it up with an overnight stop in Oklahoma City. Distance: 760 miles.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Experience towering sand dunes reminiscent of those found in the Sahara Desert, right in the heart of Colorado, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grassy prairies. These are just some of the diverse ecosystems you'll encounter in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park. While there aren't any towns in close proximity to the park, Zapata Ranch provides overnight accommodations and vacation packages for those who prefer not to camp. Be sure to try sand boarding or sand sledding before you continue your adventure.

After a long haul, you'll be pleased to know that the drive to Rocky Mountain National Park is just five hours north of the Dunes. Distance: 300 miles.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Featuring glacial basins, towering peaks, and alpine landscapes, all accessible via over 300 miles of hiking trails and two scenic routes (including the highest paved road in the US), Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the nation's most stunning locations. Revel in the diverse wildlife and a range of hiking options before resting at The Ridgeline Hotel in Estes Park. This property offers modern comforts in a laid-back mountain setting, complete with plenty of blonde wood and ensuite fireplaces. After exploring the park, make sure to visit Elkins Distilling Company, one of the few high-altitude distilleries in the country.

The next stop — Utah's Arches and Canyonlands National Parks — lies five and a half hours southwest. As you drive, watch the scenery shift from snow-covered mountains to stunning red sandstone cliffs. Distance: 400 miles.

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah

Situated just outside of Moab, Arches and Canyonlands provide a breathtaking introduction to Utah's vast and dramatic desert landscapes. Arches National Park is renowned for its stunning natural sandstone arches, sculpted by erosion. Many of these formations are easily accessible from the road or via short hikes, making Arches the more popular park and often the busiest. Canyonlands, its lesser-known neighbor, offers a similar landscape but is much larger and feels more rugged and untamed. Moab features several lodging options and dining spots, including a Holiday Inn Express & Suites ($180 or 40,000 IHG points).

After a restful night in Moab, set out for the Grand Canyon. This journey will take approximately five to seven hours, depending on which area of the park you choose to explore first. Distance: 300 miles.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

This must-see destination features the deepest and most awe-inspiring canyon in the country, revealing millions of years of geological history. While many visitors enjoy the canyon from various viewpoints, one of the best ways to truly appreciate its scale is by hiking along the rim or descending into its depths. The Grand Hotel at Grand Canyon, located just a mile from the South Rim entrance, is the only three-diamond hotel in the area. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, consider the 3,200-foot-long zip line at Grand Canyon West, or embark on the 20-mile round trip hike to the stunning emerald waters of Havasupai Falls. Note that camping permits for Havasupai must be obtained in advance and can be quite competitive.

When you're ready to continue your journey, head north back into Utah — a drive that can take between two and four hours — to reach Zion National Park. Distance: 100 miles.

Zion National Park, Utah

Nestled in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park spans nearly 230 square miles of stunning red and pink sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the impressive Zion Canyon, which stretches over 15 miles and plunges up to half a mile deep. For a comfortable stay, book a night at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Springdale ($175 or 39,000 Hilton Honors points per night), where you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast before tackling one of the park's most popular hikes, The Narrows. This trek takes you through the narrowest part of Zion Canyon, requiring hikers to wade through the Virgin River. Depending on your chosen path, a permit might be necessary for this hike.

Following your time in Zion, head west for approximately eight hours to Yosemite National Park, entering from the east side via the town of Lee Vining, California. Distance: 470 miles.

Yosemite National Park, California

Renowned for its towering granite cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and glacier-carved valleys, Yosemite has attracted rock climbers and mountaineers for nearly two centuries. However, non-climbers can equally appreciate the park's beauty. With a well-maintained road network and 750 miles of trails, there's something for everyone. The Double Eagle Resort and Spa, located in June Lake just 12 miles from the park entrance, offers a tranquil retreat for travelers looking to relax after a day of exploration. Hiking and backpacking are excellent ways to experience Yosemite, and for those hesitant to venture into the backcountry solo, REI Adventures provides guided trips tailored to various skill levels, ranging from four to seven days. After Labor Day, the crowds diminish, and the foliage on oaks, maples, and dogwoods bursts into vibrant colors.

After your adventures in Yosemite, head north on an eight-hour drive to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. Distance: 450 miles.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Created by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption approximately 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake is not only the deepest lake in the United States but also considered one of the purest in the world, justifying Oregon's unique national park. Along the loop road, visitors are treated to stunning views of the deep sapphire blue waters against the backdrop of the towering Cascade Mountains. There are fantastic hiking trails leading to the various peaks surrounding the lake. For instance, Garfield Peak can be reached via a 3.4-mile round trip trail, although it can become quite crowded and is challenging at times. Established in 1915, Crater Lake Lodge offers a rustic northwest atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for weary travelers after a day on the road or the trails.

From there, continue your journey north for about seven hours to Olympic National Park. If you’re in need of a break from nature, the cities of Portland and Seattle offer delightful options for food and coffee. Distance: 400 miles.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic is one of the most extraordinary national parks in the United States, showcasing a variety of ecosystems across its nearly one million acres. Here, you'll encounter glacier-capped peaks, ancient temperate rainforests, and rugged coastlines. Given its expansive nature, the best way to experience this park is to leave the vehicle behind and explore on foot. Hurricane Ridge is a fantastic year-round destination, offering summer hikes and winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. Within the park, The Lake Crescent Lodge provides a peaceful escape with a variety of room and cabin options. Alternatively, if you opt to stay in Seattle, consider the Fairmont Olympic Hotel with The Platinum Card® from American Express, which grants you perks such as an upgrade upon arrival (subject to availability), a $100 food and beverage credit, complimentary breakfast for two, and more.

You can easily spend a significant amount of time in Olympic National Park and its neighboring cities. However, when you're ready to continue your journey, head north for approximately four hours to reach North Cascades National Park. The most straightforward route from the northern section of Olympic requires taking the Port Townsend-Coupeville Ferry. Distance: 170 miles.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Situated just a few hours from Seattle, North Cascades National Park offers a stunning alpine retreat. The park features two lodging options, including a lakeside resort and the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin. For a more laid-back experience, consider an Airbnb and earn 3x points by booking with your Chase Sapphire Reserve. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse salmon and steelhead trout populations, especially in the Skagit River, one of Washington's key watersheds. After a day of driving, unwind with a drink at the new Twin Sisters Brewing Company in Bellingham.

At this juncture in your journey, you can choose to fly back east or continue by road, visiting a few more significant national parks along the way. Distance: 500 miles.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Located along the continental divide, Glacier National Park is the source of headwaters that flow into the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Hudson Bay. The park boasts over a thousand plant species and hundreds of animal species across its mountainous alpine landscape, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife observation. Be sure to drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and take in its numerous scenic viewpoints. Whitefish is a charming nearby town filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Consider booking a stay at a historic lodge or inn, such as the Lodge at Whitefish Lake or the upscale Grouse Mountain Lodge.

Refuel your vehicle in town, then continue for about six hours to reach Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Distance: 400 miles.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park showcases a remarkable geological landscape featuring mountains, bubbling geysers, and steaming hot springs. In contrast, the nearby Grand Teton National Park boasts some of the most rugged mountains in the nation, often with fewer visitors. Consider spending the night at the 385-room Jackson Lake Lodge, where guests can enjoy stunning views through 60-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. While in the vicinity, don’t miss the iconic Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone, which is easily accessible via a paved walkway. Afterward, head south toward the Tetons and explore the charming town of Jackson, where you can dine at the renowned Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse.

Alternative Routes

If you opt for a road trip back instead of flying, plan to spend two or three days heading east, with stops at additional national parks and forests. Consider visiting the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest in West Virginia, or the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the Pennsylvania/New Jersey border—both excellent choices.

Although the suggested route begins in the Northeast, there are countless variations for this journey based on your starting location. For those on the West Coast, starting at Olympic National Park and making your way to Glacier, Yellowstone, and the Tetons before heading east can be a fantastic alternative.