These 12 extraordinary lodges allow you to immerse yourself in US national parks

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the USA’s stunning national parks up close.

Just over a hundred years ago, traveling by train to one of the grand lodges in a US national park was considered a premier luxury vacation.

While many park accommodations remain exclusive, often with long waitlists, the range of options has significantly grown, featuring everything from historic log cabins to modern safari-style tented camps.

Yet, despite the diverse offerings among lodges, the finest ones share a common trait: they provide unmatched views and access to some of Earth’s most incredible spectacles, including erupting geysers, abundant wildlife, volcanic calderas, and many more wonders.

Discover 12 of our top picks for in-park lodges that offer an unparalleled experience of nature's wonders.

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1. Jenny Lake Lodge, located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Nestled in a stunning stretch of Wyoming wilderness just 30 miles from Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, featuring everything from shimmering rock formations to pristine glacial lakes. The park's most famous body of water, Jenny Lake, hosts a charming lodge tucked away among spruces at the base of the Tetons.

Transforming from a 1920s dude ranch to a AAA Four Diamond eco-resort, Jenny Lake Lodge equips its 37 vintage cabins with modern comforts like down comforters and heated floors. Explore the room options for specifics, and consider booking the Signature Stay, which includes nightly five-course meals (famous for local specialties and an award-winning wine selection with breathtaking views of the Tetons), daily gourmet breakfasts, guided horseback rides (which fill up quickly, so reserve soon), cruiser-style bikes, and other fun activities. Due to the lodge’s small size, stellar reputation, and limited season (from June to early October), expect potential year-long waitlists, so plan ahead.

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2. Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, Utah

Located about an hour from Zion, another of Utah’s gems is Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its stunning sunset-hued hoodoos. Nearby, you’ll find a newly opened glamping site from Under Canvas, offering breathtaking views of red rock landscapes and mountains. This solar-powered, safari-style camp features 50 tents and a range of onsite activities, from morning yoga to evening campfires, s'mores, and live music. Plus, with countless adventure opportunities nearby, a dedicated “experience coordinator” is available to help you plan your excursions.

Firstly, you’re right at the entrance to Bryce Canyon; whether you choose to explore with a guide or venture out on your own, you can hike, e-bike, or drive through the park’s stunning spire-filled landscape. Also within a short drive are Red Canyon (featuring even more hoodoos), Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument (a geologic marvel covering 1.87 million acres), and Widstoe (a ghost town last inhabited in the 1930s). At the end of the day, relax on your beautifully furnished bed and, if you’ve chosen a Stargazer tent, gaze up at the mesmerizing night sky. Under Canvas accepts reservations from May to September.

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3. The Lodge at Crater Lake, situated in Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Perched on the rim of the caldera, Crater Lake Lodge offers stunning views of Oregon's deep blue Crater Lake, one of the most spectacular examples of Parkitecture. Below lies the nation’s deepest lake, and while its depths reach 1,943 feet, the water is remarkably clear. It's no surprise that this stunning location was designated as a national park in 1902 and a lodge in 1915.

You can still experience the charm of a bygone era in the lodge’s grand hall, featuring rustic stone fireplaces and exposed beam ceilings, as well as in its 71 rooms—most of which are free from televisions and boast lake views that rival any screen. For a closer look at the lake, take the Cleetwood Cove Trail down to the shore and catch a boat tour (just be sure the tours are available during your visit), or take a brisk swim (the surface temperature rarely exceeds 60°F). If you’re still chilly after the hike, warm up with a sustainably sourced soup of the day at the lodge’s restaurant, which operates from May to early October, along with the lodge itself.

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4. Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Established in 1904 through a partnership between the Yellowstone Park Association and the Northern Pacific Railroad, Old Faithful Inn has been a welcoming retreat in America’s first national park for over a century. The lodge is famous not only for its views of the iconic geyser but also for its role in developing a unique American architectural style known as “Parkitecture.” This style, also referred to as “National Park Service rustic,” emphasizes the use of local materials, handcrafted details, and a design that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Architect Robert Reamer designed this grand inn, which stands as one of the largest log structures in the world, featuring an impressive lobby height of nearly 80 feet, 500 tons of rhyolite for the fireplaces, and four levels of interior balconies.

The nearly 330 guest rooms offer a range of options, from cozy accommodations with shared bathrooms to larger suites. (Old Faithful Inn tends to fill up quickly during its May-October operating season, so it’s wise to book well in advance.) Regardless of the room type you choose, you won’t find A/C, Wi-Fi, or TV— and you likely won’t mind one bit.

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5. The Ahwahnee, Yosemite National Park, California

California’s most renowned national park features the equally iconic Ahwahnee. This lodge in Yosemite Valley, a remarkable example of Parkitecture by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood, has welcomed a distinguished guest list that includes Ansel Adams, Queen Elizabeth, and Barack Obama since its opening in 1927. Visitors are often awed by the stunning dining room, with its towering ceilings, pine trusses, granite columns, and grand chandeliers; the breathtaking views from the enormous windows are equally impressive. From the hotel grounds, you can admire Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls without stepping outside.

Beyond the main lodge, you’ll discover 97 rooms ranging from standard to presidential (where JFK once stayed), as well as 24 charming cottages. Surprisingly, you’ll find internet access in this historic and remote national park hotel, but the main activity is likely to be sharing photos from stunning hikes like Yosemite Falls Trail and Mirror Lake Loop. The hotel operates year-round.

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6. Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Nestled at the entrance to Grand Teton, the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole lures guests with an array of excursions in both that park and the nearby Yellowstone. While the region is renowned for its wildlife sightings, including elk, bison, moose, and bears, the resort offers a truly unforgettable experience in September: a Day with the Wolves.

This adventure begins with a private ‘flightseeing’ tour, showcasing aerial views of Old Faithful before landing in Yellowstone. There, an expert guide will enlighten you about the history and behavior of local gray wolves as you embark on a quest to observe them. These elusive animals were extirpated from Yellowstone in the 1920s and reintroduced in the 1990s. As their population stabilizes but remains delicate, a portion of each trip’s proceeds supports ongoing conservation efforts.

Back at the main resort, you’ll experience the same level of luxury as you would at any of the brand's renowned locations. In Jackson Hole, this translates to features like marble bathrooms, partnerships with celebrity chefs, and seasonal ski concierges. Yes, you read that right: the nearly 160-room resort remains open all winter (and year-round), giving it a distinct local edge.

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7. Oasis at Death Valley, Death Valley National Park, California

Originally opened in 1927 as the Furnace Creek Inn, this retreat quickly became a favorite of Hollywood's elite, with studios reserving rooms for desert film productions and stars returning for leisure and privacy. (Clark Gable and Carol Lombard even spent part of their honeymoon at the inn.) The property has significantly evolved, now featuring a second hotel—the Ranch at Death Valley—and the world’s lowest golf course, sitting 214 feet below sea level.

After falling into disrepair, the complex has recently undergone a stunning renovation, adding 22 new casitas, 80 new cottages, and refreshing 224 existing rooms, now known as the AAA Four Diamond Oasis at Death Valley. Notably, the term “oasis” is literal: the property is situated in a real oasis, where over 80,000 gallons of water surface daily amid the otherworldly salt flats and rock formations of Death Valley National Park.

While you can enjoy a stay here throughout the year, during summer you might prefer to stay close to the swimming pools, as Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth. However, come fall, with temperatures dropping into the 60s and 70s, the biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails beckon. Each desert adventure is rewarding, but unwinding at the new spa upon your return to the Oasis is a delightful bonus.

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8. El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Albert Einstein stayed here. So did Teddy Roosevelt and Oprah. The Grand Canyon's oldest hotel, located less than a mile from the Maswik Lodge, has attracted celebrity guests since it opened in 1905 as one of Fred Harvey’s renowned establishments. Designed to appeal to high society with a style that blends Swiss chalet and Norwegian villa influences, its stunning canyon rim location clearly played a significant role in its appeal.

Numerous distinguished guests have checked into the Presidential Suite, including several U.S. presidents. Another highlight is the Zane Grey Suite, filled with memorabilia honoring the legendary Western novelist who honeymooned here in 1906. It features a balcony overlooking the historic Hopi House and offers breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon. With 78 distinctive rooms and suites, El Tovar also serves up plenty of adventure. Just be sure to make a reservation at the El Tovar Dining Room if you return hungry from hiking or rafting; lunch and dinner reservations are essential due to the influx of day-trippers. The good news is that both the restaurant and the hotel operate year-round.

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9. Zion Lodge, Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park's only lodge within the park was commissioned by the Union Pacific Railroad and designed by the renowned Parkitecture architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood in the mid-1920s. Although a fire destroyed the main building in 1966, many nearby cabins survived, and the restored central structure pays homage to the original design.

This historic park lodge is unique for offering wi-fi and TVs in its 81 rooms and suites (though the 40 cabins lack these amenities). However, with the breathtaking scenery right outside, you’ll likely spend more time exploring than watching screens. Zion is a hiker’s paradise filled with red rocks, slot canyons, and tiered waterfalls, featuring iconic hikes like Angel’s Landing. For a less strenuous experience, the scenic drive through Zion Canyon provides access to trails along the Virgin River, which leads to the enchanting Emerald Pools. After your adventures, visit the Red Rock Grill, where every meal comes with spectacular canyon views, especially from the deck. Both the grill and lodge are open year-round.

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10. Volcano House, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

This iconic hotel perched on the caldera rim (with the address 1 Crater Rim Dr) offers breathtaking views of the Kilauea Caldera at the peak of the youngest and most active shield volcano within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Guests can enjoy the stunning and ever-changing plumes rising from Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, especially from the Volcano Crater View or Deluxe Crater View rooms among the 33 total accommodations. The scenery is particularly captivating from the hotel’s Rim Restaurant, where tables by the floor-to-ceiling windows are prime spots for sunset views. Another popular area is Uncle George’s Lounge, named after George Lycurgus, who purchased the original Volcano House in the late 19th century.

Since then, the hotel has transformed almost as dynamically as the ever-changing landscape it overlooks. A lava-rock fireplace is just one of the historic features throughout the property, while modern updates include in-room wi-fi and sound machines. However, the main attraction lies just outside your door: among other highlights, the national park is home to Mauna Loa, the largest volcano in the world.

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11. Maswik Lodge South, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park’s first new accommodation in over 50 years, Maswik Lodge South is a 120-room reimagining of a 1970s predecessor. The design here nods to an even earlier era, dating back to when the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad opened a motor lodge on this site in 1927. While the new lodge boasts modern amenities like A/C and satellite TV, the restored original stone pillars provide a historic touch, complemented by the aromatic ponderosa pine forest that surrounds it, especially from your private patio.

Guests have access to all the services offered by nearby Maswik Lodge, and you’ll want to visit the Transportation & Activities Desk to explore a range of Grand Canyon adventures, from rafting to mule rides to historic train tours. Also available at the main lodge is the essential food court, where you can recharge with pot pies, mac ’n’ cheese, and other hearty favorites. Both the restaurants and the lodge are open year-round.

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12. Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park, Montana

A stunning example of Swiss chalet architecture funded by the railway, the Many Glacier Hotel opened its doors on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake in 1915 and swiftly earned the title of 'the gem of the West.' The hotel is undeniably impressive, especially its grand four-story lobby featuring vaulted ceilings, interior balconies, and a helical staircase that replicates the original design. Its secluded location, away from the popular Going-to-the-Sun Road, only enhances its charm.

In this breathtaking expanse of Glacier National Park, you'll find an abundance of sights and activities that make the lack of TVs and wi-fi in the 214 guest rooms insignificant. Local adventures range from kayaking and horseback riding to lake cruises, glacier hikes, and tours aboard the park's iconic Red Buses. Don't miss the chance to dine at the Ptarmigan Dining Room, where microbrews and craft cocktails perfectly complement the stunning mountain views. The restaurant, like the hotel, operates from June to mid-September.

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