Above: Moose twins in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Tips from a National Park Lover: How to Make the Most of Your Visit
There’s nothing quite like stepping out of your car and breathing in that crisp national park air — pine-scented in the Rockies, salty and wild on the Pacific coast, sunbaked and sage-sweet in the Southwest. I’ve been fortunate to be able to visit a number of America’s beautiful parks, and each visit reminds me just how diverse and awe-inspiring our public lands are. But I’ve also learned (sometimes the hard way!) that a little preparation makes all the difference between a good trip and a truly great one.
Here are some of my favorite tips to help you plan a smooth, memorable visit — especially with all the new reservation systems and park rules that have popped up in recent years.
1. Check for Timed Entry or Reservation Requirements
This one’s big. Many parks now require timed-entry permits or advance reservations, even for day visits. Don’t learn this the hard way by showing up to Rocky Mountain National Park without one — and end up spending the morning exploring Estes Park instead! Yes, Estes Park is lovely—but that’s not why are are there—so be sure to always check the National Park Service website (nps.gov) and Recreation.gov before you travel.
Each park has its own system — some release tickets months ahead, others a few weeks or even days before. Missing your window can mean waiting for hours or, worse, being turned away. So, take a few minutes to double-check before you go. It’s worth it.
Below: Arches National Park in Moab, UT
2. Go Early, Stay Late
Crowds in national parks can be no joke, especially mid-day in summer. I love arriving just as the sun rises — the trails are peaceful, wildlife is active, and the light makes for incredible photos. If you’re not an early bird, staying out after dinner for a sunset walk can be just as magical.
Visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) is another secret: cooler temps, fewer crowds, and just as much beauty.
You might be prepared to wait in line for an hour at Disney World, but doing that at a national park is not what most people expect. Do your research or get someone with experience to help you plan to avoid being shoulder-to-shoulder with others looking for the same amazing experience.
Below: Zion National Park near Springdale, UT
3. Always Check Road & Trail Conditions
Roads can close for snow, rockslides, or even bighorn sheep crossings — I’ve seen it all! Before heading out, I always check the park’s Alerts & Conditions page and call the visitor center if I’m unsure. A little planning can save you from long detours or disappointments.
Below: Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park, Maui-Hawaii
4. Pack Like You Won’t See a Store for a While
Even if you’re not backpacking, many parks are remote and have limited services. I always pack extra water, snacks, layers, sunscreen, a paper map, and a power bank for my phone. Cell service can vanish fast once you’re inside park boundaries — and there’s something freeing about that once you’re prepared.
Below: Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
5. Respect the Land
One of the things that makes the national parks so special is their wildness. Please stay on marked trails, pack out your trash, and give wildlife their space. I promise — that elk or bear—or if you are REALLY lucky, moose twins— look even more majestic from a safe distance. Protective “mama bear” is no joke.
Below: Haleakala Crater in Haleakala National Park, Maui
6. My Go-To Resources
When I’m planning a trip, I start here:
- nps.gov – Official park information, maps, and current alerts.
- recreation.gov – Where you book timed-entry tickets, campsites, and special tours.
- Park social media pages – Many post last-minute updates or stunning photos that inspire itinerary changes.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re standing beneath the sandstone spires of Bryce Canyon, watching the sun rise over the Grand Canyon, or hiking through the mossy forests of Acadia, America’s national parks are among the greatest treasures on earth.
At Blue Ridge Travel Group, we’re passionate about helping travelers experience these incredible places — with the right timing, reservations, and itinerary to make every moment count. Because the only thing better than exploring a national park is doing it without a single travel worry on your mind.
About the Author
Jill Kincaid is a seasoned travel advisor with Blue Ridge Travel Group and a lifelong lover of America’s national parks. Over the years, Jill and her family have explored Bryce Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Shenandoah, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon, Acadia, Capitol Reef, Saguaro, Great Smoky Mountains, and Haleakalā National Parks, along with countless state parks and national monuments across the country.
Her personal experience hiking red rock trails, chasing waterfalls, and catching sunrises from mountaintops gives her a deep appreciation for the beauty and logistics of park travel. Jill combines her firsthand knowledge with expert planning skills to help travelers design unforgettable journeys — from road trips through the Southwest to family adventures in the Hawaiian or U.S. Virgin Island’s National Parks. Contact Jill Kincaid for help planning your next national park adventure!