Exploring America's national parks on a road trip is a unique experience! As you travel along the roads, you can discover and appreciate the incredible diversity and natural beauty that the North American country has to offer.
Imposing canyons and mountains make these destinations the right choice for lovers of the great outdoors. Start your road trip off on the right foot by renting a car with Happy Tours USA, to make the most of your journey. Get to know the main parks below and choose your favorite route!
1. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
One of the best-known national parks in the world is the Grand Canyon, which enchants visitors with its iconic natural wonders, as well as its challenging trails for the adventurous. However, going to the Grand Canyon and not exploring the South and North Rim can be a source of future regret.
Hiking, mule rides and rafting on the Colorado River are some of the options that also entertain visitors. Be sure to watch the sunset from the panoramic viewpoint at Hopi Point to take stunning photos.
2. Antelope Canyon (Arizona)
Famous for its sculpted rocks, Antelope Canyon creates a visual spectacle when the gaps between the rocks meet the sun's rays! At sunrise or sunset, you can guarantee incredible photos.
In addition to its breathtaking views, the canyon located on the Navajo reservation is divided into upper and lower sections, both of which can be accessed by guided tours. They guarantee a safe experience and are full of interesting facts about the place.
3. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Known as the "Crown of the Continent", Glacier National Park has more than 1000 km of trails that lead to enchanting landscapes in these national parks in the United States. Crystal-clear lakes and glaciers mark this unmissable destination for lovers of the outdoors.
But a visit to the park starts with a road trip with a car rental in Montana at Happy Tours. Enter "Going-to-the-Sun Road", a scenic road with panoramic views across Glacier National Park, into your GPS and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Paradise for nature lovers has a name and an address. Rocky Mountain National Park, located in Colorado, brings together rugged mountains, wildlife and stunning alpine lakes.
Trails of varying levels of intensity bring together adventurers from all over the world for a challenging adventure on Longs Peak, Colorado's most famous mountain. In addition, adventurers gather during the summer to hike Trail Ridge Road, which offers incredible views from high altitude trails.
5. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
Its unique rock formations are also called "hoodoos" and are responsible for turning Bryce Canyon into a natural amphitheater with a fascinating geological history.
The park offers several trail options, from hiking to tracking, along the Navajo Loop and on the Queens Garden Trail, which allow you to take a closer look at the fascinating structures of one of America's national parks.
6. Yosemite National Park (California)
Famous for its impotent waterfalls, sequoias - trees with trunks that reach 33 meters in length - and the deep valleys that surround Yosemite National Park, this is a great choice of national park to visit in California.
Popular activities include hiking Half Dome and El Captain, which allows more experienced visitors to climb and experience wildlife up close.
7. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Another park in the United States known for its majestic mountains is the Grand Teton National Park, which, in addition to climbing activities and park tours of Jenny Lake, the picturesque valley becomes an incredible stop for those who enjoy fishing.
Not to mention that the reflections of the Tetons under the waters of the lake are an incredible postcard. Moran Point also offers a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains.
8. Zion National Park (Utah)
Hike to Angels Landing or along the narrow paths of the Virgin River and enjoy the diversity of trails and natural beauty of Zion National Park, which brings together adventure and unmissable landscapes in a single national park in the United States.
The park is known for its red sandstone cliffs and canyons that win visitors over in just a few steps. The experience extends from start to finish.
9. Arches National Park (Utah)
Known for its natural arch formations caused by erosion, which total more than 2,000, Arches National Park has been used as a location for several films, such as The Hulk, Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade.
To make the view even better, choose your car rental in Utah from Happy Tours and drive off into the sunset while touring all the national parks in the United States. If you like a good adventure, the area offers hiking, trails and trekking throughout the day.
10. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana and Idaho)
Without a doubt, this is the most famous park in the United States. As well as being known as the world's first national park, Yellowstone is home to the Old Faithful Geyser, a hot spring, and the Grand Prismatic Pool, a vibrantly colored pool that enchants visitors.
The park, which occupies three different states, offers a plethora of activities, including kayaking on the clear waters of Yellowstone Lake and hiking trails that lead to the park's Grand Canyon, which impresses with its yellowish colors from the sun and the waterfall.
What to pack for your road trip to the US national parks?
To ensure a smooth and safe trip through the national parks of the United States, the suitcase is the focal point. Carrying a portable charger can be essential to ensure plenty of photos and help navigate the park's online maps. Don't forget to pack water, sunscreen and insect repellent to reapply when necessary.
On the day, wear light clothes, sunglasses, a hat and comfortable shoes suitable for the weather and, if it's hot, take a jacket so you don't get cold as the hours go by. Take the opportunity to check out what to pack in your international suitcase in our travel guide.
Plan ahead!
Planning your road trip in advance is essential to ensure that you get the most out of your adventures in the United States' national parks. Accommodation, park tickets and car rental, when planned before departure, ensure greater comfort for you and your group.
Another important point is to check the weather and new updates on the parks' official websites, as the sites may close without warning, making your trip to the site pointless. Check the official website before going there to reduce the risk of unforeseen events.
What you can't miss on your road trip: a rental car with Happy Tours
Happy Tours USA is available throughout the United States, guaranteeing your best convenience on the road. Renting a comfortable car that meets your needs is crucial if you don't want to miss out on the breathtaking views of the USA's national parks.
Before you arrive at your destination, log on to the website, choose your pick-up point and set off on this great adventure at your own pace and itinerary to enjoy all the destinations you have in mind.
Exploring the national parks is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, natural landscapes and history, and with Happy Tours USA your road trip starts off smooth and safe!
