If your family is anything like mine then you are probably battling a serious case of cabin fever. We live in the Upper Midwest where spring has not yet sprung. Tomorrow the forecast calls for snow, wind, and freezing temperatures. I don’t know if Mother Nature got the memo—but the calendar says we are just a few weeks from summer!
When the temperatures do begin to rise we plan to head outdoors (and stay there until fall). Our summer travel plans include hitting some of our favorite national parks, though with near record gas prices we will likely choose ones that are closer to home.
If you are still looking for a way to bond with your family in the great outdoors I highly recommend visiting some of this country’s natural gems.
Here are some of my family’s favorites:
Yellowstone National Park
The world’s oldest national park is home to a variety of plants and animals living together on 2.2-million-acres. The park straddles Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho and is probably best known for housing Old Faithful and the geyser basin. If you visit don’t miss the chance to tour the Mud Volcano/Sulphur Caldron area and the bubbling mud pots.
Yosemite National Park
This California gem is home to some of the world’s most incredible waterfalls. The park offers magnificent hiking trails, bike paths, picnic spots and vast meadows filled with wildflowers. My tip: Drive up to Glacier Point and aim your camera over the valley from above Curry Village.
Olympic National Park
This Washington state hot spot is like three parks in one. In a single day you can hike in the mountains, through a rain forest and along the ocean. During your walks you can get up close and personal with the park’s four-legged and winged residents and learn about their varied habitats.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This gigantic piece of property is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina and is considered the “Salamander Capital of the World.” At least 30 species of salamanders are found here, but they are only a fraction of the wildlife waiting for you at the park. If you are traveling with children I would suggest signing them up for the Ranger-led tours designed specifically for pint-sized guests. The program includes interpretive talks and tours of historical buildings, museums and two working gristmills.
Related Articles:
Family Forays to National Treasures
National Park Service Mansion Tour
National Parks in the Northeast
Do You Live Near A National Park?
Expect To Pay More At Some National Parks