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7-Day Itinerary for Exploring All National Parks

Viewed by 61 travelers
Monday, November 6: Joshua Tree National Park

In the morning, begin your adventure at Joshua Tree National Park, known for its unique desert landscapes and Joshua Trees. Explore iconic spots like Hidden Valley and Barker Dam, perfect for hiking and nature photography. In the afternoon, visit the Cholla Cactus Garden and be amazed by the striking scenery. As the evening approaches, have a picnic and marvel at the breathtaking sunset over the desert.

  • Joshua Tree National Park: Entrance fee $30, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Hidden Valley: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
  • Barker Dam: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
  • Cholla Cactus Garden: Free, Time spent 30 minutes - 1 hour
Tuesday, November 7: Yosemite National Park

Embark on an unforgettable day in Yosemite National Park. Start your morning with a hike to see the iconic Half Dome or El Capitan. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Yosemite Valley and visit famous attractions like Bridalveil Fall and Tunnel View. End your day by stargazing at Glacier Point for a mesmerizing celestial experience.

  • Yosemite National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Half Dome or El Capitan Hike: Free, Time spent varies
  • Bridalveil Fall: Free, Time spent 30 minutes - 1 hour
  • Tunnel View: Free, Time spent 30 minutes - 1 hour
  • Glacier Point: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 8: Grand Canyon National Park

Experience the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park. Begin your day by hiking along the South Kaibab Trail to enjoy panoramic views of the canyon. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along Desert View Drive, stopping at various viewpoints. As the day ends, witness an unforgettable sunset at Yaki Point or Hopi Point.

  • Grand Canyon National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • South Kaibab Trail: Free, Time spent 4-6 hours
  • Desert View Drive: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
  • Yaki Point or Hopi Point: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 9: Zion National Park

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park. Begin your morning with a scenic drive along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, taking in the stunning rock formations. In the afternoon, embark on a hike to Angel's Landing or The Narrows for unforgettable experiences. As the day concludes, relax by the Virgin River and enjoy the tranquility of the park.

  • Zion National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
  • Angel's Landing Hike or The Narrows Hike: Free, Time spent varies
  • Virgin River: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
Friday, November 10: Rocky Mountain National Park

Discover the majestic landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park. Start your day by driving along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at viewpoints such as Many Parks Curve and Forest Canyon Overlook. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike around Bear Lake or explore the enchanting Moraine Park. Make sure to keep an eye out for wildlife during your visit!

  • Rocky Mountain National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Trail Ridge Road: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
  • Many Parks Curve: Free, Time spent 30 minutes - 1 hour
  • Forest Canyon Overlook: Free, Time spent 30 minutes - 1 hour
  • Bear Lake or Moraine Park: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 11: Glacier National Park

Experience the pristine beauty of Glacier National Park. Begin your day by driving along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, marveling at the breathtaking mountainous landscapes. In the afternoon, take a scenic hike to Hidden Lake or Avalanche Lake for stunning vistas. End your day by relaxing at Lake McDonald and watching the sun set over the serene waters.

  • Glacier National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Going-to-the-Sun Road: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
  • Hidden Lake Hike or Avalanche Lake Hike: Free, Time spent varies
  • Lake McDonald: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
Sunday, November 12: Olympic National Park

Explore the diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park. Begin your morning by visiting the Hoh Rain Forest, where you can take an enchanting nature walk through lush greenery. In the afternoon, discover the rugged coastline at Ruby Beach or Rialto Beach. As the trip comes to a close, relax at Sol Duc Hot Springs and unwind in the natural mineral-rich waters.

  • Olympic National Park: Entrance fee $35, Time spent 6-8 hours
  • Hoh Rain Forest: Free, Time spent 2-3 hours
  • Ruby Beach or Rialto Beach: Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
  • Sol Duc Hot Springs: Entrance fee $15, Time spent 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring these national parks, don't miss out on some off the beaten path attractions and local favorites. In Joshua Tree National Park, visit Keys View for panoramic desert views. In Yosemite National Park, explore the serene Tuolumne Meadows for a peaceful escape. At the Grand Canyon, take a guided tour through Antelope Canyon for a unique slot canyon experience. In Zion National Park, venture to Kolob Canyons for stunning red rock formations. Rocky Mountain National Park offers the tranquil beauty of Emerald Lake. In Glacier National Park, visit Two Medicine Lake for a peaceful and less crowded spot. Lastly, in Olympic National Park, hike to the enchanting Shi Shi Beach and witness its rugged beauty.

For booking hotels and flights, check out kayak.com to find affordable options that suit your budget and travel needs.

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