A Division of Gran Turismo Globe Trot Pvt ltd.
US NATIONAL PARKS
DESTINATION GUIDE
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real US National Parks in a way like no other. Breathe in the fresh mountain air. Listen to the whispers of the trees. Feel the spray of glacial waterfalls. From the moment you enter the national parks of the United States, you’ll sense the magic. There are 61 national parks across the country, making up 14 percent of the land in the US, and they hold some of the world’s most extraordinary wonders. Our national parks tours take you to the most incredible sights, from 300-foot sequoia trees, to a canyon with two billion years of history. Explore the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people in Mesa Verde National Park, discover thousands of natural sandstone arches in Arches National Park, admire the thundering Bridal Veil Falls and towering trees in Yosemite, and see the bubbling hot springs in Yellowstone. Top it all off with a helicopter flight over the colossal Grand Canyon, for an unforgettable view of nature’s brilliance. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.
"A trip through the US National Parks is an unforgettable experience. You'll come face to face with nature's finest and leave with a deep appreciation for our wonderful planet."
Travel Director
US National Parks at a
glance
Currency
US dollar
Winter avg temp
1°C
Summer avg temp
25°C
Time Zone
GMT -5 to
GMT-10
Capital City
Washington D.C.
Language
English
Good Morning
Good Morning
Good evening
Good Evening
Breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the whispers of the trees and feel the spray of glacial waterfalls in the US National Parks. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and discover the magic, from 300-foot sequoia trees and bubbling hot springs, to a two billion year-old canyon.
Our top 3 things to do in US National Parks
When you visit US National Parks with Trafalgar, we’ll show you the top national parks in the country, from the giant Grand Canyon to the ancient trees of Yosemite.
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon National Park is a phenomenal feat of nature. You’ll walk the rim and learn from your Local Specialist how it formed over the past 40 million years. From sunrise to sunset, the Grand Canyon is truly mesmerising.
Arches National Park
We’ll take you on a journey through the spectacular sandstone arches of Arches National Park. There are more than 2,000 natural arches carved by the wind, including the long Landscape Arch. You can hike to the viewpoint of the iconic Delicate Arch and discover other formations such as Balanced Rock, soaring over the desert.
Mesa Verde National Park
Located in Colorado, this UNESCO-listed national park is filled with centuries-old history. You’ll drive the Mesa Top Loop Road past archaeological sites and lookouts, and see the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people, that are chiselled out of the sandstone canyon walls.
Best food in US National Parks
Exploring the trails of the national parks works up an appetite, and we’ll show you the best places to taste all the famous dishes of the United States.
Buffalo wings
Found across the country, buffalo wings are one of the most beloved dishes in the United States. An unbreaded chicken wing is deep-fried and coated in a vinegar cayenne hot sauce with melted butter. They’re best served hot and dipped in blue cheese or ranch dressing.
Pot Roast
Also known as the ‘Yankee pot roast’, this is a braised beef dish made from slow cooking a piece of beef with gravy and vegetables such as potatoes, onions and carrots. The cooking method produces a soft, succulent meat drenched in rich gravy, for a warm and hearty meal.
Cheesesteak
Hailing from Philadelphia, the cheesesteak is now a classic American dish found across the country. It’s a sandwich made from thin slices of beefsteak and melted cheese, stuffed in a long hoagie roll, and it’s a delicious meal after a long day of hiking through national parks.
Hiking shoes
The National Parks of the US are filled with hiking trails, and you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to explore these spectacular landscapes.
Binoculars
The national parks are filled with incredible animals like bears and bison, and a pair of binoculars will help you spot wildlife safely from a distance.
Versatile clothing
From sun-drenched canyons to snowy peaks, the weather changes throughout the national parks. Come prepared for all climates with layered and versatile clothing.
Reusable water bottle
National parks are pristine protected areas, and whatever you take in, you must take out. Bring a reusable water bottle to avoid adding to waste with disposable plastic bottles.
A book to collect stamps
You can collect unique stamps at the ranger stations of each national park. Bring a notebook to keep them in, as a special memento of your journey.
What to pack for US National Parks
Other things to know before you go
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Road Trip Adventures
Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!