There are 59 national parks in the U.S., and each has its best time to visit. And while some flourish in spring and fall, there are others you simply must experience during the summer months. So, if you’re planning a summer getaway to a national park, these three won’t disappoint!
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
For a breathtaking view of the spectacular Midwest, head over to Montana’s Glacier National Park. While the park becomes a fairytale-like icy wonderland in winter, in summer, it blossoms into a colorful blanket of trees, blades of grass, and turquoise lakes. The best part about visiting this park is that you can take the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S. Once you’re on-site, you can choose between the 700 miles of gorgeous trails full of adventure opportunities.
2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park is home not only to marvelous sites but also to the deepest lake in the U.S. The name of the park comes from the lake in the middle, which is actually the 1,943 feet deep crater of a volcano. Visiting in summer ensures that you can explore the park’s viewpoints and trails, which is almost impossible in winter. Take the 33-mile long Scenic Rim Drive to catch memorable views of the crater and its lush surroundings.
3. Sequoia National Park, California
There’s nothing quite like witnessing the beauty of the giant sequoias at California’s signature national park. These magnificent trees have been symbolic of the area for centuries, and a trip there will certainly be memorable. Hikers can explore the sequoias up close, and drivers can drive around them, so whether you want to hike or go on a road trip, this destination has everything. Plus, tucked under these gentle giants, you will be escaping the heat of summer. Not bad, eh?