Canadian Rockies

Best time to visit: Summer

Recommended Hikes: Iceline Trail, Wilcox Peak, Helen Lake, Parker Ridge, Sentinel Pass, Johnston Canyon, many more listed in the hiking section below

Ideal For: Hiking, Mountain-Climbing/Scrambling, Auto-Touring, Biking, Wildlife Viewing

Where to stay: Numerous options near Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper

Photo Gallery - Park Website - Park Map

The Canadian Rockies are stunning. There are six national parks throughout the mountain range, four of which share borders. The region gets a lot of snow, so summer offers the best weather and open hiking routes. Other seasons offer fewer crowds and winter sports.

Must See Attractions:

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (Banff) - Two of the prettiest lakes in all the Rockies are right next to each other in Banff, near the town of “Lake Louise”. Both lakes have lodges, canoe rentals, and hiking trails. Parking is limited - there is a shuttle service during summer months but it’s better to arrive early and beat the crowds.

Johnston Canyon (Banff) - a famous photography spot which is far more impressive than photos reveal. The box canyon is miles long and features seven major waterfalls. The hike continues on to the “ink pots” which are small pools of deep blue water. Expect crowds throughout Johnston Canyon.

Emerald Lake (Yoho) - Yoho’s answer to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with a lodge and canoe rentals. There is a hiking trail that runs around Emerald Lake and more difficult routes that climb high above it for sweeping views. 

Spirit Island (Jasper) - Spirit Island is halfway down the 14-mile long Maligne Lake, one of the Rockies largest lakes. Getting here requires an $80 ferry ride which I believe is worth it. Maligne Canyon is really cool as well and it’s worth stopping at when driving to or from Maligne Lake.

Edith Cavell (Jasper) - An impressive mountain wall with a hanging glacier and an iceberg-filled, turquoise lake. You need a permit to drive here which can be obtained at the Jasper visitor center. The permits are free but they do sometimes run out, so plan ahead.

Takakkaw Falls (Yoho) - The 2nd tallest waterfall in Canada. Takakkaw Falls can be enjoyed at its base with an easy walk, but it’s best appreciated from across the valley on the Iceline Trail hike, which climbs high above the valley floor. 

Sunwapta and Athabasca Falls (Jasper) - The Athabasca River runs through two impressive waterfall systems at Sunwapta and Athabasca Falls. Both are made up of slot canyons with foot bridges above that allow visitors to look down on the rushing water.

Icefields Parkway (Banff/Jasper) - There is a long stretch of road the connects Banff and Jasper, called the Icefields Parkway. There are many lakes worth seeing on this road, including Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Waterfowl Lakes. Mistaya Canyon and the Athabasca Glacier are worth stopping at as well.

Lake O'Hara (Yoho) - I wasn't able to make it here, but I have heard it is awesome. Cars are not allowed in this area, so you have to either hike in or get one of a few coveted spots on the shuttle bus, which fills up almost immediately when the reservation window opens. Read about Lake O'Hara on the Park’s website here.

Other places to research: Kootenay National Park, Canmore, Mt Robson Provincial Park

Useful Info:

• Ski resorts are scattered throughout the region, and many of them have chairs or gondolas that run during summer. This a good opportunity to spot bears from above and reach higher elevations without having to hike.

• Fire season can render the mountain peaks nearly invisible. Late summer offers the best weather and least amount of snow, but be prepared for possible smokey conditions.

• The Canadian Rockies are home to both black bears and grizzly bears - proper food storage is required at all times. Read more about bear safety here.

• The drive between the towns of Jasper and Banff will take about three and a half hours, one-way. There is one, very expensive gas station half-way between Lake Louise and Jasper - fill up in town to avoid the extra cost.

• Carry tire chains if you are driving through in fall, winter, or spring.

Where to Stay:

There are many hotel options in the developed areas, and multiple hostels at more remote locations along the Icefields Parkway. AirBNB is also a good option.

All camping reservations can be made online here. Most of the campgrounds have shower facilities and some of them have electric fencing to keep wildlife at bay.

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies:

I wont pretend to know what I am talking about here. I was lucky to meet a Canadian who showed me a book called "Don't Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies" - if you are serious about researching the Canadian Rockies, I recommend buying the book.

I will mention the top four hikes they recommend, since they are all well-known. To see their other recommended hikes - please consider buying the book!

• Valley of the Ten Peaks/Larch Valley/Sentinel Pass (Banff)

• Wiwaxy Gap/Lake O'Hara Alpine Circuit (Yoho)

• Iceline Trail (Yoho),

• Mount Wilcox (Jasper)

Below are my recommendations based on the hikes that I personally did. There are many more great routes in addition to what is discussed below.

Wilcox Peak (Jasper) - Wilcox Peak is a steeply sloped mountain with a reachable summit for the average, fit hiker. The peak offers stunning views in every direction. You have to cross a section of unmarked, rocky terrain to reach the final trail that leads to the peak. Read more about the hike here.

Iceline Trail (Yoho) - The Iceline Trail is awesome and offers outstanding views of Takakkaw Falls. The hike can be done as an out-and-back, or a longer loop hike. A large section of the hike is high above the treeline on an ancient glacier bed. The loop hike leads to a second impressive waterfall - Twin Falls. Read more about it here.

Helen Lake (Banff) - This hike initially ascends across the valley from Bow Lake, providing a great view of it from above. The trail eventually breaks above the treeline and then crosses open tundra to Helen Lake. Beyond Helen, the trail ascends further to a very steep ascent of Cirque Peak. Read more about the hike here.

Parker Ridge (Banff) - Parker Ridge is a little shorter than the hikes mentioned above, but it still offers outstanding views in every direction. The trail goes much further up the ridge than it initially appears - there is an unmarked area of tundra that you have to cross to continue climbing. Read more about the hike here.

Wapta Falls (Yoho) - Wapta Falls is the most impressive waterfall I saw in the Canadian rockies. It is 90 feet high and 500 feet wide, and the power of the water flow is mind-blowing. The hike is mostly flat but entirely below the treeline, so there aren’t any viewpoints until you reach the waterfall. Read more about it here.

Valley of the 5 Lakes (Jasper) - This is a short hike which is mostly flat and below the treeline. The 5 Lakes are quite pretty and worth the hike if you are looking for something else to see in Jasper. Read more about the hike here.

Valley of the Ten Peaks/Larch Valley/Sentinel Pass (Banff) - I didn’t attempt this hike - This trail has seasonal closures and group hiking requirements because it’s a high frequency bear area. Read more about the hike here. Read more about the bear restrictions on the park’s website here.

Wiwaxy Gap/Lake O'Hara Alpine Circuit (Yoho) - This hike requires advanced reservations as there is no parking at Lake O-Hara. Visitors can walk or take the shuttle, which fills up months in advance. Read more about it here.

Glacier National Park

Glacier is requiring tickets to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road for summer 2022. Click here for more info and to reserve in advance.

Best time to visit: Late Summer

Recommended Hikes: Avalanche Lake, Grinnell Glacier, Two Medicine Lake, Hidden Lake, Highline Trail

Ideal For: Hiking, Wild-life Viewing, Backpacking, Camping, Auto-Touring

Where to stay: On the east side of the park (St. Mary, East Glacier, or Many Glacier)

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Glacier NP is frustratingly seasonal. Snow lasts well into summer and comes early in fall, with prime visiting season during summer.

• Beware of fire season - Late summer is great for open roads and trails, but forest fires can render mountain peaks obscured behind smoke.

• It's best to get lodging on the east side of the park to significantly reduce daily drive times. There’s a lot more to see on the eastern side of the park than the west side.

• Glacier is home to both black bears and grizzly bears - proper food storage is required at all times, and extra caution needs to be used whenever hiking in grizzly territory. Read more about bear safety here.

• There are boat tours on numerous lakes throughout the park - click here to read more about them and to book online.

• Drinking water is available at most developed areas of the park, including visitor centers and campgrounds.

• There is shuttle service that runs the length of the Going-to-the-Sun road during late summer only - using the shuttle is a good way to avoid the hassle of parking, but it can be slow and crowded. There is no charge to use the shuttles - it is included with the park entrance fee.

• Glacier also has two private tour companies that run bus tours on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. These are not free, but offer a more in-depth experience than the crowded shuttle system. Read more about the bus tours here.

Glacier is "the" favorite national park for a lot of outdoor enthusiasts. It is massive and has a lot to offer, with great wildlife-viewing, outstanding hiking, waterfalls, lakes, and mind-blowing mountainscapes. It is a highly seasonal park - almost everything is closed for most of the year, except for summer. Late summer is best for snow-free hiking routes and roads. Early summer offers its own advantages, including smaller crowds and stronger flowing waterfalls. 

Must See Attractions:

Going-to-the-Sun Road - The park's most famous attraction. The road is closed for most of the year, but opens in summer when the snow clears. There are viewpoints where you can pull over, but most of the road is narrow and windy with steep dropoffs to valley's below. The road reaches it's highest point at Logan Pass which is where the hikes to Hidden Lake and the Highline Trail begin. There is a small visitor center at Logan Pass, but parking fills up early every day.

Avalanche Lake - This is the big attraction on the park's west side and it can be accessed when the Going-to-the-Sun Road is still closed. Avalanche Lake is a green gem surrounded by granite cliffs, with multiple waterfalls flowing down into it. Click here for more information on this hike. 

Many Glacier - This is a compact district on the East side of the park, with a single, out and back road. It's famous for two popular day hikes: Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake. The Many Glacier Hotel is a historical landmark right in heart of Many Glacier, and you can take a small ferry across the lakes during summer months. If you are a hiker, you can spend at least two full days in Many Glacier. Auto-tourers can see it in one day.

Two Medicine - Similar to Many Glacier, but without the hotel. Popular hikes here include No Name Lake, Cobalt Lake and Dawson Pass. Running Eagle Falls is worth stopping at as well. Ferries run across Two Medicine Lake during summer which can cut a few miles off the above hikes - read more about them in the hiking section below.

Waterton Lakes National Park - If you bring your passport, you can visit Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. It's a much more developed atmosphere up here - the heart of the park is a full-fledged town with restaurants, shops, and quaint hotels right on the banks of lakes, surrounded by steep mountain faces. Click here for more information on Waterton Lakes. 

Where to Stay:

East side of the park (St Mary, Many Glacier, or East Park Village areas. You will spend much less time driving each day to see everything. 

If you are planning to visit in summer, book your lodging as early as possible. Campgrounds go on sale 6 months in advance and can sell out fast at recreation.gov. There are also hotels and cabins available.

The districts are as follows:

Many Glacier - Home to the historic Many Glacier Hotel and also a developed campground. Click here to book a room at the Many Glacier Hotel, and here for the campground. Book as early as possible.

St Mary - This is the best location to stay as it’s the most central to all the park’s attractions. There are a few options for hotels and also a campground which can be reserved online here. St Mary is also the access point to the Going-to-the-Sun Road's east end.

East Glacier - Another small town on the east side of the park. East Glacier is right next to the Two Medicine district and offers similar accommodations as St. Mary. It's another good option for lodging on the east side of the park, but I would recommend St Mary over East Glacier if possible.

West Glacier - West Glacier has the park's largest campground called "Fish Creek" which can be reserved online here. It fills up slower than the east-side campgrounds but still fills up in advance. West Glacier has a few options for hotels and restaurants, but the drive times to the east side of the park from here are long. Stay on the east side of the park if you can!

Hiking in Glacier:

Hidden Lake - Hidden Lake is a sight to behold and one of the most popular spots in the park. It can be enjoyed from high above with a moderate hike, or on its shores with a more strenuous hike. The trailhead leaves from the Logan Pass Visitor Center and is entirely above the treeline, making it safe for seeing, but not surprising wildlife. Mountain goats love to hang out in this area. The hike is closed whenever the Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed. Read more about it here.

Highline Trail - Another awesome hike that leaves from the Logan Pass Visitor Center. The hike starts off with a stomach wrenching stretch along a cliff above the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It continues for miles along the continental divide, providing stunning views out towards the west the entire time. You can make this hike as short or as long as you like. Read more about the Highline Trail here.

Avalanche Lake - The best day-hiking option on the park’s west side with a really cool endpoint at Avalanche Lake. This hike is popular so you can expect others to be on the trail. The lake and waterfalls flowing into it are awesome, but most of the hike is below the treeline. Read more about the hike here.  

Grinnell Glacier - Located in the Many Glacier district, Grinnell Glacier is a great chance to see turquoise lakes. Hikers can get all the way up to the glacier which feeds the lakes below. The hike can be shortened by using the ferries when they are running in the summer. This is a good place to see Bighorn Sheep. The hike begins in thick forest but opens up once you reach the first major lake. Read more about the hike here. 

Two Medicine - There are a lot of hiking options here - in late summer you can take a ferry across the lake to get closer to out-and-back hiking destinations like Dawson Pass, No Name Lake, Upper Two Medicine Lake, and Cobalt Lake. Crowds are a little thinner here than in Many Glacier. 

I haven't personally hiked to Dawson Pass or Iceberg Lake, so be sure to research those as I have heard they are great. There are many more hiking routes that go deep into the Glacier backcountry, but they require overnight backpacking.

Grand Teton National Park

Best time to visit: Summer (but great to visit year-around)

Recommended Hikes: Jenny Lake, Bradley/Taggart Lakes, Amphitheater Lake

Ideal For: Hiking, Backpacking, Wild-Life Viewing, Camping, Boating, Winter Sports, Auto-Touring

Where to stay: Towns of Jackson or Moose, or campgrounds and hotels in the park

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Grand Teton National Park is just 12 miles from Yellowstone National Park - all visitors should plan to see both parks in a single trip. It takes about 3 hours to drive from the heart of Grand Teton to the heart of Yellowstone on Highway 191 (closed winters). Read more about Yellowstone here.

• Wildlife is abundant - if you see a crowd on the roadside, there is probably a bear in sight. Look for moose near standing water and pronghorns on the open plains.

• The Tetons are home to both black bears and grizzly bears - proper food storage is required at all times, and extra caution needs to be used whenever hiking in grizzly territory. Read more about bear safety here.

• There is a shuttle boat that goes across Jenny Lake from late spring through early fall. Click here for more information and ticket prices.

• Motor-boating is allowed on Jackson Lake. All boats must go through an invasive species inspection before entering the lake.

• Kayaks can be rented during summer on Jackson Lake at the Signal Mountain Lodge. Kayaks can also be rented at the boathouse on Jenny Lake, but only in late summer after the water reaches a certain temperature.

• Backcountry and mountain climbing permit information can be found here.

• Jackson Hole Ski Resort is just outside the park's southern boundary. There is a tram and gondola here that visitors can ride up for great views of the park. Click here for more information.

• Drinking water is available at campgrounds and visitor centers throughout the park - Bring your water bottle to fill up.

• There is no shuttle service in Grand Teton NP.

The Tetons are a uniquely beautiful mountain range with picturesque lakes and abundant wildlife. Ancient glaciers carved deep canyons between the peaks, all of which offer hiking routes deep into the wilderness. Wildlife is abundant here - Look for moose, elk, pronghorn, bears, and bison throughout the park. Grand Teton NP is open year around but has seasonal road closures. Snow lingers well into summer on the high altitude hiking routes. Summer is the ideal time to visit for the best weather.

Must See Attractions:

Jenny Lake - The most popular lake in the park - Jenny Lake is right at the base of the tallest peaks in the range. There is a lodge and visitor center on the banks of the Lake, and a boathouse that runs ferries across the lake. Kayaks can be rented on Jenny Lake at the boathouse during late summer. The hike around Jenny Lake is outstanding.

Mormon Row - An icon of the Tetons - Mormon Row is a historical settlement from the late 1800s that is a favorite for photographers visiting the park. Read more about it on the park's website here. 

Colter Bay - A good place to see Jackson Lake - the largest lake in the park with Mount Moran rising up across the water. There are a few hiking routes that begin here. Motor-boating is allowed on Jackson Lake - all boats must stop for an invasive species inspection before entering the lake.

Where to Stay:

There are a bunch of options - There are several rustic hotels in the park boundaries in addition to many more options in nearby Jackson and Moose (Jackson Hole area). There is even a hostel in Moose, great for winter ski trips and summer hiking trips. Click here for info on the hostel.

There are numerous campgrounds in the park. Read more about them here.

Also consider staying in Yellowstone if you can’t find anything available for the Tetons.

Hiking in the Tetons:

I've only hiked a few of the trails in the Tetons, so the below is limited to my experience. Carry bear spray and study up on bear safety if you plan to be hiking in Grand Teton or Yellowstone:

Jenny Lake - There is a hiking path that goes around the lake, which can be extended to String Lake, Leigh Lake, and Cascade Canyon. This is a great hike to enjoy views of the mountains, and it can be shortened by taking the ferry across the lake. Read more about the hike here.

Amphitheater Lake - A small lake way up in the mountains. Amphitheater lake is surrounded by peaks and glaciers, including the Grand Teton peak itself. The hike starts at either Lupine Meadows or Taggart Lake trailheads. The higher elevation sections of this hike will have snow on them into the early summer. Read more about the hike here.

Colter Bay - There are a handful of routes that take off from the visitor center here, but in my experience, they can be heavily forested with minimal views until you come to lakeshores. I recommend doing the short hikes in this area (about a mile in length) and saving your long hikes for spots with more elevation gain.

the Great American Eclipse, as seen from Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming - August 21, 2017

A few hyperlapses I shot in the Tetons. Locations in order of appearance: Mormon Row, Ampitheater Lake, Taggart Lake Trail Head, and Jenny Lake

North Cascades National Park

Best time to visit: Late Summer

Recommended Hikes: Blue Lake, Maple Pass, Hidden Lake, Sahale Arm

Ideal For: Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Boating

Where to stay: Colonial Creek and Newhalem campgrounds, town of Marblemount

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• The North Cascades Highway which runs through the park is closed November - April.

• Reaching the southwest region of the park requires dirt road driving, but it’s doable in a 2-wheel drive car.

• North Cascades is home to black bears - proper food storage is required at all times. Read more about bear safety here.

• There is a small general store in the center of the park in the town of Newhalem, its hours are 10AM to 5PM every day. There are no other stores or services in the park.

• Drinking water is available at the campgrounds and visitor center. Bring your water bottles to fill up.

North Cascades is located in northern Washington state, just a few hours drive from Seattle. It is one of the lesser visited national parks in the country, partly because it receives a lot of rain and snow. Late summer brings the best weather and the least amount of rain, along with snow-free hiking routes. When the clouds clear, the mountainscapes in North Cascades are as beautiful as any in the country.

Must See Attractions:

Diablo Lake - Right in the center of the park, Diable Lake is surrounded by rising mountains and has a distinctive turquoise color. There are several viewpoints, and hikers can get close to the lake's shoreline at the Ross Lake Dam and near the Colonial Creek Campground.

Washington Pass - This area is outside of North Cascades’ boundaries but it offers the best attractions that you can reach on paved roads in the park. Rewarding hikes here include Blue Lake and Maple Pass.

Cascade Pass Area - This region is more remote and requires a long drive and hike, but it's well worth it. It’s located on the southwest side of the park, at the end of a long dirt road from the town of Marblemount. The Hidden Lake and Sahale Arm hikes are both in this region. Read more about these two in the hiking section below.

Where to Stay:

Most options in or near the park are either campgrounds or RV parks. Newhalem Campground and Colonial Creek Campground are both in the central part of the park. Newhalem can be reserved in advance here. Colonial Creek is located right on the shore of Lake Diablo - it can be reserved here. There is also a few first-come-first-serve campsites in more remote areas of the park. There is an RV park in Marblemount in addition to the RV campsites at Newhalem and Colonial Creek.

A small amount of cabins are available at the Ross Lake Resort - click here for more information.

Hiking in North Cascades

Most hikes here are steep and long, but incredibly rewarding. Large elevation gains allow you to see the repeating ridge lines of the Cascade Mountains in a way that is not possible from the park road. You must be in good shape to do the hikes discussed below.

Blue Lake - The best moderate hiking option - this trail is about 4 miles roundtrip and climbs about 1,000 feet in elevation. Blue Lake is striking with an imposing rock wall backdrop. Read more about the hike here. 

Maple Pass - The best hike in the Washington Pass area. The trail loops around and then high above Lake Ann and Rainey Lake, and it has an stunning summit with panoramic views at Maple Pass. Read more about the hike here.

Sahale Arm - A challenging climb that offers fantastic views and possible mountain goat sightings. Most of the hike is on a steep dirt trail, but the final ascent crosses rock scree. Look for the cairns (small towers of rocks balanced on each other) which mark the easiest ascent up the rock field. Read more about the hike here.

Hidden Lake - the trail to Hidden Lake climbs 3,200 vertical feet in just 4.5 miles. Hidden Lake is a true gem, perfectly blue with a backdrop of mountains. You cannot reach the shoreline of Hidden Lake, but can descend a rock field once reaching the viewpoint to get a closer look. The dirt road up to Hidden Lake is steep and narrow with potholes, but it is doable in a two wheel drive car. Read more about the hike here.

Locations include Sahale Arm, Maple Pass, and Hidden Lake

Olympic National Park

Best time to visit: Summer

Recommended Hikes: Seven Lakes Basin, Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest

Ideal For: Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Auto-Touring, Boating

Where to stay: North or West side of the park

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Olympic NP is deceptively large - It will take about 3 hours to drive from its East side to the coast. It's best to devote a full day to one area; for example, spend one day exploring the coastline, and another day in the northern mountain regions of Hurricane Ridge and Sul Doc.

• Be prepared for weather, including rain during summer. The park service does snow plowing during winter, but only for weekends.

• The vegetation in Olympic is dense which makes for a complete lack of viewpoints at low elevations. In order to see the mountains, you will have to drive to Hurricane Ridge or do one of the longer hikes.

• Drinking water is available at most developed areas of the park, bring your water bottle to fill up.

Olympic is a big, mountainous national park, covering most of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. It is very diverse with mountains and rainforests and sections of the Pacific coastline. The park receives a lot of rain and snow - summer months offer the best chance of good weather along with open hiking routes.

Must See Attractions:

Hurricane Ridge - This is the only place accessible by car where you can see the mountains in the heart of Olympic, including Mt Olympus. It's located on the north side of the park and the road is open most of the year, except on winter weekdays when there is snow. There is a visitor center at the peak and numerous hiking routes from there.

Lake Crescent - An impressive lake surrounded by rising mountains. The Lake Crescent Lodge is right on its shoreline and it’s a great place to stay, eat, or watch the sun set. Lake Crescent is located on the northern boundary of the park.

Sol Duc - This a cool area with a lodge, restaurant, and hot spring heated pools. Sol Duc Falls is really pretty and it’s just a short hike from the lodge. A longer trail to Seven Lakes Basin is also in this area and it’s a great hike - read more about it in the hiking section below.

Coastline - The park includes 73 miles of rugged coastline. The two primary coastal areas are Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach. Both offer cool rock formations with coarse sand and lots of driftwood. The Ozette area is also along the coast but requires several miles of hiking through dense vegetation to reach the ocean.

Rainforests - The Hoh and Quinault rainforests sit in the western and southern sections of the park. They are worth seeing, but if you just have a few days, I recommend focusing on the coastline and mountains instead.

Where to Stay:

In general, try to stay somewhere on the north or west boundaries of the park. Lake Crescent and Sul Doc are good central locations on the north side that have campgrounds and lodging. There are also options along the coast if you want to make the ocean the focus of your trip.  

Avoid staying on the south or east sides of the park to reduce drive times.

Hiking in Olympic

Olympic makes you work for it when it comes to hiking, but the rewards are worth the effort. Hiking at easier, lower elevations is exclusively through dense forests with tall trees and zero distant views. If you are capable of hiking in the 10-15 mile range with significant elevation gains, you can get above the tree-line for views of lakes, repeating ridge lines, and Mount Olympus.

Seven Lakes Basin - This is a strenuous hike that continues on from Sol Duc Falls, roughly 15 miles roundtrip. It can be done as a loop or an out and back (via Deer Lake), and it is also great overnight backpacking destination (permit required). I highly, highly recommend this hike, it will not disappoint! Read more about it on the park's website here.

Hurricane Ridge - There are multiple trails that take off from Hurricane Ridge. This a beautiful area high above the treeline which offers great views no matter how far you hike. Read more about the area’s hiking options here.

Rialto Beach - An awesome beach hike at Rialto goes to the "Hole-in-the-Wall" natural arch, about 2 miles one way. There are several impressive rock formations along the way. The sand is coarse and abrasive so be sure to wear solid shoes. Read more about the hike here.

Also consider researching:

Deer Park and Obstruction Point - these are both accessible via dirt roads, near the Hurricane Ridge area. From what I've read, the roads are narrow and steep, but the reviews are good. Deer Park has a first-come-first-served campground which is highly reviewed as well.

Round Lake, part of the Seven Lake Basin in Olympic National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

COVID Info: Rocky Mountain is using a ticketed entry system this summer. Click here for more info and to reserve in advance. Masks are required on shuttles and inside park buildings.

Best time to visit: Late Spring through Early Fall

Recommended Hikes: Dream Lake, Moraine Park, Bierstadt Lake, Sprague Lake

Ideal For: Hiking, Wild-life Viewing, Backpacking, Camping, Mountain Climbing, Horse-back Riding, Auto-Touring, Boating

Where to stay: On the East side of the park 

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Wildlife in Rocky Mountain NP is abundant - Look for elk, deer, and black bears at the lower elevation meadows and bighorn sheep on the rocky high elevations near Trail Ridge Road. Male elk are dangerously aggressive during the fall breeding season and they will charge if you get too close. Proper food storage is required at all times to protect the park's black bears.

• Many higher elevation hiking routes will have snow on them well into the summer - bring hiking poles for increased stability on the snow.

• Arapaho National Recreation Area is just outside the park's western boundary - there are several big lakes here where motor-boating is permitted.

• Estes Park is a town just outside the park's eastern boundary. There are hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores here.

• Drinking water is available at most developed areas of the park, including visitor centers and campgrounds. Bring your water bottle to fill up.

• There is shuttle service that runs from Moraine Park to Bear Lake during summer and fall. The service will be operating at limited capacity in 2021 due to Covid.

Rocky Mountain National Park has towering peaks, lush meadows, and picturesque lakes. An extensive network of hiking routes go deep into the mountains, especially on the east side of the park. The Trail Ridge Road, which connects the east and west sides of the park, opens at the end of May each year. The park is open year around, but winter access is only to lower elevations. Higher elevation hiking routes will be covered in snow into the summer.

Must See Attractions:

Moraine Park - Rocky Mountain National Park has a huge elk population, and they love to hang out in Moraine Park. A "park" is basically a really big meadow. The female elks congregate here in great numbers to graze and nurture their young throughout the summer, while the males stay on the fringes, preparing for the fall breeding season. Its really impressive to see them all here, bring binoculars! 

Sprague Lake - This is a tranquil lake with great views of mountain peaks rising up in the distance. There is an awesome, leisurely foot-path that goes around the lake, with a nearby parking lot and shuttle stop which makes it easy to access for all ages. 

Bear Lake - a really popular lake at the end of Bear Lake Road on the east side of the park. It is the starting point for several hikes which lead to other lakes and waterfalls in the area. Parking here fills up early; if the shuttles are running when you visit, it's worth using them to avoid the hassle of parking.

Trail Ridge Road - Open summer ONLY - Trail Ridge Road runs along a spine of Rocky Mountain peaks to connect the west and east sides of the park. There are numerous viewpoints to stop at, and also the Alpine Visitor Center which sits at an elevation of almost 12,000 feet. The road opens each year at the end of May (Memorial Day Weekend) and closes down for the winter in mid-October. 

Where to Stay:

If you are interested in hiking and wild-life viewing, the most opportunities are on the east side of the park. There are major campgrounds on the east side, one of which is reservable in advance online here. Hotels in Estes Park are a good place to stay if you are not interested in camping.

If you are interested in motor boating, you will want to stay on the west side of the park, near the Arapaho National Recreation Area.

Hiking in Rocky Mountain:

Dream Lake - This is a pretty short hike that leaves from the Bear Lake area on the east side of the park. Dream Lake has an impressive backdrop of mountain peaks and the trail to get here also passes Nymph Lake. This hike can be extended to include Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha. Read more about this hike here.

Bierstadt Lake to Hollowell Park - This is a good long hike that is off the beaten track. You can park at Hollowell Park and take the shuttle up to the Bierstadt Lake stop. The first part of the hike is a climb up to Bierstadt Lake which is secluded and picturesque. The trail down to Hollowell Park from here is rocky but all downhill, and Hollowell Park is a nice endpoint to the hike. Bierstadt Lake can be done as an out and back hike as well - read more about it here.

Cub Lake - A popular hike that leaves from Morraine Park. I recommend doing the Morraine Park section but not necessarily continuing on to Cub Lake. The first mile of this hike circles the perimeter of Morraine Park which is great for seeing elk. However, Cub Lake is not as pretty as many other Rocky Mountain NP lakes, so I do not recommend hiking to Cub Lake as an endpoint.

There are many hikes I haven't done in Rocky Mountain NP - I recommend researching more online or asking at the visitor centers if you are planning a trip. 

Parts that I missed:

All of the higher elevation hiking - due to too much snow when I visited in May. Some hikes to consider if you visit in late summer include Sky Pond, Glacier Gorge, and Fern Lake.

Wild Basin - This is a more remote section of the park in the south-eastern corner of the park. There are no services here or drinking water, but a network of out-and-back hiking routes. 

A few hyperlapses I shot in Rocky Mountain National Park. Locations in order of appearance: Moraine Park, Bierstadt Lake, and Hollowell Park

Sequoia National Park

Covid Info: Shuttle service may be modified or limited in 2022. Masks are required on shuttles and inside park buildings.

Best time to visit: Year around, but avoid snow to best explore the Giant Forest

Recommended Hikes: Moro Rock, Congress Loop, Round Meadow, Crescent and Log Meadows, Pear Lake, Redwood Canyon Grove, Muir Grove

Ideal For: Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Auto-Touring

Where to stay: In the park at numerous campgrounds and lodges

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Sequoia is a black bear stronghold - I have seen more bears here than anywhere else. Look for them in the meadows and the Giant Forest, especially in the morning and evening. Proper food storage is required at all times. Read more on food storage on the park's website here.

• There is a general store at Lodgepole which sells food and souvenirs. It also has a small cafeteria that is open throughout the day from spring - fall.

• A trip to Sequoia can be combined with a trip to nearby Yosemite National Park. Read more about Yosemite here.

• There is no direct access to Sequoia NP from the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Sequoia's gates are open year around from the south entrance on Highway 198.

• The General's Highway which connects the north and south entrances of Sequoia NP is closed during winter - access to the Giant Forest is open year around via the south entrance (Highway 198).

• There is shuttle service during summer months. Try to lock down a parking space early at General Sherman or the Giant Forest Museum and then use the shuttles to get around from there. There is no charge to use the shuttles - it is included with the park entrance fee.

• Drinking water is available at most developed areas of Sequoia, bring your water bottle to fill up.

Sequoia trees are the largest living things on Earth. Some of them are more than 3,000 years old and and they are truly awe-inspiring to witness and walk amongst. The largest trees have official names, but there are thousands more that are not named. The park also has excellent hiking routes that get out of the forrest and lead to hidden lakes with jagged peak backdrops. Sequoia is a year-around park - but be ready for snow in the winter.

Must See Attractions:

General Sherman Tree - the largest Sequoia tree in existence today. General Sherman is accessible with a short hike from a satellite parking area. Handicapped parking is available near the tree, but all others must use the satellite lot. The General Sherman parking area is also the parking lot to use to access the Congress Loop trail.

the General Sherman Tree

Congress Trail - The entire Giant Forest is worth hiking, but if you are short on time, do the Congress Trail. It includes all the famous Sequoia trees including The President, Lincoln Tree, Mckinley Tree, Chief Sequoyah, and the groups of the House and the Senate. The Congress Trail can be extended to see the rest of the Giant Forest and its meadows.

the House Group at Sequoia National Park in California

Moro Rock - This is a big granite monolith just south of the Crescent Meadow area. A stone staircase with hand railings allows people to hike up to its peak for panoramic views of the mountains and valley below. This is a great place to be during sunset or sunrise! Read more about Moro Rock in the hiking section below.

Crescent Meadow Area - John Muir called Crescent Meadow the "Gem of the Sierras". It is flanked by Huckleberry Meadow to its left and Log Meadow to it's right, with hiking paths that go around and between all three. All three meadows are must-sees, and they are great place to spot black bears, especially in the morning and evening hours. "Tharp's Log" is worth seeing as well - it’s a hollow, fallen Sequoia Tree converted into a tiny home in the late 1800s by Hale Tharp. 

Tunnel Log - A very popular photo op, Tunnel Log is a fallen Sequoia with a big hole cut in it that you can drive your car through. It's located on the road in between the Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow parking areas - you can't miss it.

Round Meadow - Round Meadow is my personal favorite meadow in the park. It is surrounded by Sequoia trees, and the open space of the meadow makes it easy to appreciate them in their entirety. The walk around Round Meadow is a must-do for every visitor of every age. The nearest parking for Round Meadow is at the lot across from the Giant Forest Museum. Read more about the walk around the meadow here. 

General Grant Grove - This grove of Sequoias is separated from the Giant Forest by about 25 miles, but the trees here are just as impressive. The grove is located near the park's north entrance on Highway 180, accessible from the south via the General's Highway (closed during winter). There is another "tunnel" tree here which hikers can walk through. Read more about the Grant Grove here.

Where to Stay:

There are numerous campgrounds in the park, one of which can be reserved online in advance here. The Wuksachi Lodge and Stony Creek Lodge are great options in the heart of the park if you prefer a hotel - click here and here for their websites. 

There are a few private campgorunds/RV parks and small hotels outside park boundaries and many more as you get closer to the California valley.

Hiking in Sequoia:

The Giant Forest - In my option, this is some of the best hiking in the world. It really is a moving experience to walk amongst these silent giants. Hiking trails in the Giant Forest connect General Sherman, Congress Trail, Crescent Meadow, and Moro Rock. 

Moro Rock - This is a must-do hike to the peak of Moro Rock. The hike has stairs and handrails up the side of the rock, which rises about 250 feet to its peak from the parking area. The road here is closed during winter months, but is still reachable on foot from the Giant Forest Museum. Read more about the hike here.

Pear Lake - If you want to get above the tree-line, the Pear Lake hike offers rugged mountain peaks. You will see zero Sequoia trees on this hike, but the trail passes three small Sierra lakes before reaching the biggest lake in the area - Pear Lake. This is a popular overnight backpacking destination in Sequoia as well. Read more about the hike here.

Off the Beaten Track:

Redwood Canyon Grove - This is the largest grove of Sequoias in the park. The hike can be done as a loop or an out-and-back to the Sugarbowl Grove which is really cool as well. The trailhead can be accessed on a two mile dirt road that breaks off from the General's Highway across from "Quail Flat”. Read more about it here.

Beetle and Sunset Rock - I recommend Beetle Rock over Sunset Rock if you only have time for one. Beetle rock is a much shorter hike and it can be seen in 20 minutes total. It also offers a better view of the valley than Sunset Rock. Crowds should be minimal at both locations compared to the rest of Sequoia.

hiking down from Moro Rock - Sequoia National Park in California.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is doing a ticketed entry program this summer for peak hours - click here for more information to and to reserve a ticket. Park shuttles are operating at a limited capacity. Masks are required on shuttles and inside park buildings.

Best time to visit: Year Around

Recommended Hikes: the Mist Trail, John Muir Trail, Valley Loop Trail, Upper Yosemite Falls, North Dome, Cloud’s Rest, Half Dome (permit required)

Ideal For: Hiking, Biking, Rock Climbing, Camping, Auto-Touring

Where to stay: in the main valley (camping and hotel)

Park Website - Park Map

Useful Info:

• Dogs - the general rule for dogs in national parks is that they must be leashed and are only allowed on paved areas, which includes parking areas, roads, and front country campgrounds. Dogs are not allowed on park trails, even when leashed.

• Glacier Point Road is closed in 2022 for renovations. You can hike to Glacier Point via the 4 Mile Trail from the valley floor.

• Yosemite is one of the country's most popular national parks. Be prepared for crowds.

• Yosemite is home to black bears - proper food storage is required at all times.

• There are two large general stores and food court areas in the main valley, one at the Yosemite Lodge and one in Curry Village. They sell a wide variety of things that you might need.

• During winter months, Yosemite is only accessible from the west. Highway 120 runs from the park towards Nevada on the east, but it closes when there is snow. If you are planning a visit from the east, make sure Highway 120 is open. The park's western entrance on Highway 140 is open year-around.

• Wilderness permit information for Yosemite can be found here.

Yosemite is one of the country’s most popular National Parks. It’s famous for towering granite walls and powerful waterfalls, most of which are found in the main valley. The waterfalls run at their peak during spring, with maximum water flow peaking during May. Summer is ideal for hiking the higher elevation trails, including Half Dome and Cloud’s Rest. Fall and winter bring rain and snow and tranquil scenery, along with smaller crowds. 

Must See Attractions:

Yosemite Falls - You will see Yosemite's most famous waterfall from many different angles in the valley. It can be enjoyed at a distance from meadows and also up close at the base of Lower Yosemite Falls. The walk to the base of Lower Yosemite Falls is short and paved, and should be done by everyone who visits. Hiking to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls is worth the effort, read more about it in the hiking section below. 

Glacier Point - Panorama vistas at Glacier Point show Yosemite Falls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Half Dome, and the mountains surrounding the valley. It is accessible via car or hike - the drive from the valley floor to Glacier Point takes about 45 minutes, one-way. Hikers can reach Glacier Point via the "four mile trail" from the valley floor. The road to Glacier Point is closed during winter months and into the spring due to snow.

Tunnel View - The most recognized viewpoint in Yosemite Valley, with El Capitan and Bridal Veil Falls framing Half Dome in the center. This viewpoint is open year around and can be accessed from the main valley by driving a few miles up on Wawona Road (Highway 41)

Bridal Veil Falls - Arguably the prettiest of the major waterfalls in Yosemite but also the first to run dry. Bridal Veil packs a punch, but it only runs during spring when there is heavy snowmelt.  The area beneath Bridal Veil is currently under construction and not accessible to foot traffic.

Vernal and Nevada Falls - Vernal Falls has always been my favorite waterfall in Yosemite and it's a must-see for every visitor. Nevada Falls is upstream from Vernal Falls and it's really cool as well - worth seeing if you are up for a longer hike. Both waterfalls can be seen from high above at Glacier Point, but they are better enjoyed up close via the Mist Trail or John Muir Trail. Read more about them in the hiking section below. 

El Capitan Bridge - There is a huge meadow at the base of El Capitan. This is a must-see and a great place to sit down and relax and look up at El Cap. There are often people hanging out here with telescopes that you can look through to see climbers up on the rock. There is a foot trail that runs around the meadow and along the river.

Mirror Lake - Mirror Lake is a nice destination in the spring, but it dries out into a meadow by the end of summer. This part of the valley is right beneath Half Dome, providing a unique viewpoint of the monolith. It's about a 2 mile roundtrip hike to get here from the nearest shuttle stop. Read more about it on the park's website here.

Toulumne Meadows - Yosemite’s high country is best explored from Toulumne Meadows, which is far removed from the main valley on Highway 120. This part of the park is less crowded than the valley but not as visually stunning. It does still offer beautiful landscapes with impressive mountain peaks and fun hiking routes.

Where to Stay:

If possible, try to stay in the main valley. There are 3 reservable campgrounds in the main valley - they can be reserved online in advance here, here, and here. The campsites go on sale on the 15th of each month for a booking window 5 months in the future, and they can sell out within minutes for peak season weekends. Weekdays fill up slower but still sell out well in advance - book as early as possible.

There are also primitive cabins right near Curry Village that can be reserved online in advance here.

There are two hotel in the main valley, called the “Yosemite Lodge” and the "Ahwahnee Hotel”. They are expensive and the rooms are not fancy, but the location is unbeatable. This is the best option if you are unwilling to camp.

If the above options are sold out, there are a few campgrounds in the park high country along highway 120. There are also private campgrounds and cabins outside of park boundaries. 

Hiking in Yosemite

Yosemite Hiking Map

The Mist Trail - One of the best hikes in the park. The first section is paved and consistently uphill for about a mile before Vernal Falls is visible. The trail then becomes a massive set of stone steps that ascend all the way to the top of Vernal Falls This a great endpoint for the hike, but you can also continue on to see Nevada Falls which is further upriver. Be prepared to get wet from the mist when the waterfalls are running strong. Read more about the hike here.

The John Muir Trail - This is a great loop hike option which can be combined with the Mist Trail to see the top of Nevada Falls. The John Muir Trail offers great views of Nevada Falls but mostly misses Vernal Falls, although there is a really unique perspective of Vernal Falls from Clark Point.

The Valley Loop Trail - There is a loop trail that goes from one end of the valley to the other with plenty of options for customization. It flat and shady and wanders through forests and meadows that offer stunning views throughout. You can take this trail to see Mirror Lake, Upper Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Bridal Veil Falls. I really like the El Capitan section. It's also a good way to escape the crowds and possibly see wildlife. Read more about it here.

Upper Yosemite Falls - This is a grueling hike to the brink of Upper Yosemite Falls. At the top, there is a narrow staircase that you can walk down to a viewpoint of Yosemite Creek barreling into the valley below. Seeing the river churn over the cliff is unbelievable when the falls are flowing strong, but this hike probably isn’t worth the effort when the falls are dry. Read more about the hike here.

Sentinel Dome - This hike can be done from Glacier Point and reaches a cool vantage point which offers 360 degree views of the park. Hikers can see El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome in three different directions from a single vantage point atop the dome. Read more about the hike here.

North Dome - During the summer, the hike to North Dome from Yosemite’s high-country is a great option. The endpoint of the hike looks across the valley for a stunning view of Half Dome’s face. This hike is ideal when most of the snow in the high-country has melted. Read more about it here.

Clouds’ Rest - Another great option once the snow has melted in the high-country. The final ascent of Clouds’s Rest can be harrowing if you have a fear of heights, requiring a traverse across a narrow strip of granite. The viewpoint of Half Dome at the end is worth the effort. Read more about the hike here.

Half Dome - The ultimate Yosemite hike. It is a punishing 16 mile round-trip trek with a final summit up the side of Half Dome, assisted by metal cables attached to the rock. This hike is only open during summer months. PERMITS ARE REQUIRED to hike Half Dome and park rangers will check for your permit once you get near the cables. Permits are issued through an online lottery two days in advance of the hiking date.  For complete information, click here. To read more about the hike, click here.