How to Arrange a Tour of the National Parks

A surprising number of Americans look overseas when it comes time to travel, forgetting the wealth of domestic attractions. The National Park System contains hundreds of scenic gems that would be one-of-a-kind wonders in many other countries. It's extremely ambitious to try to visit all the National Parks in one continuous trip, but you can certainly plan a route that includes many famous spots.


Step1
Research which parks appeal to you and your family. Parks can be divided into two broad categories--scenic and historical. Go to the National Park Service Web site (nps.gov). On the "Info Zone" page, click on "park maps" and find the "National Park System Map and Guide" in the alphabetical list.


Step2
Chart your course: Focus on a specific region, such as the Southwest, and visit parks that showcase both ancient civilizations and geology at Grand Canyon, Zion, Canyon de Chelly and others. Plan your trip around a historic event such as the Civil War (civilwarweekend.com). Or, follow your passion for a specific landscape and its inhabitants by touring parks that feature dripping rain forests, frozen tundra or wind-carved deserts.


Step3
Buy seven-day park passes for $5 to $20 per vehicle. Or get a National Parks Pass at nps.gov or by calling (888) GO-PARKS. This admits you to all national parks for one calendar year for $50.


Step4
Time your trip and activities to coincide with optimal weather conditions for that area. Death Valley in August contains only dead people, people who wish they were dead and a few hardy lizards. Wintertime is ideal for back-country skiers and ice climbers, and at some parks, it's an ideal season to view wildlife.


Step5
Keep in mind that all national parks are likely to be packed with visitors during the peak summer and early fall seasons. Avoid major attractions such as Old Faithful and Yosemite Falls during these times if you want a more solitary experience. On the other hand, most parks encompass miles of terrain, offering visitors peaceful seclusion even during peak times.


Step6
Decide on how much camping vs. hotel time you want. Camping is great, but after a few days in the wilderness, a little room service isn't so bad. Many of the historical sites on the East Coast offer only limited camping options but many hotel options.


Step7
Choose your lodging (also at nps.gov) and book reservations well in advance. Parks offer a range of options, which vary from rustic to plush, with dining options running the gamut as well. In-park lodging is convenient because you don't have to drive from your motel into the park--and deal with traffic and parking--each day. Campgrounds and hotels outside of parks usually don't fill up as fast as those inside.