Karine Davtyan

20 Best Day Trips from Boise – Sand Dunes, Forests, & More!

November 28 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Idaho is one of the most underrated states when it comes to beautiful nature in the US. These epic day trips from Boise are proof of that!

There are many places to visit in Idaho – from the hot springs in Kirkham to mindblowing Shoshone Falls. And fortunately, many of these destinations can be visited on one of the many Boise day trips that are possible if you decide to use the city as a base.

This guide walks you through our curated list of the best day trips from Boise. If we are missing a place – please leave it in the comments below!

Places to Visit Near Boise Map

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Boise Day Trips (Within 2 Hours)

Bogus Basin

Distance from Boise: 18.4 miles (45 minutes)

Being merely 45 minutes north of Boise, Bogus Basin is a great location for a fun day trip, especially for those that love skiing.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor mountain activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, live music and events, tubing, disc golf, skiing, snowshoeing, and more! Also, the one and only mountain roller coaster in Idaho is located in Bogus Basin.

Moreover, if you’re planning to visit this magical place with children, there is a lot for them to do, such as trampolines, wall climbing, and checking out the Shafer Butte Mining Company. Note that unlimited day passes and season passes are available.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Distance from Boise: 63.9 miles (1 hour and 6 minutes)

If you’re looking for a place to ski on dunes, then this is the only and probably one of the best places in the United States to do so. This dune is the tallest single structured one in the whole of North America, with a height of 470 ft.

When visiting Bruneau Dunes State Park, you will have a chance to rent sand boards from the Visitors Center and have some fun while riding them down the dunes.

Other available activities at the Idaho state park include birdwatching, fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming. Also, if you would like to do some stargazing, keep in mind that The Bruneau Dunes Observatory Complex is home to a 25” telescope and is one of two public observatories in Idaho.

Idaho City

Distance from Boise: 39.6 miles (54 minutes)

Idaho City, which once was a mining town, is located nearly an hour away from Boise. You can still feel the breadth of how life was here in the late 1800s.

With many antique shops, restaurants, and many unique places, Idaho City is now considered a historic city as it played a huge role during the historic gold rush in the Pacific Northwest.

Some of the main attractions in Idaho city are the Operational Saloon, which serves sarsaparilla, also has many festivals conducted during different seasons. There is also the Boise Basin Museum where visitors can take a glimpse into the past of the city.

Those are just a few of the wonderful things to do in Idaho City that make it one of the best day trips from Boise.

Operational Saloon serves sarsaparilla, festivals conducted on different seasons, and Boise Basin Museum, where visitors can have a look at the rich past of the city, are just a few highlights that can make your trip to Idaho City a day to remember.

Three Island Crossing State Park

Distance from Boise: 71.9 miles (1 hour and 10 minutes)

Located in Elmore County, Idaho, Three Island Crossing State Park is a wonderful recreation area where history lovers and nature lovers can get their fill of the place.

This park is the location where those on the Oregon Trail had to ford a river (the Snake River, to be exact). This area was used as a river crossing until Gus Glenn built a ferry across in 1869.

Today, you can venture there for some camping, hanging out in a cabin, disk golf, and more.

Eagle

Distance from Boise: 10 miles (19 minutes)

While Eagle may be an unassuming place to take a day trip from Boise to as it is essentially a suburb, you can definitely make a day of it by visiting.

The city has just shy of 20,000 residents and is known for its spas, golf courses, and spacious parks. There is a very well-known Saturday Market where visitors will be greeted with local, live music, vendors, and many produce sellers.

Eagle is known for being rather residential, but if you want to get out of the city and somewhere extremely close by, Eagle is a good choice.

Boise Day Trips (2-3 Hours)

McCall

Distance from Boise: 108.3 miles (2 hours and 14 minutes)

McCall is known as an Idaho destination that can be an excellent choice for the ones who love wild outdoor adventures.

It is great for families who are looking forward to finding a place to relax in an awe-inspiring forested mountain setting. So, if you want to relax and unwind yourself, McCall is a perfect choice!

Note that McCall is on a whole other level when it’s about winter activities. In the town, you can go snowboarding, snowmobiling, skiing, and much more.

Also, the Annual Winter Festival in McCall attracts the attention of more than 60,000 visitors to the mountains each year.

Idaho Wine Country

Distance from Boise: varies depending on where you’re going

Being based on elevations exceeding 3,000-feet and with ideal conditions for grape growing, Idaho has some of the most extensive vineyards in the Pacific Northwest.

Now there are more than 50 wineries in Idaho, most of which are located in the Snake River Valley and Eagle Foothills, Lewis-Clark Valley, and Sun Valley.

There are free tastings available mostly all year-round. The number of Idaho wineries has increased to 51, many of which are producing household brand, award-winning wines. Tour companies have day trip offers from Boise for those who want to experience Idaho Wine Country.

Silver City

Distance from Boise: 94.9 miles (2 hours and 26 minutes)

This destination is yet another ticket into the pas of an old mining town, but it has a lot to be remembered for. Heading southwest of Boise, this day trip will take you just over two hours.

In Silver City, there are more than 75 historical monuments remaining from the 19th-century. On days like the annual open house over Labor Day weekend, you can tour all the historic spots and perhaps imagine yourself horseback riding through the Owyhee Mountains as they used to do back in the day!

Silver City is indeed quite remarkable, but keep in mind that access to this city is always available throughout the year. It is accessible by vehicle only during warmer months and as soon as the weather gets colder and snow comes, you can only reach it by snowmobile.

Shoshone Falls Park (& Twin Falls)

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Shoshone Falls - Best Boise day trips — Shoshone Falls – Best Boise day trips

The home of Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls is most widely known as the Niagara Falls of the West. Those who visited this place claim that the views there are truly breathtaking.

There is a 3.6-mile hike to Twin Falls, which is a heavily trafficked out and back trail situated near North Bend, Washington. With this hike, you can easily reach the waterfall.

The difficulty of the route is rated as moderate. The trail can also be used for walking, running, and some relaxing nature trips. The recommended season for visiting is from March until October and this is easily one of the most popular day trips from Boise.

Snake River Canyon

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Located within Twin Falls, Snake River Canyon is where the Snake River cuts through ancient volcanic ash in a canyon. For those who like to walk, visitors of the canyon can walk across the Perrine Bridge (this bridge crosses the canyon at 500-feet).

This is the only bridge in the whole United States that is open all seasons of the year and offers BASE jumping. Just a 10-mile walking path along the southern rim of Snake River Canyon gives access to the visitor’s center, waterfalls, and the city of Twin Falls.

Boise National Forest

Distance from Boise: 83.8 miles (2 hours and 11 minutes)

Boise National Forest is a beautiful land of mountains, rivers, and forests. As a result, the location can be an excellent destination for every season of the year.

You don’t need to venture all the way to spend a weekend in Yellowstone… Boise National Forest can help with that nature therapy.

The list of available activities includes hiking, biking, snowboarding (when there is snow, of course), swimming, kayaking.

All of these make us believe that a visitor to Boise National Forest won’t wind up bored! The number of visitors to the forest every year is over 1.5 million. It is an essential Boise day trip!

There are more than 80 hiking trails in Boise National Forest and one of the most prominent trails is the Stack Rock Trail, which is a 10.9-mile, moderate difficulty, heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Boise. This particular trail features beautiful wildflowers, with the best season being from May to October.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Being just around 2 hours away from Boise, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is known to be home to the Hagerman Horse fossil, which is a horse that evolved in North America and featured only one toe.

Of course, the latter is not the only type of fossil you can see at this US National Monument. There are some remains of a saber-tooth cat, bear, camel, ground sloth, mastodon, giant otter, rodents, swans and other birds, frogs, and many more.

In fact, for the late Pliocene epoch, Hagerman Fossil Beds is the richest deposit of fossils in the world. So, all the “fossil lovers” and archaeology enthusiasts will most definitely love this day trip from Boise!

Hailey

Distance from Boise: 141.3 miles (2 hours and 22 minutes)

Hailey, Idaho is a city in Blaine County and is known for its location around the Sawtooth National Forest. It is renowned for its skiing and extreme sports such as snowboarding, BMX riding, skateboarding, and more.

The city has its own ski hill named Rotarun Ski Area and while it may be less famous than Sun Valley Resort nearby, it is still worth a visit.

Some of the famous mountains in Hailey are Carbonate, Red Devil Peak, and Della.

Boat Box Hot Spring

Distance from Boise: 136.2 miles (2 hours and 42 minutes)

Boat Box Hot Springs is a famous place to visit and one of the best natural hot springs in Idaho. It is renowned for its wood hot tub located on the Salmon River.

The name references the wooden crate tub that you can soak in at the hot springs. The temperature of the water sits around 110F and this is a must-visit if you’re in the Stanley area or looking for a Boise day trip out in nature.

Weekend Getaways from Boise (Over 3 Hours)

While this guide focuses on day trips from Boise, we also wanted to include a section that offers fantastic weekend getaways from Boise.

Depending on daylight hours and your will to drive, all of these can technically be a day trip (even Coeur d’Alene if you’re really adventurous!), but we recommend staying overnight if you have the chance! These are just a few of the best weekend getaways in Idaho, so leave us your recommendations in the comments!

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Distance from Boise: 172 miles (3 hours and 33 minutes)

Located along the eastern Oregon border and being about 3-4 hours away from Boise, Hells Canyon spreads over 3 states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. One of the famous things about this place is that it is known for having the deepest river gorge in North America.

Even though most of the canyon is inaccessible, you can still enjoy activities such as rafting, hiking, and jet boat rides. Apart from this, you also can see Hells Canyon Dam and take a guided boat trip along the Snake River.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Distance from Boise: 175.7 miles (3 hours and 30 minutes)

Massive lava flows and overall just a volcanic wonderland… this is what you can see at Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. The name itself also suggests that this is something extraordinary, and it truly is!

It is just over 3 hours away from Boise, so it can be a day trip or a weekend getaway. The guests can find some educational exhibits, films, and a lot of information about this destination upon arrival at the visitors center. There are various types of guided hikes available during the summer, with different distances and difficulty levels.

For those seeking the ultimate Idaho road trip, there is a 7-mile scenic loop to enjoy from behind the wheel of your own car. Children can also find something interesting for them, like participation in a junior ranger program or any other educational program.

Sawtooth National Forest

Distance from Boise: 157.3 miles (3 hours and 9 minutes)

Sawtooth National Forest is on the list of must-sees outside of Boise. Explore the location by hiking or gathering with friends or family and have a one day rest (or weekend) in nature, full of wilderness and beauty.

With an area of 756,000 acres, there are more than 700 miles of hiking trails, 40 mountain peaks, and a few alpine lakes. The forest is vast and open for visitors to enjoy mountain biking, rafting, wildlife spotting, kayaking, boating, swimming, canoeing, photography, and other outdoor recreation activities.

During the wintertime, Sawtooth National Forest also has skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing available in the area.

In addition to all of this, many campgrounds and cabins for rent are also offered in the National Forest. This is a magnificent weekend trip from Boise and one you must do yourself!

City of Rocks National Reserve

Distance from Boise: 208.9 miles (3 hours and 17 minutes)

One of the best places to enjoy backcountry adventuring is the City of Rocks National Reserve, situated in southern Idaho, just 2.5 hours away from Boise. This national reserve has an area of 14,407 acres and is a place where rock climbing, camping, hiking, and hunter are among the popular outdoor activities.

If needed, you can reach the visitor’s center for the City of Rocks and the nearby Castle Rocks State Park. They are open year-round and are both located in the Almo historic village.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Distance from Boise: 319.6 miles (4 hours and 31 minutes)

This is yet another great site located nearly 320 miles away from Boise, making it a fantastic weekend getaway from Boise.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes is perfect for off-roading, sandboarding, hiking, and horseback riding. The dunes are ranging from 10 feet tall to up to 400 feet high and they catch the attention of riders from throughout the west.

In case you’re interested to know the story of the formation of the dunes, know that they were formed about 10,000 years ago, approximately at the end of the last ice age when the Earth’s climate shifted and Eastern Idaho’s climate became a lot drier and warmer.

Coeur D’Alene

Distance from Boise: 458.3 miles (6 hours and 50 minutes)

Coeur d’Alene is a city located in northern Idaho and it is the county seat of Kootenai. The estimated population is just over 50,000 and the area is so naturally beautiful that it is best visited as a long weekend trip from Boise.

There is plenty to do in Coeur d’Alene such as hiking to Cougar Bay, visiting Silverwood Theme Park, and venturing to Independence Point. The nature around Coeur d’Alene is the main reason people visit the city and they are never left disappointed!

There are so many amazing and beautiful day trips from Boise and we hoped we highlighted some of the best. If you have any suggestions of the best Boise day trips (and Boise weekend getaways!), please leave a comment below.

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25 Most Visited US National Parks (+ Why You Should Visit!)

November 18 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Are you a nature lover and on the hunt for the most visited US National Parks?

This guide lists the top twenty-five most popular US National Parks and gives reasons why you should visit each of them despite the crowds and popularity!

America’s National Parks is one of the greatest things about the country. There are currently 62 designated national parks but you may get different numbers depending on if a site lists national monuments, seashores, forests, battlefields, etc.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting any US National Park, or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

This guide focuses on the ones that have received the most tourists in recent years. Needless to say, popularity and visitor numbers change year to year, so if you have the opportunity to visit any of the US national parks- don’t hesitate and just do it!

These are the most popular US National Parks, including reasons to visit, most popular attractions and landmarks, and 2019 visitor numbers. Let us know your favorite US National Park in the comments!

Most Visited US National Parks – The Map

Most Popular US National Parks

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Tennessee and North Carolina
Visitor numbers (2019): 12.5 million

With verdant forests and the gorgeous nature of mountains and waterfalls, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has got a lot to offer to its visitors.

Being one of the most popular parks in the US (and the most visited US National Park in 2019) with more than 12 million visitors per year, this place is great for people who are up to do some hiking or camping, or just want to unwind from the noisy towns.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is relatively easy to reach with a car, and it is the getaway to the Appalachian Mountains. This gives hikers an opportunity to hike some sections of the Appalachian Trail, which promises to be a truly epic kind of experience.

Top attractions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Ober Gatlinburg, Newfound Gap, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Mount Le Conte, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

2. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona
Visitor numbers (2019): 5.97 million

Grand Canyon National Park - Most visited US national parks — Grand Canyon National Park – Most visited US national parks

Grand Canyon National Park is widely known worldwide with its eye-catching sights, geologic features, and comprehensive archeological history.

No matter which part of the canyon you decide to visit, the views and memories of it are going to feel epic. There are numerous hiking trails and viewpoints. One of them is Cape Royal on the North Rim, where many visitors go to enjoy the best sights of the location.

Another perk of Grand Canyon NP is that it is located so close to many other incredible sites. You are not far from the border of Utah (the gateway to Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’) and you’re also closed to renowned sites like Lake Powell and Monument Valley.

Top attractions in Grand Canyon National Park: Grand Canyon Village, Bright Angel Trail, Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon Railway, Rim Trail, Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon Visitor Center, South Kaibab Trail, West Rim Trail

Additional resources:

3. Rocky Mountain National Park

Location: Colorado
Visitor numbers (2019): 4.7 million

Rocky Mountain is a park that suggests its visitors experience America’s best and most famous mountain range. It has over 4 million visitors annually and is located in Colorado. It is only about an hour and a half from the capital city, giving visitors a chance to take a quick weekend break in Denver.

Having some really high peaks, the park is famous for its “thirteeners,” – the name coming from the heights of the mountains there, reaching over 13,000 feet.

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, go to Rocky Mountain National Park prepared with comfortable clothing and shoes to be able to get through some of the challenging trails, like Bear Lake and Emerald Lake Trail.

Top attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Ridge Road, Longs Peak, Bear Lake, Dream Lake, Alpine Visitor Center, Emerald Lake, Sprague Lake, Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, Old Fall River Road

4. Zion National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 4.5 million

Zion National Park is a picturesque location and is one of the most prominent and most beautiful spots in the Southwestern US. High peaks with some pinkish hues make this location remarkable for the more than 4.5 million guests who visit it in Utah each year.

The Narrows is an excellent example of what adventure can look like in Zion. It is a 16-mile pathway, going right through the Virgin River, where you can enjoy the sights of the canyon while also walking beside the river.

This place is also renowned as one of the world’s best places for canyoneering, hiking, wading, swimming, and rappelling.

Top attractions in Zion National Park: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Zion National Park Lodge, Emerald Pools Trail, Kolob Canyons, Canyon Overlook Trail, Weeping Rock, Observation Point Trail, Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Additional resources:

Zion National Park in winter

5. Yosemite National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 4.5 million

California’s Yosemite National Park is always on the list of famous locations in the US. Even though the place is usually crowded (more than 4 million visitors a year), the sights there are so worthwhile and should be visited at least once in a lifetime.

One of the most technical and hardest rock climbs, El Capitan (3,593 feet), is located in Yosemite. It is an excellent challenge for hikers, but in case you’re on the more passive side, you can still get on the top of El Capitan or other viewpoints and appreciate the outlooks from above.

Top attractions in Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, El Capitan, Vernal Falls, Bridalveil Falls, The Ahwahnee, Mariposa Grove

6. Yellowstone National Park

Location: Wyoming, Montana, Idaho
Visitor numbers (2019): 4 million

Established in 1872 and located mostly in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest designated national park in the world and is one of the most beautiful ones in the United States.

Having more than 4 million annual visitors, Yellowstone National Park has many lakes, rivers, and mountains, all teeming with wildlife.

One thing that is really special about this place is that it is located on top of a geothermal hot spot, making it have the largest concentration of geysers in the world.

With its internationally-recognized geysers and many more amazing features and attractions, Yellowstone National Park is a genuine, must-see icon of the US.

Top attractions in Yellowstone National Park: Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Caldera, Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful Inn, Morning Glory Pool

Additional resources:

7. Acadia National Park

Location: Maine
Visitor numbers (2019): 3.4 million

Acadia National Park is yet another remarkable park (and one of the most visited US national parks!) located in the northeastern US. You’re most probably going to be left amazed by the breathtaking views of the ocean, forests, wildlife, trails for hiking or biking, a sandy beach, and many more Acadia offerings.

With more than 3.4 million visitors annually, this park can become a bit crowded during summer, but there is a lot to see and several things to do in Acadia in winter. In fact, you can enjoy a full-pack of winter tourism experience in Acadia during that time of the year.

Top attractions in Acadia National Park: Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Jordan Pond, Park Loop Road, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Carriage Road, Frenchman Bay, Thunder Hole, Precipice Trail

Additional resources:

8. Grand Teton National Park

Location: Wyoming
Visitor numbers (2019): 3.4 million

Grand Teton National Park is situated 13,775 feet above sea level and one of the highlights of the state of Wyoming. This park is famous for its mountain scenery and extraordinary wildlife.

It is located south of Yellowstone National Park and north of Jackson, and the number of visitors is over 3.4 million annually.

Traveling to Grand Teton feels like a total throwback to the Old West. One of the most recognizable sights in the park is Jackson Hole, with its eye-catching vistas. Another prominent spot is Moose Village, which is part of a 43-mile scenic loop drive.

Top attractions in Grand Teton National Park: Jackson Hole, Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole skiing, Jackson Lake, Grand Targhee Resort, Jackson Lake Lodge, Signal Mountain, National Elk Refuge, Schwabacher Landing, Mount Moran, Hidden Falls, String Lake

Additional resources:

9. Olympic National Park

Location: Washington
Visitor numbers (2019): 3.2 million

Olympic National Park was established in 1938 and is on the list of almost every top 10 national parks list. It is located in Washington in an effort to preserve some of its quickly disappearing primeval forests.

The park has a variety of atmospheres, ecosystems, and climates in it, and no matter what your interest is when visiting the park, you’ll most definitely find something for you!

For example, in Kalaloch Campground, you can drive right through a route adjacent to the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the sunset or walk near the beach.

Another option would be to visit the Hoh Rain Forest to have the benefit of visiting the evergreen forests (these forests get twelve feet of rain every year)!

The things to do here are aplenty, so make yourself acquainted with as many things as possible prior to your visit and plan ahead!

Top attractions in Olympic National Park: Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, Ruby Beach, Sol Duc River and Falls, Lake Quinault, Marymere Falls, Rialto Beach, Olympic National Forest, Mount Olympus

Additional resources:

Best hikes in Olympic National Park

10. Glacier National Park

Location: Montana
Visitor numbers (2019): 3 million

Spanning across over a million acres of land, Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana but it is so big that it reaches into Canada as well.

With sights reminiscent to that of the Swiss Alps despite being in the US, this Montana park needs to be near the top of your USA bucket list!

Glaciers formed this region, and 25 of them still exist in the park, although receding at a rapid rate. The number of annual visitors to Glacier National Park exceeds 3 million and it is also named “crown of the continent,” attributing to its unique and impressive mountain landscapes.

Top attractions in Glacier National Park: Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Saint Mary Lake, Grinnell Glacier, Avalanche Lake, Hidden Lake, Highline Trail, Iceberg Lake

Additional resources:

Glacier National Park in winter

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

11. Joshua Tree National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 2.98 million

Located near the famous Coachella Valley in California, Joshua Tree is one of the US’s big-name parks. This popular park is also one of the most accessible ones on this list, as it is just a 2-3 hour drive going east of Los Angeles.

Joshua Tree National Park is a perfect location for exploring desert landscapes, along with huge, otherworldly looking rocks. This popular US national park also has some great hiking spots in the middle of the California desert.

There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in Joshua Tree National Park, as well as horse trails, ancient palm groves, panoramic views, and yet many more things to admire.

Top attractions in Joshua Tree National Park: Barker Dam, Skull Rock, Coachella Valley Preserve, Keys View, Cholla Cactus Garden, Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Lost Palms Oasis Trail, Ryan Mountain, Cottonwood Spring

Additional resources:

12. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 2.59 million

Bryce Canyon National Park is a 60 square-mile, comparably small national park in Utah. The canyons, which naturally formed in a very artistic and detailed manner, makes you think like you’re in a vast amphitheater waiting for sunset or sunrise to be the show for the day.

If you want to have an unforgettable experience, this park is an excellent choice to add to your Utah bucket list! It really is one of the best places to visit in Utah and can be combined with many other parks and epic locations in the state.

Top attractions in Bryce Canyon National Park: Bryce Canyon National Park Sunrise Point, Navajo Loop Trail, Queens Garden Trail, Fairyland Loop Trail, Rim Trail, Inspiration Point, Bryce Amphitheater, Bryce Point, Rainbow Point

13. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Location: Ohio
Visitor numbers (2019): 2.23 million

About 33,000 acres along the Cuyahoga River banks between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, you will find Cuyahoga Valley National Park. In a part of the US known for blue-collar industry, this park unexpectedly incorporates cultural, historical, natural resources, and copious numbers of activities for those visiting.

With over 2.2 million visitors each year, Cuyahoga Valley is one of the most visited US national parks for outdoor enthusiasts as the park contains opportunities for hiking and biking (and much more!).

The hiking trails will lead you through wetlands, forests, and even to stunning waterfalls!

Top attractions in Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway, Brandywine Falls, Boston Mills and Brandywine Ski Areas, Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Cuyahoga Valley Garden, Blue Hen Falls, Hale Farm and Village, Brecksville Reservation, Ledges Overlook and Trail, Bedford Reservation, Hinckley Lake, Everett Road Covered Bridge

14. Indiana Dunes National Park

Location: Indiana
Visitor numbers (2019): 2.1 million

Indiana Dunes National Park doesn’t get enough love but it is one of the most visited US national parks.

The park spans 15 miles of Lake Michigan’s southern shore and is a fantastic place to enjoy the unique landscapes it is home to. You can admire the sandy dunes and beaches or view rare species of birds. It is also a wonderful place to fly kites or just sit down and have a picnic.

Another key feature of Indiana Dunes NP is that it has over 50 miles of trails that pass through wetlands, prairies, forests, and dunes.

Top attractions in Indiana Dunes National Park: Indiana Dunes State Park, Deep River Waterpark, Old Lighthouse Museum, Mount Baldy, Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, Friendship Botanic Gardens, Barker Mansion, Majestic Star Casino, West Beach

15. Gateway Arch National Park

Location: Missouri
Visitor numbers (2019): 2 million

Gateway Arch National Park is located in lovely St. Louis, Missouri and the arch was built as a symbol of the city’s involvement and role in Westward Expansion in the US during the 19th-century.

Formerly known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial until 2018, this park was built close to the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Sitting on 91-acres of land, you will find museums, greenery, and a lot more to do at Gateway Arch, which also happens to be the tallest structure in Missouri.

Top attractions in Gateway Arch National Park: Tram Ride, Museum at the Gateway Arch, Monument to the Dream film, Riverboat Cruise, Old Courthouse

16. Death Valley National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.74 million

Death Valley National Park is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. It may not easily be visited during the summer months, but the rest of the year is a prime time to visit the popular US park.

Death Valley is situated along the California/Nevada border east of the Sierra Nevadas. While it may be thought of as just one large and dry landscape, there are actually many different environments within it – from salt-flats to sand dunes, badlands, canyons, and beyond!

There were Native Americans living on this land as early as 7000 BC and it remains one of the harshest landscapes on the planet today.

In addition to being one of the most visited US national parks, it is also a designated dark sky park by the International Dark-Sky Association, making it a world-class place for stargazing.

Top attractions in Death Valley National Park: Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, Telescope Peak, Racetrack Playa, Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Darwin Falls, Titus Canyon

Additional resources:

Death Valley in winter

17. Arches National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.66 million

Located in the eastern part of Utah, Arches National Park is one of the most visited US National Parks.

What makes Arches NP so famous and unique? It is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and has the highest density of natural arches of anywhere in the world. It truly is a mind-blowing place.

The park was designated in 1971 after spending over 40 years as a national monument. One of the most popular activities at Arches is rock climbing but it MUST be done with a permit as it is illegal to climb the rock formations there. Hiking, biking, and camping are also popular things to do in Arches.

Top attractions in Arches National Park: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devil’s Garden, Balanced Rock, Double Arch, Fiery Furnace, Slickrock Bike Trail, Corona Arch, Devil’s Garden Trailhead

Additional resources:

Arches National Park in winter

18. Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.5 million

Mount Rainier National Park is located in Washington and was the 5th national park in the US. Its main attraction is Mount Rainier itself, a 14,411-foot stratovolcano.

It is the highest point in the Cascade Range and surrounding it, you will find subalpine meadows, valleys, waterfalls, and many dense forests.

There are over 25 glaciers that are on the volcano and you can see all from the Wonderland Trail.

Top attractions in Mount Rainier National Park: Mount Rainier, Crystal Mountain, Narada Falls, Tipsoo Lake, Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Skyline Trail, Christine Falls, Mowich Lake

19. Hot Springs National Park

Location: Arkansas
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.47 million

Hot Springs National Park is the only national park in the United States that maintains a rare combination of lithology, geological structure, and water sources, producing the only high-quality non-volcanic geothermal springs.

Receiving just over 1.4 million visitors each year, this park is unusual with its ancient thermal springs, forested hiking trails, and gorgeous mountain views.

Many of the attractions in and around Hot Springs revolve around water, so it’s recommended to visit during the warmer months.

Top attractions in Hot Springs National Park (and nearby): Hot Springs Mountain Tower, Kenneth Adair Memorial Park, The Grand Promenade, Hot Springs, Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs Secret Cave, West Mountain Trail, Tiny Town

20. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.42 million

One of the most visited US national parks is Shenandoah National Park located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.

It is a long and narrow park and sprawls across nearly 200,000 acres. It is known for its incredible hiking trails and vistas along Skyline Drive.

Shenandoah is also home to some fantastic waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife. It is not uncommon to see deer, various birds, and even black bears in the park.

While Shenandoah is epic during every season, it really is a standout US national park during the fall, when the leaves turn colorful hues of red, orange, and yellow.

Top attractions in Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Drive, Old Rag Mountain, Hawksbill Mountain, Whiteoak Canyon Trail, Stony Man, Dark Hollow Falls, Mary’s Rock, Grand Caverns, Shenandoah River State Park, Overall Run Falls, Rapidan Camp

Additional resources:

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

21. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Location: Hawaii
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.37 million

With annual visitors closing in at around 1.4 million, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers its visitors incredible places to do some hiking or camping. Yes, sunny beaches are not the only worth-seeing thing the state of Hawaii offers!

You can visit this park, which encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes, named Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

Even though the volcanoes still active, they are being monitored closely, making it safe for tourists to have the possibility to appreciate the very unique landscapes of this national park.

Top attractions in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Kilauea, Nahuku – Thurston Lava Tube, Halemaumau Crater, Chain of Craters Road, Kilauea Iki Crater, Pu’u O’o, Crater Rim Drive, Kilauea Iki Trail

Additional resources:

22. Sequoia National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.25 million

Sequoia National Park is a California park known for its incredible sequoia trees. The park is home to the highest mountain in the contiguous US, Mount Whitney, as well as several other environments and landscapes throughout.

The giant sequoias are one of the main reasons visitors flock to the popular US national park and one of the most notable ones is General Sherman Tree, the largest tree (by volume) on the planet!

This US National Park is often visited along with nearby Kings Canyon National Park.

Top attractions in Sequoia National Park: General Sherman Tree, Mount Whitney, Giant Forest, Crystal Cave, Sequoia National Park Log Tunnel, Crescent Meadow Road, Generals Highway, High Sierra Trailhead, Moro Rock Trail, The Congress Trail, Pear Lake

23. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.23 million

Capitol Reef National Park is yet another Utah National Park that is a popular destination in the United States.

Located in south-central Utah in the middle of red rock country, you can find this renowned national park teeming with cliffs, domes, canyons, and natural bridges. It might just be one of the most underrated US national parks!

The park is around 60 miles long and merely 6 miles wide on average. Established in 1971, it is mostly visited during the summer months but is a fantastic place to visit during any season.

Top attractions in Capitol Reef National Park: Water Pocket Fold, Hickman Bridge Trailhead, Capitol Gorge, Grand Washington, Hickman Natural Bridge, Capitol Reef, Fremont River, Cathedral Valley Road, Cohab Canyon, Goosenecks Overlook, Gifford Homestead, Temple of the Sun, Thousand Lake Mountain, Panorama Point, Cassidy Arch Trailhead

24. Everglades National Park

Location: Florida
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.1 million

If you’re visiting Florida, you must book a trip to Everglades National Park! This park is the largest tropical wilderness in the US and it attracts over a million people every year.

It is the 3rd largest national park in the US and it is a unique place in that it is also a World Heritage Site.

Everglades National Park is home to a variety of ecosystems but it is renowned for its swampy terrain, being home to many birds and alligators. It also contains the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere.

There are many activities you can participate in when visiting Everglades NP and you will notice that riding in an airboat is among the most popular. There are also many hiking and biking trails throughout the US national park.

Top attractions in Everglades National Park: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Robbie’s, Anhinga Trail, Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, Flamingo Visitor Center, Fruit & Spice Park, Shark Valley, Mahogany Hammock Trail, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Loop Road Scenic Drive

Additional resources:

Miami to Key West drive itinerary

25. Saguaro National Park

Location: Arizona
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.02 million

Saguaro National Park is a large national park in southern Arizona, right beside the state’s second-biggest city of Tucson.

The US national park is renowned for its saguaro cacti that saturate the park, as well as the many hiking trails and beautiful views.

Saguaro is split down the middle into two different sections, the Rincon Mountain District (RMD) and the Tucson Mountain District (TMD). TMD is west of Tucson and RMD is located to the east.

There are over 165 miles of hiking trails throughout the park and some of the other activities you can participate in is wilderness camping (only in RMD), horseback riding, and biking.

Top attractions in Saguaro National Park: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Old Tucscon, Gates Pass, Rincon Mountain Visitor Center, Tucson Mountain Park, Wasson Peak, Agua Caliente Regional Park, Douglas Spring Trailhead, Tanque Verde Falls, Sweetwater Preserve Trailhead

Additional resources:

Planning Your National Parks Trip?

Are you looking for the best times of the year to visit national parks? These guides break down our curated list of the best US national parks to visit in different months:

These parks are the most visited US National Parks that you definitely need to add to your USA bucket list! Have you been to any of them? Which National Park is your favorite?

Pin this Most Visited National Parks in the US Guide

7 Best Things to Do in Crater Lake in Winter (+ Travel Tips)

November 10 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Are you looking to visit Crater Lake in winter? This guide is perfect for you!

Winter in Crater Lake is not for the chilled-out traveler. Instead, it is a dream destination for the active, winter-loving adventurer!

This guide takes you through all of the great things to do in Crater Lake in winter. It also includes several Crater Lake winter tips like what is closed and what stays open, how to dress, and where to stay.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting Crater Lake National Park , or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

If you have any suggestions for what to do in Crater Lake during winter, please leave a comment below!

Reasons to Crater Lake in Winter

While most wouldn’t think to visit Crater Lake in winter, it is definitely a great time to make the trek there if you love snow and photography!

The Oregon National Park is not one of the top-visited parks in the US, but it definitely becomes much quieter during winter than it is during summer.

Another perk of visiting Crater Lake during winter is that it is near so many other cool places in Oregon. We list them in our ‘things to do’ section of this guide.

Snowboarders, cross-country skiers, snowshoes, and other adventurers will fall in love with Crater Lake in winter and easily keep occupied for days!

When is it Winter in Crater Lake?

Oregon is a land of many ecosystems and climate. Crater Lake experiences short summers and long winters. The winter in Crater Lake tends to start in November and usually lasts all the way until early May.

Crater Lake Winter Weather – Temperatures

It definitely depends on which month you travel to Crater Lake that determines how cold it is. Here is a small breakdown of the winter months with average temperatures and the number of ‘rainy’ days (which are likely snow at Crater Lake!).

December: Highs of 2C/35F, Lows of -7C/20F, 16 rainy days
January: Highs of 2C/36F, Lows of -7C/20F, 15 rainy days
February: Highs of 2C/35F, Lows of -7C/20F, 14 rainy days

Does it Snow in Crater Lake NP?

It would be a very rare event not to witness snow in Crater Lake during the winter and it usually persistently snows all the way into spring (and most of the season).

Annually, Crater Lake receives an estimated 43 feet of snow. The heaviest snowfall comes during the months of December, January, and February. This will usually create road closures (see below for more information on driving in Crater Lake during winter).

What to Wear in Crater Lake in Winter

Below are our top recommendations of what to wear when visiting Crater Lake National Park during winter.

Note: I am a huge fan of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but I also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix. I am listing an array of my favorite winter gear below.

Winter Parka

You need a winter parka for Crater Lake in winter. Point blank. I actually love my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka and I have worn it on several of my Arctic trips and it has served me so well. Helly Hansen is a Norwegian brand and they know winter and outdoor clothing well.

Because of the severe temperatures in Crater Lake during winter, I only feel comfortable recommending the parka above as I haven’t had a chance to test others since this one has always done the job for me! Click here to see my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka (I own it in black because I’m boring).

Crampons

If you’re not sturdy on your feet (*sheepishly raises hand*), definitely invest in a pair of crampons for your Crater Lake winter trip.

What are crampons? They are basically attachable ‘traction’ for your boot. They can feel a bit awkward when you first put them on but at least you won’t end up with severe back pain from having to hold your gait funny in the end.

I have used several types throughout the years and I found that these ones from Yaktrax are the best ones for me, personally. Click here to purchase them on Amazon.

Sorel Snowboots

There is actually nothing worse on the planet than frozen feet. At least for those surrounding me, frozen feet are a surefire way for me to complain and annoy everyone else. So, I take my snow boots seriously!

I have used Sorel Snowboots for the last 7-8 years and I love them. I think I purchased them because they were trendy at first, but they served me well and I haven’t looked back and I ended up purchasing multiple pairs. But, my favorite pair is this one.

Make sure you buy them big enough that you can throw some thick wool socks on when you’re dressing for your adventure in CLNP! Click here purchase my Sorel Snowboots on Amazon or, if budget isn’t a factor, this other Sorel pair that I recommend from REI.

In addition to what I listed above, I definitely recommend that you take a good pair of mittens (never gloves), thermals, and a hat. The hats I recommend (stylish, yet warm) are from two of my favorite Danish brands Libertine-Libertine and Samsøe & Samsøe.

What to Pack for Crater Lake in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

Packing the right clothes is always the most challenging part, but you need to consider the other things you will bring with you, too. Below are some items I always tote along in winter when I travel to cold places and will definitely make a great addition to your Crater Lake trip.

Mobile Power Bank

The weather will deplete your cellphone battery. I repeat- the weather WILL deplete your cellphone battery. Bring a mobile power bank with you to ensure you can snap photos whenever you want! Click here to purchase my recommended power bank on Amazon.

Extra Camera Batteries

If you’re into photography but have never photographed in a cold setting, you’re going to want to ensure you have a few extra batteries to bring along for the ride. The camera battery will deplete quicker in subzero temperatures just like phone batteries do.

I also travel with a USB charger for camera batteries that I can stick in my mobile power bank in case times get tough. Click here to find a USB charger for camera batteries.

Dry Bags

It will be snowy and the weather will be a bit off-putting on certain days on your winter in Crater Lake vacation… so don’t let it ruin your equipment or gear! I travel with dry bags just as an extra precaution and they have served me well all over the world. These dry bags from the Friendly Swede are my favorite.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Crater Lake During Winter

Quick Facts about Crater Lake NP

Location: Oregon
Size: 183,224 acres
Annual Visitors: 720,659 (2018)
Established: May 22, 1902
Closest city: Klamath Falls, Medford
Crater Lake National Park Highlights: The Pumice Desert and The Pinnacles, Mount Scott, Crater Peak, Rim Drive, Union Peak, PCT, Wizard Island

Facilities Open at CLNP in Winter

Many facilities remain closed in Crater Lake National Park in winter. They tend to remain closed from October until May, and this includes Crater Lake Lodge and the Rim Visitor Center.

The only place that consistently remains open during winter in Crater Lake National Park is the Steel Visitor Center that is open daily from 10am until 4pm (closed on December 25).

Crater Lake in Winter Driving Tips

During the Crater Lake winter, the only open entrance to the park is via the entrance in the south. As a result, those coming from Portland or Seattle will need to drive to Medford/Jacksonville and then enter from the other side.

The entrance fee is $15 for cars and you will need to ensure your vehicle has good winter tires and/or chains on the tires in order to easily drive in Crater Lake National Park in winter.

Does Crater Lake Ever Freeze?

Not really. Even though you will see snow around the park and lake nearly 8 months of the year, the last time it properly froze over was in 1949!

Things to Do in Crater Lake in Winter

While Crater Lake flourishes with activities during the summer months, definitely don’t count out the winter months! There are plenty of things to do in Crater Lake in winter and we have some of the top activities below.

Ranger-led Snowshoe Walks

During wintertime, Crater Lake usually receives around 43 feet of snow, which is pretty great to enjoy a full itinerary of snowshoe walks.

For the visit, the participants should have water-resistant shoes and warm enough clothes on them. The age restriction requires participants to be at least 8 years old.

The snowshoes are provided free of charge, and any previous experience of snowshoe walking is not required. Notably, there is no cost for the tour, so that’s great as well and makes it the perfect budget activity.

However, you’ll still need to pay the initial $15, which is the entry fee for your vehicle, along with any other park fees that may be owed.

The pathway does not follow a certain trail; instead, visitors walk through meadows and forests along the rim of Crater Lake. The overall tour usually lasts about 2 hours and covers about 1-2 miles in total.

There is limited space for these tours, so guests are highly encouraged to make their reservations beforehand. Hiking clubs, scout troops, and other pre-arranged (and approved) groups can visit the location and do the walks separately on their own. For more information, call the park’s visitor centers.

Sledding

Sledding is a super popular activity at Crater Lake in winter – especially for children. In Crater Lake, there are numerous locations where you can enjoy the sport and, of course, there is always plenty of snow!

Even though the sled hills or snowy areas are not designated, you can simply select a suitable space with a gradual slope and enjoy!

Just be attentive, do not choose paths and dangerous slopes that have any obstacles or obstructions in the way, like trees or other barriers. A gentle slope with a relatively flat landing is what you need to go sledding at Crater Lake.

One of the widely known spots for sledding is the open meadow south of Crater Lake Lodge. Note that sledding and other related types of winter sports are prohibited in the caldera and on all roadways within the park where vehicle traffic may occur.

Downhill and Cross-country Skiing

If you’re keen on a truly unforgettable experience, cross-country skiing around Rim Drive is a fantastic choice. Depending on weather conditions, the loop can be completed in 3-5 days (or quicker!). It is around 30 miles + long.

You’re completely free to choose the path you desire to explore. It can be right through the forests, along West or East Rim Drive, etc. You can find the maps and all the necessary information about the skiing trails on the NPS website.

Note that none of the routes are groomed, but, in general, the conditions of the area are significantly impacted by the weather. Again, skiing is strictly prohibited inside the caldera, along Hwy 62, and in parking lots. The road to Rim Village is also banned for skiing, no matter whether it is opened or closed.

One last thing to take into account is that skis are neither rented nor sold in the park. However, visitors can have a look at the list of available ski rental locations (which are outside of the park) on the publications page under activities.

Also, be aware that there are a few areas prone to avalanches, so remember to familiarize yourself with the information regarding avalanche safety precautions. If you decide to be in an area that has the potential danger of avalanche, then carry snow shovels and avalanche transceivers with you.

Look out for any possible dangers that might be on the route, and be cautious as the rescues in avalanche areas may take more than 24 hours.

Crater Lake Snowmobiling

If the snow conditions allow, the 9-mile snowmobile route is open each winter. You can rent snowmobiles right in the area of the park.

The maps of trails will guide you through snowmobiling at Crater Lake, helping you to control and be aware of your quick tour through the Oregon woods.

The available trail report provides some important information about the routes’ conditions and is being updated quite frequently to ensure that visitors to the park are notified about everything.

The route at Crater Lake goes from the north entrance of the park up until the caldera’s rim. The months from December through March are known to be the time to go snowmobiling at Crater Lake National Park. Keep in mind that snowmobiles are not allowed anywhere else in the park.

Tubing

For tubing activities, everything is quite similar to sledding. Be careful about choosing the location. It should be free of trees, bumps, and other things that might get in your way and cause an inconvenience, or even danger.

Tubing is prohibited in the caldera, roadways, and parking lots to eliminate any chance of possible accidents.

At Diamond Lake Resort, located not that far from Crater Lake, there are opportunities for family tubing fun (ages 3 and up).

On some nights, cosmic tubing also takes place specifically for those who want to experience the high-adrenaline emotions, but during the later hours of the day. Everything that makes the tubing better is there for the nights: laser lights, music, and the overall atmosphere.

Before you plan your visit, just make sure you check the weather and conditions of the area. Also, consider taking some emergency supplies with you. You never know what may happen and it is far better to be prepared for the unexpected!

Winter Hiking in Crater Lake

This list would not be complete if there is not a section about winter hiking in Crater Lake!

One of the most notable trailing routes is the Discovery Point Trail. It has a length of 3.97 miles and an elevation gain of 915 feet. It is considered to be a good trail whether you’re an amateur hiker or a professional one.

Garfield Peak Trail is another option for hiking at Crater Lake and it has a length of 3.4 miles. Visiting the area, you’ll experience the Klamath Basin’s most incredible panoramic views and southern Cascade features. The path towards the top is a good one, but the trail also has a few challenging portions until you reach the highest point.

The Sun Notch Trail is relatively short in length (0.8 miles) and is a heavily trafficked loop trail located close to Crater Lake. It is rated to be an easy level, so it’s accessible for everyone. Also, the trail is convenient for every season during the year.

Places to Visit Near Crater Lake

One of the greatest attractions near Crater Lake (just 31 miles away) is the Crater Lake zipline. Just a 30-minute drive away and you’ll be there!

The area has nine extremely long ziplines, rappels, and challenging sky bridges accompanied by spectacular mountain and forest views. It is truly one of the best things to do in Crater Lake in winter!

Lake of The Woods Resort, located quite close to the lake (51 miles away), is a great getaway option if you like to enjoy the wonders of nature and cabin life. Being situated high in the mountains, this lake resort is full of outdoor recreational activities accessible for summer and winter.

If you’re interested in fishing and related stuff, you might find it essential to visit Klamath Falls, where you can take in all the pleasure from guided fly-fishing to bird hunting, kayaking adventures, and more.

For the latter, you can sign up for a guided kayak tour or rent one in the area. In winter, you can also do some hunting- mainly upland, duck, and goose.

“Morrison’s Rogue Wilderness Lodge and Adventures” (located nearly 100 miles away from Crater Lake) offers riverfront lodging, rafting, hiking, and fishing trips where you can learn a lot about the wildlife in the Rogue River Valley area.

Beyond that, they also provide rafting-single and multi-day trips and camping trips that are great for traveling with families or friends.

Last but certainly not least is Oregon’s Gold Coast (187 miles away from Crater Lake), which is widely known for the town of Bandon, one of the most famous golf destinations in the world.

But that’s not the only reason to have Bandon on this list. In fact, aside from that, the town offers its visitors a lot of fun activities like birdwatching, surfing, crabbing, fishing, and much more.

We’re leaving all of these for you to explore, and share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment below if you have a favorite day trip from Crater Lake or a place in the local area worth exploring!

Crater Lake Lodging and Accommodation

You will have a variety of options of where to stay for a visit to Crater Lake. However, most are not super close to the lake. This next section is broken down into hotels, Airbnbs, RV, and camping/glamping options.

If you’re opting for Airbnb and are not a member, be sure to use our code here to receive $41 off of your first booking. If you’re camping and are not a member of Hipcamp, also be sure to use our code here to receive $10 off your first booking!

Hotels Near Crater Lake

The closest town to Crater Lake National Park is called Prospect. There is a historic hotel there that you can stay at called the Prospect Historic Hotel and you can make a reservation by calling them at 1-800-944-6490.

If you go a bit further should, you can head to Shady Cove and there is a mid-range hotel called the Edgewater Inn there.

Otherwise, you will want to go to Medford another 20 miles away. Alternatively, you can find places to stay in Klamath Falls. Here are some of our top picks:

Comfort Inn & Suites (Klamath Falls 2-star hotel)
WorldMark Running Y (apartment-style accommodation near Klamath Falls)
Holiday Inn Express & Suites (mid-range accommodation in Medford)
TownePlace Suites (Medford suites accommodation)

Crater Lake Winter Camping

Backcountry camping is permitted in Crater Lake National Park during the winter months with a permit. This is valid from November until May.

In order to take advantage of this, snowshoers and skiers must go at least one mile away from the closest plowed road to set up camp (and must be a minimum of 100 feet from the edge of the rim).

Please see winter hazards for camping in the park here.

If you’re looking for a proper campsite near Crater Lake National Park, here are a few top-rated suggestions:

Pasture Camping on the Farm (from $33/night)
Off-Grid Tenting Experience (from $20/night)
Cozy Mountain Cabin near Ashland (from $125/night)
Woodfire Sauna and Creekside Teepee (from $111/night)

Renting an RV

Another unique alternative for your trip to Crater Lake is to rent an RV. While I definitely wouldn’t recommend doing this without feeling comfortable driving one or on roads during winter, it is a viable option for many adventurous travelers and those looking to really get down with nature on their trip.

2011 Thor Chateau 31′: Located in Eagle Point, Oregon, this beautiful van sleeps 8 people (up to 10 if two are young children) and has a heater, generator, satellite, indoor and outdoor shower, and much more! Click here to check availability with Outdoorsy.

Airbnbs near Crater Lake

My favorite choice of places to stay near Crater Lake are the variety of Airbnbs available close to the park. The best thing about Airbnbs is that some are so quirky and unusual that it makes your stay even more memorable.

Here are some of our top Airbnbs near Crater Lake National Park that you can easily book in winter:

Crater Lake Bunkhouse (an entire cabin in Prospect)
The Get Away (entire cabin in Prospect with indoor fireplace)
Red Blanket Cabin near Crater Lake (entire cabin in Prospect)
Prospect Lodge Shasta Room (private room in Prospect)
Crater Lake Meadow House (entire house near the south entrance)

Should You Visit Crater Lake in Winter?

I think it depends on what type of travel you are, first and foremost. Visiting Crater Lake in winter is best suited or those that really love winter weather and adventure. If you’re a snowshoer and skier, this is definitely the park for you!

If you prefer to relax or do leisure hiking perhaps winter in Crater Lake is not the most optimal time to visit. Nevertheless, whenever you end up visiting Crater Lake, prepare to be blown away!

Pin this Crater Lake Winter Travel Guide

30 Epic Places to Visit in Arizona to Add to Your Bucket List

November 8 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Are you planning a trip to the gorgeous American southwest and want to find the best places to visit in Arizona? This guide gives you thirty epic places to put on your Arizona bucket list!

From beautiful Arizona cities like Sedona to the wild landscapes of Monument Valley, there are many breathtaking destinations in Arizona worth visiting.

We cover a variety of them in this guide and include a map so you know where these incredible places are located! If you have a favorite Arizona destination that we missed on this guide, please pop it into the comments section!

Arizona Bucket List Destinations Map

Best Places to Visit in Arizona – The List

1. Grand Canyon

It wouldn’t be right to start off a list of places to visit in Arizona with anything that’s not the Grand Canyon. The spectacular views of this place are recognizable not only in the US but also from people living all over the planet.

With breathtaking panoramas and jaw-dropping views, the Grand Canyon is one of the most visited places in Arizona (if not THE most visited place).

Its gigantic scale and vivid colors were formed due to erosion that happened approximately 5 to 6 million years ago. This place is the kind that is better seen in person rather than heard about from others!

There are many things to see at the Grand Canyon. Here are some of the top Grand Canyon attractions and landmarks:

Rim Trail
Bright Angel Trail
Desert View Watchtower
Grand Canyon Village
Marble Canyon
West Rim Trail
South Kaibab Trail
Havasu Falls

Another perk of visiting the Grand Canyon is that there are so many other amazing places to visit near it. We even discuss a few of them in this guide!

2. Sedona

Sedona is a desert town famous for its red rock formations and open-air adventures. The area is made up of sandstone, formed with iron deposits, giving the giant rocks the distinguished reddish colors that you will see when you visit Sedona.

Ancient history suggests that this area was home to prehistoric humans more than 10,000 years ago. It’s important to note that some remains from the age-old settlements are still there in Sedona, making this place a desirable location to visit.

Sedona Arizona - Places to visit in Arizona — Places to visit in Arizona – Sedona

Today, the Arizona city has become a center for spiritual communities. The stunning trails and viewpoints provide a lot of opportunities for prayer and contemplation. Sedona is also acknowledged for the inspiring power of its Vortex meditation sites.

You will find a variety of awesome places to visit in Sedona and its surrounding area. Here are some of the top Sedona attractions:

Chapel of the Holy Cross
Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village
Red Rock Country
Cathedral Rock
Sedona Arts Center
Cathedral Rock Trail
Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
Oak Creek Canyon

One of the best things about Sedona is that it makes for a great base for exploring the surrounding area and some of the top sights in Arizona!

3. Monument Valley

Monument Valley, otherwise known as the Valley of Rocks, is home to the Native American population of the Navajos. Located about 3 hours away from the Grand Canyon, the Valley has sandstone rock formations that have been developed over time and reach up to 400 to 1,000 feet above the valley’s level.

When visiting Monument Valley, you have several accommodation options, including hotels, camping, and glamping.

In case you’re planning to spend the night in a tent, keep in mind that the weather fluctuates quite a lot in the area. The daytime is pretty warm and hot, while the nights are quite cold.

4. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Encompassing an area of over 1.25 million acres of land and water, the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area spans from the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah to Lee’s Ferry in Arizona.

Glen Canyon Dam, a part of the recreation area, was constructed to harness the Colorado River’s power and provide water and energy to the people of the west.

Another notable destination in the park is Horseshoe Bend, formed by the Colorado River when stretching around Pag. To enjoy the most incredible scenic views, the best option is to hike for a mile and a half from Route 89.

Some of the most popular places in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area include:

Horseshoe Bend
Antelope Canyon
Glen Canyon Dam
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Goosenecks State Park
Lower Antelope Canyon
Cataract Canyon

You will find information about a few of these incredible places in Arizona further down in the guide.

5. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

In the northeastern part of Arizona, Canyon de Chelly is a worthwhile destination to venture to. Compared to the others, this monument and the entire Arizona destination is not too well-known, but the eye-catching vistas and remarkable geological formations are still there.

The sandstone walls rise to 1,000 feet, and the area gives a captivating insight into the life of the Navajo people, who still inhabit the location.

Canyon De Chelly National Monument — Canyon de Chelly National Monument – a definite place for your Arizona bucket list!

Visit Canyon de Chelly to admire the views of Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) ruins, which are pretty well preserved.

One of the most exciting things to do at Canyon de Chelly is to drive through routes along the canyons. For example, South Rim Drive and North Rim Drive (each one is more than 30 miles long) are outstanding pathways and will undoubtedly become one of the most unforgettable drives of your life.

6. Havasu Falls

Located near the village of Supai, Havasu Falls is the waterfall of Havasu Creek. Flowing through the Havasupai land in the Havasu Canyon, it is also part of the Grand Canyon.

It falls for 100 feet (30 meters) into a turquoise, blue pool. If you’re on vacation in Arizona and want to witness something memorable, then this is where you need to visit!

There are a few waterfalls in Havasu Creek, but Havasu Falls is the one that is visited the most and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Arizona.

7. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers numerous year-round available activities for its boaters, swimmers, sunbathers, fishers, photographers, and hikers. The large lake is shared with Nevada.

The Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran Deserts – 3 of America’s 4 desert ecosystems, all come together in Lake Mead. In addition, this area contains astonishingly diverse wildlife as well as a variety of flora. There are some species that are ONLY found here and nowhere else!

Some of the top sights at Lake Mead are:

Hoover Dam
Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
Arizona Hot Springs
Callville Bay
Historic Railroad Hiking Trail
Ringbolt Hot Spring

Also, do take note that Lake Mead is now ranked as one of the top freshwater lakes for scuba diving in the whole US, offering various depths for divers to explore.

8. Tombstone

Tombstone is renowned for the “Gunfight at the OK Corral” in 1881 between the Earp brothers and its mining history. This historic town, widely famous for the gunfight story, was a very rough place in the past, being home to prospectors, gunslingers, and gamblers.

Nowadays, Tombstone is fun to visit and one of the top tourist destinations in Arizona. Along with a well-preserved old town, tourists are also welcomed to participate in a reenacted performance of the famous gunfight.

9. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is located about an hour and a half east of Flagstaff in Northeast Arizona. In the park, visitors can find some of the best collections of petrified wood in the US.

The place is famous for its petrified trees, turned into stone during the last 225 million years, and with its unique landscapes and colorful views of the vibrant Painted Desert.

One of the many locations worth visiting is Painted Desert Inn, a former hotel turned museum where guests can see how the area looked in the early 1900s. Here are a few more locations worth visiting in Petrified Forest National Park:

Blue Mesa
Rainbow Forest
Agate Bridge
Crystal Forest
Jasper Forest
Newspaper Rock
Agate House

Petrified Forest National Park in AZ — Petrified Forest National Park

10. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is located in Tucson and is home to the nation’s largest cacti. As North America’s largest cactus, the oldest saguaros can live up to 200 years while growing and weighing 7 tons. Saguaro NP is home to majestic plants and extinct animal species found only in a small portion of the US.

The park’s information centers can provide you any kind of information you need about exploring the location. Based on how much time you plan to spend in the area, there are few excursions options.

Some of the top places to see in Saguaro National Park are:

Rincon Mountains
Gates Pass
Cactus Forest Drive
Wasson Peak

If you’re into the outdoors, you will be excited to know that there are some top-notch hikes in Saguaro National Park and it is one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

11. Antelope Canyon

This gorgeous natural wonder is a must-see for people visiting the southwestern US. When arriving at the destination, be ready to be amazed by spectacular views that frequently change during the drive.

Antelope Canyon is completely made of sandstone and is very narrow, and got its beautiful shape from water and wind over the past millions of years.

Photographers who’ve been there would agree that the location is a photographer’s dream destination! The views inside the canyon are just incredible and, for sure, worth a quick visit.

12. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Located just 2 hours west of Tucson, Organ Pipe Cactus contains 330,000 acres of pristine Sonoran desert wilderness.

No matter what the visitors’ interests and hobbies are, everyone can find something alluring there, from scenic drives to hiking trails to birdwatching and beyond. This is also an ideal place to go desert camping.

People who’ve been there would claim that this location is not like what most of us imagine a desert to be like; in fact, they say it has a lot of green and lush and is very much full of life!

13. Tumacacori National Historical Park

In Tumacacori National Historical Park, one can dive deep into the 19th-century Franciscan mission, which was never fully completed but until these days, remains a remarkable monument to the efforts.

The park is located in Santa Cruz County in southern Arizona. Tumacacori consists of 360 acres divided into three separate units. The park protects the ruins of three Spanish mission communities, a National Historic Landmark, and the 1937 Tumacácori Museum building.

Tumacacori National Historical Park AZ — Tumacacori National Historical Park

The mission is preserved precisely as it was in the times of Franciscans. Once you enter the area, there’s a 14-minute video exhibiting things worth knowing in order to get a better understanding of Tumacacori. Visitors can purchase or borrow a self-guiding tour book for the Tumacácori Mission grounds.

14. Beaver Falls Trail in Havasu Creek

Beaver Falls Trail is a 24.5 mile heavily trafficked, out and back trail located close to Supai. It is rated as a difficult trail. You’re in the vicinity of many other waterfalls, including famous Havasu Falls, but head this route to Beaver Falls to be sure to opt for another fantastic site.

This place has a magical aura, and you most definitely would not want to leave it quickly! Keep in mind that in order to get to Beaver Falls, you must already be camping at Havasu, as it is not allowed to do day hiking into the canyon. Reservations must be made in advance in the tourism office.

This is one of the best hikes and places to visit in Arizona and is surely one for the Arizona bucket list!

15. Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction

Numerous shops, historic buildings, a tour to Mammoth Gold Mine, and Goldfield Museum are just some of the reasons to visit the renowned Goldfield Ghost Town. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the wild west history as it was back in the day.

After a few attempts to reopen the gold mines, the town finally came to life again from 1910 on, and travelers still visit this place located on the historic Apache Trail and take in the excitement of going back in time, Arizona-style.

16. Montezuma Castle near Camp Verde

Mindblowing Native American ruins and remnants can be found at Montezuma Castle, which was a house to nearly 35 people in the past.

It’s an epic castle, situated right between a mountain, which surprises all first-time visitors with its distinct location and outlook.

Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona — Montezuma Castle National Monument

The Sinagua, who were the inhabitants of this castle, started to abandon it nearly 600 years ago, and the answer to why exactly that happened is still unknown and a mystery even today.

Nevertheless, the venue is now turned into an extraordinary spot for tourists to visit, and it’s for sure a place worth spending some time and energy in. While it definitely gets tourism these days, it is still an off-the-path destination in Arizona as it is overshadowed by some of the other places in the state.

17. Horseshoe Bend

One of the most famous landscapes in the United States is that of Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona. Sometimes referred to as the East Rim of the Grand Canyon, this sight most definitely deserves its own place on this list!

The scenic Arizona landmark is an example of an entrenched meander that was formed around 5-6 million years ago by the Colorado River (which still currently runs through it).

Horseshoe Bend At Sunset — Horseshoe Bend – one of the top destinations in Arizona

You can access Horseshoe bend by going on the 1.5-mile hiking trail there from the parking area off of US Route 89 near Page. This is Navajo Nation and the overlook is approximately 4,200 feet above sea level.

18. Phoenix

The capital of Arizona is Phoenix, a city of around 1.6 million people located in the middle of the Arizona desert.

The cultural hub and epicenter of life in Arizona, Phoenix is a fantastic weekend break or base to explore some of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Phoenix is brimming with museums, cultural centers, parks, and sports facilities. Some of the most famous places to visit in Phoenix are:

Desert Botanical Garden
Camelback Mountain
Papago Park
Street art and murals on Roosevelt Row
Heard Museum
Phoenix Art Museum
South Mountain Park and Preserve
Pueblo Grande Museum

There are many things to do in Phoenix and several incredible day trips from the Arizona capital city.

19. Scottsdale

A city rather close to Phoenix is the city of Scottsdale. The slogan of the city is “The West’s Most Western Town” and it holds a population of around 260,000 people.

Scottsdale is located in the Salt River Valley and in the northern part of the Sonoran Desert. It is divided into four different areas – South, Old Town, Central, and the North.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Scottsdale, you will quickly notice that the city is renowned for its world-class resorts (they have the most AAA Five-Diamond hotels and resorts in the US!). You can see some of the things to do in the city by taking a peek at Phoenix above.

20. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir that is shared with Utah in the far north of the state. Located on the Colorado River, the scenic lake is visited by over 2 million people annually.

The landscapes here are truly magnificent. It is the second-largest man-made reservoir in the US (only behind Lake Mead).

Lake Powell in Arizona and Utah — Lake Powell

Lake Powell’s main part stretches up Glen Canyon but there are a total of over 90 canyons on the sides of it. It is a fantastic place to find remnants of Anasazi culture and history, also.

Some of the main landmarks around Lake Powell are:

Glen Canyon Dam
Rainbow Bridge
Hite Crossing Bridge
San Juan goosenecks
Three-Roof Ruin
Padre Bay

…and many more! Lake Powell is one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States and is a must-visit for those taking a trip to the Grand Canyon or anywhere else in northern Arizona.

21. Papago Park

Papago Park is a park located in between the Arizona cities of Phoenix and Tempe. It is a must-visit place in the metro area and one of the best places to visit in Arizona for some urban nature.

One of the most popular landmarks inside of the Phoenix park is Hunt’s Tomb, a small white pyramid tomb on a hill in the park that has been there since the 1930s for Arizona’s first governor’s wife. In 2008, Hunt’s Tomb was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Papago is so special because the deserty park has several unique geological formations and is home to a lot of desert flora. Inside the park, you will find many hiking trails, bike paths, the Desert Botanical Garden, and much more.

22. Wupatki National Monument

In between Arizona’s Painted Desert and the highlands of the northern part of the state, you will find Wupatki, one of the most underrated destinations in Arizona.

This historic monument is a Native American archaeological site that dates back to around 500 AD. In Hopi language, it means ‘Tall House’. Today, the monument is cared for and looked after but it is technically abandoned.

Some of the main sites and places at Wupatki National Monument are:

Wupatki Ruin Ball Court
Box Canyon Ruins
Wupatki Pueblo

You can find Wupatki National Monument located close to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

23. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Located in northern Coconino County, you will find one of the best places to visit in Arizona, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Established in 2000, this natural beauty protects the Paria Plateau, Vermilion Cliffs, Coyote Buttes, and Paria Canyon. It sprawls out over 293,000 acres and one of the biggest attractions there is ‘the Wave’.

Travelers not only flock to Vermilion for its diverse wildlife but also for its ancient human settlements as you can see many Native American pueblos scattered throughout the land.

There are also many petroglyphs in the area. This is such an Arizona hidden gem so really give yourself some time to explore the protected area and all it encompasses.

24. Chloride Ghost Town

Chloride is a ghost town in Arizona and at first glance, it may appear to just be another tacky tourist trap. However, it is rather cool and has a huge collection of junk art and murals.

While there is not too much going on in Chloride, it is definitely trying to garner some attention in recent years with gunfight reenactments, Arizona’s oldest post office, and several other sites.

It is a great stop if you’re on a road trip from California to Arizona and needing a short break.

25. Oatman

The village of Oatman is situated in the Black Mountains of Mohave County in gorgeous Arizona. Its birth was as a small mining camp when miners discovered over $10 million in gold in 1915 and within a single year, the population grew to over 3,500.

Currently, the town is a historic and interesting place to stop and visit. It is like going back in time and it is located on Route 66 so it played a huge role as travelers would pass it in between Needles, California and Kingman, Arizona. Once a new route was built in the 1960s, Oatman was left pretty much abandoned.

It is currently a ‘ghost town’ but it is definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Arizona for those into mining history and the state’s early foundations.

26. Tucson

Tucson is the largest city in the south of Arizona and the second-largest in the state. With over half a million residents, Tucson is an oasis in the middle of the desert and worth a visit for a weekend break (or longer!)

It sits merely 60 miles north of the Mexico border and the city was the first American city to be recognized and designated as a ‘City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO.

Some of the top places to visit in Tucson are:

Saguaro National Park
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
San Xavier del Bac Mission
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
Pima Air & Space Museum
Old Tucson
Tucson Botanical Gardens
Tucson Museum of Art

There are some excellent hiking trails in Saguaro and if you’re there in the cooler months, definitely give it a go!

27. Winslow

The small town of Winslow, Arizona gained international recognition in the Eagle and Jackson Browne song ‘Take it Easy’ and has attracted visitors beyond the Arizona borders since.

Situated in Navajo County, the town has around 9,600 residents and the original Route 66 went through the town (until rebuilt). Some of the top things to do in Winslow (and nearby) are:

Visit Standin’ on the Corner Park (dedicated to Eagles song)
See the historic downtown
Little Painted Desert County Park
Old Trails Museum
Homolovi State Park
Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Winslow is definitely one of the best places to visit in Arizona and is worth a stop or overnight in!

28. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Located 18 miles west of Winslow in Arizona’s northern desert is the Meteor Crater. It used to be known as the Canyon Diablo Crater and has been known by other names, too, but it eventually acquired its current name.

It is situated 5,640 feet above sea level and is around 3,900 feet in diameter. It was formed about 50,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch when the area was far cooler and damper. The area around it was dominated by mammoths and giant ground sloths.

In 1967, it was designated as a National Natural Landmark and has become one of the top landmarks in Arizona. And, in the 1970s, NASA astronauts even trained in the crater to prepare them for the Apollo missions that were set to go to the moon!

29. Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Located in southwestern Arizona sits the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. Located near Yuma and Quartzsite, it was founded in 1939 in order to protect the desert bighorn sheep that call the area home.

It spans across 665,000 acres of the Yuma Desert (part of the Sonoran Desert) and you can see the Kofa Mountains within the refuge.

Not only are there sheep in this part, but you will also find a lot of birds and a large plant variety within it.

Today, there are only around 428 desert bighorn sheep within the park and they live primarily in the two ranges inside of the refuge- the Kofa Mountains and Castle Dome Mountains.

Cactus on the rocks in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona ay sunrise — Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Other prevalent species within the region are badgers, desert tortoise, and kit fox. Recently, cougars have found their way back to the refuge full-time.

Inside of the national wildlife refuge, you will also have a chance to hike on some of the fantastic trails there. Don’t miss the trails in and around Palm Canyon!

30. Apache – Sitgreaves National Forests

Green forests are not usually what one thinks of when they think of Arizona, but the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are remarkably green and worth visiting.

Sprawling out over 2.76 million acres, these US National Forests run along the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains in east-central Arizona. They even go into New Mexico.

You will find over 400 species of wildlife inside of the forests and it offers such a great respite from the treacherous Arizona temperatures during the summer months. It is a popular weekend break from Pheonix as a result.

Some of the top landmarks and attractions in the forests are:

Mount Baldy Wilderness Area
Hannagan Meadow
Bear Wallow Wilderness Area
Escudilla Wilderness Area

There are also over eight large cold-water lakes and many smaller ones inside of the forests. There are also 680 miles of rivers and streams inside.

We hope that this guide helps you be inspired to visit the wildly diverse and beautiful state of Arizona! There are some of the best places to visit in Arizona, but there are many other places worthy of being on your Arizona bucket list!

Let us know your favorite places in Arizona in the comments!

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15 Best Places to Visit in Maine – Portland, Acadia, & More!

November 1 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Maine is one of the best places to visit in the United States. Anyone who tells you it isn’t has never been to Maine. There are beautiful parks, rocky coastlines, and some of the best food (and seafood) in the United States. This is a guide to the best places to visit in Maine.

Our Maine destinations guide will include places from Acadia National Park to Bangor to Portland (and beyond). If you have any places in Maine you recommend, please leave them in the comments!

Maine Destinations Map

Best Places to Visit in Maine – The List

Acadia National Park

In the event that you want to enjoy spectacular views and a rich cultural heritage along the Atlantic coastline of the United States, then Acadia National Park should be your go-to destination.

It is one of the most visited parks in the United States, with an annual of 3.5 million guests, 45 miles of carriage roads, and hiking trails with a length of 158 miles.

Best places to visit in Maine - Acadia National Park — Best places to visit in Maine – Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is located to the southwest of Bar Harbor. The park upholds half of Mount Desert Island, a part of the Schoodic Peninsula, and bordering smaller islands.

The park has a total area of 49,075 acres (76.7 sq mi; 198.6 km2), inside which there are mountains, woodlands, lakes, ponds, and adjacent ocean coastline.

It offers plenty of activities, both for the summer and winter seasons (Acadia in winter is especially snowy and beautiful). There is indeed a lot to explore there and it is one of the best places to visit in Maine!

Bass Harbor Lighthouse at sunset, in Acadia National Park, Maine. — Bass Harbor Lighthouse in Acadia National Park

Bangor

Bangor is a major northern town located along the Penobscot River. The “Queen City” of Maine offers a few attractions in its vicinity like Grotto Cascade Park, Bangor Museum & Center for History, and Fairmont Terrace Park.

Shopping is considered to be a fun activity in the city and those looking to spend money will enjoy visiting Bangor. If shopping is your cup of tea, you can visit the Bangor Mall Shopping Center, Maine Square Mall Shopping Center, and the Broadway Shopping Center on your trip there.

House of Stephen King in Bangor Maine — House of Stephen King in Bangor

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the city, you definitely should take a trip to visit the Bangor Museum & Center.

There are some exciting things to see for people who love horror, fear, and all things Stephen King. You can join in on special tours in locations of King’s notable books and films.

Travelers who love creepy and haunting excursions may want to visit a cemetery named Mt. Hope, opened in 1836. It is the second-largest garden cemetery in the United States.

Portland

Portland (not the one in Oregon!) is the most populous city in Maine and is America’s 20th largest fishing port. Fans of Stephen King might know that Portland was the place he was born in.

For entertainment, note that Portland has the largest American commercial and retail store in the state of Maine, called The Maine Mall.

Sunrise at Portland Head Lighthouse in Maine — Portland Head Lighthouse in Maine

If you happen to like live music, mini-concerts, and consider yourself a foodie, there is a festival organized every year in downtown Portland that will cater to your travel needs.

Portland is truly a hub of activity and there are many fantastic day trips from Portland that make the city a worthwhile destination.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the most popular tourist destinations in Maine, located on Mount Desert island. You can enjoy peaceful walks along the shore, taste the seafood there, and hit up small boutiques (there are plenty of them).

You can go fishing for free along the coastline, visit Acadia National Park, rent a tour on a ship, and many other activities.

The Criterion Theater, built-in 1932, is located in the center of Bar Harbor. Starting from its opening year, it served as a movie theater for the town. It’s interesting to note that most of the theater’s original design is still there, even the seats and the curtains.

Mount Desert Island

Mount Desert Island is the largest island off the coast of Maine. Known as the home of Acadia National Park, the island has a population of 10,000.

Cadillac Mountain (1532 ft) is the highest peak on the island, and this is the first place where the sunrise and sunset are welcomed in the United States.

This place has become a very popular place to visit for summer vacationers. Even though Acadia National Park is what the island is the most famous for, there are also a few small towns, like Bar Harbor, that have some interesting things to do as well.

Sand Beach

If you like small but truly gorgeous beaches, then you should definitely visit Sand Beach at least once in your lifetime. Because of the differences between low and high tides, the coastline varies a lot, and it’s always quite eye-catching.

During the summertime, which is the busiest season of the year, you can still find a spare, sunny place to enjoy on your own.

The Sand Beach, at Acadia National Park, Maine — Sand Beach in Maine

Also, please note that the temperature of the ocean doesn’t get higher than 60 degrees… so it may be a bit of a chilly swim!

The Kennebunks

Whether you decide to visit the town of Kennebunk or Kennebunkport, you’ll always find many attractions available from art galleries, excursions, shops, beaches, cafes and restaurants, and many more.

Many people don’t know that those two towns are located very close to each other with the more interesting stuff actually being in Kennebunk.

With historical monuments, beaches, and famous golf courses, The Kennebunks are most definitely places worth visiting.

Camden

Camden is yet another town in the state of Maine. In the summertime, there is quite a lot of traffic coming there to enjoy a proper New England vacation.

There are a lot of known local boutiques, cozy cafes, and restaurants with a unique menu… and the size of town allows the visitors to enjoy long strolls that cover the entire area (and then some!).

For a little day hiking and amazing views, you can visit Camden Hills State Park. If you get lucky and wind up there on a non-cloudy day, then you can see the route to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park.

There are many lobster and boat tours available in Camden. For example, Schooner Simplicity is for those who enjoy schooner rides with a picnic on the islands for relatively small groups.

You might also want to choose a real lobster vessel; in that case, you’ll hop on Captain Jack’s Lobster Boat Adventure and set sail for the day!

Rockland

This one is again quite popular among those seeking the best places to visit in Maine. Located in Midcoast Maine, Rockland is known for its lobster catching industry.

The coastal town has excellent architectural sights and delicious seafood ready to offer to its visitors. To see some impressive Maine art, you can check out The Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center.

If you’re interested in learning more about Rockland’s history, don’t miss the chance to visit The Maine Lighthouse Museum.

Once there, you will find a collection of Fresnel lighthouse lenses and some of the most prominent lighthouse artifacts in the United States.

Freeport

Freeport is widely known for its numerous outlet stores, including the acclaimed brand LL Bean. Apart from shopping, a favorite Freeport activity is visiting Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park.

It has an area of over 230 acres, surrounded by Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River. The relatively flat area makes it a perfect space for children or for people who have some mobility issues since many other parks in Maine are not mobility-friendly.

Also, Freeport has one of Maine’s most fascinating tourist attractions called the Desert of Maine. Guests can walk on well-marked trails, make purchases from gift shops, etc.

This is also one of the best places to visit in Maine for families as many kids enjoy playing and making sand castles and sand pits in the ‘desert’ there.

Baxter State Park

This gorgeous Maine State Park is nicknamed the “magnificent obsession.” Baxter State Park is a large landscape, preserved as a state park. There are more than 10 campgrounds and more than 215 miles of hiking trails.

The park was “created” from 28 donations of land by Percival P. Baxter (an American politician and philanthropist from Maine). Baxter wanted the state of Maine to have a new kind of park, not similar to others, and many would agree that he succeeded in that.

Moose in a lake in Baxter State Park — Baxter State Park

A simple walk in that park is not like the usual as it has a lot of deep wildness in it. It is the perfect weekend break in Maine and one of the best destinations in the state, without a doubt!

Moosehead Lake

The notable towns that surround Moosehead Lake are Greenville and Rockwood. Being the largest lake in Maine, Moosehead offers a great fishing location with plenty of landlocked salmon, brook trout, and togue (lake trout).

To rent a boat and fish, you can do that on your own, or feel free to hire a Registered Maine Guide to provide local insight and any needed help.

You can also spend the day cruising around the 117-square miles of lake, and there are plenty of places that offer boats or jet-skis. It is one of the best places to visit in Maine if you’re an outdoors lover and one that really enjoys being on the water near beautiful, forested land.

Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is situated between the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, with a small portion touching the US state of Maine. It is considered to be one of the 7 wonders of North America.

The Bay of Fundy has the highest tides on Earth, has the most distinct whales in the world. And, it is renowned for its archaeological finds, such as the many dinosaur fossils that have been discovered in the area.

Monhegan Island

A fishing village and a historic artist’s colony, Monhegan Island is located in Lincoln country.

You can enjoy a hiking experience that takes you 17 miles along the shore, shop from small gift and souvenir shops, and visit the art galleries on the island.

With some of its spectacular views, it’s also a great place to have a picnic. You can also spend a few days at one of the inns and guesthouses for a more memorable experience.

You will most probably feel like you’ve moved back in time for nearly a hundred years and its simplicity alone makes it a great place to visit in Maine!

Ogunquit

Ogunquit is a town in York County. Translated from the language of Algonquin Indians, means “Beautiful Place by The Sea.”

One of the most remarkable features of this town is Ogunquit Beach. It is 3.5 miles long and is perfect for nearly everything that is connected to beach-related things.

Ogunquit is ideal for visitors with active lifestyles who are looking for outdoor activities. The Ogunquit River, which flows 9 miles long, is a great kayaking spot, and there are local kayak rentals and tours (designed from beginners to expert level).

In addition, the region is a center for active nightlife and entertainment, so after a day of exploring the gorgeous Maine nature, you can unwind at a local bar or restaurant.

There are many wonderful places in Maine worth visiting and we hope that this guide inspires you to book a trip to the New England state. What are the best places to visit in Maine, in your opinion?

Please leave a comment below if you have any suggestions!

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Acadia in Winter: Reasons to Visit, Things to Do, & Tips

October 29 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit on the East Coast regardless of whether you make the trip in summer or winter! This Acadia in winter guide will give you details on why you should visit, things to do, and travel tips.

If you’re visiting Acadia National Park in winter, there are many things you must know before planning your trip there. This guide will discuss traveling to Acadia in December, January, and February but please take note that winter can (and likely will!) extend beyond those months!

If you have any tips for an Acadia winter trip, please leave them in the comments below. Thanks!

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting Acadia National Park, or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

Reasons to Visit Acadia in Winter

One of the main reasons to visit Acadia in winter is that the popular US national park becomes far less-crowded and bearable. Granted, the temperatures are not pleasant for those that shun winter weather, but if you dress appropriately, you may feel like you have the park all to yourself!

Another fantastic reason spend winter in Acadia is that it is an epic place to go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

There are heaps of trails there (nearly 45 miles of carriage roads) and it is truly a magical place in winter for those looking to enjoy the outdoors in a majestic setting. It is one of the best US national parks to visit in February and other winter months or winter activities.

When is it Winter in Acadia?

Winter in Acadia lasts for a long time. It can start at the end of October and last all the way into April and May depending on the year. However, the main months where you will find it to be wintry in Acadia National Park are December, January, and February, and into March.

How Cold Does it Get in Acadia? (Temperatures & More)

Here are the average temperatures in Acadia National Park in winter, including the number of rainy/snowy days in the park:

Month	Average high	Average Low	# Rainy days
December	1C / 34F	-8C / 17F	10
January	-2C / 29F	-12C / 10F	9
February	0C / 31F	-11C / 13F	7

Does it Snow in Acadia National Park?

Yes, it does snow in Acadia National Park and depending on the month, it can be more than others. On average, Acadia National Park gets around 60 inches of snow.

What to Wear When Visiting Acadia National Park in Winter

Temperatures in Acadia tend to be cold in winter but not completely unbearable thanks to the coast being so close. However, it is imperative to dress for the winter and because of the coastal location, weather changes in a flash! We list some essential things to wear in Acadia in winter below.

Note: We are huge fans of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix. We are listing an array of our favorite winter gear below.

Winter Parka

You need a winter parka for Acadia. Point blank. No ifs, ands, or buts. I actually love my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka and I have worn it on several of my Arctic trips and it has served me so well. Helly Hansen is a Norwegian brand and they know winter and outdoor clothing well.

Because of the cold temperatures in Acadia, I only feel comfortable recommending the parka above as I haven’t had a chance to test others since this one has always done the job for me! Click here to see my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka (I own it in black).

Crampons

If you’re not sturdy on your feet (*sheepishly raises hand*), definitely invest in a pair of crampons for your Acadia winter trip.

I have used several types throughout the years and I found that these ones from Yaktrax are the best ones for me, personally. Click here to purchase them on Amazon.

Sorel Snowboots

Make sure you buy them big enough that you can throw some thick wool socks on when you’re dressing for your adventure in ANP! Click here purchase my Sorel Snowboots on Amazon or, if budget isn’t a factor, this other Sorel pair that I recommend from REI.

What to Pack for Acadia in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

Mobile Power Bank

Extra Camera Batteries

I also travel with a USB charger for camera batteries that I can stick in my mobile power bank in case times get tough. Click here to find a USB charger for camera batteries.

Dry Bags

It will be snowy and the weather will be a bit off-putting on certain days on your winter in Acadia vacation… so don’t let it ruin your equipment or gear! I travel with dry bags just as an extra precaution and they have served me well all over the world. These dry bags from the Friendly Swede are my favorite.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Acadia in Winter

During the winter months in Acadia, things do close down a bit. You will find many establishments, including hotels, closed during the winter in Bar Harbor.

Acadia National Park will also start its winter hours during December and it will also close some of the major hiking trails and parts of Park Loop Road.

However, this empties out the park and leaves room for adventurers interested in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing!

Quick Facts about Acadia NP

Location: Utah
Size: 47,000 acres
Annual Visitors: 3,437,286 (2019)
Established: January 19, 1929
Closest big city: Bangor, ME (but Bar Harbor, ME is a good base)
Acadia National Park Highlights: snowshoeing and cross-country trails, lighthouses, islands, only park in the Northeastern United States

Facilities Open at Acadia

During the winter season, Acadia will not have visitors centers open for the public. However, from November 1 until mid-April, the park shares visitor hours with the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

You can locate it at 2 Cottage Street in Bar Harbor (or give them a call at (207)288-3338 if you need something). The hours are from 8am until 4pm daily.

Things to Do in Acadia During Winter

In case you want to enjoy a full-pack experience of winter tourism, then Acadia National Park might be one of your greatest choices.

It has less traffic in the wintertime when compared to summer, and there are numerous fun activities available there like designated drives, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, birdwatching, winter camping, and scenic hiking destinations.

Ocean Drive

Starting from December 1st of each year, most of the Park Loop Road is closed, except for two sections: Ocean Drive and Jordan Pond Road.

You can reach the park’s most popular sites on this drive, like Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, the Beehive, and other grand cliffs on the road.

The small section of Acadia’s Loop Road has access from Schooner Head Road. The left side of the lane is open for snowmobiles only, so be cautious to stay on the right lane only.

You can exit the Ocean drive by Otter Cliff Road to Route 3.

Jordan Pond Road

This two-way path is north of Seal Harbor and is available year-round. It uses the other part of the Park Loop Road.

Follow the Jordan Pond Road to Park Loop Road, which is plowed to the Jordan Pond House Restaurant parking areas.

Cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing lovers can enjoy the park fully in the wintertime, thanks to Friend of Acadia volunteers and Acadia Winter Trails Association, who groom and track the area if the snow is at least 6 inches and the road is frozen.

Special state-of-the-art grooming equipment is being used. There are 45 miles of carriage road, of which 32 is groomed and complete with skating lines.

Before the visit, make sure to check the conditions of cross-country skiing, as those are not stable and change a lot.

With tracked roads, wide skating lanes, and a sufficient snowfall, it would be challenging to find any place better for cross-country skiing. If you plan to travel, use the Friends of Acadia website to access information about the groomed trails.

Eagle Lake

Eagle Lake is one of the most outstanding locations in the park, with a combined view of the lake, mountains, and woods. The trail to the lake isn’t hard to hike; it has a few ups and downs.

The 3.7-mile path of the west side of the lake is groomed, and it is surrounded by carriage roads.

When the lake is frozen in the wintertime, those who prefer a smoother and flatter route are free to ski the lake itself.

Snowshoeing

People who love snowshoeing have a great chance to enjoy their time on different six trails, of an overall of 120 miles of hiking area.

Having a height of 525 feet, Gorham mountain is one of the six trails and is plenty of impressive natural sights. The incline of the cliff is gradual, making it a perfect location for snowshoeing. Compared to Gorham, Cadillac South Ridge has an even more gradual slope, and it’s also the longest of the trails, having a length of 3.5 miles.

For less experienced, Ship Harbor and Wonderland are a better option as they’re nearly 1.5 miles, but are known to provide a delightful view of the ocean and not only. If you want to hike a road with a carriage road that lasts up until the top, you better choose the Day Mountain Trail.

There are two ways to reach it, one with the Jordan Pond and the other from the south near Seal Harbor.

Another trail is the Eagle Lake Circuit, which is 6 miles long but promises one of the most remarkable experiences in the park. To obtain the fullest, you can get to the ice and enjoy the views from there.

Last but not least, the other 6-mile route of Witch Hole Pond has one of the wildest auras in the location, but in that route, you’ll be able to see the Duck Brook Bridge and Paradise Hill, both of which are definitely worth the time and energy spent during the hike.

Snowmobiling

For snowmobiling, it’s important to mention that it’s allowed only on the unplowed roads and on the 27-mile Park Loop Road. The maximum permitted speed is 35 mph. All the rules and regulations can be found on the park’s winter activities webpage.

Snowmobiles are allowed in the area of the park in case of having enough snow. In the times of good weather, the part of the road stays open to provide access to visitors of Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, Otter cliffs, all of these free of charge.

Birdwatching at Schoodic Point

Schoodic Point is a particular favorite of birders. There is a guided tour available for the park visitors to get acquainted with unique bird species specific to Acadia’s wildlife.

Birds like eagles, owls, razorbills, murres and dovekies, black-capped chickadees, and Harlequin ducks are typical examples. An hour drive from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center on Mount Desert Island gets you to the Schoodic Peninsula.

Right after entering the park, the Frazer Point Picnic Area is there with a picnic area, after which the one-way path gets you to the Schoodic Point.

On the way to the location, you can feel the beauty of the views along the road, as well as have the benefit of seeing Mount Desert Island.

Winter Camping at Acadia NP

In the wintertime, Blackwood Campground is open, and the camping there is free. Due to its location and accessibility, Blackwood is probably the best match for a person experiencing winter camping for the first time.

It is located south of Bar Harbor on Route 3. To enter on a free basis, campers should get access from the Dispatch Office or Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

Hike the Cadillac North Ridge Trail

Having a length of 6.4 kilometers, Cadillac North Ridge Trail is an out and back trail located close to Bar Harbor, with an elevation gain of 341 meters. People who love to see sunrise or sunset when hiking are recommended to visit this trail.

It offers several activity options available all around the year, and it’s worth mentioning that it features appealing pictures of nature. Dogs are allowed to use these trails but must be kept on a leash.

The hikers have two options to begin with, both from the Park Loop Road.

The first option starts with the Take Kebo Brook Trail continuing onto the Cadillac North Ridge Trail, while the other option begins from the one-way section towards Sand Beach. Be informed that parking in that location is extremely limited.

Hike Pemetic Mountain

If you desire to have a hike full of both effortless walks and challenging ascents, but at the same time take in the pleasure of an admirable view of the landscape, then Pemetic Mountain should definitely be on the list of your doings in Acadia.

The mountain has a height of 1,248 feet (380m). The difficulty level of the hike is considered to be advanced, so don’t underestimate it.

The name of the mountain was given by Native Americans, which basically means “the sloping land,” and it fully describes the island as a whole. The area can be reached both from the north (Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor, etc.) and from the southern part of Mount Desert Island.

If you’re a steady and seasoned hiker, know that the effort will pay off when you reach the summit, from where several areas like Jordan Pond, Bubble Pond, Little, and Great Cranberry Islands, and many more are visible for you, as if they’re in the palm of your hand.

Hiking in Acadia in winter is one of the best things to do if you love the outdoors and dress properly.

How to Get to Acadia National Park

Getting to Acadia National Park is very easy if you’ve made your way to Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor is kind of the unofficial base for exploring Acadia National Park and it is a great place to stay overnight if you’re planning on multiple days in Acadia.

To reach Bar Harbor, you can take Rt 3 from the mainland onto the island. Alternatively, you can stay in Bangor and take a day trip to Acadia National Park.

Acadia National Park Accommodation Options

There are plenty of reputable places to stay in Acadia National Park and around the area. Here are some of our top picks of places to stay in and near Acadia – broken down into hotels, Airbnbs, and camping/glamping options.

Bar Harbor Hotels and Inns

Unfortunately, most places close down in Bar Harbor during the winter months, including hotels and restaurants. The following top-rated places do stay open, however, and are ready for business!

Affordable & Mid-range: Quimby House Inn & Spa | Check rates: Booking.com
Affordable & Mid-range: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel | Check rates: Booking.com
Mid-range to Luxury: Saltair Inn | Check rates: Booking.com

Airbnbs in Acadia National Park (& Nearby)

Converted bar: The Seamist Cottage converted barn
Unique accommodation: Coyote’s Den at the Howling Woods
Entire cottage: Hulls Cove Cottage in Bar Harbor
Unique dome-shaped hut: Little Frog at the Howling Woods

Glamping and Camping Near Acadia (Winter Options)

There are four campgrounds inside of Acadia that you can stay at but you are unable to book online. They are Schoodic Woods Campground, Seawall Campground, Blackwoods Campground, Duck Harbor Campground. To see more, click here.

If you’re wanting to pre-book your camping trip to Acadia in winter, these campgrounds remain open and are close to the park.

Connors Family Campground (from $30/night)
The Howling Woods (from $25/night)
Sunset View Cozy Tent Nook (from $45/night)
Schoodic Woods near Ocean (from $70/night)
Off-grid Oceanfront Acadia A-frame (from $100/night)

Should You Book a Winter Trip to Acadia National Park?

If you’re an avid winter outdoor enthusiast, we think that Acadia is one of the best places to visit during the colder season. The cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities alone are enough to make the park worthwhile but the views just put it over the top! It is spectacular!

We hope this guide to visiting Acadia in winter helps you plan your trip there and realize what a gem this Maine national park truly is!