9 national parks
Channel Islands begins with a crossing: the journey to the islands is part of the adventure. Once ashore, coastal views and island habitats reward a simple plan with generous time to walk and look.
Discover this park →Salt basins, colorful hills and far-reaching desert views give Death Valley an astonishing sense of scale. A rewarding itinerary can be built around a few well-chosen roadside viewpoints.
Discover this park →Rounded rock formations and branching Joshua trees create an unmistakable desert landscape. Combine scenic driving with short walks, leaving time to notice the contrasting plant communities and mountain views.
Discover this park →Kings Canyon pairs giant sequoias in the Grant Grove area with the dramatic canyon country farther along the road. The grove and canyon make different kinds of outings, so choose a plan that leaves time to enjoy each stop.
Discover this park →Lassen’s volcanic landscape includes mountain lakes, peaks and active hydrothermal areas. A scenic drive with selected short stops can be an inviting introduction when the main road is open.
Discover this park →Rock formations rise above chaparral-covered hills in a park best explored on foot. Choose an entrance before traveling, then pick a walk that matches the weather and your party’s fitness.
Discover this park →Towering redwoods and a rugged Pacific shore create an atmosphere unlike the open desert or alpine parks. Choose a grove, a scenic road and perhaps a coastal stop for a day with room to linger.
Discover this park →Sequoia’s immense trees make a powerful impression even during a short grove visit. Build the day around a manageable forest walk and a few mountain viewpoints, allowing time for the winding approach.
Discover this park →Yosemite’s granite walls and waterfalls create a powerful sense of arrival. Build a day around one part of the park, leaving room for a valley walk or viewpoint instead of spending the whole visit in traffic.
Discover this park →Parks spanning more than one state appear under each applicable state. Gateway communities and visit-planning notes are listed on each park page.
