Plan a U.S. national parks road trip

The United States has more than 60 national parks with canyons, geysers, forests, coasts and mountains. A road trip is the best way to see them, but the popular ones need planning.

Parks to start with

• Yellowstone (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho): geysers, hot springs and wildlife.
• Grand Canyon (Arizona): one of the world's great views. The South Rim is the most visited.
• Yosemite (California): granite cliffs, waterfalls and giant trees.
• Zion and Bryce Canyon (Utah): red rock canyons. Combine them with Arches and Canyonlands.
• Glacier (Montana): alpine lakes and mountain roads.
• Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee, North Carolina): forests and wildflowers, and one of the most visited parks.
• Acadia (Maine): a rocky coast and sunrise over the sea.

When to go

Late spring and early autumn have milder weather and smaller crowds than summer. Many high mountain roads close in winter, while some desert parks are at their best then. Check each park's official website for open roads and facilities.

Reserve early

• Lodges and campgrounds inside popular parks can sell out many months ahead. Check when reservations open and set a reminder.
• Some parks require timed entry or permits for certain roads, trails or seasons. Check before you go.
• If rooms inside the park are full, look in the nearby gateway towns.

Save money

• The annual America the Beautiful pass covers entry to many parks and federal lands, and pays for itself after a few visits. Check the current price.
• Each year, the parks have a few fee-free days.
• Stay in campgrounds, cabins or motels outside the gate, and cook some meals.
• Reserve your rental car early, and compare prices at airports and in towns.

Stay safe

• Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection and a paper map. Phone signal is often weak.
• Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Bison and bears can be dangerous. Park rules give the minimum distance.
• Do not feed animals, and take all your trash out.
• Weather can change fast in the mountains. Check forecasts and the park's alerts.