WUDN
March-2024
Top 10 List - How to Prepare for a Visit to a US National Park
WUDN Outdoor Adventure (National Park Series)
Companion to Our National Park Series
How to Prepare for a Visit to a US National Park
National Park Series > How to Prepare for a Visit to a US National Park
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How to Prepare for a Visit to a US National Park
1. Research the Park:
Familiarize yourself with the national park you plan to visit. Learn about its attractions, hiking trails, camping options, and any regulations or restrictions that may apply.
2. Check Park Conditions:
Check the park's website or contact the park ranger station for information on current conditions, such as weather forecasts, trail closures, or wildfire alerts.
3. Make Reservations:
If you plan to camp or stay overnight in the park, make reservations for campsites, lodges, or backcountry permits well in advance, as popular parks can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
4. Pack Essentials:
Make a packing list and ensure you have all the essential items for your trip, including clothing appropriate for the weather, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, plenty of water, and snacks.
5. Bring Navigation Tools:
Carry a map of the park, a compass or GPS device, and a fully charged cell phone or satellite communicator to help navigate trails and backcountry areas.
6. Practice Leave No Trace:
Familiarize yourself with the principles of Leave No Trace ethics, which promote responsible outdoor recreation and conservation practices. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife and natural resources.
8. Prepare for Emergencies:
Pack a basic emergency kit with items such as a flashlight, whistle, multi-tool, extra food, and a space blanket. Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time, especially if you plan to hike in remote areas.
9. Stay Informed:
Keep an eye on park updates and alerts, especially regarding weather changes, trail conditions, or wildlife sightings. Stay flexible with your plans and be prepared to adjust based on current circumstances.
10. Respect Park Regulations:
Follow park rules and regulations, including speed limits, parking restrictions, and designated camping areas. Respect wildlife, cultural sites, and other visitors to help preserve the park's natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Bonus: US Forest Service Trip Planning Guide
This guide will give you some key tips, links, and tools to help you "Plan like a Ranger" for your national park adventure! Having a plan will help you avoid common mistakes that can affect your visit and even lead to injury.
The Trip Planning Guide is meant for day or overnight trips to a park.If you are planning a multi-day trip, especially to backcountry areas, additional planning steps will be required and are beyond the scope of this guide.
Some Real Wooden Style for Your Trip
We are working on more branded merch to accompany your trip. In the meantime, here is a pair of real wooden shades for some excellent style while you hike the back-country of Yosemite National Park.
U.S. National Parks Pass
If you enjoy hiking and nature, you should consider getting a U.S. national parks pass. This pass is a value for those who visit national parks or other national recreational lands more than twice a year—and if you time it right, your National Parks pass can actually be valid for 13 months. If you buy this pass on the first of the month, it's valid through the year and until the end of the same month next year. For example, if you buy it on April 1, 2024, your pass will be valid till April 30, 2025.
Bear in mind that you may need to reserve an entry slot at some of the more popular parks, and the pass doesn't cover state parks. The fee for most people is $80 per year, but senior citizens can get one for $20 per year (or $80 for a lifetime membership). Some of the biggest national parks in the U.S. charge an entry fee of $20 per person or $35 per vehicle. This pass also covers the day-use fee for sites managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and the U.S. Army of Corps of Engineers. As a pass-holder, you're also likely to encounter shorter lines at entry points for some of the more popular parks. Your pass covers entry for one private vehicle or four people to the park at a time.
Closing
By taking these steps to prepare for your trip, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy a safe and memorable adventure in one of America's spectacular national parks.
BEARS! More Detail
Several U.S. national parks are home to bear populations, with some parks having a higher likelihood of bear encounters than others. Some of the national parks where visitors are most likely to encounter bears include:
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho):
Yellowstone is home to both grizzly bears and black bears, and encounters with these iconic animals are relatively common, especially in backcountry areas and along hiking trails. - Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina):
Great Smoky Mountains is known for its dense black bear population, with an estimated 1,500 bears roaming the park. Visitors often encounter bears along roadsides and hiking trails, particularly in the spring and summer. - Glacier National Park (Montana):
Glacier National Park is home to both grizzly bears and black bears, and sightings are common throughout the park, particularly in areas with abundant food sources like berry patches and meadows. - Yosemite National Park (California):
Yosemite is home to a population of black bears that are known to frequent developed areas in search of food. Visitors should take precautions to properly store food and scented items to avoid bear encounters. - Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming):
Grand Teton is home to both grizzly bears and black bears, though grizzlies are less common in this park compared to Yellowstone. Bear encounters can occur while hiking or camping in backcountry areas. - Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado):
Rocky Mountain is home to a population of black bears, and encounters with these animals are possible, particularly in areas with dense vegetation and water sources. - Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California):
These parks are home to a population of black bears, and encounters are possible, especially in developed areas and campgrounds where food is available.
These are just a few examples of U.S. national parks where visitors may encounter bears. It's essential for visitors to educate themselves about proper bear safety protocols and to take precautions to minimize the risk of bear encounters while enjoying these spectacular wilderness areas.
About the Author
Jaimeleigh Christian
Jaime is passionate about the outdoors and traveling throughout these gorgeous United States. Especially National Parks in the Pacific Northwest.
Tags
Travel
Outdoor Adventure Series
National Parks
Tour Guide
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