National/State Parks Worth Seeing (1 Viewer)

[Joe Mammy]

Hoh Rainforest reminded me of The Hobbit. Hiking in that green canopy was like no other. And then the nearby beaches with the outcroppings are spectacular.

We took a ferry from San Juan Island to Port Townsend and drove from there. We stayed in a B&B that was mainly a fisherman's stop that was right on a little river.

Living in WA was amazing, my wife loves to hike and the possibilities are endless.  We realized early on after moving from FL that if we waited for perfect weather we'd never go anywhere. So off into the rainy, cold mist we went. No regrets. 

Back to FL after 3 years of exploring virgin territory from WA to Canada.

 

[krista4]

This is awesome GB!  Ok, I have booked us 2 nights of tent/car camping in Hoh.  Things were filling up pretty fast so I went ahead and snagged them and will use that as our base of operations July 6-8.  I am reading about the traffic snarls but will hopefully time them correctly.  

We have a two day gap which we are thinking of filling with some time in Seattle (and have our older boys join us) but haven't squared that away yet.

July 10-12 will be tent camping at Newhalem in the North Cascades.  I have just begun the research on all of this so your experiences are a terrific source of info to use.  Thank you.  

One small caveat for us is we are bringing our dog, so hikes we can access will be limited.  Fortunately our small kids think hiking is some sort of death march and object wildly to them, so unless we want to scare the wolverines and other hikers, we probably won't do too many K4 adventure hikes, sadly.  But, we will force them into SOME hikes that are dog friendly too.  

Look forward to reading more of your thoughts and if you're up for it, maybe we could grab food and pavedrinks one day?  

I'm glad you got a reservation.  I was going to mention if you were looking at this summer, it might be too late.

Dogs are allowed at Rialto, First, and Ruby beaches.  They are also allowed at Cape Flattery, but I think with your time being so short you might not want to make that drive.  It's so beautiful, though.  You can also take a dog on the Spruce Railroad Trail, which is by Lake Crescent and one I'd recommend for cranky non-hiking children.  It's flat and simple, mostly paved, has beautiful lake views, and a mile or so in you come to Devil's Punchbowl, just a fantastic location.  Then you can turn around instead of doing the whole 11-mile trail.  Also you go through a tunnel on this walk, which the kids might find cool.  There are two trailheads to this "hike" so be sure to start at the one off East Beach.

A couple of other short and simple hikes you could do, but not dog friendly, would be Sol Duc Falls (spectacular waterfalls on a walk through dense, also spectacular forest - less than two miles roundtrip and relatively flat), and of course while at the Hoh do the Hall of Mosses.  Though you can't take your dog on trails at Hurricane Ridge, you could still drive up and spend a little time there.  The drive itself offers incredible views, then stretch your legs a bit at the top, maybe visit the ranger center, and go back down.  I'd suggest checking it out on your way to or from the Hoh since it's not really close to where you'll be staying.

With your two extra days in between, going back to Seattle and then up to the North Cascades is not very convenient.  You are already doing way too much driving by trying to hit both ONP and North Cascades in one trip.  Maybe check out Whidbey Island instead?  You could ferry from Port Townsend and do a vrbo/airbnb on the beach or camp again up at Deception Pass State Park, which is phenomenal.  Then from there you just go over the bridge into Anacortes and east to I-5.  Or you could stay in Port Townsend for those two days instead.  It's a very cool town.

In North Cascades, a couple of places to see without hiking are Diablo Lake, one of the most stunningly beautiful lakes you could imagine, and Washington Pass Observation Site.  The latter offers spectacular views of Liberty Bell Mountain and others, and there's a little paved and easy trail you can take around.  North Cascades will generally be more dog friendly than ONP.  I think it's the most beautiful area of the state, but it is vast and you will only be scratching the surface.  Winthrop is a cute town there to check out if you want civilization.

ETA:  An easy (and dog-friendly) trail in the North Cascades would be Blue Lake.  About 4-5 miles IIRC and a very pretty lake.  Most people go there in the fall for the larches, but it would be pretty any time of year.

 

[MTskibum]

For a family trip flying into Denver any destinations in CO recommended that could be hit in a day or two? 

 What time of year?

How upscale? You thinking of renting a ski lodge?

 

[General Malaise]

I'm glad you got a reservation.  I was going to mention if you were looking at this summer, it might be too late.

Dogs are allowed at Rialto, First, and Ruby beaches.  They are also allowed at Cape Flattery, but I think with your time being so short you might not want to make that drive.  It's so beautiful, though.  You can also take a dog on the Spruce Railroad Trail, which is by Lake Crescent and one I'd recommend for cranky non-hiking children.  It's flat and simple, mostly paved, has beautiful lake views, and a mile or so in you come to Devil's Punchbowl, just a fantastic location.  Then you can turn around instead of doing the whole 11-mile trail.  Also you go through a tunnel on this walk, which the kids might find cool.  There are two trailheads to this "hike" so be sure to start at the one off East Beach.

A couple of other short and simple hikes you could do, but not dog friendly, would be Sol Duc Falls (spectacular waterfalls on a walk through dense, also spectacular forest - less than two miles roundtrip and relatively flat), and of course while at the Hoh do the Hall of Mosses.  Though you can't take your dog on trails at Hurricane Ridge, you could still drive up and spend a little time there.  The drive itself offers incredible views, then stretch your legs a bit at the top, maybe visit the ranger center, and go back down.  I'd suggest checking it out on your way to or from the Hoh since it's not really close to where you'll be staying.

With your two extra days in between, going back to Seattle and then up to the North Cascades is not very convenient.  You are already doing way too much driving by trying to hit both ONP and North Cascades in one trip.  Maybe check out Whidbey Island instead?  You could ferry from Port Townsend and do a vrbo/airbnb on the beach or camp again up at Deception Pass State Park, which is phenomenal.  Then from there you just go over the bridge into Anacortes and east to I-5.  Or you could stay in Port Townsend for those two days instead.  It's a very cool town.

In North Cascades, a couple of places to see without hiking are Diablo Lake, one of the most stunningly beautiful lakes you could imagine, and Washington Pass Observation Site.  The latter offers spectacular views of Liberty Bell Mountain and others, and there's a little paved and easy trail you can take around.  North Cascades will generally be more dog friendly than ONP.  I think it's the most beautiful area of the state, but it is vast and you will only be scratching the surface.  Winthrop is a cute town there to check out if you want civilization.

ETA:  An easy (and dog-friendly) trail in the North Cascades would be Blue Lake.  About 4-5 miles IIRC and a very pretty lake.  Most people go there in the fall for the larches, but it would be pretty any time of year.

Terrific info, thank you!  I will absolutely consider your alternative to Seattle.  That sounds perfect.  With four nights of camping, two nights with a shower in between would be a treat! 

 

[GoBirds]

 What time of year?

How upscale? You thinking of renting a ski lodge?

This would be an August trip, my wife requires the “upscale”.  

 

[dkp993]

 What time of year?

How upscale? You thinking of renting a ski lodge?

This would be an August trip, my wife requires the “upscale”

Regardless the time of year I’d highly recommend heading up to the mountains. Winter or summer is stunningly beautiful and once up in the area there are countless awesome resorts to hang at most of which have summer activities too.  

 

[krista4]

Terrific info, thank you!  I will absolutely consider your alternative to Seattle.  That sounds perfect.  With four nights of camping, two nights with a shower in between would be a treat! 

Let me know how you end up, and of course it would be great to see you!

One easy trail in ONP I forgot to mention is Staircase Rapids.  It's like a two-mile loop, not much elevation gain, and stunningly beautiful.  It's right by Lake Cushman, which is also beautiful.  Opposite end of the park from the Hoh, though, so you'd probably want to do it on the way to the Hoh, not as a day trip.

Another idea for your two days in between would be the Alderbrook Resort that I mentioned before.  Actually from there you could do the trail mentioned above.  They have dog-friendly cottages you can reserve.  I've stayed in the pet-friendly ones before and loved it.  Just a beautiful locale.  Lots to do there, too - very kid-friendly.  They have all kinds of games you can use (cornhole, volleyball/badminton, etc., as well as a poool) plus you can rent various water stuff right there to enjoy the Hood Canal.  They do some kid-friendly geocaching and stuff like that, too.  And a spa.    This could actually be a good way for you to explore a little of the east side of ONP as well, since you'll be spending your time on the west before that.  If you like oysters, this area is the place to be.

 

[Osaurus]

For a family trip flying into Denver any destinations in CO recommended that could be hit in a day or two? 

Rocky Mountain National Park is a great park, but you won’t see all of it in a day or two. Maybe most of the highlights.  

 

[GoBirds]

Rocky Mountain National Park is a great park, but you won’t see all of it in a day or two. Maybe most of the highlights.  

Someone recommended Devil’s Thumb Ranch that I believe is next to that and may put us close enough, how many days would you recommend there and would you add any other driveable locations after that or hit the city for a few days catching a game or two? 

 

[General Malaise]

I'm glad you got a reservation.  I was going to mention if you were looking at this summer, it might be too late.

Dogs are allowed at Rialto, First, and Ruby beaches.  They are also allowed at Cape Flattery, but I think with your time being so short you might not want to make that drive.  It's so beautiful, though.  You can also take a dog on the Spruce Railroad Trail, which is by Lake Crescent and one I'd recommend for cranky non-hiking children.  It's flat and simple, mostly paved, has beautiful lake views, and a mile or so in you come to Devil's Punchbowl, just a fantastic location.  Then you can turn around instead of doing the whole 11-mile trail.  Also you go through a tunnel on this walk, which the kids might find cool.  There are two trailheads to this "hike" so be sure to start at the one off East Beach.

A couple of other short and simple hikes you could do, but not dog friendly, would be Sol Duc Falls (spectacular waterfalls on a walk through dense, also spectacular forest - less than two miles roundtrip and relatively flat), and of course while at the Hoh do the Hall of Mosses.  Though you can't take your dog on trails at Hurricane Ridge, you could still drive up and spend a little time there.  The drive itself offers incredible views, then stretch your legs a bit at the top, maybe visit the ranger center, and go back down.  I'd suggest checking it out on your way to or from the Hoh since it's not really close to where you'll be staying.

With your two extra days in between, going back to Seattle and then up to the North Cascades is not very convenient.  You are already doing way too much driving by trying to hit both ONP and North Cascades in one trip.  Maybe check out Whidbey Island instead?  You could ferry from Port Townsend and do a vrbo/airbnb on the beach or camp again up at Deception Pass State Park, which is phenomenal.  Then from there you just go over the bridge into Anacortes and east to I-5.  Or you could stay in Port Townsend for those two days instead.  It's a very cool town.

In North Cascades, a couple of places to see without hiking are Diablo Lake, one of the most stunningly beautiful lakes you could imagine, and Washington Pass Observation Site.  The latter offers spectacular views of Liberty Bell Mountain and others, and there's a little paved and easy trail you can take around.  North Cascades will generally be more dog friendly than ONP.  I think it's the most beautiful area of the state, but it is vast and you will only be scratching the surface.  Winthrop is a cute town there to check out if you want civilization.

ETA:  An easy (and dog-friendly) trail in the North Cascades would be Blue Lake.  About 4-5 miles IIRC and a very pretty lake.  Most people go there in the fall for the larches, but it would be pretty any time of year.

Hows the town of Anacortes?  I've got some VRBOs up that are really reasonable for two nights.  The Alderbrook is booked up for a family our size (with a doggo).  :(   But I like the idea of going from camping at Hoh to a VRBO on the Islands then on to Cascades.  
 

 

[MTskibum]

This would be an August trip, my wife requires the “upscale”.  

Best of luck, I cannot help with that area of the country. I just thought i would ask relevant questions so hopefully someone that is able to help would chime in.

 

[krista4]

Hows the town of Anacortes?  I've got some VRBOs up that are really reasonable for two nights.  The Alderbrook is booked up for a family our size (with a doggo).  :(   But I like the idea of going from camping at Hoh to a VRBO on the Islands then on to Cascades.  
 

Hmmm, I think of Anacortes as more of a jumping off point than a place people stay.  That's where you get the ferries to the various San Juan Islands, which, along with passing through to or from Whidbey, is the only reason I've been there.  It might be fine, but I have little personal experience.  Kinda thought it was lacking in charm when I've passed through, but there might be more to it.  Great location for jumping off to the San Juans, which if you had one more night I might recommend you do as a day trip, but probably not based on your timing.  Also good for exploring Deception Pass State Park.  There's a well-known record store in Anacortes.    That's about all I know.

 

[General Malaise]

Hmmm, I think of Anacortes as more of a jumping off point than a place people stay.  That's where you get the ferries to the various San Juan Islands, which, along with passing through to or from Whidbey, is the only reason I've been there.  It might be fine, but I have little personal experience.  Kinda thought it was lacking in charm when I've passed through, but there might be more to it.  Great location for jumping off to the San Juans, which if you had one more night I might recommend you do as a day trip, but probably not based on your timing.  Also good for exploring Deception Pass State Park.  There's a well-known record store in Anacortes.    That's about all I know.

Yeah, I came to the same conclusion on Anacortes.  So we booked a VRBO on Whidbey Island (Freeland) with a hot tub suited for James Brown and a lovely patio with views of the water.  I'm going to force our older boys to join us for this portion.  And if my kids refuse to go on any hikes, I'm going to feed them to the orcas.

 

[krista4]

Yeah, I came to the same conclusion on Anacortes.  So we booked a VRBO on Whidbey Island (Freeland) with a hot tub suited for James Brown and a lovely patio with views of the water.  I'm going to force our older boys to join us for this portion.  And if my kids refuse to go on any hikes, I'm going to feed them to the orcas.

Freeland is a good location right between the two best "towns" on Whidbey, which are Coupeville and Langley.  You'll be coming into Coupeville on the ferry from Port Townsend.  I recommend going to do the small walk/hike up the hill to Ebey's Landing (maybe 10 minutes from the ferry dock) for beautiful views without much effort required.  Coupeville used to have a lot more to it, but it really got hammered by the pandemic, and when I was last there (September) a lot of the cute restaurants and shops were closed.  There's a great little ice cream joint called Kapaw's Iskreme that is still there, as well as a good dive restaurant bar called Toby's where you can get buckets of mussels that come from Penn Cove, right in front of you.

Langley is a much more charming and active town, so I'd suggest spending your time there.  Lots and lots of cute shops and art galleries, plus some fine restaurants.  The Braeburn is excellent for breakfast and lunch, and I like Prima Bistro for dinner.  Excellent pizza at Village Pizzeria.  The owners of Prima have a newer seafood place called Saltwater Fish House and Oyster Bar that gets raves, but they don't take reservations and getting a table has proved impossible for me.  There's also a Whale Center (which I haven't been into) and a lot of sculpture and garden parks in Langley.

Not much right in Freeland (though it's still a very good location), but it has a charming winery called Blooms that is kid-friendly as all the tables are outdoors and there appeared to be kid things to do.  Or at least I saw some kids running around there and assumed so.

IMPORTANT!!!11111  You must make a reservation for the Port Townsend/Coupeville ferry to get over there.  Technically it's not required, but if you try a drive-on without a reservation, you will wait for several hours.  Reservations usually become available (go to the WSDOT site) two months before the applicable sailing season, which in this case would be the summer season that starts in June.  So, reservations should go up sometime in April, but things have been really difficult on the ferry system lately.  Due to staffing shortages coming out of COVID, many routes that usually have two boats have had one, which wreaks havoc on the system and the crowding.  Hopefully it will be better by summer, but we've thought it would get better for a while.  Some routes had gotten back to normal before Omicron, but everything has been in chaos again for a few weeks now.  This just makes it even more imperative that you make a reservation.  Even with the reservation, you should get to the ferry dock in Port Townsend 35-45 minutes before your sailing.

 

[General Malaise]

Freeland is a good location right between the two best "towns" on Whidbey, which are Coupeville and Langley.  You'll be coming into Coupeville on the ferry from Port Townsend.  I recommend going to do the small walk/hike up the hill to Ebey's Landing (maybe 10 minutes from the ferry dock) for beautiful views without much effort required.  Coupeville used to have a lot more to it, but it really got hammered by the pandemic, and when I was last there (September) a lot of the cute restaurants and shops were closed.  There's a great little ice cream joint called Kapaw's Iskreme that is still there, as well as a good dive restaurant bar called Toby's where you can get buckets of mussels that come from Penn Cove, right in front of you.

Langley is a much more charming and active town, so I'd suggest spending your time there.  Lots and lots of cute shops and art galleries, plus some fine restaurants.  The Braeburn is excellent for breakfast and lunch, and I like Prima Bistro for dinner.  Excellent pizza at Village Pizzeria.  The owners of Prima have a newer seafood place called Saltwater Fish House and Oyster Bar that gets raves, but they don't take reservations and getting a table has proved impossible for me.  There's also a Whale Center (which I haven't been into) and a lot of sculpture and garden parks in Langley.

Not much right in Freeland (though it's still a very good location), but it has a charming winery called Blooms that is kid-friendly as all the tables are outdoors and there appeared to be kid things to do.  Or at least I saw some kids running around there and assumed so.

IMPORTANT!!!11111  You must make a reservation for the Port Townsend/Coupeville ferry to get over there.  Technically it's not required, but if you try a drive-on without a reservation, you will wait for several hours.  Reservations usually become available (go to the WSDOT site) two months before the applicable sailing season, which in this case would be the summer season that starts in June.  So, reservations should go up sometime in April, but things have been really difficult on the ferry system lately.  Due to staffing shortages coming out of COVID, many routes that usually have two boats have had one, which wreaks havoc on the system and the crowding.  Hopefully it will be better by summer, but we've thought it would get better for a while.  Some routes had gotten back to normal before Omicron, but everything has been in chaos again for a few weeks now.  This just makes it even more imperative that you make a reservation.  Even with the reservation, you should get to the ferry dock in Port Townsend 35-45 minutes before your sailing.

Yup, I was on the website for ferry reservations today and found out in a hurry you can't go more than 2 months out to reserve.  So I set a couple of calendar reminders (one on an actual calendar with pen  ) to circle back. 

So excited to explore!  I love breaking up a long camping trip with some luxury items like a bed and a shower interspersed in the journey.

Appreciate the restaurant tips - A Bucket of Muscles is the name of my Men At Work cover band.  Kid friendly wineries are all I know now, sadly.  They may change their policy after we visit. 

In the immortal words of Bart Scott:. Can't Wait!

 

[krista4]

Yup, I was on the website for ferry reservations today and found out in a hurry you can't go more than 2 months out to reserve.  So I set a couple of calendar reminders (one on an actual calendar with pen  ) to circle back. 

It looks like "two months in advance" because you happened to look today, which is almost exact two months from the end of the current season, which ends March 26.  Just note it's actually two months out from the beginning of the particular season in which you want to travel.  Look at the site a couple of days after March 26 and you'll see when that season ends, which will be sometime in June.  It's two months before the season start date in June that you will be able to make reservations for July - i.e., sometime in April.  

 

[MTskibum]

Any Arkansas experts here?

I am looking into going to either Ouachita national forest or Ozark national forest.  We are going in June with my wife's parents.

Hopefully we can stay on one of the lakes and rent a boat one day. I know the Ozark's are more famous, but they are an additional 2 hours of driving each way and I think hotsprings looks like a fun tourist town. 

I told my wife today that I am doing god's work, planning a vacation to Arkansas. It has always been our dream destination

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Heads up/caution to anyone planning to take a trek to these NPs. 

You won't be able to get in to these 8 National Parks without a reservation.

------------------------------------------------------------

8 U.S. National Parks Requiring Reservations In 2022

 

[GroveDiesel]

Tomorrow is the start of National Park Week and entrance to national parks is free. So if you are nearby a national park and want to enjoy it for free with a billion other people, seems like a good day to go.

Spent the last 2 days at Shenandoah National Park. It’s been cool, but I think in 3-4 weeks it will be a much different/better experience. It’s kinda brown and bare right now but a few small wildflowers are starting to bloom and some trees have buds. In a few weeks I think the park will be covered with wildflowers, new grasses and green foliage. But there were very few crowds yesterday and most of today was decent as well until about 2-3pm, so that was a positive on timing.

Tons of great views along Skyline Drive though and some fun hikes. Really enjoyed Dark Hollow Falls. It is one of the most popular hikes here for good reason, though I don’t envy all the foolish parents who were hiking down the very rocky, very very steep hike down to the falls with little kids. That hike back up with little ones has to be un-fun.

Going to avoid the park for most of the day tomorrow and hit Luray Caverns instead. I mean, an organ made out of stalactites, what’s not to love? Probably swing by the one visitor center though to catch a junior ranger program so my daughter can grab her 8th Jr Ranger badge (tip: if you want the free badges, even adults can do the Jr Ranger programs). 

Rant: People always manage to annoy me in the parks. If a trail clearly says no pets, don’t bring your dog. On a road called Skyline Drive that is a main draw for the park and has amazing views all along, along with plenty of wildlife/bicyclists/hikers, maybe obey the 35 mph speed limit instead of doing 50 and tailgating? And apparently not a single person is aware that trail etiquette is that hikers hiking uphill have the right of way.

Blows out.

 

[GroveDiesel]

Oh, and if you ever stay in/near Front Royal when going to Shenandoah, there is a BBQ restaurant called PaveMint Taphouse in an old gas station and the food is fantastic. The chopped brisket was outstanding. 

 

[dgreen]

Oh, and if you ever stay in/near Front Royal when going to Shenandoah, there is a BBQ restaurant called PaveMint Taphouse in an old gas station and the food is fantastic. The chopped brisket was outstanding. 

I like Spelunkers for cheap eats and apple donuts at the Apple House. 

 

[GroveDiesel]

I like Spelunkers for cheap eats and apple donuts at the Apple House. 

Spelunkers was on the short list for dinner tomorrow night. Looks like that will be the choice. Thanks!

 

[Sammy3469]

Leaving tomorrow for a week at Zion to Bryce to Grand Canyon which I one to Mrs Sammy since we had this planned 10 years ago and then I went and got her pregnant.  Didn't win the initial Angel's Landing permit lottery but will try the day before one.  Lined up the Narrows for Monday since it should be sunny and the water level is relatively low.

 

[GroveDiesel]

National park rangers have unbelievable patience. Doing a ranger program with my daughter right now and the kids keep crowding this guy despite him repeatedly asking them to move back. And of course the parents are just sitting their with dumb smiles on their faces. And a few of the kids are interrupting him over and over and over again. One parent is even giving her kid questions to interrupt with so that her kid can look smart or something. Like anyone cares that little Annibel knows that deer have more than one stomach. Tell your kid to shut up until the end so that we can hear from the actual expert instead of your snot nosed kid.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Breaking, many roads wiped out by massive rains/flooding.  Heard that ALL roads were closed yesterday.

Caught some videos last night, it looks bad.

Yellowstone National Park closes entrances, evacuates visitors amid 'unprecedented' rainfall, flooding

• Yellowstone flooding takes out bridge, washes out roads
  
• Record flooding washes out roads in Yellowstone
  
• Yellowstone flooding takes out bridge, washes out roads
  
• Yellowstone closed due to flooding
  

 

[GroveDiesel]

Breaking, many roads wiped out by massive rains/flooding.  Heard that ALL roads were closed yesterday.

Caught some videos last night, it looks bad.

Yellowstone National Park closes entrances, evacuates visitors amid 'unprecedented' rainfall, flooding

• Yellowstone flooding takes out bridge, washes out roads
  
• Record flooding washes out roads in Yellowstone
  
• Yellowstone flooding takes out bridge, washes out roads
  
• Yellowstone closed due to flooding
  

Yeah this is totally nuts. The pictures and videos coming out are surreal. They have more rain on the way too.

There aren’t a lot of roads connecting areas of the park. If those are washed out, they could have to close huge sections of the park for quite a while. Being a national park, the way they have to make road repairs is pretty time consuming to protect the ecosystem and it’s not like they have tons of extra funding as it is. 

Whole lotta people probably going to have to change their vacation plans this summer.

ETA: Wow, they’ve closed absolutely everything. I had read yesterday when they closed all the entrances, but they ended up closing all lodging, campgrounds, dining, etc. Basically kicked everyone out and shut down the park completely. I can’t even imagine where all those people found lodging, especially all the folks there on tours.

 

[Galileo]

Wow...crazy.  I gave my family a choice of Yellowstone or Acadia when I started planning our summer trip about 6 months ago.  Glad they chose Acadia as our trip is coming up in couple weeks.

 

[Poke_4_Life]

Yeah this is totally nuts. The pictures and videos coming out are surreal. They have more rain on the way too.

There aren’t a lot of roads connecting areas of the park. If those are washed out, they could have to close huge sections of the park for quite a while. Being a national park, the way they have to make road repairs is pretty time consuming to protect the ecosystem and it’s not like they have tons of extra funding as it is. 

Whole lotta people probably going to have to change their vacation plans this summer.

ETA: Wow, they’ve closed absolutely everything. I had read yesterday when they closed all the entrances, but they ended up closing all lodging, campgrounds, dining, etc. Basically kicked everyone out and shut down the park completely. I can’t even imagine where all those people found lodging, especially all the folks there on tours.

I'm a big Yellowstone NP fan and was thinking of heading back there late this year so I've been reading about this.  

The park will not be the same for a while.  Saw reports that Gardiner is basically cut off from the park and that's where all the hotel and food supplies for the lodging and restaurants are stored.  (General stores are in West Yellowstone.)  

They're evacuating the entire park and even sending rangers out to find folks in the backcountry and bring them out.  

Some are hoping the lower loop (Old Faithful, GSP, Yellowstone Lake, Canyon, etc.) can open again but with the additional detail of restaurant supplies stored in Gardiner there may be no lodging and/or services available.  

Oh, and the rain is not done there yet.  This event is not 'over' at this time.  Weather forecasts call for more rain over the next few days.  

 

[SoBeDad]

Vandals strike at California’s Yosemite National Park. What kind of damage did they do?

Years ago, reddit users helped catch a graffiti bandit who vandalized several national parks. Hopefully,  they'll catch the latest bandits.

 

[moleculo]

I'm a big Yellowstone NP fan and was thinking of heading back there late this year so I've been reading about this.  

The park will not be the same for a while.  Saw reports that Gardiner is basically cut off from the park and that's where all the hotel and food supplies for the lodging and restaurants are stored.  (General stores are in West Yellowstone.)  

They're evacuating the entire park and even sending rangers out to find folks in the backcountry and bring them out.  

Some are hoping the lower loop (Old Faithful, GSP, Yellowstone Lake, Canyon, etc.) can open again but with the additional detail of restaurant supplies stored in Gardiner there may be no lodging and/or services available.  

Oh, and the rain is not done there yet.  This event is not 'over' at this time.  Weather forecasts call for more rain over the next few days.  

crazy!

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Some are hoping the lower loop (Old Faithful, GSP, Yellowstone Lake, Canyon, etc.) can open again but with the additional detail of restaurant supplies stored in Gardiner there may be no lodging and/or services available.  

Many places withing the park were/are without power adding to the impassable road issues.

Cody to the East has a thriving restaurant business as does Jackson Hole to the South and both of those business' would have extra supplies if the park is closed off for an extended period of time.

Also, West Yellowstone to the West would be available as well.  

 

[jamny]

We're heading to Yellowstone, staying in Teton Village, next week. Thankfully we've been to the park before so it won't be a complete loss but really looked forward to exploring deeper. I doubt even the south loop will be open in time. Horrible to watch the videos and see the pics coming out. Hopefully the surrounding areas don't get too much more so they can try to recover. 

 

[GroveDiesel]

We're heading to Yellowstone, staying in Teton Village, next week. Thankfully we've been to the park before so it won't be a complete loss but really looked forward to exploring deeper. I doubt even the south loop will be open in time. Horrible to watch the videos and see the pics coming out. Hopefully the surrounding areas don't get too much more so they can try to recover. 

Oh man that sucks. Grand Teton has some great areas as well and some great areas that aren’t usually as heavily trafficked, though that may not be the case with everyone out of Yellowstone right now.

 

[GroveDiesel]

NPS saying that whole roads are washed out in the northern loop in Yellowstone and it’s unlikely to reopen that section at all this season. 

Everything will remain closed through at least the 19th while they evaluate, and when the southern loop re-opens, it likely will be with a reservation system as they limit the number of people in the park for the remainder of the season.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

I can attest to the slow pace of road repairs in Yellowstone.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Parts of Yellowstone National Park may stay closed for 'substantial length of time' after severe flooding Jason Hanna - 3h ago

... the park’s northern portion in particular may remain closed for “a substantial length of time,” park officials said Tuesday.

“Many sections of road in (the park’s northern areas) are completely gone and will require substantial time and effort to reconstruct,” a news release reads. ” … It is probable that road sections in northern Yellowstone will not reopen this season 

 

[jamny]

Someone on reddit that apparently works at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel said they were told to be prepared to return on Sunday the 19th.  Which seems to fit with this:

Parts of Yellowstone may reopen to tourists on Monday, but flooding has been a disaster for neighboring towns

The less-impacted southern loop could reopen as early as Monday, Park Superintendent Cam Sholly told residents and tourists in Cody, Wyoming, on Wednesday, according to the Casper Star-Tribune.

Our road trip there is happening either way on Monday but it's good to see we might be able to see some of Yellowstone. Now, I'll just have to keep an eye out for possible reservations being needed.

 

[GroveDiesel]

Had an awesome time in Zion and Bryce a couple of weeks ago. Did a bunch of hikes with my friends that my family wasn’t able to tackle when we went in 2019.

Zion: did Observation Point via the East Mesa Trailhead and The Narrows.

Observation Point: the hike to the lookout isn’t spectacular, but it’s a nice hike with shad every once in a while and some interesting flora. The East Mesa trailhead is definitely really difficult to find and very rugged private roads to get there. It definitely cuts down on the number of people on the hike though as we ran into very few people and had the overlook to ourselves for about 15-20 minutes. The views from the overlook are truly stunning as you look down into the canyon and even stand well above Angels Landing.

Narrows:  Not a lot I can add to the volumes written on this other than it’s a fantastic hike. Super crowded for about the first 2 miles up the river but then thinned out. Our goal was to hit Orderville Canyon and hike back. We hiked a bit up Orderville which was fun as it did require some boulder scrambling. That canyon is also much more narrow. We did hear the telltale signs of 2 rockfalls within about 5 minutes of each other though that sounded way too close though so we hoofed it out of there.

Bryce Canyon: did the Navajo/Peekaboo Loop.

Navajo+Peekaboo Loop: just awesome views of the hoodoos. It really is like what I imagine hiking Mars would be like. The Windows section is really cool. It definitely is a strenuous trail though. Constant elevation changes via switchbacks definitely take their toll after awhile and the 600’ hike up the switchbacks at the end is definitely a calf killer.

The biggest bummer is that my group REALLY was looking forward to the stargazing and Milky Way photography there and the one day/evening we were there it ended up with 80% cloud cover so we sadly left early as it was clear it was a wash. What made it even more disappointing is that it turned out that it was the 1st day of the annual Astronomy Festival at Bryce so clear skies would have allowed us to use their giant telescopes and see/do some awesome stuff.

We also spent a day at Sand Hollow State Park driving an OHV around for the day. That was a ton of fun driving through the dunes, over the slickrock, down to the stunning lake, and all through the desert. Even was able to drive to an area with some really cool fossilized dinosaur tracks.

 

[GroveDiesel]

Alright, my next national park I’m planning is Glacier. Any input from you folks?

I’ll be going with my wife (has MS and can do a little hiking but nothing strenuous), my 13 year old daughter, and my parents who are both in their mid/late 60s. My parents are in pretty good shape for their age and do a lot of hiking/biking, but age is definitely starting to creep in a bit.

We’re looking to be there about a week total (fly in on a Saturday/Sunday flight out the next).

Thinking fly in and stay the night in WhiteFish then driving to Rising Sun Motor Inn and staying there for 2 nights doing Hidden Lake and St Mary+Virginia Falls trails. Spend the next day then driving the DTTS road taking our time and heading to Many Glacier to stay 2 nights there. After the 1st night thinking maybe I can send the rest of my family to do the Grinnell Lake+Hidden Falls hike while I join the ranger led Grinnell Glacier hike. After night 2 head to check in at Lake McDonald in a cabin and hit the Avalanche Lake trail. Next day head back to Whitefish for a night then fly out next morning.

Thoughts, input, things I should do instead?

Any input on reasonably priced places to stay in Whitefish?

 

[Joe Mammy]

Had an awesome time in Zion and Bryce a couple of weeks ago. Did a bunch of hikes with my friends that my family wasn’t able to tackle when we went in 2019.

We did the mighty 5 in 2015. The day before we arrived at Zion there was a flash flood and 5 people drowned. It was closed at the point where you enter the water. Bummer for us but all of the hiking was fantastic.

At Bryce when we arrived mid morning they had a telescope set up at the visitor center where you could view the sun without frying your corneas! Awesome! We also did a night time viewing on their scopes of the Milky Way and the moon which was simply an incredible perk for staying in the lodge.

 

[General Malaise]

Hoh Rainforest reminded me of The Hobbit. Hiking in that green canopy was like no other. And then the nearby beaches with the outcroppings are spectacular.

We took a ferry from San Juan Island to Port Townsend and drove from there. We stayed in a B&B that was mainly a fisherman's stop that was right on a little river.

Living in WA was amazing, my wife loves to hike and the possibilities are endless.  We realized early on after moving from FL that if we waited for perfect weather we'd never go anywhere. So off into the rainy, cold mist we went. No regrets. 

Back to FL after 3 years of exploring virgin territory from WA to Canada.

Heading to Hoh tomorrow!!!

 

[Bracie Smathers]

my next national park I’m planning is Glacier. Any input from you folks?

A few pages back:

Posted January 5

 On 1/4/2022 at 2:04 PM, GroveDiesel said:

• I posted something in the vacation ideas thread too, but does anyone have recommendations for places to stay for Glacier?
  

>>> My reply:  This is exactly what you're looking for.

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins

We got the last reservation on the last cabin available.  Just a cabin, no bathroom or shower IN THE CABIN but a short walk to the bathroom and showers.  It had running cold water and electricity and a coffee maker so you can do dishes and plug in/charge phones etc.  Biggest drawback is no indoor bathroom or shower but it sounds like that isn't an issue with you.

We paid only $100 a night which is dirt cheap.

You CANNOT even get in that part of the park unless you show your reservation at the gate, they don't let anyone in that part of the park without a reservation, so it is IMPERATIVE that you get your reservation BEFORE you go.

Most people miss or don't even know this part of Glacier National Park.  I had been to Glacier a few times and didn't even know it existed but after going its my all-time favorite.

We took THIS hike and it was fantastic!

>>>>>  Grinnell Glacier Trail

They HAD shuttles the summer of 2019 when we went, not sure of shuttle status with COVID but if they are running you can catch a shuttle to other areas of the park to take day hikes without the hassle of loading up the vehicle.

------------------------------------

Another video of Grinnell Glacier hike in hi-def, looks cool.

Grinnell Lake Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana in 4K

 

[shuke]

Spent a day at Rocky Mountain NP last month.  Parts of it were still closed due to snow, but we only had a day and had plenty of options.  A number of elk and moose sightings, including almost getting attacked my a momma elk protecting her baby near a trail.  

Did a few days at Smoky Mountain NP a few weeks ago.  Hiking was limited.  The drive and walk up to Clingmans Dome was pretty cool, but not really hiking.  We did the Cades Cove auto loop.  Interesting but I wouldn't say a must do.  Had more interesting wildlife sightings near our cabin outside the park.  I posted a video in the bear attack thread.

 

[AAABatteries]

Spent a day at Rocky Mountain NP last month.  Parts of it were still closed due to snow, but we only had a day and had plenty of options.  A number of elk and moose sightings, including almost getting attacked my a momma elk protecting her baby near a trail.  

Did a few days at Smoky Mountain NP a few weeks ago.  Hiking was limited.  The drive and walk up to Clingmans Dome was pretty cool, but not really hiking.  We did the Cades Cove auto loop.  Interesting but I wouldn't say a must do.  Had more interesting wildlife sightings near our cabin outside the park.  I posted a video in the bear attack thread.

Clingsman Dome has some incredible views if you catch a clear day.

 

[General Malaise]

I'm glad you got a reservation.  I was going to mention if you were looking at this summer, it might be too late.

Dogs are allowed at Rialto, First, and Ruby beaches.  They are also allowed at Cape Flattery, but I think with your time being so short you might not want to make that drive.  It's so beautiful, though.  You can also take a dog on the Spruce Railroad Trail, which is by Lake Crescent and one I'd recommend for cranky non-hiking children.  It's flat and simple, mostly paved, has beautiful lake views, and a mile or so in you come to Devil's Punchbowl, just a fantastic location.  Then you can turn around instead of doing the whole 11-mile trail.  Also you go through a tunnel on this walk, which the kids might find cool.  There are two trailheads to this "hike" so be sure to start at the one off East Beach.

A couple of other short and simple hikes you could do, but not dog friendly, would be Sol Duc Falls (spectacular waterfalls on a walk through dense, also spectacular forest - less than two miles roundtrip and relatively flat), and of course while at the Hoh do the Hall of Mosses.  Though you can't take your dog on trails at Hurricane Ridge, you could still drive up and spend a little time there.  The drive itself offers incredible views, then stretch your legs a bit at the top, maybe visit the ranger center, and go back down.  I'd suggest checking it out on your way to or from the Hoh since it's not really close to where you'll be staying.

With your two extra days in between, going back to Seattle and then up to the North Cascades is not very convenient.  You are already doing way too much driving by trying to hit both ONP and North Cascades in one trip.  Maybe check out Whidbey Island instead?  You could ferry from Port Townsend and do a vrbo/airbnb on the beach or camp again up at Deception Pass State Park, which is phenomenal.  Then from there you just go over the bridge into Anacortes and east to I-5.  Or you could stay in Port Townsend for those two days instead.  It's a very cool town.

In North Cascades, a couple of places to see without hiking are Diablo Lake, one of the most stunningly beautiful lakes you could imagine, and Washington Pass Observation Site.  The latter offers spectacular views of Liberty Bell Mountain and others, and there's a little paved and easy trail you can take around.  North Cascades will generally be more dog friendly than ONP.  I think it's the most beautiful area of the state, but it is vast and you will only be scratching the surface.  Winthrop is a cute town there to check out if you want civilization.

ETA:  An easy (and dog-friendly) trail in the North Cascades would be Blue Lake.  About 4-5 miles IIRC and a very pretty lake.  Most people go there in the fall for the larches, but it would be pretty any time of year.

K4, I printed out all your posts and brought them with us on the trip.  You were an INVALUABLE source of info!  

- First stop, Quinault Lodge for lunch.  Gorgeous, even though we ate outside in the rain. 
- Took a tiny 'hike' to see the largest spruce tree in the country (world?  Universe?)
- Saw the Tree of Life at the Kalaloch State Park.
- Arrived to Hoh Rainforest and you'll never guess what the weather was like there!  Despite the steady rainfall, we set up the tent and used the canopies of the trees for protection.  No camp host on site.  No firewood available.  That was a bummer, but we made do.

- Did the Hall of Moss which was cool, but crowded.  I took the twins with me (who did the trail twice) and had our 'hike' interrupted by a small herd of elk, which was neat.  
- Took a day trip to Rialto Beach which I loved.  Best skipping rocks I've ever encountered along with some really neat colorful rocks.  Was amazed at how much warmer this beach was than anything along the Oregon Coast.  Seeing folks swim in the Pacific this far north was also a bit shocking.  I REALLY liked Rialto Beach.
- Despite the sweet sunny weather conditions at the beach, we could literally spot the storm cloud hanging over our campsite driving back towards it.  Rain in the rainforest.....who'd of thunk it? 
- Went through Forks, WA a few times.  I think they filmed a movie about vampires there.  It's an.......odd town.  I think it's also a very rainy town.  
- Did NOT make the mistake of missing out on firewood a 2nd time and loaded up the van on the way back to camp where we yet again encountered a deluge.  

- Packed up camp in the morning and made our way to Hurricane Ridge.  Stunning!  And, because we had a recent 4th grader with us, it was FREE!  We were asked at the Hoh and Hurricane Ranger Stations to roll down the window and show them our daughter.  Serious business, this 4th grade annual pass.  Also, there are signs everywhere to stay on the paved trails, not to trample on the vegetation.  We'll, a couple that were probably in their early 20s ignored the signs and frolicked around while taking pictures and videos, no doubt to post on Instagram.  I took exception to this and hollered at them to get off the vegetation and show the National Park a little respect.  Some other visitors thanked me for doing that and my kids got a kick out of grumpy dad yelling at strangers.  
- Made it down to Port Townsend early enough to enjoy some lunch outside at this neat spot right next to the ferry.  Pretty good halibut fish and chips and a very good 22 oz Port Townsend IPA.  
- The kids LOVED taking the ferry.  Amazing how the little things can pique their excitement.  
- Whidbey Island.  Wow, K4, what a TERRIFIC suggestion!  I LOVED this spot.  We rented a gorgeous A-frame house with a wrap around deck overlooking the sound.  We were up pretty high, so we had outstanding views.  It was so much fun to sit out there with a cocktail and watch the giant cruise ships sail off towards Alaska at 5pm.  The place we stayed was so quiet and peaceful (well, until we arrived) and there was a hot-tub in the front yard that kept the kids happy.  Our older boys joined us with two of their friends so my heart was full having my whole family with me for two nights.  

- Speaking of a full heart, we took our doggo to Double Bluff Beach where he got to roam free and mingle with other dogs.  I don't think I've ever seen a happier animal in my entire life.  I know it sounds silly, but I swear he had the biggest dog smile on his face.  
- Hit a local farmer's market on the way to Langley and picked up some produce for dinner that night.  Then it was off to try and get into Braeburn for lunch which was very challenging, but we got set up outside right before they shut it down.  The food was very good, but I felt horrible for the staff as they were just rocked by impatient tourists who did NOT like waiting for a table and let them have it.  Ugh, some people.  We just wandered around the little town killing time until our table was ready.   And get this - because we were nice and patient and didn't pitch a fit, they gave us a beer and a glass of wine on the house.   
- Excellent dinner cooked up that night followed by a beer bong challenge thrown down by my older boys.  My wife and I almost squeaked out a "W" which impressed them.  The old birds still got it!

- Reluctantly left Whidbey early, but spent the early afternoon at Deception Pass which was just gorgeous.  That's an area I'd like to explore with more time on my side.  
- The drive to Newhalem in the North Cascades wasn't too bad and we got there early enough to set up camp and check out the surroundings.  The North Cascades National Park is breathtaking.  Head on a swivel just ogling the peaks and rivers and trees.  
 - Took our advice and drove to the Washington Pass Overlook the next day and so glad we did.  Perfect weather and amazing views.  On the way back, we stopped at Diablo Lake and just marveled at the beauty.  That was fun.  My wife was kicking herself for not bringing her paddleboard.  We will be back.  
- Last day was yesterday so we hiked up Thunder Knob which was not a hit with the 9 year old female demographic, but we forced her up the hike and it was well worth it.  A little under 4 miles with some protestations, but a very happy child at the top.  

Drove home from there, stopping for lunch at Watershed Tap House in Seattle.  

10/10 would do again and thank you so much for all your ideas!!!
 

 

[krista4]

K4, I printed out all your posts and brought them with us on the trip.  You were an INVALUABLE source of info!  

- First stop, Quinault Lodge for lunch.  Gorgeous, even though we ate outside in the rain. 
- Took a tiny 'hike' to see the largest spruce tree in the country (world?  Universe?)
- Saw the Tree of Life at the Kalaloch State Park.
- Arrived to Hoh Rainforest and you'll never guess what the weather was like there!  Despite the steady rainfall, we set up the tent and used the canopies of the trees for protection.  No camp host on site.  No firewood available.  That was a bummer, but we made do.

- Did the Hall of Moss which was cool, but crowded.  I took the twins with me (who did the trail twice) and had our 'hike' interrupted by a small herd of elk, which was neat.  
- Took a day trip to Rialto Beach which I loved.  Best skipping rocks I've ever encountered along with some really neat colorful rocks.  Was amazed at how much warmer this beach was than anything along the Oregon Coast.  Seeing folks swim in the Pacific this far north was also a bit shocking.  I REALLY liked Rialto Beach.
- Despite the sweet sunny weather conditions at the beach, we could literally spot the storm cloud hanging over our campsite driving back towards it.  Rain in the rainforest.....who'd of thunk it? 
- Went through Forks, WA a few times.  I think they filmed a movie about vampires there.  It's an.......odd town.  I think it's also a very rainy town.  
- Did NOT make the mistake of missing out on firewood a 2nd time and loaded up the van on the way back to camp where we yet again encountered a deluge.  

- Packed up camp in the morning and made our way to Hurricane Ridge.  Stunning!  And, because we had a recent 4th grader with us, it was FREE!  We were asked at the Hoh and Hurricane Ranger Stations to roll down the window and show them our daughter.  Serious business, this 4th grade annual pass.  Also, there are signs everywhere to stay on the paved trails, not to trample on the vegetation.  We'll, a couple that were probably in their early 20s ignored the signs and frolicked around while taking pictures and videos, no doubt to post on Instagram.  I took exception to this and hollered at them to get off the vegetation and show the National Park a little respect.  Some other visitors thanked me for doing that and my kids got a kick out of grumpy dad yelling at strangers.  
- Made it down to Port Townsend early enough to enjoy some lunch outside at this neat spot right next to the ferry.  Pretty good halibut fish and chips and a very good 22 oz Port Townsend IPA.  
- The kids LOVED taking the ferry.  Amazing how the little things can pique their excitement.  
- Whidbey Island.  Wow, K4, what a TERRIFIC suggestion!  I LOVED this spot.  We rented a gorgeous A-frame house with a wrap around deck overlooking the sound.  We were up pretty high, so we had outstanding views.  It was so much fun to sit out there with a cocktail and watch the giant cruise ships sail off towards Alaska at 5pm.  The place we stayed was so quiet and peaceful (well, until we arrived) and there was a hot-tub in the front yard that kept the kids happy.  Our older boys joined us with two of their friends so my heart was full having my whole family with me for two nights.  

- Speaking of a full heart, we took our doggo to Double Bluff Beach where he got to roam free and mingle with other dogs.  I don't think I've ever seen a happier animal in my entire life.  I know it sounds silly, but I swear he had the biggest dog smile on his face.  
- Hit a local farmer's market on the way to Langley and picked up some produce for dinner that night.  Then it was off to try and get into Braeburn for lunch which was very challenging, but we got set up outside right before they shut it down.  The food was very good, but I felt horrible for the staff as they were just rocked by impatient tourists who did NOT like waiting for a table and let them have it.  Ugh, some people.  We just wandered around the little town killing time until our table was ready.   And get this - because we were nice and patient and didn't pitch a fit, they gave us a beer and a glass of wine on the house.   
- Excellent dinner cooked up that night followed by a beer bong challenge thrown down by my older boys.  My wife and I almost squeaked out a "W" which impressed them.  The old birds still got it!

- Reluctantly left Whidbey early, but spent the early afternoon at Deception Pass which was just gorgeous.  That's an area I'd like to explore with more time on my side.  
- The drive to Newhalem in the North Cascades wasn't too bad and we got there early enough to set up camp and check out the surroundings.  The North Cascades National Park is breathtaking.  Head on a swivel just ogling the peaks and rivers and trees.  
 - Took our advice and drove to the Washington Pass Overlook the next day and so glad we did.  Perfect weather and amazing views.  On the way back, we stopped at Diablo Lake and just marveled at the beauty.  That was fun.  My wife was kicking herself for not bringing her paddleboard.  We will be back.  
- Last day was yesterday so we hiked up Thunder Knob which was not a hit with the 9 year old female demographic, but we forced her up the hike and it was well worth it.  A little under 4 miles with some protestations, but a very happy child at the top.  

Drove home from there, stopping for lunch at Watershed Tap House in Seattle.  

10/10 would do again and thank you so much for all your ideas!!!
 

Missed this until now!  Amazing!  I'm so happy your visit was so great.  I've done that little Thunder Knob trail before; so much payoff for very little effort.  I think it's an undiscovered gem.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

The Canyon Highway that connected the Northern part of the park to the Southeast may never reopen.

A bike path has been widened and would serve access.  

The old Canyon Highway was beautiful so it is possible that you may never get the chance if you never had an opportunity to take a scenic drive on it.

Yellowstone's historic canyon road may never open again after flooding

...CBS News was given exclusive access to Yellowstone National Park's northern entrance, where the nearly 150-year-old Highway 89 is in shambles. 

"This is one of four sections that was severely damaged by the flood event," park superintendent Cam Sholly told CBS News. 

Sholly says repairing two miles of highway could take five years and, by some estimates, cost as much as $1 billion with help from the Army Corps of Engineers. 

...But rebuilding the road may not make sense. There's concern the erosion is so severe that parts of the canyon could collapse.

...The park is adapting to the loss of a major access road, converting about five miles of a narrow bicycle trail into a temporary two-lane road. The park's temporary mountain top road will open to tourists by November. Rangers say it may even replace the historic canyon highway. 

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Grand Teton NP  - Got one of the few remaining camp sites.  Woke early and inflated the raft and kayak and hit the water to a backcountry camp spot.  Took off early next morning to go deeper into the backcountry.  That night witnessed the best star gazing of my life.  Stayed up late with binoculars and was blown away by the show.  One of the best experiences of the entire trip.  Took a kayak trip around the area got a good night's sleep and took off early the next morning. 

I've done many of the kayak trips listed in this article and yes even though the pictures look fake...

... They're real and they're spectacular. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guide to Kayaking in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

• Jenny Lake - Jenny Lake
  
• Jackson Lake - Jackson Lake - Jackson Lake
  
• We camped at the spot this kayak is pointed towards
  
• One of the islands we camped
  

 

[Bracie Smathers]

America's Next National Park: Which One Could It Be?
------------------------------------------
FWIW I've been to three of the suggestions for next NP.

Tongass National Forest
MOUNT HOOD NATIONAL FOREST
Craters of the Moon National Monument

All of the above are deserving of NP status IMHO.

 

[GroveDiesel]

my next national park I’m planning is Glacier. Any input from you folks?

A few pages back:

Posted January 5

On 1/4/2022 at 2:04 PM, GroveDiesel said:

• I posted something in the vacation ideas thread too, but does anyone have recommendations for places to stay for Glacier?
  

>>> My reply: This is exactly what you're looking for.

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins

We got the last reservation on the last cabin available. Just a cabin, no bathroom or shower IN THE CABIN but a short walk to the bathroom and showers. It had running cold water and electricity and a coffee maker so you can do dishes and plug in/charge phones etc. Biggest drawback is no indoor bathroom or shower but it sounds like that isn't an issue with you.

We paid only $100 a night which is dirt cheap.

You CANNOT even get in that part of the park unless you show your reservation at the gate, they don't let anyone in that part of the park without a reservation, so it is IMPERATIVE that you get your reservation BEFORE you go.

Most people miss or don't even know this part of Glacier National Park. I had been to Glacier a few times and didn't even know it existed but after going its my all-time favorite.

We took THIS hike and it was fantastic!

>>>>> Grinnell Glacier Trail

They HAD shuttles the summer of 2019 when we went, not sure of shuttle status with COVID but if they are running you can catch a shuttle to other areas of the park to take day hikes without the hassle of loading up the vehicle.

------------------------------------

Another video of Grinnell Glacier hike in hi-def, looks cool.

Grinnell Lake Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana in 4K

So, we ended up with reservations at multiple lodges in Glacier (none of which were Swiftcurrent, lol).

The booking process is an absolute nightmare. They opened up booking for the entire month of August at like 1am or 2am EST. The site got hammered so hard that I couldn’t even get it to connect over and over. Several times I finally got it to connect, and by the time I got to the point where it would check for the availability for the lodge I wanted, they were totally booked. I basically had to completely change our plans and lodges on the fly trying to piece things together. Within about 1.5 hours they were totally booked for the week we had planned. There was some lodging over the next few days that opened up as people changed their reservations so we were able to get a bit more of what we wanted, but we ended up having to break up our stay at more lodges than we really wanted.

BUT, that ended up being a good thing IMO. For the last few years, Glacier required either lodging reservations along the road or park entrance reservations specific to drive Going To The Sun Road during peak season. Well, they expanded that this year and you can only get into a number of specific areas of the park if you have reservations for lodging in those areas or driving permits specifically to get into those areas.

So if you’re going to North Fork, Going-To-The-Sun, Two Medicine, or Many Glacier, you have to either have a driving permit for that specific area or a reservation for lodging in that specific area. If you want to hike in those areas and you don’t have a reservation for either lodging or driving in that area, you’re out of luck unless you drive in super early.

So it ended up being a good thing that we have lodging at Many Glacier, Rising Sun, and Apgar Village because it gets us into all the areas we really want to spend time in.

 

[GroveDiesel]

Yosemite closed indefinitely due to snow