The Open Road and National Parks Are Calling
Visit these 3 national parks for your next getaway
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Summertime is the perfect time to disconnect from day-to-day demands, soak in the sun, and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. As you head out on the open road for your summer getaway, consider visiting one of our country’s beautiful national parks.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy some R&R in the quiet splendor of the mountains or find adventure on the trail and wildlife sightings, the following 3 national parks that will having you saying “This is just what the doctor ordered.” Plus, with comfortable lodging at nearby Best Western® Hotels & Resorts properties and a discounted AAA member rate, you can rest easy and spend less on your national park getaway.
Best Western Rocky Mountains Lodge;Photo courtesy of Best Western Hotels & Resorts.
1. GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA
Spanning more than a million acres, Glacier National Park offers great opportunities for scenic drives, guided boat tours and hiking. Make sure to bring your binoculars along for the ride so you can get a closer look at the majestic elk, eagles, diminutive pikas and Clark’s nutcrackers. In the evenings, enjoy local tribal members share cultural presentations as part of the park’s Native America Speaks program.
For a place to stay, consider the Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge, located in the gateway resort town of Whitefish, about a half-hour from the park. You’ll find a year-round outdoor pool, a hot tub and a convenient hotel shuttle to downtown shops and restaurants.
Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel; Photo courtesy of Best Western Hotels & Resorts.
2. BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK, UTAH
The world’s largest concentration of hoodoos takes center stage at this high-elevation park’s natural amphitheater. The vivid, otherworldly rock-spire landscape is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Take advantage of ranger-led programs and annual events like the Geology Festival and the Astronomy Festival (stargazing here is phenomenal). Hop on and off the seasonal daytime Bryce Canyon Shuttle to explore the park’s most popular overlooks, trails and amenities.
For a place to stay, consider Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn or Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel. Less than a half-mile apart and only a 5-minute drive from the park entrance, both properties offer indoor/outdoor pools and a hot tub, plus Ruby’s Inn has an on-site diner, steakhouse, general store and basketball court.
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn; Photo courtesy of Best Western Hotels & Resorts.
3. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA
Famous for its waterfalls, lush meadows, high-alpine forests and granite formations, Yosemite has become extremely popular. Whether you’re taking in a sightseeing tour, taking a ride on the Sugar Pine Steam Railroad, or enjoying water sports and fishing on Bass Lake – there are so many ways to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. One highlight is the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, a spectacular woodland of over 500 mature giant sequoias first protected in 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln’s signed legislation.
For a place to visit, consider the Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn in Oakhurst- located just about 15 miles from the park’s South Entrance. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor pools, rustic lodge atmosphere, full-service restaurant and lounge and lush forest setting. Reminders for taking a road trip:
- Plan ahead! The quintessential road trip is all about making memories, exploring new terrain and having fun. However, it’s important to plan ahead so that you make the very most out of your trip! Researching these things before you hit the road will save you a great deal of time, ease stress and reduce potential frustrations.
- Consider your travel companions: If you’re heading out with your family, consider having shorter drive days, making frequent stops and ending your day in the late afternoon rather than in the evening. Choose hotels that will be a welcome destination at the end of the day.
- Don’t forget to fuel up… on good food! As you hit the road, stock up on everyone’s favorite snacks and drinks for an easy way to stick to any budget and time restraints. Consider a mix of both healthy snacks – like fruits and veggies – as well as special treats and sweets. It is a vacation after all!
- Enjoy the journey – not just the destination! The magic in road trips is quite often found in the memories made along the way. Consider stopping at scenic lookouts, family-friendly attractions, or a new place to eat. Sometimes it’s the smallest moments that make the biggest memories.
- Bring your dog along for the ride! Let’s face it – pets are family and we love to spoil them. Take your fur baby on the road with you and rest assured they’ll also have a great trip, as many hotels offer pet-friendly rooms. Consider bringing along your pet’s bed, a favorite toy or a special blanket so they feel right at home.