Adventure Awaits in Your Own Backyard

Prep Early

Get an annual national park pass your routes and map out everything in advance. It’s also a good idea to purchase hard-copy maps, like National Geographic’s waterproof trail map series. They not only include topography, but also roads and routes not detailed on regular maps — or, frankly, the ones you receive at the gate.

Time it Right

Because the parks are so vast, timing is everything. Cuyahoga Valley, for example, spans 33,000 acres. Group viewpoints and hikes by regions within the park; note the distance and time between destinations; and know how far it is to your must-sees in advance. No one wants to end up mid-mountain and crunched for time. Account for the fact that these drives can take longer than expected — mountain, unpaved and meandering roads are that way. Consider, too, what time of year is right for your visit. In some parts of the country, the summer heat is oppressive, while winter brings seasonal road closures that render parks, or parts of parks, off-limits for months at a time. By contrast, offseason visits — spring and fall — prove more peaceful and less populated, while providing a beauty of their own. However, these can also be times when certain regions receive the most rain.

Buy a park passport — and stamp it at each visitor’s center

Book early — nearby accommodations fill up well in advance

Take Self Care

Bring proper gear — and prepare for weather changes

Dress in layers and bring a daypack

Drink water — and lots of it

Slather on sunscreen, regardless of the weather

Pack a picnic, as dining options are limited-to-non-existent

TIME TO GO!

Stop by the gift shop — they tend to be great

Gas up the night before — hours vary and options are few and far between

Combine camping with a stay in a historic lodge or Airbnb

Befriend park rangers for insider information

Download park, weather and GPS apps in advance

Check the park website for time entry requirements

Leave no trace