virtual field trips of national parks

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

Virtual Tours of the 63 Iconic U.S. National Parks [2024]

Chris Hassan

Social Media & Brand Manager

216 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 24 U.S. States Visited: 26

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3202 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

U.s. national parks with virtual tours, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Travel is back in full swing, but if you’re just hitting the road again, you may be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options out there.

There are 63 national parks in the United States– but just because you don’t have time to hike every destination right now doesn’t mean that you can’t still explore some natural beauty. There are some excellent (and free) virtual tours of our incredible national parks just a click away!

We have compiled an exhaustive list of the most famous and beautiful national parks that offer free virtual tours. So get comfy, pretend to lace up your hiking boots (or really put them on), and start exploring some of the most incredible natural resources on the planet!

The U.S. has 63 officially protected areas designated as national parks. Since they are spread across the country, it would be challenging to visit them all in person (especially since some of them don’t even have access roads).

So why not take advantage of some downtime and start exploring them from home? Check out these incredible virtual tours without leaving your couch!

1. Acadia National Park (Maine)

Acadia National Park , also known as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, is a 47,000-acre recreation area in Maine. Attracting more than 3.5 million visitors a year, it’s one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the U.S. With more than 90% of the park located on coastal islands, exploring Acadia’s resources by water is a must-do.

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this New England resource and go on a virtual cruise .

2. Arches National Park (Utah)

Arches National Park is a 73,000+ acre marvel of eroded sandstone located northwest of Moab, Utah with more than 2,000 natural stone arches.

3. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

With 244,000 acres of canyons, rock formations, bison, sheep, and prairie dogs, Badlands National Park is also home to one of the world’s richest fossil beds . The park was once home to many ancient mammals, including the saber-toothed cat.

Walk through this breathtaking park from home, featuring overlooks, fossil replicas, and wild prairie dogs, thanks to this Google Earth virtual tour .

4. Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Big Bend National Park is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary in southwestern Texas along the border of Mexico.

Home to more than 1,200 species of plants, 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals, this 800,000+ acre national park is as big as it is gorgeous.

Reach the park’s tallest peak, trek through the wilderness, and journey along a canyon river on a private virtual tour, thanks to Google Earth.

5. Biscayne National Park (Florida)

Just a blink away from downtown Miami, Biscayne National Park is home to the world’s third-longest coral reef tract and countless activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

There is something to keep every visitor busy, from exploring shipwrecks to boating, snorkeling, fishing, and more.

Experience a variety of water sports and witness spectacular coral reefs via this video tour .

6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)

Packed with steep cliffs and craggy spires, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a sight to see in Colorado.

Over 2 million years, the Gunnison River has sculpted its way through the rough terrain, leaving behind a breathtaking combination of water, rock, and sky.

You don’t have to wait that long to enjoy the beauty of various trails and overlooks — go on a Google Earth virtual tour !

7. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Located in southwestern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its iconic red rocks, natural amphitheaters, and the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) on Earth.

With an elevation of up to 9,000 feet, there is plenty to do, including multiple winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Take an in-depth virtual tour with videos and 360-degree photos thanks to Google Arts & Culture.

8. Canyonlands National Park (Utah)

Canyonlands National Park is a dramatic desert in southeastern Utah with a landscape carved by the winds and the Colorado River.

Nature has created a stunning wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically formed buttes just waiting to be explored.

Drop in and explore red rock canyons, the Colorado River, and Mesa Arch via an enhanced Google Earth Street View .

9. Capitol Reef National Park (Utah)

Capitol Reef National Park is home to the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles. If that doesn’t interest you, maybe the golden sandstone, canyons, and striking rock formations will.

Drop in via the Google Earth link here .

Hot Tip: Like what you see? You can go glamping at Capitol Reef Resort !

10. Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)

Located in the Guadalupe Mountains of southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a lush desert landscape above ground. Still, the  real show lies beneath the surface of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Thanks to Google Arts & Culture, you can explore these caves (even from a bat’s perspective) via video and 360-degree photos .

11. Channel Islands National Park (California)

Channel Islands National Park is made up of 5 of the 8 Channel Islands off the coast of California. The islands represent a wide variety of significant natural and cultural resources thanks to thousands of years of isolation. This relatively untouched area has created unique animals, plants, and archaeological resources found nowhere else on Earth .

Don’t worry if you can’t get to California any time soon. You can take a virtual tour of each island via Google Street View.

12. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

Congaree National Park is a wilderness paradise located in South Carolina. Massive trees in this park have created one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies remaining in the world. It is now designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve .

The Congaree River flows through the park, which has created ideal hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities.

To really get a feel of this park from home, you can watch a canoe ride through this incredible wilderness.

13. Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)

Crater Lake is located in south-central Oregon and is quite simply awe-inspiring . Formed from a volcanic eruption 7,500 years ago, this lake is not fed by rivers or streams but only by rain and melted snow.

The lake is the deepest in the U.S. and one of the cleanest and clearest in the world. It is no surprise that the area is extremely popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Take a 360-degree virtual video tour of this gem with country music singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley.

14. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a relatively small 32,000-acre park just a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Ohio.

The park offers a refuge for city dwellers with outdoor options for everyone, including hiking, golfing, historic train rides, kayaking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Explore this unique national park via a Google Earth virtual tour highlighting a 19th-century bridge, marsh boardwalk, and impressive waterfalls.

15. Death Valley National Park (California, Nevada)

Perhaps the most famous national park, at least by name, Death Valley National Park is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park . Despite its morbid name, this national park shows a great diversity of life when rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers and lush oases harbor tiny fish and other wildlife.

Death Valley straddles the California-Nevada border and is the largest U.S. national park outside of Alaska at 3.4 million acres.

Start exploring this massive park thanks to this Google Earth virtual tour . Highlights include the Rhyolite Ghost Town, Devil’s Golf Course, and spectacular dunes and canyons.

16. Denali National Park (Alaska)

Located in the center of Alaska on Mt. Denali, the highest mountain in North America , Denali National Park is a mix of forests at low elevations and snow and glaciers at higher elevations.

There is only 1 road that cuts through the 6 million-acre preserve where large wild animals roam free, and adventurists explore the many outdoor activities.

Can’t make it to Alaska any time soon? Try exploring the tundra, glaciers, and Denali vistas via a Google Earth virtual tour .

17. Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)

Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico, about 68 miles off the coast of Key West. The park is comprised of Fort Jefferson, a historic 19th-century fort, and the 7 Dry Tortugas islands.

This national park is reachable only by seaplane or boat and has become a sanctuary for coral reefs and marine life.

Google Arts & Culture has put together an in-depth virtual tour full of 360-degree photos and videos.

18. Everglades National Park (Florida)

Everglades National Park is located in Florida and is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. Besides being a national park, the Everglades are also listed as a World Heritage Site and Wetlands of International Importance — 1 of only 3 locations in the world to be named to all 3.

The Everglades are a network of wetlands and forests that are home to multiple rare and endangered species, including the manatee, American crocodile, and elusive Florida panther.

Additionally, the wetlands are an essential habitat to more than 350 species of birds, 300 species of fresh and saltwater fish, 40 species of mammals, and 50 species of reptiles.

See what wildlife you can spot on this virtual tour of the Everglades via Google Earth.

19. Gates of the Arctic National Park (Alaska)

The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the northernmost national park in the U.S. , located entirely north of the Arctic Circle in Alaska.

With an average of just 10,000 visitors per year (the Grand Canyon gets 6 million+, for comparison), the Gates of the Arctic is the least-visited national park in the country.

The lack of visitors and the absence of any roads or trails make this park a virtually untouched ecosystem where rivers carve through glaciers and animals including caribou migrate along age-old paths.

To get a feel for how unique this park is without having to travel to the Arctic Circle, watch this video .

20. Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

The Gateway Arch National Park (formerly known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial) is located in St. Louis, Missouri. The park is a memorial to Thomas Jefferson’s role in opening the West to the pioneers who helped shape its history and to the monumental Dred Scott slavery case.

The national park consists of the Gateway Arch (a St. Louis icon) and its 140,000-square foot-museum, a 91-acre park along the Mississippi River, the Old Courthouse, and a former state and federal courthouse where the Dred Scott case originated.

To “stand” underneath the Gateway Arch and get a feel for how big it really is, check out this 360-degree photo .

21. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (Alaska)

Glacier Bay National Park is 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords in southeast Alaska.

Most visitors arrive by cruise ship, but many others come for overnight camping, hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, rafting, fishing, and birdwatching.

No need to start packing — you can get lost in the incredible photographs available online or check in on one of the many live webcams set up across the park.

22. Glacier National Park (Montana)

Not to be confused with Glacier Bay National Park, Glacier National Park is located in Montana on the U.S.-Canada border and is much more easily accessible.

The 1 million-acre park offers more than 700 miles of trails along over 130 named lakes that are home to more than 1,000 different species of plants and hundreds of species of animals.

You can enjoy the pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes from the comfort of your own home.

The Google Earth virtual tour features scenic alpine lakes, trails with panoramic views, and waterfalls.

23. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

Perhaps the most well-known of them all, the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a stunning 277-mile steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River.

Aside from the popular helicopter tours (and other tours from nearby Las Vegas), visitors can also enjoy rafting, hiking, running, and camping along the North and South Rim.

Ready to go on a hair-raising virtual hike? Check out this incredible virtual tour by Google Earth .

24. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Grand Teton National Park is a 310,000-acre park in northwestern Wyoming that’s home to major mountain peaks including the Teton Peaks and valleys including Jackson Hole.

The pristine ecosystem and the same species of flora and fauna that have existed since prehistoric times can still be found there. Over 1,000 species of plants, dozens of species of mammals, 300 species of birds, and more than a dozen fish species call this park home.

Visitors can explore over 200 miles of trails, float the Snake River, and enjoy the serenity of this remarkable place.

To get a glimpse of that glory, you can take a Google Earth Street View virtual tour .

25. Great Basin National Park (Nevada)

Located in northeast Nevada near the Utah border, Great Basin National Park has something to offer visitors during all 4 seasons.

With everything from the Lehman Caves to more than 800 different species of plants and a forest full of animals, there is plenty to explore in this 77,000-acre wilderness.

Get to know Great Basin National Park better with this video .

26. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (Colorado)

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a conservation of vast sand dunes (up to 750 feet tall) in south-central Colorado.

The tallest sand dunes in North America cover about 30 square miles and provide 24-hour and year-round recreational entertainment. Camping, hiking, sandboarding, and walking the dunes underneath the moonlight are all popular activities at the park.

Want a better look? Check out the park’s YouTube channel !

27. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina, Tennessee)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park stretches into parts of Tennessee and North Carolina and straddles the ridgeline of the Great Smoky Mountains, which is part of the larger Appalachian Mountain chain.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular national park in the country and hosts more than 10 million visitors each year — that is more than the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone combined!

Camping, hiking to waterfalls, admiring the diverse plant and animal life, as well as the remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, all help make this national park so famous.

To learn more, you can take a private virtual tour via Google Earth Steet View  or check out these videos .

28. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Texas)

Just east of El Paso, Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the 4 highest peaks in Texas and so much more.

86,000 acres of forests, deserts, and dunes protect the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, which was on the floor of the Delaware Sea 260 to 265 million years ago.

Put on your virtual hiking boots and take a Google Earth Street View virtual tour of various trails, a 1930s cabin, and stalactites.

29. Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)

Haleakalā National Park is a 33,000-acre park on a dormant volcano on the Hawaiian island of Maui.

The park is home to incredible views, culture, tropical plants, and endangered species — some of which are not found anywhere else in the world.

Take a virtual drive and explore this beautiful park via this 4K video .

30. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii)

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the main island of Hawaii and rests on top of 2 active volcanoes : Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive shield volcano.

The park is home to some of the most unique geological, biological, and cultural landscapes in the world. Visitors come to learn about history, culture, volcanoes, and the island’s incredible biodiversity.

Thanks to Google Arts & Culture, you can immerse yourself in one of the most complete virtual tours of any park available.

31. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

The hot springs in Hot Springs National Park have drawn crowds to Arkansas for more than 20o years. Many believed that the springs held medicinal purposes, which helped turn this area into a “spa town” in the 1800s.

Today, visitors can explore on hikes or visit bathhouses for a traditional bath or soak in a common pool with water from the hot springs.

Take a virtual tour of Hot Springs National Park’s waterfalls, bubbly springs and fountains, and historic buildings with this video .

32. Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

Located in northwestern Indiana, the Indiana Dunes National Park runs about 25 miles along the southern shore of Lake Michigan.

With more than 50,000 acres, visitors can enjoy the beach’s rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers, and peaceful forests.

Learn more about the park via videos directly from park rangers .

33. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)

Isle Royale National Park consists of hundreds of neighboring islands, as well as the surrounding waters of Lake Superior, in the state of Michigan.

Although it is one of the least visited of all U.S. national parks, the park has the most repeat visitors . Isle Royale offers unparalleled solitude and adventures for hikers, boaters, kayakers, and even scuba divers.

Want to know what a 4-day backcountry hike is like in the park? Watch this video .

34. Joshua Tree National Park (California)

Located in southern California near Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is named for the Joshua trees found in the Mojave Desert within the park.

The 790,000-acre park includes 2 deserts (Mojave and Colorado), and both have their own ecosystems due to differences in elevation.

Thanks to a unique variety of plants and animals, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features, it is no surprise this is a popular park.

Want to see for yourself? Take an in-depth Google Earth virtual tour , passing scenic landscape, Arch Rock, a cholla cactus garden, and oases.

35. Katmai National Park (Alaska)

Located in southern Alaska, the 4-million acre Katmai National Park is mainly designated as a wilderness area, meaning that hunting is banned.

The park is named after Mount Katmai, its famous stratovolcano. The national park is also known for its thousands of brown bears and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.

Keep up with all of the wildlife with the park’s extensive network of webcams .

36. Kenai Fjords National Park (Alaska)

Some of the most striking visuals you can imagine can be found at Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska. The park is named for the numerous fjords carved by the glaciers that have moved down the mountains from the ice field.

Nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding Icefield, where wildlife thrives in and on the water, and lush forest surrounds the sea.

Immerse yourself in an extremely interactive virtual tour by Google Arts & Culture to truly get a feel of this magnificent place.

37. Kobuk Valley National Park (Alaska)

Located in the Arctic region of northwestern Alaska, the 1.7 million-acre Kobuk Valley National Park is home to the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes and the famous caribou migration routes.

With no trails or access roads to the park , visitors must arrive by air taxi and bring all of their own gear for any backcountry camping, hiking, backpacking, boating, or dog sledding.

If you don’t plan on chartering your own plane to explore this beautiful park, you can watch some videos about the park .

38. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve (Alaska)

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is a 4 million acre park about 100 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska.

Turquoise lakes make way for volcano steam, while bears wait for the salmon run, all with a dramatic mountainous background.

Open year-round, but with no trails or roads , visitors must arrive by float or wheeled planes to start exploring.

Learn more about this unique park with this introductory video .

39. Lassen Volcanic National Park (California)

Home to the largest plug dome volcano in the world , Lassen Volcanic National Park in northeastern California is famous for its steaming sulfur vents, splattering mud pots, and boiling springs.

Visitors can swim and kayak in the spring-fed lakes, drive the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, and camp at one of the 8 on-site campgrounds.

Don’t wait to start exploring. Check out this incredible collection of 360-degree photos of hydrothermal areas, trails, and winter scenes.

40. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

Clocking in at over 400 miles, Mammoth Cave National Park in central Kentucky has the longest known cave system on the planet . Combined with 53,000+ acres of lush forest above ground, visitors can explore 2 very different worlds in 1 stop.

Mammoth Cave National Park has enough to keep most adventure seekers entertained, whether camping, hiking, or just exploring.

Go on an above or below-ground virtual video tour .

41. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

An American national park  and  UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the U.S.

Located in Montezuma County, Colorado and serviced by 40 miles of roads, visitors can enjoy 5,000 archeological sites including 600 cliff dwellings dating back from 600 to 1300 A.D.

Explore cliff and cave dwellings, sandstone ruins, the Sun Temple, rock petroglyphs, and more thanks to an  in-depth virtual tour via Google Earth .

42. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)

An icon standing 14,410 feet above sea level , Mount Rainier , a stratovolcano, is the centerpiece of this Washington state park.

Surrounded by valleys, rivers, meadows, and waterfalls, there are 91,000 acres for visitors to explore year-round.

Explore the marshland and ancient cedar forests of this beautiful national park from the comfort of your home thanks to this Google Earth virtual tour .

43. National Park of American Samoa (American Samoa)

The National Park of American Samoa is spread across 3 islands in the South Pacific — Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū.

These “Islands of Sacred Earth” are home to stunning coral reefs, vast rain forests, the famous Samoan fruit bat, and of course, Samoan culture.

Grab your VR goggles and check out 360-degree photos of corals and sea life, including the adverse effects of rising water temperatures, from the virtual dive gallery of the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa.

44. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (West Virginia)

The New River — one of the oldest on the entire continent — is located in southern West Virginia.

The park spans more than 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles with a whitewater river.

Check out the park’s webcam for a view of the gorge from Canyon Rim Visitor Center!

45. North Cascades National Park (Washington)

North Cascades National Park is a 500,000-acre park in Washington (less than 3 hours from Seattle) and is home to more than 300 glaciers and countless waterfalls.

Visitors can “hear the Cascades calling” through forested valleys and numerous waterways.

Are you ready to relax in the Cascades? Check out this stunning 4K video featuring gorgeous fall colors and nature sounds.

46. Olympic National Park (Washington)

With almost 1 million acres of wilderness and 70 miles of coastline, the Olympic National Park in Washington is an incredible example of diverse wildlife.

The park is home to several distinct ecosystems , temperate rain forests, and even glacier-capped mountains.

Start exploring beaches, rock faces, lakes, and forests from home, thanks to this excellent virtual tour from Google Earth .

47. Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

This relatively small national park only covers about 230 square miles in Arizona. It’s named for its large deposits of petrified wood .

Whether you are driving through for a backcountry hike or want to learn more about the woods, Petrified Forest National Park has plenty of exhibits that can bring stories to life.

Be sure to check out the webcam at the Painted Desert Inn Historic Landmark at Petrified Forest National Park, looking out over the colorful Painted Desert.

48. Pinnacles National Park (California)

Pinnacles National Park is located in south-central California on the site of what was a volcano some 23 million years ago .

Today, visitors marvel at the unique landscape, which includes oak woodlands, canyon bottoms, towering rock spires, and unusual talus caves that house at least 13 species of bats.

Nature lovers will not want to miss this stunning 4K video timelapse of the park.

49. Redwood National Park (California)

Along the rugged coast of northern California, you’ll find 40 miles dedicated to the Redwood National Park .

Redwood trees, found within the park, are the tallest trees on earth. This 39,000-acre national park is also home to vast prairies, oak woodlands, and wild river-ways.

Start exploring this natural gem’s redwood groves, including a drive through the Klamath Tour Thru Tree, thanks to this Google Earth Street View virtual tour .

50. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

Just northwest of Denver, Colorado, you will find the spectacular mountain paradise of Rocky Mountain National Park .

With more than 415 square miles of mountain environments, including 300 miles of hiking trails , wildlife, and wildflowers, visitors have plenty to enjoy when the park is open.

No need to wait for the perfect day or time to visit — you can enjoy an in-depth Google Earth virtual tour of impressive peaks, alpine lakes, and expansive views.

51. Saguaro National Park (Arizona)

Saguaro National Park is a 92,000-acre park in Arizona that consists of 2 separate areas: the Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. Both parks preserve a delicate desert landscape with plenty of wildlife as well as the famous giant saguaro cacti .

With 165 miles of trails, hiking, biking, and horseback riding are all popular activities.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating cacti and wildlife with this incredible video tour .

52. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California)

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the central valley of California, these 2 national parks host more than 2 million visitors per year.

Kings Canyon got its name due to a giant glacier that carved its way through the valley more than 1-mile deep.

Sequoia National Park is named after  the world’s largest stands of giant sequoia trees, which tower over the valley.

Check out this virtual tour by Google Earth . Highlights include the ~275-foot-tall General Sherman Tree, a tunnel log, Moro Rock, and Crystal Cave.

53. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is just a 75-mile drive from downtown Washington, D.C. The long and narrow park has its valley and rolling hills split down the middle by the scenic Skyline Drive.

With more than 200,000 acres of protected lands, visitors are likely to see waterfalls, deer, songbirds, black bears, and more.

Take a Google Earth virtual tour of hiking trails, waterfalls, and vistas, or visit Shenandoah’s own virtual tour of its historic buildings.

54. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)

Named after the former president, Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s 70,000 acres of badlands are split across 3 sections in Noth Dakota.

Spectacular multicolored rock formations, dramatic canyons, and sweeping plains are home to elk, prairie dogs, and about 500 bison .

About 750,000 annual visitors come for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, hiking, horseback riding, stargazing, and scenic drives.

Take a peek at what is going on via the park’s webcam of Painted Canyon , a virtual tour of Maltese Cross Cabin , or the park’s multimedia content .

55. Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands)

Known as “America’s Paradise,”  Virgin Islands National Park preserves about 60% of the island of St. John , about 5,000 acres of ocean, and almost all of Hassel Island.

Besides the beautiful beaches and pristine snorkeling, the park attracts visitors for its history of sugar plantations and ancient petroglyphs carved by the Taino Indians.

Explore this island’s tropical forests, petroglyphs, ruins of a 1700s Danish sugar plantation, and white sand beaches via a Google Earth virtual tour .

56. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)

Located in northern Minnesota, Voyageurs National Park is 218,000 acres of outstanding water resources.

Known for its maze of interconnected water highways , it is no surprise that this is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and boating.

Visitors can access this national park in the winter by snowmobile, ski, or snowshoe.

If you are interested in this park, you won’t want to miss this stunning timelapse video .

57. White Sands National Park (New Mexico)

Inside this 145,000 acre park in New Mexico, visitors will find 275 square miles of white sand dunes composed of gypsum crystals. This gypsum dune field is the largest of its kind on Earth .

Famous among sledders and photographers, White Sands National Park receives about 600,000 visitors per year, which is the most of any national park in New Mexico.

If you would like to learn more about this incredible national park, check out these videos made by park rangers.

58. Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)

Wind Cave National Park in western South Dakota is home to one of the longest caves in the world , measuring in at over 149 miles explored so far. The Wind Cave is notable for its calcite formations known as boxwork, which make up about 95% of the world’s known boxwork formations .

Above ground is pretty interesting as well: with the forested hillside and rolling prairie grasslands making a lovely home for bison, elk, and other wildlife.

Go on a Google Earth virtual tour of scenic grasslands and ponderosa pine forest without leaving your couch.

59. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (Alaska)

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is located in south-central Alaska and is, by far, America’s largest national park measuring in at over 13 million acres.

With everything from wildlife to volcanoes and glaciers, this national park has something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Take yourself on a “1-day visit” video tour of this unique piece of the American landscape.

60. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

Yellowstone National Park was the very first national park and stretches across 3 U.S. states, including Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park is centered over the Yellowstone Caldera lake, the largest supervolcano on the continent .

One of the lesser threatening attractions is the Old Faithful Geyser , known for its regularity of eruptions.

Visitors come to enjoy the thousands of other hot springs, geysers, and mud pots that dot the wild landscape each year.

Take a private Google Earth virtual tour of this famous national park — featuring geysers, waterfalls, springs, and more — from the comfort of your own home.

61. Yosemite National Park (California)

Located in the Sierra Nevada range of central California, Yosemite National Park covers an area of 748,000 acres and receives an average of 4 million visitors per year.

Yosemite is internationally recognized for many of its features, including its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, lakes, mountains, meadows, glaciers, and incredible biological diversity.

Thanks to Google Earth’s virtual tour , start exploring this park, including the iconic Half Dome and El Capitan.

62. Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion National Park was Utah’s first national park and is relatively small compared to other parks, measuring in at only 229 square miles.

But that small size doesn’t mean there is any less to explore. Massive red sandstone cliffs create canyons that traverse for miles and create a unique ecosystem for native plants and animals.

Explore this gem, including Court of the Patriarchs, Temple of Sinawava, and Kanarraville Falls, on a virtual tour by Google Earth ,

There are so many stunning and educational national parks that it could take a lifetime to see them all. With the help of technology, we can enjoy these natural wonders from the comfort of home.

Use these online resources to scratch that travel itch, gain some extra wanderlust, and start planning your next trip to one of these national parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many national parks are there.

There are 63 sites that are considered national parks in the U.S. These parks are world-renowned for their history, natural beauty, and unique wildlife. These parks are generally open for recreation for free or for a small fee.

Which national parks offer virtual tours?

Many of the U.S. national parks offer virtual tours online for free. While some of the more popular parks have excellent production thanks to Google Earth, others can still show you the park via video or 360-degree photos. We have compiled the best way to see each park online — just click the name of the park you are interested in.

Are virtual tours free?

Yes! Every virtual tour that we have linked to in this article is completely free of charge. On top of that, every national park has its own website full of unique and specific information about that location. With everything from ranger videos to gorgeous photography, the amount of free content is incredible.

Was this page helpful?

About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

The Best National Park Virtual Field Trips to Take Right Now

Thanks to technology, you can see the beauty of the United States park system by taking some national park virtual field trips .

If your family has always wanted to tour the national parks, but you’re not able to visit in person, tour them from the comfort of home. They’re some of the most exquisite virtual field trips for middle school .

There’s a reason why these parks have been family favorites for generations. They’re gorgeous and filled with natural wonders.

These virtual tours are perfect for tweens who love the outdoors and nature. You can use these helpful tools during your science or geography lessons. They make wonderful additions to studies in nature and ecology, as well as the earth and its landforms.

Any links in this post may be affiliate links. See my disclosure statement .

Table of Contents

National Park Virtual Field Trips

While it would be great to visit these locations in person, if you can’t travel, don’t let it stop you from visiting these amazing locations. Use these tours as a learning tool in your homeschool or just for some family fun.

National Parks at Home

To begin your journey, visit the National Parks At Home site for all kinds of fun activities your family can do at home to explore the national park system.

You’ll find webcams, ideas for enjoying nature from your backyard, and educational activities. Kids can learn how to become a junior park ranger online and even listen to some park inspired music. 

Arches National Park

The Arches National Park has over 2000 arches, the highest density of natural arches found in the world. These geologic formations are ever-changing and formed by water.

During the tour, tweens will discover that even though the terrain looks rough, it is actually quite delicate, which is why climbing is strictly regulated.

Everyone will be amazed by the beauty of the sandstone creations and the vibrant colors when the sun shines off of them. It’s definitely a field trip not to miss.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its bizarre landforms. Surprisingly, its namesake, Bryce Canyon, is not even technically a canyon because it wasn’t formed through erosion from a central stream. Instead, the powerful force of rainwater and an erosional force called frost-wedging, combined to form limestone.

These rocks took the shape of windows, fins, slot canyons, and spires called hoodoos .

As you move around this park on your virtual tour, you’ll be in awe at the array of colors found within the rock formations.

As they visit the park, they’ll see thousands of Joshua trees, along with a multitude of cacti.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park contains over 119 caves, but only 3 are open for public tours. The most visited cave is Carlsbad Cavern. Kids will learn that this cave was not formed by water erosion, but forged by sulfuric acid.

This park is also rich in the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in the Guadalupe mountains many years ago.

During the field trip , take time to learn about both the interesting history and fascinating cave formations.    

Death Valley National Park

Tweens will be happy that they’re visiting this national park on a virtual field trip instead of in person because Death Valley National Park has the driest climate in North America and is known as the hottest place on earth.

One thing that makes this park interesting is that aside from the heat and desert, you can also experience snow-covered mountain peaks.

Enjoy a tour of this national park without needing extra water or a jacket. 

Denali National Park

Named after the tallest mountain in North America, Denali, the Denali National Park is a mix of landscapes including forest and glaciers at the extreme, located in Alaska.

While on this virtual field trip, aside from seeing the natural beauty, middle schoolers can learn about the science and research going on in the park, particularly with mosses and lichens and the important role these tiny plants have in this massive wilderness.

Listen to the sound scapes and watch Denali National Park live in actual time through their webcams.  

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is a famous wildlife area in South Florida. Most people think the Everglades are a swamp, but they are actually a slow-moving river. There is no other ecosystem like it on earth.

This complex system of ecosystems are home to several endangered species, including the American Crocodile. They are also the home of several plants and animals not found anywhere else on earth.

During your virtual field trip, plan to spend some time exploring the plethora of resources provided and when you’re ready, you can take a different trip with Google Earth .  

Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park is a unique national park because there are no roads or trails through it. Instead, visitors experience wild, untouched land.

Lucky for you, you won’t need any special survival skills or a guide to take this virtual field trip. Tweens will enjoy the rare glimpse into an untouched part of the United States.

They’ll also love learning about the fascinating archaeological work being done here. Scientists are in the process of uncovering a Paleo-Eskimo camp. It’s amazing!

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is located in Montana, along the United States and Canadian border. Many refer to it as the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem , mainly because it is considered a pristine ecosystem.

On this website, you can take a virtual drive on Going-To-The-Sun Road , look for wildlife, go for a virtual hike, and much more. You won’t want to miss this beautiful site.   

Grand Canyon National Park

Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking national park that is also one of the deepest gorges on Earth. Each year, it’s one of the most visited national parks. Now, you can see it for yourself without having to travel.

Do your tweens know about the Mystery of Blacktail Canyon? Find out all about it during this captivating virtual field trip.

They can also search for some of the over 500 species of animals, including the endangered California Condor. If your older kids are more adventurous, use the links on the site to further explore the Grand Canyon by taking a virtual hike or a raft trip. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island

Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , located on the Big Island, and see the awesome wonders of two active volcanoes up close. One of them, Kilauea, is the world’s most active volcano. It erupted back in 2018. The other one, Mauna Loa, is the world’s most massive shield volcano.

This national park and its volcanoes have much historical significance for Hawaiians, which you’ll learn about during your online visit. You’ll also see dramatic landscapes and unique flora and fauna. 

Joshua Tree National Park

As your tweens start their virtual tour of the Joshua Tree National Park , they might ask, what is a Joshua tree and why does it have its own national park ?

This is a great place to learn all about these unique plants found in the Southwest United States. Kids will be shocked to find discover they aren’t trees at all. They’re yucca plants that grow in a tree formation.

Mesa Verde National Park

Located in Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is rich in cultural history and protects thousands of archeological sites, including cliff dwellings.

Through this virtual field trip, tweens can learn about the Ancestral Pueblo who made their home here for over 700 years.

After taking a fascinating visual tour of a cliff dwelling, they can visit this site to learn more about this park and the fascinating history from first-hand experiences .

Mount Rainier National Park

Located in Washington state, Mount Rainier is the most elevated point in the Cascade Mountains. The Mount Rainier National Park includes a volcano surrounded by glaciers, forests, and waterfalls, mostly preserved as wilderness.

On this site, you’ll find some amazing resources to help your older kids explore one of the oldest and most visited national parks.   

Rocky Mountain National Park

Also located in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its beautiful panoramic views. These majestic mountains are home to 67 mammal species including Bighorn Sheep, Black Bears, and Yellow-Bellied Marmot.

The rugged terrain also provides unlimited hiking and sight-seeing opportunities. On this virtual field trip, teens can experience it all from the comfort of home.

Kids can watch webcams to see the park in real time and use the resources available to learn about all the wildlife found at this national park .

Virgin Islands National Park

Are you ready for the beach? Set in the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands National Park is known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Its rich history dates back to 840 BC.

Take a virtual tour of the island and learn about the people who have visited and lived on these islands over the centuries, including pirates. 

White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is in Utah and is the world’s largest gypsum dune field. Sand made of gypsum is rare. It’s water-soluble, so it will dissolve in water like sugar.

The sand appears white because the scratches in the gypsum reflect the sun’s rays, but it’s actually clear.

During this virtual field trip, kids will not only get to see the beauty of the park up close but also learn all about the unique gypsum sand.

Wind Cave National Park

The Wind Cave National Park is surrounded by the Black Hills in South Dakota. This cave is one of the longest in the world and holds 95 percent of the earth’s boxwork formations.

On your field trip, you can inspect these unique formations and explore the inside of the cave. You can also virtually walk the trails and see a variety of wildlife, including the Wind Cave bison herd, one of the last remaining free-roaming herds in North American, located on public land.   

Yellowstone National Park

Designated as the first national park in 1872, Yellowstone National Park has it all. Nowhere in the world will you find the variety of geothermal features that you find in this park, including the popular Old Faithful geyser.

Plan to spend some time exploring all the different biomes in this massive park during your virtual field trip. They also have some webcams set up so you can see different areas of the park live.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a major tourist attraction in California, with over 3.5 million people visiting each year.

On this virtual tour, your family can explore Yosemite, including the iconic rock formations, El Capitan and Half Dome . Don’t miss Glacier Point, which has been described as one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Another unique feature of this park are the giant sequoias, the biggest trees on the planet.

There are a bunch of resources you can use to learn more about the people and nature at the park. 

Zion National Park

The definition of Zion is heavenly city, and after you visit Zion National Park , you’ll understand how it got its name. The stunning red rock landscape is so picture-perfect it looks surreal.

Tweens can take a virtual tour of the park and go on several virtual hikes, including one of the most famous, along the Angel Landing trail .  

As you can see, it’s quite easy to take in the beauty of our national park system from home when you can’t visit in person. Hopefully, you’ve found a resource or two to add to your science and geography lesson plans.

Resources to Learn More About the National Parks

• Play Trekking the National Parks to learn even more about these special places.
• Use this National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks as a resource in your homeschool.
• Piece together this national park puzzle that highlights many of the locations you’re visiting virtually.
• See the incredible beauty of these parks in Treasured Lands: A Photographic Odyssey Through America’s National Parks .
• Spend some time playing the National Parks Monopoly .

Additional Virtual Tours for Teens

• Make American history come alive for your older kids by virtually visiting Washington D.C. .
• For even more natural beauty, take some tours of Alaska as part of your geography studies.
• Here’s a bunch of educational virtual field trips you can take. They include a variety of subjects, including art, history, animals, and nature.
• Visit New York City from the comfort of your home.

Which national park virtual field trip are you going to take first?

• Latest Posts

Megan Zechman

@edupossible, latest posts by megan zechman ( see all ).

• Easy Pumpkin Crafts - August 21, 2023
• Middle School Geography Curriculum - August 11, 2023
• Outdoor Geography Activities - August 4, 2023

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• National Parks

5 National Parks Offering Virtual Tours You Can Take From the Comfort of Home

Experience some of the country's best national parks — from Florida to Alaska — right from your couch.

You can still get your fill of the great outdoors , even if you have to stay inside.

With COVID-19 still heavily affecting the U.S. as well as nations abroad, people everywhere are attempting to help slow the spread of the virus by self-isolating and practicing social distancing, as the CDC recommends.

And while many have taken solace in exploring the great outdoors over the past year, we're not all lucky enough to live within driving distance of some of America's most stunning natural sights.

Luckily, Google Arts & Culture has teamed up with five national parks in the U.S. so people can enjoy the beauty of the natural world while sitting safely on their couch. These parks feature different climates and environments from across the country, including famous desert vistas and snowy terrains.

Below is a list of the national parks that are currently offering virtual tours through Google Arts & Culture.

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

This virtual tour lets you explore glaciers, fjords, and icebergs located in the Alaskan wilderness. Descend into an icy crevasse, kayak through majestic icebergs, and even see how a glacier melts and the effects that climate change has on this frozen terrain. Kenai Fjords has over 40 glaciers in the Harding Icefield, according to the National Park Service website, and the tour begins with a peek into Exit Glacier, one of the only accessible glaciers by road within the national park.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

One of the most popular national parks in Hawaii is now totally accessible online. This virtual tour lets you explore the Nahuku Lava Tube, which is a cave formed by flowing lava, which can drain lava from a volcano during an eruption. On the tour, you can also enjoy the stunning view from the volcanic coastal cliffs, "fly" over an active volcano, and see the effects of an eruption from 1959.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Located in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico, this popular park has over 100 caves. On this virtual tour , you can take a walk through the fascinating caverns, view incredible rock formations, and even see thousands of bats who live in the cave system. You can even "experience" life as a bat thanks to this park's impressive simulation.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

The beautiful, red and orange hoodoos of this famous desert landscape are now on full display, even if you're in your living room. This virtual tour centered on Sunset Point lets you enjoy the star-filled night sky from this Dark Sky certified national park , get up close and personal with the park's unique rock formations, and even take a horseback ride through the canyon from the comfort of your own home.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

This remote and severely underrated park is located 70 miles west of Key West, according to the National Park Service website. Thanks to this virtual tour , you no longer have to book a seaplane or boat to get there. Visit the Civil War-era Fort Jefferson, swim through the third largest coral reef in the world, and even take an exploratory dive into a shipwreck from 1907.

See all five of these parks on Google Arts & Culture .

Related Articles

How To Visit Glacier Virtually

Apr 10, 2020 | Activity , General

Even though the park is closed, we hope you can still enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly right now. Maybe you’re self-isolating, but dreaming of your next epic outdoor adventure. No matter what, we’re here to support you with virtual resources to help you explore Glacier National Park.

If there is anything else we can do for you during these uncertain times, please let us know! Join the conversation with us on social media or reach out to us directly at [email protected].

Zoom Backgrounds

Whether you’re working from home, attending online yoga classes or planning your next trip to Glacier with friends, you can still virtually meet in Glacier. Take yourself to Logan Pass, St. Mary or along the path of a grizzly bear with a Glacier Zoom background .

Go On A Virtual Tour

Even though we’re all social distancing now, you can still visit our national parks virtually from home via Google Earth . Google has created 360-degree tours of over 100 national park sites, including Glacier National Park. Please remember travel is not advised at this time, but we hope this will inspire you for future adventures.

• Prodigy Math
• Prodigy English
• Is a Premium Membership Worth It?
• Promote a Growth Mindset
• Help Your Child Who's Struggling with Math
• Parent's Guide to Prodigy
• Assessments
• Math Curriculum Coverage
• English Curriculum Coverage
• Game Portal

The 22 Ultimate Virtual Field Trips & Tours for Students

Written by Maria Kampen

Inspire your students to love learning with Prodigy Math.

• Teacher Resources

What is a virtual tour and how does it work?

Technology powering virtual field trips for students, 22 best virtual field trips for students, how to incorporate virtual tours into learning activities.

Imagine taking your entire class to see one of the seven wonders of the world up close and personal — and then being back at school before the final bell rings. 

The rise of online learning activities during the pandemic accelerated the availability of virtual field trips , tours and experiences for students of all ages. Now there are many interactive virtual tours available to places that would be impossible to reach on a class trip — the pyramids in Egypt, the Louvre museum in Paris or even an African safari.

We put together a list of 22 unforgettable virtual field trips and experiences that will help your students see amazing sights, connect their learning to real-world experiences and expand their horizons.

Virtual tours allow students to explore noteworthy places around the world, from the comfort of their home or the classroom. 

Virtual tours give students the opportunity to stop, explore and guide learning at their own pace. While they’re exploring, they can get up close to nature or artifacts that might not otherwise be easily accessible. 

Virtual tours can be many different things, including:

• A live webcam of a zoo or animal habitat
• A 360 degree view of a location you can manipulate
• Pictures enriched with helpful information and diagrams

Even ten or fifteen years ago, video tours would have been rare or impossible. Advancements in technology and education have combined to help people learn and explore from anywhere!

• National Geographic creates TV series about nature, history and archaeology
• Food shows like Netflix’s Salt Fat Acid Heat take viewers on food journeys across the world
• Planet Earth , a television series, brings far-flung locations to your living room or classroom
• Discovery Education gives educators access to multimedia resources that supplement classroom learning
• Video conferencing technology like Zoom lets you connect with people and learning experiences around the world

We love being able to sit at home or in the classroom and learn about different foods, cultures and geography. Why not introduce that to your students?

1. Take a trip to the zoo

Whether it’s live webcams of adorable pandas or behind-the-scenes tours with zookeepers, zoos all over the world offer ways for animal antics to delight and entertain your students. 

Some of our favorites include:

• Edinburgh Zoo’s Panda Cam
• Georgia Aquarium’s Beluga Whale Livestream
• The Smithsonian National Zoo’s Naked Mole-rat Cam
• A live feed of African river wildlife in Laikipia County, Kenya
• The San Diego Zoo Live Ape Cam , or any of their other live animal feeds
• Home Safari videos from the Cincinnati Zoo, where zookeepers introduce you to the hundreds of animals that make the zoo their home.

2. Visit The Hidden Worlds of National Parks

From Yosemite to Mesa Verde, explore some of the USA’s most beloved and beautiful national parks with The Hidden World of National Parks .  

Supported by Google Arts & Culture , students can use the same technology that powers Street View to explore the national parks at their own pace. 

The program also includes guided tours from park rangers, where they share their expertise as you explore. Follow the on-screen prompts and let them guide your adventure!

3. Watch the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otters

Play with the sea otters as they swim around Monterey Bay Aquarium in California! Tune in throughout the day to see them being fed, learn fun facts about otters and watch them play in the water. 

If you’d like to check out some other aquarium-related channels, Monterey Bay Aquarium also offers Open Sea or Kelp Forest live streams.

4. Swim through Palau coral reefs

Travel to the Pacific Ocean through a virtual adventure and see the Palau coral reefs . Hosted by Nature Lab and the Nature Conservancy, this tour teaches students about the importance of preserving some of the most fragile ecosystems in the world — no wetsuit required. 

Take learning to the next level with the Nature Lab’s Teacher’s Guide , which includes discussion questions and related resources to keep learners engaged. 

5. Visit the surface of Mars

It took the Perseverance rover about seven months to get to Mars. But thanks to this virtual tour , you and your students can go for a visit in just one afternoon. 

Created by Google and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this virtual tour takes you through the history of Mars explorations and turns what might be a far-flung topic into something right at students’ fingertips. They’ll explore the surface of Mars, learn more about the rovers that have studied its surface and understand how Mars exploration fits into the history of space travel.

6. Power up with renewable energy

Powering the Planet from the Nature Conservancy is an interactive lesson that focuses on renewable energy sources. It explains to students how energy around them is necessary for life, and covers how energy can be sourced in a way that’s not harmful to the environment.

All the Nature Conservancy’s programs come with a Teacher Guide , which offers lesson plans and activities relating to the virtual tour. 

7. Walk the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is over 13,000 miles long, so be sure to pack your walking shoes for this trip!

This virtual tour lets students explore key points in the Great Wall of China, plus see the history and amazing view up close.

8. Float around the International Space Station

Did you know that astronauts have continuously inhabited the International Space Station for 20 years? Now your class can join them!

With tours of the different parts of the space station, facts about the layout and assembly, and information about the different astronauts who’ve visited from around the world, students can get an out-of-this-world experience from the comfort of their home or classroom. 

Plus, there are plenty of images, videos, graphics and media resources to help you tie topics into your curriculum.

9. Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a delicate ecosystem especially vulnerable to the effects of pollution and climate change. 

David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef is a tour created in partnership with the Natural History Museum in London that teaches everyone about the beauty and fragility of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. 

The Great Barrier Reef is also available on Google Street View through Google Maps as one of the first underwater locations to be mapped. 

10. Learn about water and Colombia’s páramo ecosystem

Just outside of Bogotá, Columbia, is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. In this virtual lesson, students will learn about how the water cycle plays a vital role in biodiversity, and get an up-close look at the animals that call the area home. 

Use the accompanying Teacher Guide to help students discuss the topic and stay engaged with the lesson. And check out the rest of the Nature Lab's YouTube channel for even more virtual experiences.

11. Tour the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian Institute is the world’s largest museum — so there are plenty of things for students to explore. 

With a variety of virtual tours to choose from, the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is full of ways to get students excited about learning. Students can watch narrated tours of different exhibits ranging from history and geography to the research stations in the museum. 

Whether students want to walk through the museum on their own or let someone else do the talking, there’s something for every lesson.

12. Get caught up in the American Revolution

History meets the present at the Museum of the American Revolution ! 

This virtual tour lets students see artifacts, meet museum staff and hear stories of real people who fought for American independence.

It also comes with a Classroom Ki t for 2nd to 8th grade that supplements learning and makes it even more meaningful. 

13. Trek up Mt. Everest

This 360 degree video from National Geographic lets students explore Mt. Everest along with a group of researchers. Together, they’ll discover what kind of effects climate change has on the mountain, and how we can work to preserve natural landscapes. 

Not up for climbing mountains? Take a virtual ride on Expedition Everest , the tallest rollercoaster in any Disney park! But beware — there’s a monster lurking in the dark.

14. Get the right angle with Explore Geometry

Powered by Nearpod, Explore Geometry ’s lesson plans connect classroom lessons with architecture in the natural world.

Students can explore the gardens of Versailles to learn about the geometry of a French garden before moving on to the next lesson and putting their skills to practical use.

15. Wander through the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City

One of the most well-known museums in the world, students can now explore The Met’s vast collections with the Met 360º Project .

Virtual tours help students get a sense of the space, art and collections inside of the museum. Whether they’re interested in the Met Cloisters or the Arms and Armor gallery, students can go at their own pace, accompanied by a soothing soundtrack. 

You can also book virtual tours with a museum guide to line up with your lesson plan. Tours are free for NYC public schools and all Title I schools, and $200 USD per class for other schools.

16. Explore history in the British Museum

Another world-class museum, students can explore the British Museum in London using Google Street View, read facts about the artifacts and connect what they see to their history lessons. 

Whether it’s the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, Egyptian sculpture or any other historical treasure, there’s something every student will find interesting!

If you want to let someone else do the exploring, there’s also a 46-minute virtual walking tour , where you can skip to the sections that are most relevant to you and your class. 

17. Visit the White House

In Washington, D.C. the White House is the symbolic heart of America, and now students can walk the halls for themselves. 

Whether they want to take a lap around the Oval Office or wander the building, students can explore this virtual tour from the White House Historical Association . Plus, it comes with class tie-ins like vocabulary lessons and other activities to make the experience even more memorable! 

18. Arrive at Ellis Island

Ever wonder what it was like for new immigrants to see the Statue of Liberty and step foot on American soil for the first time?

Now students can experience it for themselves with this virtual tour , a collaboration between Scholastic and the National Park Service. They’ll learn the importance of immigration in the history of the United States and hear real-life stories about the people who came looking for a better life. 

After students watch the video, they can click through this interactive map with facts and stories about the people who came through Ellis Island. 

19. Explore China's forests

In this online tour, students can explore the natural habitats of pandas in the forests of China . They’ll discover how the panda’s home plays a role in understanding our world, learn about local conservation efforts and see the big-picture view of how these vast forests fit into our understanding of nature and climate change. 

Plus, this program also comes with a handy Teacher Guide for you to use in lesson planning!

20. Bundle up in the Arctic tundra

Take a virtual field trip all the way up north to the tundra! Discovery Education’s tundra programs for elementary, middle and high school students cover the natural habitat of polar bears, plus their activities and migration patterns.

This virtual tour comes with instructional activities and classroom tie-ins, so you can be sure students are getting a productive learning experience.

21. Go spelunking in the world's largest cave

Travel through Vietnam’s Son Doong, the world’s largest cave . First explored by researchers in 2009, this cave is up to 200 meters tall in some areas and even has its own jungle inside. 

It’s estimated that the total length of the cave system is over 200 kilometers, and with this National Geographic tour students can explore to their heart’s content. High definition pictures and helpful facts mean that not only is this an awe-inspiring trip for students, but it’s also educational! 

Because the cave is ecologically sensitive, only a certain number of tourists are allowed to visit each year. This virtual tour is a great way for kids and adults to experience the wonder up close!

22. Browse the Louvre

Take your students on a quick trip to Paris where you can explore the architecture and art of the Louvre without the crowds. 

Plus, the Louvre also offers Louvre Kids , as well as a Mona Lisa Beyond the Glass virtual app experience where users can learn how Leonardo da Vinci created his most well-known masterpiece.

From kindergarten to high school, virtual field trips are a great way to get students excited about learning. And if you’re homeschooling , they’re the perfect way to get real-world experience without leaving the house!

To get the most out of the experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Ask students what they’re interested in exploring 
• Look for virtual experiences that fit into your lesson plan for maximum impact
• Search for supplementary resources like teacher guides and discussion questions
• Try out the virtual tour first to make sure it’s worth it and to avoid any unpleasant technical glitches
• Use virtual field trips at the beginning of a unit to introduce students to new concepts, or at the end as a reward and wrap-up activity

Be sure to follow up with students and see what they liked the most. Then, harness that excitement for your next lesson or activity! 

Prodigy Math Game is an adaptive math platform where students can explore a world filled with adventure, excitement and rewards — all for practicing math! While they’re having a blast answering questions and completing epic quests, Prodigy’s free teacher tools help you align their learning to your classroom lessons. 

Sign up for your free teacher account today!

National Parks - Wyoming & Utah

Preview video by clicking the “play” arrow

Introduce your students to the magnificent landforms throughout the National Parks in Wyoming and Utah. In Wyoming, we’ll gaze in wonder at the drama of the Grand Teton Mountain Range, as we also find out about fault-block mountains.  We’ll contrast that experience with the ever-moving, always-changing landscapes of Yellowstone N.P. including the “Old Faithful” geyser. Moving on to Utah, we’ll compare and contrast 3 National Parks – Bryce, Zion, and Arches National Parks.  We’ll see how erosion and ancient salt beds have created these wondrous sites.

Video length: 22:41 minutes

Watch Full Video*

*authorized members

National Standards for this video

State standards, learning resources with this video*.

Quizzes – PDF & Online

Weathering and Erosion Identification

Draw a Landscape – National Parks

National Parks WebQuest – Wyoming and Utah

Models of Majesty

National Parks – Junior Rangers

Comparing National Parks

Universal Resources

National Standards

*Links are active on Full Video page.

Video Memberships

• Unlimited viewing of 1 video
• Post-trip quiz + resources for 1 video
• Access to Closed Captioned version of 1 video
• Lowest-cost option

Teacher + Class Membership

• Unlimited access to the entire Virtual Field Trips library
• All quizzes + learning resources
• Access for 1 teacher + all students
• Access to all Spanish videos
• Access to all Closed Captioned videos
• Best value option for one teacher

Schoolwide Membership

• Access for all teachers and all students
• Access to all Spanish videos + resources
• Best for school administrators supporting their teachers & students
• Up to 500 students – $350/year
• 500-1,000 students – $500/year
• 1,000+ students – $1,000/year

Classroom Ideas 

National parks – wyoming & utah.

Pick a Park

Students will choose another National Park (not in the video), maybe the one they would most like to visit. Students will then research it, and present it to the class.  

Identify and make a list of the landforms in these National Parks.

Background Research

Ask students to find out how many National Parks there are in the United States and  mark them on a large map (or print one out) so students can see where they are.

Have students print out a map of the National Parks and identify where the sites in the video are located.  

Cloze Practice

A cloze piece has full sentences used in the virtual field trip with blanks where students can write in the information that is missing. This task requires close listening to the trip in order to complete it.

Example: Coral reefs are the _______ type of ecosystem in the world. They’ve been around for over _____ million years.

Answers:   oldest; 240

Alternatively, you could have students create 5-10 cloze statements and they could share those with the class.  

A third alternative is to distribute the cloze worksheets before watching the video.   Students can fill them in as they watch.

National Park Service

Ask students to look into the different classifications of the National Park Service.   For example, what is the difference between a National Park, a National Monument, a National Preserve, etc.

Pick a Favourite

Have each student choose an interesting site from the video, and make a replica of it as well as writing a paragraph to explain why that site was chosen.  

Tell students they are going to take a “trip” to 4 National Parks in the United States.  They have to write a traveling notebook of their “trip” and include sites that they  saw, things that they learned about each park, how each park was created. They will need to detail the cost of entrance fees, rules that they must abide by in each of those four parks, where they are going to sleep (i.e. tent, KOA, rent a camper, lodge), etc.

Which One is Closest?

Students will determine which National Park is closest to where they are located. Use mapping skills if needed. Students will then research it and write about it.  

A National Park is Born

Research how various national parks are created. Choose one of the National Parks in the video and discuss how it came into being.

Create Quizzes

Students create a quiz based on the information presented for their peers. This can be used as a review for a test, or class activity where students are responsible for teaching other students assigned topics.

Art and Social Studies

Draw a landscape from the video you just watched.

Explore Vocabulary

Identify key vocabulary terms while previewing each video. Prompt students to find the meaning of each word as they watch the video.

Junior Rangers

Ask students if they have ever heard of the Junior Rangers program through the  National Park Service.   If not, share the information and ask if any of them have  experienced it.

Compare/Contrast

Choose 2 National Parks to compare and contrast.

Research/compare landforms and biomes

Research/compare rocks and minerals found in the parks 

Research/compare weather patterns in parks 

Students will answer the question “Why are National Parks important?”

Make a List

Students choose their top five notable sites that they would like to visit in these parks. They will explain why they chose their list and older students can present their list with a PowerPoint presentation.

Have you ever visited a National Park? Write about your experience and share it with the class.

Classroom Ideas for ALL Videos

Here are dozens and dozens of ideas that you can use in your classroom along with our videos!

Topics Covered In This Video

What makes a National Park special?

Grand Teton N.P.

Yellowstone N.P.

Arches N.P.

Videos in this Series

National Parks - West: Nevada & California

National Parks - West: Alaska & Hawaii

National Parks - West: WA, OR, ID, MT, CO

Pin it on pinterest.

Trail Treats: Our Favorite Food to Fuel a National Park Trip

By Kacee Saturay, Donor Stewardship & Social Media Manager

If you’re like me, you’re a little obsessed and overly excited about planning for a trip to one of Washington’s national parks. Aside from packing the 10 essentials and coordinating plans with your hiking buddies, one of the most important parts of planning a park outing is your food!

Our staff have spent hours preparing, packing, planning, and playing in Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. Below you’ll find a few of our favorite treats and meals that you might want to pack for your next trip. There’s nothing worse than eating a snack that you’re not looking forward to after hiking uphill for hours!

Favorite Trail Snacks

Alex, our Director of Marketing, says “I’m a sucker for a salty and sweet combo, so my go-tos are peanut M&Ms and salt and vinegar potato chips.” On a recent volunteer day to clean up the Gorge Falls Overlook in North Cascades National Park , Alex brought a bag of peanut butter M&Ms and I immediately added that to my list of snacks!

Kristen, our Events & Partnerships Manager, spends her days on a bike saddle or in trail running shoes in the alpine. Here are some of her favorite snacks:

“Spring Energy Gels are my favorite because they are real food, no questionable ingredients, it’s instant energy, and the Awesome Sauce flavor is the perfect boost of energy for when I’m cycling up to Paradise at Mount Rainier. Dark chocolate is my favorite summit treat and Muir Energy Gels’ cacao almond flavor tastes like chocolate icing!”

Feeling inspired by Krsten’s cycling adventures? Check out her write-up on biking the North Cascades Highway!

Brianna, our Administrative Coordinator, listed peanut butter and jelly Uncrustables as her all-time favorite and I couldn’t agree more! She said, “I probably ate my weight in them while I was summiting Mount Rainier.” There’s something about a circular PB&J sandwich while taking a break on a glacier that sounds like a dream right about now…

Is summitting Mount Rainier on your bucket list? Check out our Climb for a Cause program. You might just find yourself snacking on these treats on a glacier this summer!

Favorite Backpacking Meals

If you’re looking for even more calories, here are some of our favorite meals to have outside:

Alex’s first dinner on a backpacking trip is usually “a big bagel sandwich with lots of crunchy veggies, and then I’m looking to optimize weight for the rest of my meals.” She also adds that “instant oatmeal and peanut butter bagels are easy and quick to make, and keep me full for a while.”

I think I’m sensing a peanut butter theme with Alex’s trail treats!

To follow the bagel recommendation, Kristen loves taking a gluten-free everything bagel with vegan cream cheese on her trips to the backcountry. It’s a staple meal for her and she’s taken it on some epic backpacking trips to all three parks!

Looking to backpack in the parks? Check out our “Backcountry Beginner” blogs on securing permits in Mount Rainier , North Cascades , and Olympic National Parks.

For me, I look forward to firing up my backpacking stove and cooking my favorite dehydrated meals once we reach camp. Backpacker’s Pantry’s Pad Thai has fueled many of my recent trips. I ate it three times on my 5-day Olympic National Park trip and never got tired of it. It was that good!

Speaking of Olympic National Park Backpacking trips! Check out Trek for the Trails – a new program we’re launching this summer where participants take a guided trip through the Enchanted Valley, all while supporting the park you’re in. Find out more about Trek for the Trails here.

We hope you found a few new treats to try on your next adventure in the parks. If you’re looking for more tips or park recommendations for the summer, we think you’ll enjoy these blogs:

• Best National Park Picnic Sites
• Hidden Gem Hikes in Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks
• Top 10 Spots for Wildlife Viewing in Washington’s National Parks

Washington’s National Park Fund is the official philanthropic partner to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. We raise private support to preserve and protect Washington’s national parks by funding scientific research, youth and family experiences, and projects that will keep these parks strong and vital now and forever, for everyone.

Cover photo by Nick Danielson, WNPF Creative Partner. Blog photos by WNPF staff.

• Park Experiences
• People of Interest

Geosciences Department Penn State

• Syllabus (Fall)
• Syllabus (Spring)
• Syllabus (Summer)
• Orientation
• Meet Dr. Alley
• How to send email in GEOSC 10
• Frequently Asked Questions
• About Timed RockOn Quizzes in Canvas
• About the Final Exam
• How To Calculate Your Grade
• Academic Integrity Guide
• Communication Guide for EMS
• GETTING HELP

Virtual Field Trips

Join Dr. Alley and his team as they take you on "virtual tours" of National Parks and other locations that illustrate some of the key ideas and concepts being covered in Unit 9.

Click on the first thumbnail below to begin the slideshow. To proceed to the next image, move the mouse over the picture until the "next" and "previous" buttons appear ON the image or simply use the arrow keys.

Virtual Field Trip #1: Bryce Canyon National Park

Image 1: Panoramic view of Bryce Canyon BRYCE CANYON: “A Hell of a Place to Lose a Cow”—quote by Ebenezer Bryce.

Image 2: A 2-inch tall dwarf columbine and a dewy Oregon-grape leaf struggle to grow at Bryce. Although Bryce Canyon is higher, cooler and wetter than many of the nearby parks, life is still tough on the unstable slopes of the canyon. Here, 2-inch-tall dwarf columbine (right) and a dewy Oregon-grape leaf struggle to grow at Bryce.

Image 3: Cedar Breaks National Monument, near Bryce, has the same sort of limestone as Bryce, of the same age. Notice where a small fault has offset the white layer in the upper-right corner.

Image 4: A valley of hoodoos (towers of rock with the harder rocks on top) in Bryce As at Arches, water works wonders widening joints. But the rocks here are not strong enough to hold up arches, instead making hoodoos (towers usually with harder rocks on top).

Image 5: A closer view of some hoodoos shows striations of color Much of the coloration is linked to how rusty the iron is in the rocks. The sedimentary layering is quite evident.

Image 6: Another close view of hoodoos. Guidebooks almost always refer to Bryce as a “fairyland”. The wonders of differential erosion – softer rocks, and rocks along cracks, go faster – really are amazing.

Image 7: A hoodoo named “Queen Victoria” because the top looks like a queen. The Park Service now discourages “naming” rocks, because visitors are so disappointed when erosion then changes those rocks. This one was named Queen Victoria back when naming was condoned. The layered sedimentary rocks are beautiful by any name.

Image 8: Trees in Bryce Canyon.

Image 9: Logs across a stream bed. A decade or so ago, the Park Service put the logs across the stream bed to slow the burial of a trail by sediment. As we’ve seen with dams, rocks filled the space upstream from the logs, and erosion happened downstream. Fast erosion supplied lots of rocks to fill the “lake” above the dam quickly.

Image 10: A close up of a rock at Bryce shows river gravels, conglomerates and clasts and sedimentary rocks. Bryce’s rocks are mostly limestone, but include river gravels such as the conglomerate shown here. Many types of clasts are present; the orange one in the middle is a conglomerate itself, and the clasts in it include several types of sedimentary rocks. This picture shows a long and complex story--try telling it.

Virtual Field Trip #2: Arches National Park

Image 1: A rock arch at Arches National Park. ARCHES NATIONAL PARK: Stories in Stone Photos by R. Alley.

Image 2: Dr. Anandakrishnan at Arches with the La Sal Mountains in the background. Dr. Anandakrishnan, Arches National Park. The La Sal Mountains in the background are named for the salt beneath them. The motion of the salt created joints that then isolated the fins that made the arches, such as the one next to Dr. Anandakrishnan’s shoulder.

Image 3: looking down onto the ground at Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The ground is white with a grid pattern of green plants. This isn’t Arches, but Utah’s new Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Plants follow water that soaks down into joints in the fossil dunes of the Navajo Sandstone, making the grid pattern in the rocks. Various joint patterns exist; parallel rather than crossing joints are very important in making arches at Arches, as we will see next.

Image 4: End on view of fins at Devils Garden, Arches NP and an angled view of fins at Devils Garden, Arches NP. The tough sandstone has been broken by parallel, vertical joints, and weathering along those joints isolates “fins” of sandstone that then are eroded to make arches.

Image 5: Three images of Delicate Arch. The sandstone of Delicate Arch started as a sand dune (note bedding, top-right picture).

Image 6: Two pictures of arch shaped amphitheaters created by falling fins in sandstone. CAUSE student Raya Guruswami in Glen Canyon (right), and a cliff in Canyon de Chelly National Monument (top). Rock falls from the sandstone cliffs have left arch-shaped amphitheaters. Similar falls from fins help make arches.

Image 7: Two pictures of rocks that have fallen and the arch shaped scars they left in the stone cliff above. (right) an arrow points back up from the fallen rock to its arch-shaped scar. (left) Fallen rocks are gone, but an arrow shows their arch-shaped scar. Two views of fossil sand dunes over redder flood-plain muds, Grand Canyon. Sand fills a gigantic mud crack on the right (yellow arrow). Today, sand dunes encroach on the Nile in a very similar setting. The arch-shaped rock fall scars suggest how arches may form.

Image 8: Landscape Arch is the world’s longest natural stone arch. You can see that numerous large blocks that have fallen from the arch, many since the park was founded, plus joints in the rock that make additional falls likely.

Image 9: CAUSE instructor Eric Spielvogel photographing a lupine near Double Arch. The high desert of Arches is a harsh environment, but surprisingly beautiful flowers appear after the rare, brief rains.

Image 10: Double Arch. You can see dark streaks on the rock. The dark streaks down the rock are desert varnish, mineral deposits formed partly by microorganisms that grow briefly when rainwater runs down the rock.

Image 11: Close up of dark streaks (called varnish) at Double Arch. There is a crack near the top of the arch through which rainwater flows to form desert varnish. Enlargement of the crack will eventually lead to rock fall, changing the arch.

Image 12: Two pictures of men standing close to Double Arch. Rock falls have helped shape the immense cliffs.

Image 13: A rock with a grid like pattern of mud cracks in it. Mud deposited in a small lake near the sand dunes dried and cracked in the sun. More mud washed in and filled the cracks. After the mud hardened, the rocks were split apart, and the upper piece turned over; Dr. Alley’s index finger points to the crack-filling mud.

Word Document of Unit 9 V-trips

Want to see more.

Here are some optional vTrips you might also want to explore! (No, these won't be on the quiz!)

Arches National Park (Provided by USGS)

Bryce Canyon National Park (Provided by USGS)

OUTSIDE FESTIVAL JUNE 1-2

Don't miss Thundercat + Fleet Foxes, adventure films, experiences, and more!

GET TICKETS

The 5 Best National Park Road Trips in the U.S.

From western landscapes to the Blue Ridge Parkway, our national park expert maps out five beautiful road trips—all doable in a week

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Here’s the dream: Quit your job and hit all 64 national parks in one huge multi-month road trip where you live mostly in a van and finally see all of these iconic landscapes for yourself. To call that dream unrealistic is an understatement, at least for me, for a variety of reasons (see “quit job,” above), though it’s been accomplished by an Outside writer.

The closest I’ve ever come was in my 20s, spending a month driving around the Rocky Mountains and American Southwest in my VW Jetta during summer break from graduate school. A decade or so later, I re-created that trip with my wife and our then four-year-old twins. Both experiences were awesome. One of them had more tantrums.

You can plan a great park trip that captures the open-road spirit on a smaller scale. Below, I’ve outlined five itineraries that take in multiple parks, all within a week. I picked a variety of terrain—lonely desert basins, ice-cold swimming holes, perfect hikes, and cultural wonders. There are one or two classic routes.

But mostly, I chose these because they go to parks that don’t get the massive amount of attention some of their cousins receive. So gas or charge up and go.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, from Shenandoah to Great Smoky Mountains

Virginia/north carolina, distance: 470 miles, duration: four-plus days.

This trip is in my backyard, so I’m biased, but it’s also awesome, because the entire 470-plus-mile route is within a national-park unit. The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles along the peaks and valleys of the Southern Appalachian mountain range, connecting two of the country’s most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina/Tennessee and Shenandoah in Virginia.

Driving the entire length of the parkway is slow (speed limit is between 25 and 45 miles per hour) and full of curves in the road, and also overlooks,  side hikes to swimming holes, and mountain hikes through a lush landscape with elevations that top 6,000 feet. And that’s just the road between the two great national parks.

Heading south on the parkway, you will find picnic areas, trailheads, and scenic views. Give yourself at least a couple of days to complete the road alone, making sure to hike the three-mile out-and-back Sharp Top Trail in the Peaks of Otter area near Bedford, Virginia, which leads to a panoramic view of the Shenandoah Valley and the Allegheny Mountains. When you get to North Carolina, hit Grandfather Mountain State Park, where you can climb the 7.6-mile out-and-back Profile Trail , scrambling along outcroppings and climbing ladders to the summit of the 5,964-foot Callaway Peak.

Adventures in Shenandoah: Located just 70 miles west of Washington, D.C, Shenandoah National Park is home to 200,000 acres of 4,000-foot peaks, dense hardwood forest, waterfalls, and historic farmland. The most popular hike is also one of the park’s toughest; Old Rag Circuit is a 9.2-mile loop that requires rock scrambling with some use of your hands to reach Old Rag Mountain, which offers 360-degree views of the park and surrounding farmland. You need a permit to hike the mountain between March 1 and November 30. It’s only $2, but permits are limited to 800 a day, so get them up to 30 days in advance .

If you’re looking to cool off, hike the Whiteoak Canyon/Cedar Run Circuit , an 8.1-mile loop that gains 3,000 feet while traversing two tight gorges packed with waterfalls and swimming holes. Lower and Upper Whiteoak Canyon Falls are the highlights, as Upper Falls drops 86 feet between narrow canyon walls, and Lower Falls has a primo plunge pool.

Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains : The Smokies comprise a mix of rocky streams stacked with waterfalls and swimming holes, and steep slopes thick with vegetation. It’s hard to get across just how green this park is. On the northern end, you’ll find Midnight Hole, a deep, cold swimming hole at the base of a small waterfall. The pool is lined with 15-foot boulders, and locals like to jump from them into the deep part. Access is via the easy three-mile out-and-back Big Creek Trail . If you want to ditch the crowds (GSMNP gets 14 million visitors a year), hike deeper into the park. Ramsey Cascades Trail is an eight-mile round trip through stands of old-growth tulip poplars to the 100-foot Ramsey Cascade, the tallest waterfall inside the park.

A few historic fire lookout towers still stand inside the park, but the most scenic is Mount Cammerer, a circular wooden building perched on a rocky outcropping, nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, offering views of 5,000- and 6,000-foot peaks as well as the Pigeon River Gorge. Hike this 11.6-mile out and back from Big Creek Parking Area, and you will do a piece of the Appalachian Trail, enjoying scenic stretches along Big Creek before climbing to the ridgeline.

Stay : In Shenandoah, Big Meadows is a historic stone-and-chestnut lodge in the middle of the park. Choose from lodge rooms or rustic cabins (from $251 a night ), and wander the mile to Big Meadow after dark for stargazing . Lodges and campgrounds are spaced all along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, so it’s easy to break the journey up into chunks if you’re not in a hurry. Julian Price Campground is one of the most popular overnights ($20 per night, reserve six months in advance). The 190-site facility sits next to Julian Price Lake, where you can rent canoes . Under Canvas has a glamping resort on 182 acres of hardwood forest near the Gatlinburg entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Each fully furnished safari-style tent has a private bathroom, and the place features live music, campfires at night, and yoga in the morning, not to mention an on-site restaurant with seasonal dishes and craft beer.

2. Joshua Tree to Death Valley, California

Distance: 250 miles, duration: at least three days.

This route will take you to an underappreciated gem.

Is it weird to spend several days in Southern California and not go to the beach? Well, this desert romp is packed with so much wild terrain you won’t miss the Pacific Ocean. Joshua Tree National Park is 800,000 acres of sandstone boulders, crusty desert floor, and stands of the eponymous trees, while 250 miles north, Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48, at 3.5 million acres. Inside are 14,000-foot peaks, expansive craters, dunes, and slot canyons.

Weather is a factor with this itinerary because both parks are in the desert and hot as hell in the middle of summer (temps can reach 120 degrees). So consider this a late-spring or early-fall trip. (If you ever go in summer, do all of your adventures at dawn, take a ton of water, and be back at your place or camp before lunch. Also tell someone exactly where you are going.)

The 250-mile drive is mostly two-lane highway that offers a mix of desolate beauty (you’ll drive between Leghorn Lakes Wilderness and Sheephole Valley Wilderness) and California weirdness (the World’s Largest Thermometer is on this route). Want more adventure? As you drive between these two standout parks, try a pitstop at Mojave National Preserve, which has the largest grove of Joshua Trees in the world, natural springs, and towering dunes.

You can fly into Las Vegas or Los Angeles. L.A. to Joshua Tree is about 150 miles and not terribly interesting, so let’s just go straight to the park.

Adventures in Joshua Tree : J-Tree is a bucket-list rock-climbing destination, but the hiking is easily as good, and just being in the place is amazing. The 2.5-mile Split Rock Trail gives hikers a chance to see and scramble on some of the park’s signature boulders, including Split Rock, a 20-foot-tall formation with a fissure in the middle, and to explore a few small caves. If you want to see a lot of Joshua Trees (who doesn’t?), hike the Panorama Loop in Black Rock Canyon, a 6.5-mile lollipop that traverses one of the densest groves of Joshua Trees in the park, or sections of ridgeline trail, with long-range views of the 11,000-foot peaks inside the nearby Sand to Snow National Monument .

Adventures in Mojave National Preserve: Just 70 miles north of Joshua Tree, Mojave NP offers a convenient diversion on your way to Death Valley. Stretch your legs by hiking the three-mile out-and-back trail into Kelso Dunes , a 45-square-mile field with mounds of sand that rise 650 feet from the valley floor. The Kelso Dunes actually produce “booming,” which is a deep, rumbling vibration that you can hear and feel from the crest of one. Be aware that hiking in dunes is tough, as the sand shifts below your feet with every step.

Adventures in Death Valley : You hiked dunes in Mojave, so in Death Valley National Park, let’s focus on the canyons and peaks. Fall Canyon is a six-mile out and back through a slot canyon so narrow that at points you can touch both sides from the middle.

If it’s your first time to the park, you’re obligated to visit Badwater Salt Flats, the lowest and hottest point in the U.S. There’s no designated trail through the flats, so wander at will through the flat, crispy valley, flanked by the Panamint Mountains and Black Mountains.

Stay: The Inn at Death Valley is a historic lodge located inside the park, with five-star accommodations. Consider this an oasis in the desert, complete with a spring-fed swimming pool (from $359 a night). At Joshua Tree, try to reserve a spot at Indian Cove Campground , which has sites tucked between massive boulders. There are no hookups, but RVs are allowed ($25 a night). If you can’t score an advance reservation there, Hidden Valley Campground has first come/first serve sites ($15 a night). Also, Field Station is opening a new location outside of Joshua Tree in May, with campsites for van-lifers and private rooms, all of which have access to the property’s gear shop, coffee shop and communal spaces (rooms from $127 a night).

3. White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns, and Guadalupe Mountains National Park

New mexico and texas, distance: 300 miles, duration: four to five days.

Want variety? This trip has a trio of national parks that are close geographically, but a world apart in terms of terrain. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is all about the subterranean, protecting 119 caves, the biggest of which are open to exploration. Guadalupe Mountains National Park covers a swath of 8,000-foot peaks in West Texas, and those include eight of the 10 tallest in the entire state. White Sand Dunes National Park is home to a 275-square-mile gypsum dune field that rolls towards the horizon in a series of white tidal waves.

All three parks are within a couple hundred miles of each other, and El Paso serves as an ideal starting point to fly into the area and rent a car. These parks don’t see the crowds that some of the big-ticket units draw in summer, so there’s a better chance for quiet and good campsites. The three also have totally different climates. White Sand Dunes is hot (but not like J-Tree or Death Valley), Carlsbad is underground, and Guadalupe is chilly.

Other than a brief period where you skirt around the edge of El Paso, you’re driving mostly two-lane highways with a real “middle of nowhere” vibe between the parks. Think sand and scrub brush for as far as the eye can see.

Adventures in White Sand Dunes: Alkali Flat Trail is a five-mile loop through the heart of the sand dunes, following red trail markers. You’re climbing and descending 60-foot dunes the entire time, so pace yourself and expect your legs to be worked at the end. Bring a sled (sold at the visitors’ center if you don’t have your own), as you’re allowed to slide down the steepest slopes along the route.

Adventures in Guadalupe Mountains National Park : The signature adventure is hiking the 8,751-foot Guadalupe Peak , with a craggy, treeless summit, the tallest in the state of Texas. The views stretching east over the plains are endless, but to earn them you will climb 3,000 feet in just over four miles. Bring a jacket, as the summit is notoriously windy. But the real treat of Guadalupe Mountains is Devil’s Hall Trail , a four-mile out-and-back that’s rocky with mandatory scrambling to traverse a dry river wash. Towards the end, you’ll climb Hiker’s Staircase, an easy hand-over-hand natural rock ladder out of the wash and into a narrow slot canyon.

Adventures in Carlsbad Caverns : Start with a self-guided tour of the Big Room, the largest single-cave chamber in the U.S., loaded with bizarre stalactites and stalagmites. An elevator could deliver you into the cave, but instead walk the switchbacks down via the Natural Entrance, and feel what it’s like to go from the surface into the cold, dark underground. The full hike down the Natural Entrance and into the Big Room is 2.5 miles and should take a few hours; without the walk in, the hike is 1.25 miles, with a .6-mile shortcut also possible, and parts of the Big Room are wheelchair accessible . If you want something spicier, sign up for a ranger-led tour of Lower Cave , which requires descending 60 feet of ladders and ropes to a series of smaller rooms with crazy rock features, like the skinny, tall “Texas Toothpick” or “cave pearls,” which look like clusters of eggs ($20, reservations required).

Where to Stay: Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns are close enough that one campground works as a base camp to explore both. Check out Pine Springs Campground in Guadalupe Mountains, which has 20 tent sites and 13 RV sites you can reserve in advance ($20 a night). A number of hiking trails (including Devil’s Hall) begin here. The closest campground to White Sands is in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, which has private desert sites ($10 per night). The backcountry campsites in White Sands are closed indefinitely, but nearby Alamogordo has a variety of chain hotels.

4. Denali National Park to Kenai Fjords National Park

Distance: 400 miles, duration: five-plus days, but if you’re flying all the way to alaska, take your time.

Alaska is an awe-inspiring collection of giant mountains, permanent ice fields, and jagged coast, and Denali and Kenai Fjords national parks encapsulate choice slices of that unique topography. Denali National Park covers more than 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior, including the 20,310-foot Denali, but also the tundra and spruce forest that surround it and attract big-time wildlife like caribou and brown bears. Kenai Fjords National Park couldn’t be more different; instead of forest and towering peaks, it’s home to 600,000 acres of glaciers, inlets, bays, and islands. More than half of the park is covered in snow and ice year round, and the majority is accessed by water. While much of Alaska isn’t conducive to road trips because of a lack of roads, these two parks are less than 400 miles apart and connected by highways.

The two-lane blacktop between the main destinations rolls out like a highlight reel of Alaska, offering views of Denali’s snow-capped peaks at one point and the Cook Inlet at another. Keep an eye out for Beluga whales, which live and breed in the inlet. Chugach State Park , with its 3,000-foot mountains, is also on the route.

A visitor can fly into Anchorage, halfway between the two parks. You’ll basically have to ditch the car at each destination, as car travel is limited in both parks. There are few roads in Kenai, and the main road through Denali is limited to shuttle traffic to minimize impact on the landscape. But that’s part of the charm here.

Adventures in Denali: Denali isn’t a “drive through” park. In fact, private vehicles aren’t allowed past mile 15 of the scenic Denali Park Road, though bikes get the green light. To ride in, start at the Savage River Visitor Center (mile 15) and bike to Sable Pass between miles 37 and 42, where the final 1,500-foot climb to the pass is rewarded by views that stretch all the way to Denali itself. But Sable Pass is best known for its wildlife. Mostly treeless and full of berry bushes, it attracts brown bears, caribou, and Dall sheep, which often graze in the tundra near the road. From the top of the pass, you can turn around and bike back, or, if you pre-arrange it, hop on the free Savage River Shuttle , which has bike racks. Bike Denali offers rentals (starting at $75 per day).

Or consider a guided rafting trip on the Nenana River, a glacier-fed stream that forms the eastern border of Denali. Book a mild or wild day trip with Denali Raft Adventures . The 11-mile canyon run is packed with class IV rapids with names like “Coffee Grinder,” and the full ride, for ages 12 and up, is a brisk two hours. A different short option, the two-hour-long Wilderness Run, is ideal for young families, as it contains mostly class I-II rapids and offers a good chance to see wildlife like moose and caribou. (From $130 a person, May through September).

Adventures in Kenai: Kenai is a coastal park with most of its goods accessed via boat, but land lovers have options, too. Hike on the edge of the Harding Ice Field , the largest permanent ice field in the U.S., stretching for 700 square miles and feeding Exit Glacier, which forms a half-mile-wide river of ice that melts into Exit Creek. Start at the Exit Glacier Nature Center and hike the 8.2-mile out-and-back Harding Icefield Trail , which climbs a total of 3,000 feet through the surrounding forest to gigantic views of the icefield. If you really want to throw yourself into the landscape, book an intro-to-ice climbing trip with Exit Glacier Guides , exploring crevasses and climbing pitches of vertical ice with use of rope, crampons, and axes ($249 per person).

For a water-borne adventure, head to Bear Glacier Lagoon, 12 miles south of Seward, where a thin beach separates a glacier-fed lake from the Gulf of Alaska. The lake sits in a deep bowl rising to green ridges, and the water is littered with house-sized icebergs. Liquid Adventures offers fully outfitted day trips to the lagoon ($550 per person).

Where to Stay : In Denali, book a spot at Savage River Campground , which has 32 sites tucked into a spruce forest ($49 a night). Located on mile 13 on the Denali Park Road, it’s easy to reach with a car (some campgrounds in Denali are only accessible by shuttle bus), but the real prize is access to Savage River and incredible views of Denali via a short gravel-road walk. Reservations are recommended, but not required. In Kenai, Exit Glacier Campground has 12 walk-in tent sites, first-come, first-served. They’re free, but fill up most nights during July and August. The Seward Adventure Lodge , in the middle of downtown Seward, is a seven-room mid-century-era motel with renovated rooms located just minutes from the edge of Kenai ($190 per night, two night minimum).

5. Mesa Verde and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Parks

Distance: 160 miles, duration: three days.

Rocky Mountain National Park gets most of the love in Colorado, and while it’s incredible, the Centennial State has other unforgettable national-park units. Mesa Verde National Park and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park are nestled into the southwest corner of the state, proximal enough to make for an ideal weekend road trip. Mesa Verde is a cultural treasure, containing more than 5,000 archaeological sites, including the early cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is altogether different, enveloping a nearly 2,500-foot-deep gorge surrounding the Gunnison River. It’s a deep, dark chasm with sheer vertical walls, rugged hiking and climbing, boating, and world-class trout fishing.

You can fly into Durango to kick the trip off, and Telluride is smack dab in the middle of the route between parks if you want to throw in a visit to a classic mountain town. The Jud Weibe Trail , a locals’ favorite and handy but fantastic afternoon outing, offers views of the ski area and entire valley on varied and forested terrain.

The majority of this road trip cruises through San Juan National Forest on a highway with views of some of Colorado’s tallest and most iconic peaks, including the 14,158-foot Mount Sneffels and 14,023-foot Wilson Peak. You’ll pass right through Telluride, but you can also make a 22-mile roundtrip detour to Ouray to soak in the hot springs.

Adventures in Mesa Verde: Get your bearings by driving the six-mile Mesa Top Loop Road, which winds along past excavated mesa-top villages, with overlooks to see cliff dwellings, including the Cliff Palace, which archaeologists believe could house up to 100 people. There are 30 miles of hiking trails inside the park, so you can see a lot of the area in a day. If you’re limited on time, hike the 2.4-mile Petroglyph Point Trail , which will have you squeezing through boulder passages and traversing cliffside singletrack to a large petroglyph panel. To see the cliff dwellings up close, reserve a spot on a ranger-led Cliff Dwelling Tour ($8 per person, reservations possible 14 days in advance). The Balcony House Tour is the most adventurous: you ascend a cliff face into the 700-year-old dwelling via a series of ladders, then worm through a narrow tunnel that connects rooms.

Adventures in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison : The BCOG is a tough canyon to navigate, as there are no bridges connecting the North Rim and South Rim, so it’s a circuitous two-hour drive between the two sides of the park. The South Rim is the more developed, with a dozen overlooks, a visitors’ center, and an 88-site campground. The North Rim is more primitive, with a gravel road providing access to a few developed trails and a handful of overlooks. Both sides are stunning, but I’m pointing you to the South Rim for its hiking and scrambling routes. If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the view, stroll the two-mile Rim Rock Nature Trail for shots of the canyon and river below. But you’re here for the scramble to the bottom of the gorge via the unmarked Tomichi Route , which drops 1,960 feet in just one mile (the park allows use of the trail and offers a video about it). There’s a lot of down climbing and loose rock, but at the bottom you’ll have the Gunnison River all to yourself. Bring a fly rod; the Gunnison is a gold-medal trout stream. This is a full-day adventure, and you’ll need a permit (free) to descend into the canyon. Get one at the South Rim Visitor Center.

Where to Stay : Both parks have large campgrounds, if you want to keep it simple and budget friendly. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s South Rim Campground is convenient (only a mile from the visitors’ center), but don’t expect a ton of privacy ($20 a night, reservations recommended). The North Rim has a smaller campground , with 13 sites separated by piñon and juniper trees ($20 a night, first-come, first-served). Morefield Campground , in Mesa Verde, is large, with 267 sites within a broad, grassy canyon ($38 a night, reserve in advance).

If you want to spend a night in Telluride, check out The Bivvi , an upscale hostel with private or shared rooms that caters to road trippers (from $40 per night).

Graham Averill is Outside magazine’s national parks columnist. He’s currently trying to convince his 15-year-old twins to re-create the national parks road trip they undertook a decade ago. It’s not going well.

For more by this writer:

The 9 Most Fun Adventure Lodges in North America

The 9 Best Gateway Towns to U.S. National Parks

The 8 Most Adventurous States in America. Number 1 Is …

11 Remote Destinations That Are Definitely Worth the Effort to Visit

• Denali National Park and Preserve
• Fly Fishing
• Joshua Tree National Park

Popular on Outside Online

Enjoy coverage of racing, history, food, culture, travel, and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands.

Healthy Living

• Clean Eating
• Vegetarian Times
• Yoga Journal
• Fly Fishing Film Tour
• National Park Trips
• Warren Miller
• Fastest Known Time
• Trail Runner
• Women's Running
• Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• FinisherPix
• Outside Events Cycling Series
• Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Find your "virtual" park, social media.

It’s not just pretty pictures (although we have plenty of those!). Join the conversation and connect with a national park anytime on social media. Share stories, photos, trip ideas, park experiences, and more with park staff and fellow park enthusiasts. Take a virtual tour, talk to a ranger, or participate in a live presentation. Use #FindYourVirtualPark and #FindYourPark  or #EncuentraTuParque .

Many parks and programs have their own accounts to follow and don’t forget to follow the national NPS accounts on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Flickr, and YouTube.

• Facebook : Receive updates, news releases, photos, videos, events, and live streams from parks and NPS programs.
• Instagram : Get your daily inspiration of photos, videos, and live stories from parks around the country.
• X (formerly Twitter) : Receive park updates, news releases, photos, and videos from @NatlParkService.
• Flickr : Discover high-quality, full-resolution public domain images.
• YouTube : Explore videos about wildlife, history, events, trip planning, and more.

Last updated: May 4, 2024