Spring is when the world starts to wake up again, and many of us start craving more time outside. With wildflowers blooming and waterfalls rushing, spring is such an easy time to appreciate nature near and far. Whether you’re looking to take advantage of a top road trip destination before the summer crowd comes, or you’re eager to see the world in bloom after a long winter, there are national parks waiting for you to explore.
Here are 5 national parks to add to your spring road trip route. Book your Cabana for spring travel and get planning!
Arches National Park
Utah’s Mighty 5 are huge hits year-round, and you can’t go wrong with any of them in any season. Since we recommended Bryce Canyon for the winter, we’re moving along to Moab for the spring.
The peak season for Arches National Park is summer, but we love it in spring for moderately warm weather without the summer crowds. This red rock landscape receives few rainy days, and the spring daytime temperatures are ideal for hiking in the sun (about 60-80 degrees). Campsites are reservable for nights beginning March 1, and the majority of trails are open year-round. If you’re looking for beautiful desert views, predictable weather, and an easy to plan trip, absolutely add Arches to your spring list.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is one of those destinations that sees an extreme uptick in visitation for the summer. With rich wildlife and half the world’s active geysers, it’s no surprise that the world’s first national park sees busy summers.
The awe-inspiring views in Yellowstone are worth working your way through the summer crowds, but if you’re able to fit your trip into late spring instead you’ll be astounded by the difference. Roads open to regular vehicles throughout April and May, and you’ll be able to see all kinds of wildflowers, black bears and grizzly bears, and the calving season for bison and moose. Lower elevation hiking is available, and guided tours start back up, too. While a spring trip may take a little more research than the summer, the opportunity for rare quiet time in nature will be worth it.
Everglades National Park
This one might not be a bit far for a current Cabana road trip destination (although all Cabana bookings come with unlimited mileage), but we have to give credit where credit is due. Everglades National Park is a wonderful place to bicycle, bird watch, and boat.
Although we’re talking about spring, this subtropical climate is actually only divided into two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season lasts through April, and with lows around 60 degrees and highs in the 80s, “spring” is a wonderful time to explore. Rent a canoe, take a tour to spot alligators, or charter a boat for a day of fishing.
Yosemite National Park
The truth is we love Yosemite in all seasons, but late spring is the best time for waterfalls. You’ll get to enjoy the park without the summer crowds, and although there is an occasional late winter storm, you’ll mostly find sunshine.
In summer, reservations are required to enter the park, so if you’re a spontaneous traveler, you’ll have much better luck in spring. As the sun melts the snow, you’ll find waterfalls large and small all throughout the park. Enjoy quiet hiking trails, and make sure to check the weather before you go.
Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles is one of California’s more underrated national parks, but it’s our favorite in springtime. Why? One word: wildflowers. The peak bloom in Pinnacles is from March to May. In the earlier spring, you’ll find poppies, baby blue eyes, and so much more. Coming into May, crowd favorites like orchids and roses fill the park.
Beyond the flowers, fill your days with climbing, hiking, or bird watching. Plus, check out the Bear Gulch Cave before it closes in mid-May to protect the bat population.
Ready for wildflowers and warmer days? Book your Cabana for spring road trips now!
