How to Plan a SUCCESSFUL National Park Trip

[@herrelladventures]

Randy is a national treasure. I personally have visited 8 national parks this year and watched many of his videos prior for tips and tricks. Thanks, Randy!

[@AmericasParks]

Wow, Steve, that was a very encouragement comment! Thanks, and happy to hear of your love for the Parks! All the best to you!

[@ActiveTravelWestUSA]

As a professional tour guide, you are right! Great info!

[@AmericasParks]

Such a compliment coming from you! Thanks!

[@mikepostell8720]

Great info. We also camp when we visit the parks. One tip that’s worked for me is in peak seasons if you can’t get a campsite in the national park and don’t want to pay for an expensive resort campground you can typically find camping at state parks near the main destination. We are visiting Badlands and Black Hills areas and found a nice state park that made the trip much more affordable than an expensive campground resort. State Parks, Army Corp of engineer parks are typically well maintained and good options if prime destination is booked out. If you don’t want to camp many of the state parks will offer cabins with a nice fire ring for cheaper than a hotel room. There are many great spots all over start local if needed. We started our outdoors activities by going to a local state park and staying in a cabin for a weekend doing mild hikes. Thanks Randy for all of the great information. We truly have some great national treasures in all of the states. You’ve done a tremendous job highlighting a variety of different types of parks from historic sites to natural beauties. I’ve watched a lot of episodes with my kids and they seem inspired for our family journeys based on seeing the cool things on the videos. Keep up the great work.

[@AmericasParks]

Such a beautiful comment, Mike! Grateful for your fine suggestion and warm encouragement!

[@RetirementTravelers]

Great information and advice as always. We were able to hit 22 this past year in our Airstream and planning another 28 this year. Your channel was certainly a key inspiration to try and see all the National Parks in the lower 48 in 2 years. A few things to add that we learned this year. Some parks like Zion are absolutely beautiful, but it was 109 degrees every afternoon and probably should not have gone in July. Covid protocols reduced capacity of boats, trams, trolleys, etc in many parks and need to take that into account in planning. We missed our desired date to the Dry Tortugas because the boat was full. Thanks again and keep up the wonderful videos. John and Bev

[@AmericasParks]

Hey guys, thanks for the encouragement and input. Probably should have added covid concerns, but hoping that one is a thing of the past after this spring. covid caused us to lose out on our boat ride to rainbow bridge. Adventurous traveling - love it! All the best to both of you with your upcoming adventures!

[@lesliesmith7835]

Thank you Randy. Time spent in planning is time well spent and never wasted. It will ensure a much happier and successful adventure. You're such an excellent spokesperson for our Beautiful National Parks ... Robin :-)

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate that, Robin! Your opinion is much valued!

[@placesonthelist]

Having done two 6 week NP tours and a lot of shorter ones I have used all of your tips in my planning. My biggest thing that I have learned is planning more time. It always takes more time to drive, tour, eat than planned. So make sure you can flex the schedule and build in some down time.

[@AmericasParks]

Wonderful to hear how you have found the channel helpful, Terry! Great tip!!! Same here, always too ambitious! :)

[@sokul00]

Your videos are awesome. Lots of my hikes that I made here on the west coast were because of your channel. I hope we ll meet sooner or later on the hike. Thank you for doing outstanding job here on KZbin.

[@AmericasParks]

That was a really heartwarming comment! Would be my honor to meet you one of these days on the trails!

[@jymnmeier3527]

You Sir are a treasure :) Thank you for sharing this with the world. As you may remember I have been planning a big trip for the fam this summer. I love planning and apply many if not all of these. Definitely will print out the itinerary ! One of my favorite moments visiting Lewis and Clark National Historic Site (which I have shared before) was upon arriving asking my daughte,r Kaylee what she wanted to do first. "We have to go to the Visitors Center and talk to the Rangers Dad" I asked her why? "Because that's what Randy does" Absolutely loved it

[@AmericasParks]

So excited for your family trip this summer! Most despise the planning, but kind of enjoyable on my end. Thanks for the kind words!

[@oksanagaraninsuyupova9575]

Cool! Thanks

[@AmericasParks]

Glad you found the video helpful!

[@chrisealdana]

I can’t wait to go to Yellowstone/ Tetons in May 😁😁

[@AmericasParks]

Awesome parks! Enjoy, Christian!

[@kaylasmith1515]

An AMAZING tool for anyone wishing to travel. No more excuses about it being too expensive or too hard to plan. Although I am quite glad you do all the work for our family!

[@AmericasParks]

For a minute there I thought you were going to take over the planning! :)

[@DestinationEarth]

Glad to see I'm not the only one who puts that much time and planning into a trip! This should really help a lot people! Great video Randy!

[@AmericasParks]

You are a man after my heart, Josh!

[@tomfriese7810]

I been doing almost exactly this since we have been going to the national parks. Takes some time to plan but well worth the effort. The wife and I look forward to your new videos and usually watch them the day they are posted. Thanks Randy for your wonderful videos

[@AmericasParks]

Hey Tom, appreciate knowing how much you are enjoying the videos! Means a lot to me. All the best to you and your family with your National Park adventures!

[@AlanMETALMAN]

The internet is such a great tool now to plan a trip, find out when to park, camp, hike etc. Years ago I used to look up at the mountains, knowing there were great walks there but did not know where to start, where to park and some many other things that are now so easily available on- line. Some great tips there Randy, cheers Alan

[@AmericasParks]

Thank you! I hope people will find this video helpful. And yes, could you imagine planning w/o the Internet?

[@jameshouse1268]

Thanks for this in-depth, fact (and hint) filled video, Randy. Your experience shines and should be heeded. We are so thankful for you and all you do.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the encouraging remarks, James!

[@jimgreen5788]

Randy, good points you've put forth. May I add that when a person/family arrives in their chosen area, they may likely (if they didn't do their homework beforehand, that is) find that very nearby are state parks such as Custer in SD's Black Hills, and even city parks like Garden of the Gods on the edge of Colorado Springs? Also, if tackling multiple parks and monuments, it may be cheaper to get a pass at the first property, which allows entry to all National Park Service properties, whether Parks, Monuments, Historic Sites, Seashores, etc. The cheapest lasts for 12 months, not just the summer. So, good planning the following season could make it possible to see a 2nd. season's worth of parks with that 1 payment.

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent words, Jim! And nice preview comments for another video regarding this common question: "How do you travel so inexpensively!" :) Have a great weekend!

[@nickypan4393]

Just booked a trip to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain. Love your videos!

[@ActiveTravelWestUSA]

Great! Here is a nice itinerary! Enjoy! activetravelwestusa.com/tour/yellowstone-winter-wildlife-tour/

[@AmericasParks]

What a great line-up! Did that same "tour" with my daughter in 2016. Thanks and have a blast!

[@nickypan4393]

@@AmericasParks thank you!

[@bryanwilson3023]

Great video Randy. Best recommendation is to WATCH THIS CHANNEL!

[@AmericasParks]

Love that comment, Bryan! Have a great weekend!

[@NationalParkWild]

I love seeing how you plan for trips. I may use some of these tips as I plan to visit Arches and Canyonlands this spring.

[@AmericasParks]

Great to hear, Eric! Enjoy your spring trip!

[@HockeyPwnsBaseball]

Great video! I definitely agree with your point at 2:30. I recently went on a week-long road trip that took me to Death Valley, Sequoia, King's Canyon, and Yosemite. Now that I've experienced the major attractions and gotten a feel for each park, I'm even more motivated to go back and explore the parts I didn't see.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much! What an epic road trip you recently enjoyed. I started off the same way in 1995 and haven't stopped. lol!

[@tacticoolalan368]

Great video and it’s definitely valuable that you made this video. Speaking from experience, I started my park journey without not planning. I have found planning more details while leaving open spaces for last minute flexibility balance to work out the best. Like you, I’ve done a lot of “Survey trips” on seeing many parks to get a feel for places. I do find value in staying longer at parks I’ve been to before.

[@AmericasParks]

Very wise words! Thanks for the advice gleaned from personal experience!

[@MattN03]

My whole family loves your National Park video's Randy. Thanks for putting them together! PS, I've been showing my kids Yellowstone & Grand Teton videos the last few days as we're planning a trip there this summer :)

[@AmericasParks]

So wonderful to read that! Happy to make the videos family friendly - fun, inspirational, educational, entertaining. Enjoy your trip to Wyoming! Great choice for the family!

[@ivi122]

Wow thank you for this informative video. I have been wanting a video like this from you. Thank you so very much 😊you’re AMAZING

[@AmericasParks]

Very kind words, thank you!

[@ivi122]

@@AmericasParks no problem. You are truly appreciated. I can tell you work hard in your videos...it shows

[@ibrahimwichka4380]

This was really helpful! I'm planning a trip right away! Thanks so much!

[@AmericasParks]

Very happy to hear that!

[@chrisross3631]

I create custom Google My Maps. I add pins to trailheads, photography spots, restaurants, hotel, etc... You can then enable it as an overlay on Google maps on your phone when on location. This provides me a sense of what things can be grouped together and done on the same day, travel time between each thing, etc. Great channel Randy! I hope you (and everyone else) can get out to more national parks this year!

[@AmericasParks]

That must be a super advantage in your travels! Such a wise use of technology. Maybe time for me to move into the 21st Century! lol! Thanks for the kind words and wish you many great adventures 2021!

[@stjohn92]

This is much more detailed than my process of "load up car, drive, and figure things out when I get there." There are definitely benefits to traveling alone! I also find planning a trip is a good time to reach out to other people you know have been to the place and ask them for ideas of things they liked that you could see or do. People love talking about their experiences and if you haven't talked to the person in a while you can catch up!

[@AmericasParks]

Great point, Thomas! Nice to know people still value relationships and are having human interactions! :)

[@stjohn92]

@@AmericasParks absolutely! A few months ago on a roadtrip I ended up in a city that I knew a friend from college had moved to after graduating (about 5 years ago; had not talked to her since then), so I reached out to her asking if there was anything she recommended to check out while I was there. It was a bit of a missed connection as I was gone before she responded, but I gave her a call afterwards and we talked for about a half hour and caught up with each other! It was really nice.

[@LinhNguyen-ve4py]

Thank you so much, your video are awesome

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate your kind and encouraging words!

[@jonathantitus2629]

Well done sir! Like you planning is fun for me and my family expects me to have a plan for each day. We do though make spontaneous stops as our mantra is "we better stop and see it now in case we never make it back".

[@AmericasParks]

Good words, Jonathan! All the best to you as you lead your family!

[@MichaelYoungblood1]

Nicely put together Randy. A good informational video for any novice planner. Our planning methodologies are pretty similar. It is nice to see that it isn’t just me that can be overly meticulous in planning these adventures. One of the hardest part for me is simply paring down the activities for the parks that require multiple days. When we leave a park I want to feel that I did it justice in seeing all it has to offer. In my opinion, securing your overnight accommodations is the number one priority. It is crazy how on top of things you have to be for some of these parks. You have to know the exact date and time when your booking window opens as some parks book instantaneously. We haven’t even gone on our vacation for this year and I am already planning our vacation for 2022 since I know I will have to pounce on booking the lodging/campsites the minute they are released. With all that being said, I love planing these trips and love the research too.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the kindred spirit! :) Yosemite campsites were the toughest for me to obtain. They book literally a second after becoming available. Plan to apply for a permit to The Wave this fall. Take two!

[@MichaelYoungblood1]

@@AmericasParks some bittersweet news with The Wave. I read that the BLM is increasing daily permits from 20 per day to 64 per day. I believe starting in May.

[@AmericasParks]

@@MichaelYoungblood1 Wow... I'll take that! Still slim odds, but much more reasonable and hopeful!

[@adventuringoutdoorswitheric]

For you and I planning a National Park trip is like 2nd nature! But I can see totally see how it could be overwhelming to someone who's never done it before. The one thing you brought up that I feel is the most important is to research the area extensively. If you don't do the research you are not gonna maximise your adventure. You brought up a lot of great points and it was good of you to make this video to help people. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and wisdom.

[@AmericasParks]

Great to read that, Eric! Took a look at your page earlier - may I humbly say, what a massive improvement! Can't promise more viewers, but it looks fantastic and is much more user-friendly!

[@adventuringoutdoorswitheric]

@@AmericasParks Thanks again brother for your help with that 👍.

[@CrossoverGenius]

Thank you for making this video! One of my goals this year is to visit a new national park, though I haven’t picked just yet. For added research, Rock the Park uploads their episodes here on KZbin. Sometimes their activities are a bit outside some people’s comfort zones, but they do a great job of capturing the potential and atmosphere of certain parks, and surrounding areas.

[@AmericasParks]

Yes, those guys do very nice work, but like you said, many of their adventures are beyond the ability or permission of the average visitor. Hope you get to see that new NP this year. So many good ones to choose from! :)

[@bobross9623]

Hi Kayla. I too have watched a few Rock the Park episodes; there was another great show called Motion on the Livewell Network hosted by Greg Aiello. I believe he currently hosts a show called Outside on PBS channels. One of Greg's shows highlighted the Sierra Vista byway & it prompted me to check out Nelder Grove in Sierra Nat'l Forest while on a trip to Yosemite NP in Sept 2019. It was one of the highlights of my trip. I do agree with Randy that the Rock the Park guys do some ventures beyond the capabilities of some but the use a Subaru so there's that!

[@royrobbins2214]

My wife and I look forward to each of your videos. This year put a damper on everything. Looking forward to getting out in the parks again. Great work.

[@megabyte7047]

Well it depends. My friend and I went to Yellowstone, late Sept and while many things were closed and you had only takeout for meals, the lack of crowds and the beautiful weather made it one of the best vacations I’ve ever had. We monitored their website for weeks ahead of our trip so we knew exactly what to expect, service wise.

[@AmericasParks]

You and so many! Hoping for the best when the warmer weather arrives. Glad you like the videos!

[@andyvawser4943]

Awesome tips Randy, and very timely! I'm currently in the planning stage for a family trip this year. Going to several sites including Fort Pulaski, Fort Sumter and Great Smoky Mountains. Your videos have become a great source of information and inspiration for many, including myself. Keep it up!

[@AmericasParks]

Nice! Heading out to the East Coast. We're a ways north, but your family is always welcome! Sounds like a fantastic trip!

[@andyvawser4943]

@@AmericasParks One of these days we'll make it over your way. Might be nice to have a local tour guide who knows the good spots to visit :)

[@potatothorn]

you know i dont really need this but i had to see what your suggestions were like, EXCELLENT// along the lines of what you were saying, even with tons of research, we like to make a multi Park visit to an area to decide which Parks we need to come back and make more thorough visits to.. ONE NOTE- for us, air fare/ rental car is AFTER we get Campground and or Backpacking reservations- because those are often the toughest to secure, and are done 6 months in advance. For some areas hotels need similar long term planning. Plane Tickets etc are a close second but Park reservations come first as you may need to alter plans depending on availability. For more advanced Park people i would also note that rental cars are often NOT allowed to be used on dirt roads// people do it but you must be Very Careful if you do, or risk getting charged all kinds of fees. Overall GREAT suggestions, i'm going to share this one on FB, it mgiht help some of my friends finally take a trip to the Parks. Always talk to the Rangers!! love it!! EXcllent video.

[@AmericasParks]

Yes, your wise points are well-received! Thanks for the input and share! Hope others find the video and your remarks useful.

[@Chillaxing113]

Great video with excellent information for planning visits to parks. Thank you!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks much, Debra!

[@CoryTheRaven]

Great suggestions! My only real switch-up is that I book lodging before plane tickets and car rental. We try to stay in the national parks lodges and hotels where possible, and those regularly book up a year in advance for popular parks. If you want to stay in Old Faithful Inn or El Tovar or whatever, you gotta' get on that as soon as booking opens. The plane and car can wait till much later. Plus there's been a few times where we ended up tacking on extra days before of after when we found out about other things to see in the area.

[@AmericasParks]

Good suggestion! Often don't go that route with the campsites, but makes total sense. A couple others have added the same perspective. Thanks for watching Cory, and as always, all the best to you!

[@MsArtemis01]

Thank you for doing this. I need this when I start my adventures this year.

[@AmericasParks]

Great to hear!

[@NickandRachel]

Thanks for all the good tips! So when are you planning a trip to New River Gorge National Park?

[@AmericasParks]

Ah yes, good question! We were there in 2004 and I did some rafting there back in 1995. Beautiful area - hope to get back, especially now!

[@NickandRachel]

@@AmericasParks I figured you've been there about 40 times already anyway 😅 well looking forward to seeing you make a video now that it's a national park.

[@starshocker]

Thanks for this advice. A great video to watch for all those who wish to go on a trip. As for me I hope to get my driving licence soon so that it get easier for me to go there in the future. Wanna hit the road.

[@AmericasParks]

Good for you! Did my first NP trip solo in 1995.

[@dustbrad6936]

Great video! I’ve also found guide books super helpful - sometimes they’re quicker than the Internet because everything’s all in one place. So they’re useful when I’m looking for something generic. Looking for anything very specific or needs to be completely up-to-date? Internet comes in handy ghere

[@AmericasParks]

Good words! Thanks for the insightful comment!

[@bobross9623]

Hey Randy, thanks for the great tips on trip planning! Your suggestions are very similar to mine. I would like to add a few of my own recommendations: 1. Although I now do a lot of on-line research, I still do some the old fashioned way: I get a good tour book. For years I have purchased Moon travel books (Avalon Travel). They have individual state books plus ones on specific parks or areas; for example: Glacier NP, Yosemite NP, Yellowstone & Grand Teton and Zion & Bryce. These guides provide almost all of the information you need on travel, accommodations, food, hiking et al outdoor activities, local flora and fauna & even nearby attractions. 2. Double check on the type of rental you want. On a trip to southern Utah in 2017, via flight o to Vegas, I specified that I wanted a 4-wheel drive Jeep or SUV. I was given a front wheel drive small SUV and could not do some of the unpaved roads I wanted to explore. Also be aware that some rental agreements specify you stay on pavement. 3. If you have the time and inclination, venture into nearby state parks, BLM land, nat'l rec and wildlife sites; many are equal to nat'l parks. 4. Be flexible! There always may be road closures, closed or limited hour visitor centers or weather issues. Take such things in stride. 5. Know your limits! At age 72 I no longer can hike as far or as long as I used to but I still get out there and find a new favorite place every time! It's also a good idea to investigate State, county or municipal parks near where you live. It keeps you ready for the longer trips you may take in the future. Within the last month or so I have found 2 great parks in the county I live in (Northampton county in Pa) that I never knew existed & both were great experiences. And finally...just get out there! Happy Trails!!

[@AmericasParks]

Spoken like a pro! Very wise suggestions birthed in years of experience. Thank you and trust others will consider your advice!

[@bobross9623]

Thanks for your response! I hope I wasn't too wordy but every time I check out your vlogs I just can't help myself! God's blessing on you & your family.

[@armandojuarez8387]

Como siempre amigo, hermosos lugares gracias !!!!

[@AmericasParks]

Thankful you are enjoying the videos!

[@Mikey-Likes-It_101]

Randy, GREAT INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO! You make some excellent points on how to organize trips to multiple parks - or an extended stay at one or two. It depends on each person’s National Park goals. I am like you, and try to see as many as possible, and then make extensive multi-day visits at my favorites later (some parks we have visit annually). In today’s video - we have to remark that we especially enjoy the 2013 photo of Kayla at Paradise Point, Mt. Rainier over your shoulder! (yes we recognize that view). THANK YOU, . . . Mike

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Mike! Actually that was Hailey, my oldest (they look alike - lol!). Super trip back in 2013!

[@RobertLWard]

Well done Randy. Great idea! Thats actually very close to how I do it except we drive most everywhere. I always research 1st and adjust for the time I have off work to do it. Spend hours staring at my Road Atlas and figuring out mileage between. Like you, I have become much more region oriented, where I can see the maximum amount of things within relatively 1 area. The big east coast trip we took shortly after I met you the 1st time taught me that. While it went smoothly and was enjoyable....it was just to much daily driving. Of course, I have always looked on KZbin for research...Thats how I found you!

[@AmericasParks]

Cool, Robert! So many good memories in that collection of videos. Like you, enjoy the planning!

[@ib5580]

Great advice! It has helped me to feel more confident about my planning for our upcoming July trip to Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon. 💗 Truly loving your channel. God bless🙏🏻

[@AmericasParks]

Really thankful for your kind words! Be blessed, my friend, and have a fantastic trip! Those are some of my all-time favorite places!

[@TheDetourDuo]

These were better tips than I've heard from professional tour guides!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@luckymandran]

Great video! For me the planning is sometimes as much fun as the trip itself and it always includes watching many KZbin videos like yours to learn as much as possible. Being prepared can make the trip much more enjoyable and allow you to make the most out of bad situations. I’m currently overloading on information planning a 2 week trip to lower Utah in November and your videos are always very helpful. Thank you!

[@AmericasParks]

That was really encouraging to hear, Dale! Right with you on all that - the pre-planning and anticipation can almost be as good as the trip! Enjoy and be safe!

[@irenadziedzic8037]

Perfect tips. Some lodging reserve 12 months ahead. Some places needs a permit. Research .....

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the input and kind words!

[@jimthorup9956]

Great video. Totally agree - Planning is a very fun part of the whole experience. Hopefully I will be able to execute a trip to Black Hills and Yellowstone in 2021, a trip I have been working on since last January 2020. Greetings from Denmark.

[@AmericasParks]

Nice to know someone thinks like me on this one! lol! Great "Parks" line-up, Jim. Try to tag on a visit to nearby Grand Teton. Hope it works for you!

[@jimthorup9956]

@@AmericasParks As you recommend - use KZbin as inspiration - and I have to say that your channel is one of my favorites. One of the other recommendations you had was to look at the surroundings of the "main targets" - so in the planning I have included, Rocky Mt. Natl. Park, Fort Laramie, Fort Robinson, Wind Cave, Badlands, Crazy Horse, Mt. Rushmore, Devils Tower, Fort Phil Kearny, Little Bighorn, Bighorn Canyon, Cody, Grand Teton, Fort Bridger ... did I miss something - I am really looking forward to this 3 weeks solo-trip :-) Thanks again for a lot of inspirational videos.

[@charlesmetherd9136]

Love your videos. I would like to know where that steel pyramid on top of that mountain early in this video at 00:22 ? Thank you.

[@AmericasParks]

Guadalupe Mountain NP - top of Guadalupe Peak. Thanks for your kind encouragement! Much appreciated!

[@Asapyo93]

Thank you for all the tips! Your videos are the reason I’ll be visiting several parks this year.

[@AmericasParks]

Wonderful to hear! All the best on your adventures!

[@mmackerer3522]

Wonderful information! Thank you for sharing! I enjoy watching your videos before we visit a national park!

[@AmericasParks]

So encouraging to hear that! Wish you many great adventures in 2021!

[@armandojuarez8387]

Bendiciones a ti y tu hermosa familia saludos!!!

[@AmericasParks]

Blessings to you as well!

[@kathleenweigel5936]

I’m finishing up an internship at Jewel Cave for the winter and am going back to Texas in a few weeks. Have to say I’ll miss it up here in the black hills but I’m looking forward to the warmer weather again😂 Great video as always! I’m hoping to get a position out at Acadia this summer and want to make it a whole NP trip on the way up to Maine!

[@AmericasParks]

Will never forget our trip to Jewel cave back in 2017. Waited in line before the park opened for tickets. Your road trip sounds fantastic! Acadia is one the best IMHO east of the Mississippi! Hope it works for you and thanks for your service!

[@TNhunterKMC]

Great set of tips. Almost exactly how we do it.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks! Yeah, the system has proven faithful to us for many years!

[@pierorocha5566]

How do you camp when you’re going from out of state? Do you bring your equipment with you or rent equipment at your destination? New to this! And I would appreciate all the details and tips you can spare!

[@AmericasParks]

Yes, carry all my gear with me. I am able to fit it all into 2 large travel bags that I check in at the airport. Basically, I don't bring a lot of stuff - just the essentials. Need to make a video on this as well. Enjoy!

[@pierorocha5566]

@@AmericasParks thank you! Appreciate the response! Even the tent. Wow

[@pamconboy4315]

Very useful video - thanks so much

[@AmericasParks]

Really pleased to hear that, Pam!

[@TheMountainMatt]

I’m a planner as well👍🏼 great job Randy or should I say Gandalf 😉

[@AmericasParks]

The beard (no-shave-november) is barely hanging on. Could be the last you'll see of it! :) Have a great weekend!

[@TheMountainMatt]

@@AmericasParks looks great you should keep it 👍🏻

[@AmericasParks]

@@TheMountainMatt Was expecting I'd hear that from the "Mountain Man" :)

[@malakangel9322]

Great tip sir as always! Your videos guided me a lot in our planning

[@AmericasParks]

Wonderful to hear that!

[@simplelifemoneymatters3901]

A good place to start is looking at parks near you. For instance we have Saratoga just 20 min north, Martin Van Buren 15 min south, and Acadia about a 6 hour drive. I have only visited one of these. My take home....Just Do It!!!!

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent advice! Like you said, we often overlook those closest to our home. You live in a great area - we were up there 2 years ago. Also hit Fort Stanwix.

[@ChrisDMarsh78]

Always plan for every situation! I can't stress it enough to new hikers. I've personally had to help stranded, hungry, hurt or dehydrated hikers out of their predicament.

[@AmericasParks]

Very wise words! Thank you!!!

[@DnSAdventures]

Very well organized video from beginning to end sir! A lot of this advice can be followed whether you use the same style of travel you mention or switch it up to lets say...a RV. :) Planning ahead is always the best way to make the most out of your visit. Thanks for sharing how you go about planning things sir, will definitely be adopting some of these styles and steps into how we plan in the future as well. - Shane

[@AmericasParks]

Hey Shane, hope you guys are doing well! For a seasoned traveler, glad to hear you still found the video useful!

[@DnSAdventures]

@@AmericasParks We are doing fairly well. :) And of course, always learning! :)

[@jimholland1592]

What good advice and safe adventures👍

[@AmericasParks]

Wonderful to hear, Jim!

[@Y.d.o.b.o.n]

So If I want to camp but not on the campground, what is my course of action? where can/should I do this? I would love to set up camp away from all the other visitors, like at 5:58 in the video.

[@AmericasParks]

Do a search for "boondocking." We like to us the Bureau of Land Management Sites. Free camping in the wilderness.

[@Y.d.o.b.o.n]

Thank you! Ive basically just stayed in hotels all my life I and would love to do this

[@ChrisM-mu8rc]

Thanks! I am going!

[@AmericasParks]

Great to hear, Chris!

[@ericivancantu]

Thank you Randy!! Very helpful!

[@AmericasParks]

My pleasure, Eric! Have a blessed weekend!

[@nathmad7140]

I would add : make a travel book with observations, drawings, feelings and souvenirs ( like ticket entrance). ..and watch them when you cannot travel😉

[@AmericasParks]

Ahhh, yes... fantastic suggestion! I'm a big fan of preserving the memories too!

[@carolynedwards1045]

If you have kids do the junior ranger program! Especially at Grand Canyon and Grand Teton.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Carolyn! Yes, we've done it a few times and the Rangers do a really good job with that! Great suggestion!

[@juliesmith444]

Excellent tool for planning a trip!

[@AmericasParks]

Sounds like you want to take over the planning! :)

[@teresarhodes613]

Great info! Thanks for sharing!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much, Teresa! Enjoy your weekend!

[@kimmontenegro2258]

I love being a party of 1🤣 So much easier coordinating. And flexibility too. Lol

[@AmericasParks]

It sure is, Kim! Love traveling with the family, but six in a minivan is a lot of work! :) Can't make it to the second day w/o things falling out of the doors the moment they are opened!

[@cgmoses74]

What a great video Randy and perfect timing for summer 2021 planning! Do you rent a tent or travel with? If you rent, do you try and find a local rental shop, such as REI or mom & pop?

[@cgmoses74]

Oh and btw my family LOVES all of your NP reviews!

[@AmericasParks]

@@cgmoses74 Super-encouraged to hear that! Happy to make these family-friendly!

[@AmericasParks]

I've always brought all my own equipment. We have it down to a science - 2 large duffel bags which can fly for free with the airlines we choose.

[@AWCTB]

Families gonna go see The GC, Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and The Rockies. Gonna be fun.

[@AmericasParks]

Epic trip! Have a safe and enjoyable time!!

[@steveblankenship5474]

An itinerary is very sound advice and does sound boring but it is really essential and to leave it with someone when traveling especially alone. Some people do disappear and common sense can prevent that. I was hiking from a peak in Yosemite one year and I came across a search and rescue team who were just starting a search for someone who was suddenly missing. The other party involved lost sight of the missing person and to this date many years later has not been found. Keep one another in sight at all times. I did join a search and rescue team later on and the stories which you remember the most which didn’t end well were those who ventured off without telling anyone where they were going, so a shared itinerary is both wise and essential. Carry a whistle, there are stories which ended well for those who did. For those who really venture off the beaten path alone take advantage of many of the modern devices where you can reach out if something goes wrong and your location is known.

[@AmericasParks]

That is excellent advice, Steve! Mentioned safety in the video in a general way, but some specific tips as it relates to your plans is very wise. Hope people read and heed this!

[@reneeh2050]

Great advice & info! Watching your videos is always part of my research. 😀 I do want to mention a book that I find extremely helpful for starting my NP trip researching : Your Guide to the National Parks, the Complete Guide to All 59 Parks by Michael Oswald. Gives a nice history & overview of the park & highlights as well as best times to visit. It lists hikes with their length & difficulty. It lists food & lodging options as well as activities you can do. Also has maps. A photocopied map from this book saved me when I was visiting the side of Pinnacles NP where the visitors center was closed and there were no maps. A great place to start research. I also like Trip Advisor for researching trips. I search the name of the National Park and read everything in the Things To Do section including the reviews. I have found some super cool lesser known things in that section. The more popular parks also have very good forums. If you read posts back for several pages, you will get all kinds of good info. I find these 2 things great jumping off points for starting to research any National Park trip. Stay safe. Be well!

[@AmericasParks]

What a great comment, Renee! Appreciate your kind words and wise suggestions! All the best to you this weekend and many memorable adventures in 2021!

[@jkmoore1120]

At 49 seconds, is that one of the Shenandoah NP overlooks?

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah, you're close! Technically it's on the Blue Ridge Parkway a little south of Shenandoah.

[@LarryManiccia]

I like to make a "packing list" so I don't forget any gear, clothing, or other items I may need during my trip. As forgetful as my mind seems to be anymore this has prevented me from leaving something critical behind and then having to purchase something while out on the road.

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent point, Larry! Same here - often print it out and cross off item by item. Many have suggested I make a video on the supplies I bring too. Thanks for watching and all the best on your adventures!

[@carlchen3395]

This is beautiful

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much, Carl!

[@megabyte7047]

I have decided, based on my past experiences, that fall/winter is the best time to visit. If you don’t have kids, wait til school starts then go visit a Park. If the Park is in a warmer climate, then winter (ie Christmas time) is a great time to go.

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent point! As you said, hard with children in school, but totally agree - better weather and fewer people!

[@nuuya]

Point 1: planing my itenerary is the best part of the trip, because, when something went wrong, you can start all over again ;) I put all my information which I need in my cellphone, my head and the whole itenerary in my gps. I travel paperless. The preparations for each trip starting mostly years in advance (the reason is point 1 :D). Especially in this times...

[@AmericasParks]

Great stuff, my friend! All the best to you with your adventures!

[@highlandsworshipexecutive3565]

what park are you guys at @ 2:29?

[@AmericasParks]

That was Minuteman Missile in S. Dakota near Badlands NP. Video from the missile silo off the main road (noted on the park map).

[@alieshasalisbury1453]

Great tips! Love your videos! I’m currently planning a southern Utah trip for May, and I’m in the process of watching all your Utah videos. I heard the current Executive Order on masks even includes while hiking on trails in national parks. Please tell me this isn’t being enforced. Wearing a mask while hiking outside in the heat will be torture. Have Park Rangers really been ticketing people for not wearing masks while on trails?

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much for the kind words! Heard about the rule and not sure what's going on with that since I haven't been out in the Parks since October. Trust you'll have a great trip in May!

[@KarlDeckerPresents]

Are we there yet? Lol Planning our trip took some effort but well worth it.

[@AmericasParks]

You were the man on that planning! Should have had more faith in your work and joined you on that mountain climb in the San Juans!

[@KarlDeckerPresents]

@@AmericasParks There's always next season, I have some major adventures planned for that area next early summer, I fear if I don't get to it early the fires will be in full swing again.

[@Khatoon170]

USA have great history amazing nature by reading making us as if we are tourists. Watching KZbin channel takes us there ihope god will end this calamity which COVID-19 in mean time be carful take care of your selves ihope for your channel more success and progress it’s such amazing cultural documentary channel

[@Khatoon170]

Sorry imean which called COVID-19 I’m not native speaker always making mistakes grammatical spelling

[@AmericasParks]

Have a very blessed weekend!

[@debralynnbailey6527]

Leaving Mi 17 th June going over mackinaw Bridge from there who knows 🇺🇸

[@AmericasParks]

The best kind of road trip! Enjoy and be safe!

[@ictfc1897]

if we are allowed back to travel we - a friend and I - are planning to fly to Vegas, get a car and spend 10 days visiting The Valley of Fire, Cedar breaks, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Antelope, Monument Valley and Arches...then fly to Vancouver/Seattle area and spend 8 more days trekking around. No wives, no kids....!! I have watched plenty of your videos and took plenty of notes. :-)

[@AmericasParks]

What an epic line-up! I hope it works out for you, my friend. Thankful to know you found the videos helpful!

[@ictfc1897]

@@AmericasParks yes, your videos provide plenty of useful infos and suggestions. We are doing our planning trying to maximize the time we have and visit those sites. I would like to see more but we have 8 days in Utah and 8 in Canada. I see that my way of planning is similar to yours - I have been traveling all my life so I know how to make one - and my friend has been impressed. Keep on adding your great videos.

[@naturethroughmylens8382]

Damn Randy, facial hair lookin on point man, nice video

[@AmericasParks]

haha.. Nice to hear some like the beard! It's made it well past no-shave-november!

[@naturethroughmylens8382]

@@AmericasParks well I'm glad it did 😂 always love your vids man

[@davidjohnston8500]

It's sad if no rain in calf why is there lighting

[@AmericasParks]

So many places need the rain these days!

[@billricheter5678]

Np. Vistation is way down and will continue to decline. Timed visitation while sometimes necessary isnt helping attendance

[@AmericasParks]

Might be a good thing, Bill. While unfortunate that many won't see our beautiful lands, the parks simply weren't built to hand the crowds they have been currently experiencing.

[@billricheter5678]

@@AmericasParks agree.

[@NAI917RAH]

Hello there! I hope all is well, bro!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for watching!

[@angelawatkins2637]

We are like that funny meme: People from the Midwest be like "Why would I fly, it's only a 14 hour drive"! Ha ha. Great advice about booking the car rental when you book the flight. That can be overwhelming when booking at an airport and you're tired.

[@AmericasParks]

lol! Thanks for watching! Glad you found the video helpful!

[@kaitlink7049]

Love the beard!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks! A little "No-Shave-November" that won't go away! :)

[@lovelylyssette]

How many parks have you visited?

[@AmericasParks]

If you're talking the "big 63" - been to all in the continental US, except Isle Royale and Voyageurs. Looking at Alaska next year. Thanks for watching!

[@rqoi]

If you're looking to save money, most national parks have national forests or BLM land just outside. Camping in those areas is free and can be a great alternative when campgrounds within the parks fill up fast. We stayed in Dixie and Manit La Sal when we did the Utah National Parks and it was great.

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent advice! We were able to visit Dixie last year. Find myself phasing in those NF's and BLM sites more each year. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@concertsandvinyl]

How the heck do you keep looking younger and younger. Wow

[@AmericasParks]

Comment of the night! :) That will make this old man feel good! lol!

[@thefactualconservative9922]

Step 1: Cut the sleeves off a whole lotta shirts Step 2: Cut some more sleeves Step 3: Cut more sleeves Step 4: Read Bible Step 5: almost done with those sleeves

[@AmericasParks]

He's back! Humbled that you know me so well! What about the tuna fish and protein bars?

[@Raja.4805]

SALA CHUP ENGLISH

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for watching.