National Park Journal

Get the digital version of the National Park Journal with its four separate park editions (Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite) to discover all-time favorite road trips to the national parks. From Utah’s dazzling deserts, the adobe-lined streets of New Mexico’s charming towns, Wyoming’s authentic outposts, California’s stunning coastline and Colorado’s mountain towns, we feature all the amazing places to explore en route to the parks, no matter where you begin your adventure. Plus , our insider’s guide includes our top things to do in each national park in 48 hours. Discover the best hiking trails, campsites and attractions in our magazine. Our illustrated wildlife guide will help you discover the best of the park's wild animals, including tips on where to find them, and our packing list ensures you don’t leave anything at home.

Hit the Road

A Note From the Editor

National Park Journal

Welcome to Wonder • Get ready to experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. Plan your perfect trip with a park map, weekend itinerary, trail guide and more.

Stretching across 1.2 million acres in Northern Arizona, there are 4 sides to the Grand Canyon.

Get Oriented on the South Rim

Back to Basics • Whether you’re a first-time national park traveler or a seasoned pro, there are a few things you need to know about visiting Grand Canyon National Park.

Weekend Itinerary • Short on time? Even if you only have 48 hours, you can still have an incredible Grand Canyon vacation on the South Rim. Here’s the plan.

Choose YOUR Hike

Southwest Hot Spots • From saguaro arms reaching toward a brilliant blue sky to delicious cocktails and sparkling lakes, this mesmerizing road trip is one for the books.

A Farmto-Table Weekend • The Sonoran Desert meets a verdant oasis in Phoenix’s neighboring community, Gilbert.

Hot Air Balloons & Horses • It’s rare to find a destination that has everything you crave from a city vacation without sacrificing small town, cozy charm—but Chandler hits the sweet spot.

Gateway to Grand • Five reasons to explore the peaceful town of Tusayan on Grand Canyon’s doorstep—from hiking in Kaibab National Forest to flying over the canyon.

This Is the Spot • Stop and stay at the entrance to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim at these two places.

WHOSE LAND AM I ON? • Think the Grand Canyon is “wild”? Think again.

Do I Need a Car? • Sure, you could drive to the Grand Canyon, but don’t discount another option: public transportation.

Charming Arizona

Savor Cottonwood • Tucked between Sedona’s red rocks and Mingus Mountain lies an unpretentious town dotted with vineyards, a stunning national monument and an inviting downtown where the locals are glad you’re there.

Route 66 Kicks • Established in 1926, the legendary Route 66 stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to California. Get a taste of the Mother Road today on this iconic road trip.

I Was Petrified

Mountain Time • Flagstaff is an ideal home base for outdoor exploring, but it’s also a destination in its own right, with a vibrant downtown, award winning restaurants and a proud dark sky culture. Here are five ways to get acquainted with this thriving town.

See the Stars

A Taste of History

Only in Williams • There are 2,448 miles of Route 66 packed with neon signs, jukeboxes and sentimentality galore but in Williams, you’ll find several quirky attractions you won’t get anywhere else. Located along the route and on the doorstep to Grand Canyon National Park, here are five stops you don’t want to miss.

Escape the Ordinary • For a truly unique vacation, stay in a geodome near some of the Southwest’s coolest national parks.

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