San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)
300 national park sites always free
E11
Montana or Big Bend National Park in Texas don’t see the same influx because they’re less likely to get the jump-in-the-car-and-go visitor.
“When you’re planning a large-scale trip like that, the
entrance fees are so minimal,” Kupper said. “For instance, Yellowstone is $35 for the week for everybody in your vehicle. So it’s not enough to make you say, ‘Let’s fly across the country and go to Yellowstone because we’d save the $35 entrance fee.’ ”
To avoid some of the crazier crowds that can plague the country’s most popular parks — particularly in the busy summer months — consider seeing some of these still-spectacular alternatives.
Instead of Yellowstone National Park, for example,
you can head to Bison Range nature reserve near Missoula, Mont., where you’ll see most of the same wildlife with the exception of wolves and grizzly bears. Or instead of Zion National Park, try Capitol Reef National Park, one of the country’s newer parks that has striking geologic wonders and a fraction of the visitors.
If you’re going with a baby, we have a beginner’s guide for you. Start by planning your trip with adjusted expectations, like beginning your days gently and accepting that you’ll likely cover less ground.
Whether you’re going with a family or not, be sure to do your homework well before your trip. Does the park you want to visit require reservations in advance? Are there road closures? Weather concerns?
“We always say start your trip with a visit to Nps.gov,” Kupper said. “Even when you’ve already planned the trip, go back and check as your trip gets closer for any of these important updates.”