Celebrate Earth Day and National Park Week (free admission April 17-25!) with a visit to one of these five national parks that hit their peak in springtime.
Photo by Wasatch
“The spring of 2010 is shaping up to be unusually wet in the desert Southwest,” says Wasatch. “This shows promise of a chance to see one of America’s most impressive natural wonders: waterfalls in Zion Canyon. The last time this happened was in 2005.” And every May, “hanging gardens of wildflowers” line canyon walls, says Amy Travels.
Photo by BurliBear
“Summers can be extremely hot,” warns Gwilym Owen, but spring brings mild weather to Saguaro, plus blooming cacti and local Tohono O'odham harvest traditions.
Photo by amillionmilestogo
“Hiking here is a must,” says creekland, and temperatures are most pleasant in spring. Plus, as figgy0223 discovered, spring brings “amazing sunsets” to this part of South Dakota.
Photo by J. Stephen
Denali roars back to life when roads open in March, and animals follow in May as things turn green. Days are long in May, too: “I remember waking up at 3am, looking out the window of our room, and seeing daylight,” says ducksunset.
Photo by JoeM
IgoUgo Hall of Famer callen60 knows his national parks, and he found that this Arkansas gem offers “especially pretty” views “on a clear spring day.” Temperatures are still mild, and if you need to warm up, well, there are those famous spas to explore.
Want more information on even more parks? Social butterflies and hermits, IgoUgo also has your Tips for America’s Most Visited National Parks and the Best of America’s Least Visited National Parks.