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National Park Adventure Vacations

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Wonder awaits on a national parks adventure. Discover stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and heart-pumping activities on a vacation of a lifetime.

They’re called America’s best idea for a reason, and they are always worth exploring. On a National Park tour, you’ll actively explore and experience these protected lands; stepping off the beaten path and discovering a world that not every visitor gets to witness. This is where the true adventure takes place.

The varied geography and climate of the parks offer a range of activities from hiking and biking to rafting, fishing, and even relaxing by a campfire. National Park adventure vacations combine travel with action, allowing you to experience the environment with activities that are ideally suited for your destination.

To help you sort through all the information, we’ve developed a National Parks Vacation Planning Guide. Download it today for expert insights and planning information we’ve gathered over the decades.

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What our guests say about their National Park Adventures

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Yellowstone Adventure

Maria Olsen

"Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old Faithful Inn (booked out far in advance). Food was great and saw the best parts of Yellowstone while avoiding the crowds. Highly recommend Austin Adventures, as well as this itinerary.

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Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old…

"Excellent, fun, knowledgeable guides! Booked, in part, because Austin Adventures guaranteed a night at Old Faithful Inn (booked out far in advance). Food was great and saw the best parts of Yellowstone while avoiding the crowds. Highly recommend Austin Adventures, as well as this itinerary. read less

4.9 Stars (147 reviews)

M | January 1970

Yosemite Adventure

Stephen Hamelburg

"Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of experience and conditioning. The views were unmatched. This is the best way to experience a National Park.

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Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of…

"Amazing trip with knowledgeable guides. The hikes were challenging but appropriate for our level of experience and conditioning. The views were unmatched. This is the best way to experience a National Park. read less

4.8 Stars (11 reviews)

S | January 1970

Kenai Fjords & Denali Adventure

Sandra Davis, Ms.

"This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and great food. If you get good weather the scenery is epic. Don't miss the flight to Denali if it is a sunny day! Even if you don't have perfect weather, the activities are great -- especially the water based ones. If this part of Alaska interests you this is the way to go.

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This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and…

"This is a wonderful trip for active travelers who like a variety of activities and great food. If you get good weather the scenery is epic. Don't miss the flight to Denali if it is a sunny day! Even if you don't have perfect weather, the activities are great -- especially the water based ones. If this part of Alaska interests you this is the way to go. read less

4.9 Stars (30 reviews)

S | January 1970

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Family Vacation

Margo Ross

"Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities for ages 10 - 74. Our guides were caring and fun. No complaints at all. Highly recommend this trip.

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Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities…

"Our family had a wonderful week of good food , nice accommodations and perfect activities for ages 10 - 74. Our guides were caring and fun. No complaints at all. Highly recommend this trip. read less

4.9 Stars (166 reviews)

M | January 1970

Arches & Canyonlands Adventure

Amanda C

"Good, really enjoyed it

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Good, really enjoyed it

"Good, really enjoyed it read less

4.9 Stars (60 reviews)

A | January 1970

Arches & Canyonlands Adventure

David D

"October was perfect time to visit the Canyon lands and the Arches. the sights were majestic.

Very disappointed Paid for 6 day of adventures only got 5. Last day was a 15 min walk and then 2 hour return drop off to hotel. we were dropped off at 11 am. the trip was not cheap and to be short changed like that was very unfair. :( you should be more up front with actual itinerary .

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October was perfect time to visit the Canyon lands and the Arches. the sights were…

"October was perfect time to visit the Canyon lands and the Arches. the sights were majestic.

Very disappointed Paid for 6 day of adventures only got 5. Last day was a 15 min walk and then 2 hour return drop off to hotel. we were dropped off at 11 am. the trip was not cheap and to be short changed like that was very unfair. :( you should be more up front with actual itinerary . read less

4.9 Stars (60 reviews)

D | January 1970

Arches & Canyonlands Adventure

Kate W

"So one of my kids is less active and one very active … this trip and the guides especially was so perfect to be accessible to less active one while engaging to the more active one! Perfect balance of activities… the guides were great adult examples of responsible yet fun seeking adults

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So one of my kids is less active and one very active … this trip…

"So one of my kids is less active and one very active … this trip and the guides especially was so perfect to be accessible to less active one while engaging to the more active one! Perfect balance of activities… the guides were great adult examples of responsible yet fun seeking adults read less

4.9 Stars (60 reviews)

K | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Colleen H

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

C | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Tracy L

"This trip will go down as one of our most memorable adventures ever. Our guides, Steve and Bryson, made this experience a lifetime memory. We took on challenges that were beyond what we thought we were capable of and left with memories we will cherish forever.

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This trip will go down as one of our most memorable adventures ever. Our guides,…

"This trip will go down as one of our most memorable adventures ever. Our guides, Steve and Bryson, made this experience a lifetime memory. We took on challenges that were beyond what we thought we were capable of and left with memories we will cherish forever. read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

T | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Ruth H

"Thanks to Steve and Bryson, the mighty two guides on our October 2023 Mighty Five Adventure, our hiking adventure exceeded my expectations! Starting with the hiking trails to the rappelling experience, Steve and Bryson kept us organized, safe, well fed and most of all they they instilled confidence and kept us motivated each step of the way. A special shout out to Jack and Andy who guided us through the canyons and rappelling experience. Wow! So exhilarating.

Every day was filled with laughter, words of encouragement, sharing of facts and history of our surroundings. The accommodations and food were excellent. The van was very comfortable for travelling.

I would definitely recommend this hiking trip! We had a fantastic time.

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Thanks to Steve and Bryson, the mighty two guides on our October 2023 Mighty Five…

"Thanks to Steve and Bryson, the mighty two guides on our October 2023 Mighty Five Adventure, our hiking adventure exceeded my expectations! Starting with the hiking trails to the rappelling experience, Steve and Bryson kept us organized, safe, well fed and most of all they they instilled confidence and kept us motivated each step of the way. A special shout out to Jack and Andy who guided us through the canyons and rappelling experience. Wow! So exhilarating.

Every day was filled with laughter, words of encouragement, sharing of facts and history of our surroundings. The accommodations and food were excellent. The van was very comfortable for travelling.

I would definitely recommend this hiking trip! We had a fantastic time. read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

R | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Sara L

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

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Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

S | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Connie L

"The Might Five trip was awesome--gorgeous scenery, exhilarating hikes and canyoneering experience, led by excellent guides Steve and Bryson, with a fun group of people! Thank you for a great trip!

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The Might Five trip was awesome--gorgeous scenery, exhilarating hikes and canyoneering experience, led by excellent…

"The Might Five trip was awesome--gorgeous scenery, exhilarating hikes and canyoneering experience, led by excellent guides Steve and Bryson, with a fun group of people! Thank you for a great trip! read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

C | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Mary J

"The trip was fantastic!! Our guides were the best! They were so thoughtful, detailed and organized in addition to being lots of fun!

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The trip was fantastic!! Our guides were the best! They were so thoughtful, detailed and…

"The trip was fantastic!! Our guides were the best! They were so thoughtful, detailed and organized in addition to being lots of fun! read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

M | January 1970

Mighty Five Adventure

Helga L

"The Utah Mighty Five trip was an experience like no other. The guides Steve and Bryson tailored the experience to suit our group and pushed us to optimize the experience. They shared their expert knowledge, kept us laughing for 9 days and were highly organized and personable. The hiking was amazing and the canyoneering guides Jack and Andy instilled a sense of confidence that make rappelling down a slot canyon totally safe and exhilarating. The accommodation and food were excellent - Austin Adventures thought of every detail. I would highly recommend this trip for the full hiking experience, the stellar quality of the guides and every aspect of the trip.

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The Utah Mighty Five trip was an experience like no other. The guides Steve and…

"The Utah Mighty Five trip was an experience like no other. The guides Steve and Bryson tailored the experience to suit our group and pushed us to optimize the experience. They shared their expert knowledge, kept us laughing for 9 days and were highly organized and personable. The hiking was amazing and the canyoneering guides Jack and Andy instilled a sense of confidence that make rappelling down a slot canyon totally safe and exhilarating. The accommodation and food were excellent - Austin Adventures thought of every detail. I would highly recommend this trip for the full hiking experience, the stellar quality of the guides and every aspect of the trip. read less

5 Stars (83 reviews)

H | January 1970

Grand Canyon Adventure

Deb S

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.9 Stars (30 reviews)

D | January 1970

AUS Square Deal Posts 4 v2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply. Read more here.

 

Austin Adventures Yellowstone Grand Tetons Glacier Adventure

Extra Peace of Mind


We understand your plans can change, and that’s why Active Assurance is available so you can book with complete confidence.

Active Assurance can be purchased at the time of booking, enabling you to receive a full refund up to 61 days out from your trip departure date. For more details, view here.

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Finding the Best National Parks to Visit

When looking for the best national parks to visit, consider what you'd like to see and do, then consult the experts who explore them for fun.

Several of America’s most incredible national parks are our weekend playgrounds, while others have left an indelible mark on our souls after visiting. Read our list of the best national parks to visit and consider adding one or two of them to your own must-visit list. 

national parks vacations

Small Group National Park Vacations for Adults and Families

National Parks vacations are a great way for families to connect while exploring some of the most unique places on earth. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the epic views of the Grand Canyon, there are countless treasures for families to experience on a national parks vacation. In a small group led by seasoned pros, you’ll have unparalleled insider access and enjoy included activities that are geared towards families.

Looking for an adult-only national parks vacation? We offer those, too! Our expertise spans generations, allowing you to fully experience your destination in a way that’s fun and memorable. 

Meet Your National Park Adventure Guides

National Park Adventure Blogs

National Park Adventure FAQs

What should I bring with me on the first day?

When you speak with your guides the night before your trip, they will give you a detailed description of what to bring with you on Day 1. Typically, this includes a day pack with your rain jacket, sunglasses, hat, camera, etc. Anything you want easy access to during the day should go in your day pack as the rest of your luggage will go in the locked cargo trailer pulled behind the van. Your guides will provide you with a water bottle on the first morning of your trip and will always have water available for refills. There will be snacks available at all times in the van. Your guides will also have bug spray and sunscreen accessible for you to use.

Will I have contact with my guides before the trip starts?

Your guides will call your cell phone the night before your trip begins to touch base on the first day’s plan. If they don’t get through to you, they will leave a voicemail on your cell phone with all the details you need to plan for your first morning.

What are your recommended guide gratuity guidelines?

You will have 2-3 guides on your Austin Adventure (depending on group size). We recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. Typically, gratuities are offered by check or cash in local currency on the final morning of the trip and can either be given to each guide individually or to one guide to be equally distributed. Most of our guides these days also accept gratuities via Venmo (please note this app does not work in Canada). All dining, housekeeping and activity tips are included in your trip price.

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Austin Adventures traveler, it’s highly recommended you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of travel delays, missed connections, medical expenses or injury, or lost baggage for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Protection page for more in-depth information and our recommended insurance provider.

What's included on your North America trips?

Accommodation

We've spent years finding places to stay that are quaint, perfectly-located, and comfortable when we take you to the most amazing parts of North America. We offer a wide variety of accommodations on our trips ranging from locally run inns and first-class hotels to resorts, dude ranches and historic national park cabins. Accommodations are selected for their location, unique charm and history, and offer a true feel for the region. We strongly believe in the value of a good night's sleep and our accommodation reflects this. We also like to have somewhere comfortable to relax after the day's activities.

Transport

We're really focused on ensuring that we spend as little time as possible sitting in vehicles, and that we optimise your vacation for adventuring in the great outdoors. Our average driving time is just over two hours a day, and we make plenty of stops for bathroom breaks and sightseeing along the way. We use modern, comfortable 15-passenger vans for all of our transfers and a second van is added to most departures to provide more flexibility and more room to spread out while seeing the sights! Make no mistake - our trips are not typical bus tour vacation packages! Picture more of a road trip with family complete with good music, tasty snacks, and plenty of guide-supplied fun facts along the way to keep you entertained!

Meals

Just about all your meals are included when you travel with Austin Adventures in North America. We provide a wide variety of cuisine - breakfasts are typically eaten at your hotel on your own time in the morning before meeting up with the group. Lunches feature everything from elaborate picnics to roadside cafes to sandwiches trailside. Dinners are usually eaten at our hotel's dining room or a local restaurant with plenty of options to choose from. We easily cater to vegetarians, picky kids, and people with particular dietary needs. All our guides have food safety certificates and are well-practiced in the art of food prep and serving while on-the-move. You'll find the meals are a real highlight of your trip!

All Guiding Services

Each trip features two or three incredible guides and our average guest to guide ratio is 6:1. Our guests are often drawn to North America by the beautiful scenic landscapes, promise of wilderness and clean air - and there's no doubt you'll find all that, though what you may not be expecting is to forge real, genuine friendships with your fellow tripmates, including our wonderful guides. They're hands-down the BEST guides you'll ever come across.

Activities

Any activity described in our itinerary, such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding, kayaking and biking, are included in your trip cost. Our itineraries are pretty jam-packed to maximize our time spent exploring in these amazing places, and your guides will make it clear if there are additional activities available (at your expense).

How many people are there on each of our North America trips?

We generally take up to 18 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

Our adult-only departures require a minimum age of 16 years and our family departures require a minimum age of 6 years to join (7 years on our Alaska Family Adventure) and are a great way to meet other like-minded families who like to get outside.
Please note child rates apply to children 12 years and under.

Do you charge a forced single supplement if I'm a solo traveller?

We welcome many solo travelers on our trips – in fact, we get so many solo travelers and they always say it’s a great way to travel alone, but not actually by themselves. You’ll have an incredible adventure sharing your experiences with other like-minded travelers, and the best part is we don't charge extra for solo travelers, providing you don’t mind sharing a room. However, for bookings within 90 days of your chosen departure, a forced single supplement will apply if there is no other guest of the same gender already booked to share with.

If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room, if one is available.

If I book a trip with my children, will I be sharing a room with them?

Active Adventures & Austin Adventures family vacations are naturally about spending time with family and as such, most families opt to share rooms on our trips. At time of booking, families consisting of four guests with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at the guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

What if I need a special diet?

We’re accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • pescatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no pork (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)
  • picky kids (send us a list of what your child will eat and we'll make sure to have it!)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in your travel wallet. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online travel wallet.

How much luggage can I bring on the North America trips?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get cash?

You'll be able to find a reliable ATM once you arrive to start your trip, within the township or at the airport you land in, as national park ATM locations are sparse at best. Aside from tips for your guides, you could bring $200 and go home with change though some people like to bring some cash to cover a round of drinks, a few souvenirs, and dinner on "night on your own", although you could just as easily use a credit card for these purchases too.

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Why travel with us

benefit group size v2

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

benefit guides v2

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit all inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

benefit family v3

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.