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National Park Adventure Vacations

Explore The Best Destinations For Adventure Tours

National Park Tours for Families and Small Groups

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Why Choose Active Adventures

Do It Yourself
With Active Adventures
Hours of research to plan
Expertly planned by professional adventurers
Which accommodations to book?
Premium accommodation booked for you
Which trails to explore? How to book?
Iconic & lesser-known trails booked for you
Which restaurants to suit all?
All meals included: delicious & to suit all
Unguided; reliance on impersonal travel books
Caring guides; passionate about what they do
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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.

What our guests say about their National Park Adventures

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Yellowstone Adventure - September 2023

Yellowstone awe

"Our Yellowstone Adventure exceeded our expectations and ranks at the top of travel experiences. Our… read more

"Our Yellowstone Adventure exceeded our expectations and ranks at the top of travel experiences. Our guides, Jamie and Zach, treated us like royalty and were very responsive to our needs. The meals they prepared and served were excellent. Having a room with a view of Old Faithful was so unexpected and very cool. The hikes were very manageable, even for seniors like us. Our guides provided lots of encouragement for activities that might have been out of our comfort zones. read less

5 Stars (136 reviews)

Kathleen,

Yellowstone Adventure - September 2023

Yellowstone Adventure

"This was a beyond amazing adventure. I was looking forward to hiking in Yellowstone,… read more

"This was a beyond amazing adventure. I was looking forward to hiking in Yellowstone, but had reservations about zip lining, whitewater rafting and horseback riding. I did them all despite them being outside my comfort zone!!
Staying at the historic Old Faithful Inn and having a room that looked out on Old Faithful was a fantastic beginning to the trip. The meals Zach and Jamie fixed while on the trip were delicious and their knowledge of the area added to the enjoyment. Our last night in Chico was sad because our adventure was over, but also a celebration of the time we’d had together and the memories we made read less

5 Stars (136 reviews)

Louise,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff/Jaspar Adult Hiking Trip

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot… read more

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot of beautiful places but this place brought tears. Even with three -maybe four - days of rain, this still was an amazing trip. The glory of the Rockies, the colors of the waters, the simple calmness of the place was a welcome respite from my concrete city life. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Allison,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff and Jasper

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had… read more

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had some rain on two of the days and they were flexible in finding alternatives to our plans so that we could still hike but not be out in the elements too much. The accommodations were fine. The lunches that were prepared were great. The hikes were stunning. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Zell,

Yellowstone, Big Sky & Paradise Valley Adventure - September 2023

Yellowstone Big Sky & Paradise Valley trip

"Our adventure was FABULOUS. We had an absolutely wonderful time. I’ve never finished… read more

"Our adventure was FABULOUS. We had an absolutely wonderful time. I’ve never finished a vacation when I wouldn’t have changed a thing, until this one. Our group ranged from my 20 yo daughter to a 75 yo grandfather. We all clicked from the start and the entire trip was full of laughter and camaraderie. Our guides, Bryson and Zack, took great care of us and gave us the red carpet treatment the entire trip. I felt very spoiled. They showed us things we never would have experienced on our own and cooked us delicious lunches. Every day was different and we kept saying they couldn’t top it the next day, but somehow they kept exceeding expectations. Zack and Bryson made a memorable trip completely unforgettable. read less

5 Stars (118 reviews)

Nancy,

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Adventure - August 2023

Worth every penny

"Trip was extremely well organized from start to finish. All accommodation were above my expectations.… read more

"Trip was extremely well organized from start to finish. All accommodation were above my expectations. Most food options were very good, had a fantastic meal at the Jackson Lake Lodge. The planned activities were amazing and we all had a lot of fun. We had enough time after our planned activities to relax before the meal. 100% would recommend for anyone who wants to see the best of Yellowstone. read less

5 Stars (112 reviews)

Jarred,

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Adventure - August 2023

Yellowstone Grand Teton

"The was a wonderful first experience into this area of the Rocky Mountains. So grateful… read more

"The was a wonderful first experience into this area of the Rocky Mountains. So grateful for the knowledgeable guides and well planned activities that highlighted the grandeur of these volcanic mountains and waterways. read less

4 Stars (112 reviews)

Ellen,

Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure - August 2023

Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure

"My wife and I are senior citizens and booked this trip with some reservations on… read more

"My wife and I are senior citizens and booked this trip with some reservations on whether we would be paired with people similar in age or we would slow the group down. To our delight we found that most of the group was similar to us in age and the "adventures" include in the trip were doable for us and we had the option to do something a little less demanding. The guides were very attentive to our needs, thank you to Megan and Joel, we had a wonderful trip. read less

5 Stars (177 reviews)

Christfried,

Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure - August 2023

Excellent experience

"Many lifetime memories made on this trip. Beautiful views. read more

"Many lifetime memories made on this trip. Beautiful views. read less

4 Stars (177 reviews)

Teri,

Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure - August 2023

Great Sights, Great Exercise, and Great Friendships!

"My wife and I had an outstanding adventure vacation at Bryce and Zion. We saw… read more

"My wife and I had an outstanding adventure vacation at Bryce and Zion. We saw incredible sights and enjoyed the friendships that we developed over the course of the week spent hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and canyoneering together. Our guides were always one step ahead, anticipating our needs and wants - and totally spoiling us in the process! read less

5 Stars (177 reviews)

Scott,

Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure - August 2023

Bryce/Zion trip

"This was such a fantastic trip. Spending time in beautiful Bryce and Zion with… read more

"This was such a fantastic trip. Spending time in beautiful Bryce and Zion with a great group of people and two fantastic guides was just the best!!! I will definitely travel with Austin Adventures again!! read less

5 Stars (177 reviews)

Naida,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Great Banff/Jasper Trip

"Our trip to Banff & Jasper was fantastic. Sydney & Keenan were expert guides… read more

"Our trip to Banff & Jasper was fantastic. Sydney & Keenan were expert guides for the area and activities, and took care of our group. They pivoted with the weather and some of our requests during the trip all while pulling off a seamless adventure. We saw parts of Canada that we would not have been able to do on our own and learned so much - from hiking techniques to glacier activity. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience, guides and fellow guests. Looking forward to our next Austin adventure! read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Shane,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Awesome trip to Banff

"Our trip guides - Keenan and Sydney were awesome! They literally thought of everything to… read more

"Our trip guides - Keenan and Sydney were awesome! They literally thought of everything to make our trip so nice! From snacks on the river, to a dry towel after rafting, to a yummy charcuterie board after our bike ride, the two of them were so very thoughtful and engaged, for the entire trip! We thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our trip, lots of great scenery, adventures and getting to know Keenan and Sydney throughout our week! read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Brad,

Glacier National Park Adventure - August 2023

Glacier NP Adventure August 20-25

"The trip was fantastic! Saw all the highlights of Glacier NP, and did some… read more

"The trip was fantastic! Saw all the highlights of Glacier NP, and did some great hikes. Tour guides Steve and Bob were excellent! They educated us on geography, history, flora and fauna, native American culture, etc. They were a wealth of knowledge, so capable, and accommodating. They had to come up with "plan B" several times due to trail closure, restaurant closure, weather, and did so with remarkable skill and poise. Really enjoyed Glacier NP, and will be back again in the future. read less

5 Stars (133 reviews)

Kenneth,

Glacier National Park Adventure - August 2023

Hugh and Donna Glacier Trip

"Outstanding trip. Especially our guides, Steve and Bob. Fantastic guys with all in customer service… read more

"Outstanding trip. Especially our guides, Steve and Bob. Fantastic guys with all in customer service in every aspect of the trip. read less

5 Stars (133 reviews)

Hugh,

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Secure Your Spot Now, Pay the Rest Later

As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days from your original trip start date.  

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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

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 get a real variety of people on our trips and they all seem to have one thing in common – a love of the outdoors! Our trips can accommodate up to 22 guests, depending on each departure. Our adult-only departures require a minimum age of 16 years and generally feature a mix of singles, couples and friends, 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 regularly accommodate single guests on our group trips and there’s no forced single supplement if you don’t mind sharing a room (you might even get a room to yourself sometimes). If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room.
PLEASE NOTE: If you book within 90 days and you’re a Forced single, you’ll be required to pay for your own room.

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.

What are your recommended guide gratuity guidelines?

You will have 2-3 guides on your Austin Adventure (depending on group size) and we recommend $15-25 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.

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Why travel with us

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

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 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.