Everyone knows you can hike, camp, and take pictures in US National Parks—but there’s a whole lot more you can do there. Our national parks are packed with unique adventures that’ll make your summer truly unforgettable.
From surfing down massive sand dunes to spotting the Milky Way in a gold-tier dark sky park, these experiences go way beyond your typical park visit. I’ve rounded up the most incredible warm-weather activities that’ll have you seeing our national treasures in a whole new light.
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15 Summer Bucket List Ideas for National Park Lovers
Table of Contents
1. Sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Want to feel like you’re snowboarding in summer? Head to the tallest dunes in North America! The 19,000-acre dune field at Great Sand Dunes National Park lets you zoom down sandy slopes that reach up to 750 feet high.
You’ll need special gear – regular snowboards won’t cut it here. There are several operators in the area who rent out sandboards and sand sleds made just for the dunes. The best time to hit the slopes is between April and October, but timing is everything in summer. Get there early morning or late evening to dodge the scorching midday heat.
It’s about a 0.75 mile-walk to reach the smaller dunes, or 1.25 miles to the top of the first big one.
Got a high-clearance 4WD? Take Medano Pass Primitive Road to get closer to the action. Just remember to pack tons of water and sunscreen – the dunes get seriously hot!
Pro tip:
‼️ Stick to the areas away from plants and vegetation when riding. The wind constantly reshapes these dunes, so each visit offers a totally different experience.
2. Stargazing in Death Valley National Park
Looking for the best star show in the USA? Death Valley’s got you covered with its Gold Tier Dark Sky rating from the International Dark-Sky Association. The lack of light pollution makes it one of the darkest spots in the country.
The best spots to set up your telescope or blanket are Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Harmony Borax Works, Badwater Basin, and Ubehebe Crater.
From February through May, you can join Death Valley Starcamp just outside the park for guided telescope viewing sessions.
Pro tips:
‼️ Bring warm layers – desert nights can get chilly, even in summer!
‼️ Want to level up your experience? Time your visit with the annual Dark Sky Festival in spring. You’ll get to join special nighttime programs and learn from astronomy experts. While there’s no cell service in most areas, you’ll find free WiFi at some stargazing locations – perfect for using your favorite star-mapping apps.
3. Snorkeling in the Coral Reefs of Dry Tortugas National Park
The warm, crystal-clear waters of Dry Tortugas National Park make it one of the best spots for underwater adventures in the US national park system. The park sits 70 miles off Key West’s coast, and most of its 100 square miles are underwater – making it a snorkeler’s paradise.
The Moat Wall snorkeling that surrounds Fort Jefferson is a fantastic starting point. The shallow waters here team with parrotfish, angelfish, and yellowtail snapper darting between patches of elkhorn coral. You might spot green sea turtles gliding by or catch glimpses of nurse sharks resting on the sandy bottom.
Head to the coral heads near Garden Key for even more action. The water depth ranges from 5 to 15 feet, perfect for swimmers of all skill levels. Schools of sergeant majors and blue tangs swim through the coral formations, while lobsters peek out from their rocky hideouts.
The real treat lies in the Windjammer Wreck site, where a 19th-century ship creates an artificial reef. The wreck sits in about 20 feet of water and attracts huge schools of fish. Keep your eyes peeled for moray eels hiding in the wreckage.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Take the first ferry from Key West to maximize your water time
‼️ Pack your own snorkel gear – the park has limited rentals
‼️ Bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful marine life. I love my GoPro – get one here
‼️ Time your visit between April and October when the water’s warmest
4. Wildlife Viewing in Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park
The first light of dawn breaks over Lamar Valley wolf watching, and you’re in for a treat. This stretch of Yellowstone is buzzing with life – bison herds graze on the grasslands while wolves track their movements from the ridgelines. It’s one of those spots that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
I like setting up near the pullouts along the Northeast Entrance Road. In winter, you can watch wolves from the Lamar Canyon pack move through the snow-covered valley. The best part? You’ll often find friendly wildlife photographers happy to let you peek through their scopes when something cool happens.
The trick is timing. Get there before sunrise (around 5:30am in summer) and pack breakfast to eat in your car. The animals are most active early, and you’ll beat the crowds. Keep scanning the hillsides – I’ve spotted grizzlies digging for roots and coyotes hunting ground squirrels.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Pack warm layers even in summer – mornings are chilly.
‼️ Bring a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa.
‼️ Stay in your car or at least 100 yards from wolves and bears.
‼️ Look for stopped cars – often means wildlife sightings.
‼️ Remember to scan the meadows carefully. Last time I visited, we watched a herd of pronghorn antelope sprint across the valley floor while a golden eagle soared overhead.
➡️ Plan your trip with a Yellowstone National Park Itinerary (available for purchase)
➡️ Read More: Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide (free)
5. Rafting the Colorado River Through Grand Canyon National Park
Nothing beats white-knuckling your way through Lava Falls rapid as your raft plunges into massive waves. The Colorado River drops 277 miles through the Grand Canyon, serving up some of the biggest rapids in North America. During my 8-day trip, I watched billion-year-old canyon walls tower overhead while river guides shared stories of early explorers.
The fun starts at Lee’s Ferry, where motorized and oar-powered rafts begin their journey downstream. You’ll hit rapids like Crystal and Hermit that’ll get your heart racing, but the calm stretches between let you soak in the scenery. I loved floating past natural features like Redwall Cavern and watching bighorn sheep scramble on the cliffs.
Camping on sandy beaches under star-filled skies makes the experience even better. Our guide cooked up amazing Dutch oven meals while we swapped stories around the campfire. During the day, we hiked up side canyons to hidden waterfalls and ancient Native American sites.
The river’s constantly changing, creating new rapids and washing away beaches. Each trip down the canyon brings something different.
➡️ Read my Guide to Grand Canyon River Rafting for more details
Pro Tips:
‼️ Book at least a year ahead if possible- permits are super limited.
‼️ Go April-October for best weather conditions.
‼️ Pack quick-dry clothes and sturdy water shoes.
‼️ Get ready for no cell service or electricity.
➡️ Plan your trip with a Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) Itinerary (available for purchase)
➡️ Plan your trip with a Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim) Itinerary (available for purchase)
➡️ Read More: Grand Canyon National Park Travel Guide (free)
6. Kayaking Through the Glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park
Imagine pulling your paddle through the cold Alaskan waters as chunks of ice bobbed nearby. The thunderous crack of a calving glacier echo across the bay – nature’s reminder that this landscape never stops changing. Out here in Glacier Bay, you’re tiny compared to the massive ice walls that drop straight into the sea.
Maybe your guide will point out a splash in the distance – a humpback whale breaching the surface. You keep your distance but watch in awe as its massive tail lifted skyward before disappearing below. Sea otters floated on their backs, cracking open shellfish on their bellies while glancing your way with curious expressions.
The real magic happens when you paddle near Margerie Glacier. The blue ice towers 250 feet above the water, and every few hours, massive pieces crash into the bay. The sound hits you seconds after you see the ice fall – like thunder rolling across the water.
For the best experience, pair up with an experienced guide. They’ll keep you safe and share stories about the bay’s history while pointing out wildlife you might miss on your own. After a day on the water, nothing beats warming up with hot chocolate back at Bartlett Cove.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Book kayak rentals or guided trips 6+ months ahead.
‼️ June through August offers the best paddling conditions.
‼️ Bring layers – temperatures stay cool even in summer.
‼️ Pack waterproof gear and gloves.
‼️ Morning paddles often have calmer waters.
‼️ Stay at least 0.25 miles from glaciers for safety.
7. Biking the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park
The stone bridges and woodland paths of Acadia’s carriage roads take you back to a different time. These 45 miles of gravel paths wind through some of Maine’s prettiest spots, crossing bubbling streams and passing crystal-clear lakes. I love starting my rides near Jordan Pond, where the sweet smell of pine trees fills the air.
You don’t need to be super fit to enjoy these paths. The crushed rock surface is smooth, and the grades are gentle enough for casual riders. A few summers ago, I watched families with kids pedal along Eagle Lake, stopping at overlooks to spot loons diving for fish. The bridges – all built in the early 1900s – make perfect rest stops for taking photos.
The routes near Day Mountain give you amazing ocean views. On clear mornings, you can see tiny islands dotting the Atlantic while hawks soar overhead. The best part? No cars allowed – just the sound of bike tires crunching on gravel and birds singing in the trees.
The paths around Eagle Lake make a perfect 6-mile loop for your first ride. The views of the mountains reflecting in the water are worth every pedal stroke.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Get to the parking lots before 9:00am to beat the crowds (or take a free shuttle).
‼️ Stop at the stone bridges – each one’s unique.
‼️ Rent bikes in Bar Harbor if you didn’t bring your own – you can put them on the front of the shuttles.
‼️ Pick up a carriage road map at the visitor center.
➡️ Plan your trip with an Acadia National Park Itinerary (available for purchase)
➡️ Read More: Acadia National Park Travel Guide (free)
8. Exploring the Narrows in Zion National Park
The water splashes around my ankles as I step into the Virgin River at the Temple of Sinawava. Looking up, red rock walls rise a thousand feet on both sides, squeezing the sky into a ribbon of blue. This isn’t your typical hike – the river IS the trail.
I started at sunrise to beat the heat and crowds. The morning light painted the canyon walls in shades of orange and pink as I made my way upstream. The riverbed rocks are slippery, but my rented canyoneering boots and walking stick kept me steady.
After the first mile or so, the canyon narrows to just 20 feet wide in spots. The water gets deeper – sometimes up to my waist – and I had to pick my path carefully. Small waterfalls trickle down moss-covered walls, creating little oases in the desert.
The Angel’s Landing trail may get more attention, but this water hike offers equally dramatic views.
The best spots are around Wall Street, where the canyon gets super narrow and deep pools form between boulders. I spent hours working my way upstream, taking photos and cooling off in the clear water.
➡️ Read my guide to Hiking The Narrows for more details
Pro Tips:
‼️ Get to the shuttle stop by 6:00am in summer.
‼️ Check the flow rate at the Visitor Center – The Narrows is closed if there’s a flash flood warning or the flow levels are too high.
‼️ Rent gear from shops in Springdale (I rented shoes, water-proof pants and a stick).
‼️ Pack snacks in waterproof bags.
‼️ Wear quick-dry clothes.
‼️ Take breaks on sandy beaches.
‼️ Turn back if water turns muddy.
➡️ Plan your trip with a Zion National Park Itinerary (available for purchase)
➡️ Read More: Zion National Park Travel Guide (free)
9. Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park
The mountains rise like giants as I wind along Going-to-the-Sun Road. This 50-mile stretch takes you through the heart of Glacier, where snow-capped peaks touch the clouds and mountain goats pick their way across rocky ledges.
The road twists past Lake McDonald, where the glassy water mirrors the mountains. By the time I hit Logan Pass at 6,646 feet, clouds swirled around the peaks and wildflowers dotted the alpine meadows. The parking lot here fills fast – I grabbed one of the last spots at 6:30am to hike the Hidden Lake Trail.
Coming down the east side, the views get even better. St. Mary Lake stretches out below like a blue ribbon, and waterfalls pour off the Garden Wall. I pulled over at every turnout – each one shows you something different. Last time, I watched a grizzly bear digging for ground squirrels on a distant slope.
The best stops? Wild Goose Island Overlook gives you that classic Glacier shot, while the Weeping Wall lets you drive through a waterfall early in the season. Time it right, and you might catch mountain goats at the salt lick near Triple Arches.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Get your vehicle reservation ahead of time. Read my guide to the Glacier National Park Timed Entry Permits for more details
‼️ Start before sunrise to beat traffic.
‼️ Fill up gas in West Glacier or St. Mary.
‼️ Plan for at least 2-3 hours one way.
‼️ Check the road status – snow can close sections until early July.
➡️ Read More: Glacier National Park Travel Guide
10. Horseback Riding in Shenandoah National Park
My hooves hit the dirt trail as my horse picked its way through mountain laurel blooms. The Blue Ridge Mountains rolled out before us like waves, stretching all the way to the horizon. Riding these trails gives you a taste of how early settlers saw this landscape – from between two perked ears.
I booked a two-hour ride at Skyland Stables, where the wranglers paired me with a gentle quarter horse named Buck. The trails wind through old-growth forests and pop out at viewpoints where you can spot white-tailed deer grazing in meadows. We even caught sight of a black bear munching on wild berries (from a very safe distance).
The guided rides stick to well-maintained bridle paths, making them perfect for first-timers. My guide shared stories about things to do and trip ideas while pointing out wild turkey tracks crossing our path. The horses know these trails by heart, carefully stepping over roots and rocks.
The best rides follow Skyline Drive ridgelines, where you can see the Shenandoah Valley spread out on one side and the Piedmont on the other. When the fog lifts from the valleys, it feels like you’re floating above the clouds.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Book rides at least a week ahead in peak season.
‼️ Wear jeans and sturdy boots with a small heel.
‼️ Arrive 30 minutes early for safety orientation.
‼️ Rides run April through November.
‼️ Morning rides often spot more wildlife.
➡️ Read More: Shenandoah National Park Travel Guide
11. Cave Exploration at Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Step into the Natural Entrance at Carlsbad Caverns, watching the desert sunlight fade as you walk deeper into the earth. The temperature drops to a cool 56 degrees while your eyes adjust to the dim lighting. The path winds down through massive chambers where formations hang from the ceiling like stone icicles.
The guided King’s Palace tour takes you through rooms filled with delicate cave pearls and ribbons of flowstone. Your ranger guide stops at the Queen’s Chamber, turning off all lights for a moment of total darkness. The silence is so deep you can hear water droplets hitting limestone pools – each one slowly building new formations.
The main cavern, called the Big Room, is bigger than 6 football fields. Your footsteps echo as you walk past towering columns where stalactites and stalagmites meet after thousands of years of growth. At the bottomless pit, you peer over the rail into what looks like an endless black void.
The Natural Entrance trail drops 750 feet over one mile, but the elevator offers an easy alternative. Time your visit for summer evenings to catch thousands of bats spiraling out of the cave entrance at sunset.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Book ranger-guided tours months ahead.
‼️ Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip.
‼️ Visit mid-day to see Brazilian free-tailed bats.
‼️ Pack a light jacket and a water bottle.
‼️ Allow 2-3 hours for the self-guided route.
‼️ Grab breakfast before – there’s no food in caves.
12. Volcano Watching at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Red-hot lava bubbles to the surface as steam rises into the night sky. I stood at the Kilauea Overlook, watching nature’s fireworks show light up the darkness. The smell of sulfur hangs in the air while the ground rumbles beneath my feet. Each visit brings something different – the landscape here changes daily.
The Thurston Lava Tube gives you a peek at how lava shaped this island. I walked through the 500-year-old tunnel where molten rock once flowed. The smooth walls still show ripple marks from ancient flows, and native ferns now grow at the tunnel exits.
Chain of Craters Road winds 19 miles down to the coast, passing through different climate zones. Near the top, I hiked through misty rainforest filled with native birds. By the time I reached the sea arch, I was in a stark landscape of black lava fields stretching to the ocean.
The Kilauea Iki Trail lets you walk through a crater that was a lava lake in 1959. Steam still rises from cracks in the ground – a reminder that you’re walking on one of Earth’s most active volcanoes.
Pro Tips:
‼️ Go after dark for the best lava viewing.
‼️ Bring a flashlight and rain jacket.
‼️ Wear closed-toe shoes – lava rock is sharp.
‼️ Stay on marked trails – ground can be unstable.
Final Thoughts on Your National Park Summer Adventure
These 12 adventures barely scratch the surface of what our national parks offer. Each park holds dozens of hidden gems waiting to be experienced, from secret swimming holes to lesser-known hiking trails. The key is getting out there and making your own memories.
Whether you’re watching wolves hunt at dawn in Yellowstone or riding horses through Shenandoah’s summer forest, these parks remind us why preserving these wild places matters. Pick one adventure or tackle them all – just make sure to leave time for those unexpected moments that turn into the best stories.
Have a great summer!
Are there any other activities you’d add to these bucket list national parks? Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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