Activities in the Parks

Walking

Before SUVs, snowmobiles, OHVs, and other motorized vehicles, the only way to see the intricacies of the park was by foot. Today, these fundamental activities are still the primary means of and perhaps the most natural and relaxed way to explore the parks. Whether you choose a short stroll through the woods, a day-long hike, or an overnight expedition into the backcountry, please remember to keep the philosophy of Leave No Trace in mind: leave the trail as it was before you got there. Trails range from wheel-chair accessible to advanced, so be sure to ask questions ahead of time. Pick a comfy pair of hiking boots and click here for more information about trails in the parks.

Water Skiing

Experienced slalomer skiiers and recreational two plankers are welcome behind the many motorboats cruising the national park waters! Parks all across the system offer water skiing to physically strong, active visitors who enjoy spending time in the sun and on the water. Rules and regulations differ from park to park, but boating and water skiing safety remains the same across the board. Click here for water ski-friendly parks such as Glacier National Park, Amistad National Recreation Area and Picture Rocks National Lakeshore and to learn how to stay safe on and behind motorized boats!

Whale Watching

Did you know that a gray whale's tail is also it's "fingerprint"? Or that the California gray whale swims 10,000 miles each year migrating from the cold, nurtrient-rich waters of Alaska, to the warm, shallow lagoons of Baja California - the longest migration of any mammal? Catch a glimpse of this incredible mammal's journey off the shores of Point Reyes National Lakeshore and engage in a whale of an education! Click here for more interesting whale tidbits and to discover where the boat docks for your next whale watching expedition.

Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater enthusiasts test their technical skills along the scenic AND vigorous rapids streaming through the National Park System. Attracting 60,000 rafters a year, Gauley River National Recreation Area boasts class III to class V+ drops in steep, turbulent chutes like Pillow Rock and Sweet's Fall. Join adventure seekers and waterbugs alike in discovering some of the most challenging whitewater in the country - in your national parks and riverways!

Wildflower Viewing

Wildflowers shower the great American landscape with breathtaking views of rainbow-colored valleys, illuminating meadows and individual bursts of brilliant yellows, soft lavenders and blazing oranges. Unsuspecting visitors may stumble upon the glorious floral displays of White Sands National Monument, Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park's spring bloom, depending on the rainfall to the arid region throughout the year. Wildflowers flourish throughout the system. Click here to discover when and where to see the best blossoms of the season!

Wildlife Watching

You almost can't help but watch for wildlife in national parks. Animals of all shapes and sizes flourish in the pristine wilderness of the national parks, which act as safe havens to many endemic, endangered, and threatened species. Catch a glimpse of a bobcat in Black Canyon, observe a chipmunk gathering nuts for the winter in Acadia, gaze at hawks circling the sky in Joshua Tree, or watch the great buffalo grazing in Yellowstone. Creatures big and small are around every corner at most parks, so remember to plan ahead of time by familiarizing yourself with the species of the park your visiting and also to bring a pen, pad, and camera to record your observations. Click here for highlights from around the system.