Visit National Parks in Luxury

What comes to mind when you think about luxury travel?  Chances are it’s some exotic place like Fiji, or a Mediterranean cruise or a European vacation.  The fact is, some of the most luxurious and spectacular destinations are in our own back yard.  The National Parks system provides a wealth of opportunities to explore some of the natural wonders of our country, and you don’t need to bring your camping gear! 

Here are our top choices to get out and explore our National Park system in style:

1. The Presidio, San Francisco.  With breath-taking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Presidio in San Francisco has something for everyone.  Originally a fort and a US Army post, the Presidio was turned over to the National Parks Service in 1994 and has been serving the public ever since.  It has over 24 miles of hiking trails, and is so close to restaurants, museums and other activities.  If you are looking for a luxury hotel stay, try the newly opened Lodge at The Presido.
2. The Grand Canyon.  No list of must-see national parks would be complete without the Grand Canyon.  One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is by far the most famous park on our list.  You can explore the canyon on foot or by mule, or if you are so inclined you can just stay at the rim and take in the beautiful vistas. And if you want to have a luxury experience, stay at the El Tovar for a spectacular view of the rim.
3. Great Smoky Mountains.  Located in North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains is another wonderful park to visit.  Whether it’s hiking, horseback riding or mountain climbing, the Great Smoky Mountains is a wonderful East Coast park to visit.  While you’re there, check out the Blackberry Farm Resort in Tennessee for an unforgettable vacation with activities such as cooking and yoga classes, gardening seminars and more to keep you and your family occupied.
4. Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.  The Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks in Wyoming are a wonder to see.  Whether it’s bears, elk, deer or Old Faithful, you’ll be amazed at the natural beauty of the area.  The parks are great for hiking, rafting, and experiencing Native American life at the surrounding reservations.  For a bit of luxury, make the Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa your home away from home.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park.  Nature trails, hikes, waterfalls and more are in store for you at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado.  And don’t forget to visit the Alpine Visitor Center – the nation’s highest Visitor Center at just under 12,000 feet!   Stay at the Stanley Hotel, which is famous as the backdrop for the movie, “The Shining” – combining luxury, charm and a bit of history!
6. Glacier National Park.  On the Canadian border in Montana, Glacier National Park has been known as “America’s Switzerland”.  With 700 miles of hiking trails, snow-capped mountains and more, this is a nature-lovers paradise.  For an adults-only experience, stay at the Triple Creek Lodge, which is an all-inclusive resort that will keep you busy during your entire visit.
7. Acadia National Park.  If you are in Maine, take the time to visit New England’s one and only Acadia National Park.  With beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, Acadia National Park is open year-round.  Hiking, fishing, and biking are just some of the activities available in the park.  And if you aren’t up for roughing it, check out the West Street Hotel in Bar Harbor.  Enjoy the mom-and-pop shops and restaurants in town and take the hotel’s trolley over to the park.

The National Parks system throughout the United States offers a great opportunity to see the natural beauty of the country.  Experience these parks and more in the comfort of luxury.  If you live near a national park, take a trip to spend a day out of doors.  If you are planning a more extensive trip, Luxury Destinations Concierge is here to help.  Give us a call at (805) 236-4437 to get started.