National Park Journal

Get the digital version of the National Park Journal with its four separate park editions (Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite) to discover all-time favorite road trips to the national parks. From Utah’s dazzling deserts, the adobe-lined streets of New Mexico’s charming towns, Wyoming’s authentic outposts, California’s stunning coastline and Colorado’s mountain towns, we feature all the amazing places to explore en route to the parks, no matter where you begin your adventure. Plus , our insider’s guide includes our top things to do in each national park in 48 hours. Discover the best hiking trails, campsites and attractions in our magazine. Our illustrated wildlife guide will help you discover the best of the park's wild animals, including tips on where to find them, and our packing list ensures you don’t leave anything at home.

Hit the Road

A Note From the Editor

National Park Journal

Welcome to Wonder • Get ready to experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. Plan your perfect trip with a park map, weekend itinerary, trail guide and more.

Stretching across 1.2 million acres in Northern Arizona, there are 4 sides to the Grand Canyon.

Get Oriented on the South Rim

Back to Basics • Whether you’re a first-time national park traveler or a seasoned pro, there are a few things you need to know about visiting Grand Canyon National Park.

A Weekend on the South Rim • Short on time? Even if you only have 48 hours, you can still have an incredible Grand Canyon vacation. Here’s the plan.

Choose YOUR Hike

Southwest Hot Spots • From saguaro arms reaching toward a brilliant blue sky to delicious cocktails and sparkling lakes, this mesmerizing road trip is one for the books.

Basecamp Chandler • Twenty minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, this city is a great place to start your Arizona adventure. With close proximity to the metro area and beautiful outdoor recreation, this urban space with a decidedly small town feel offers awesome restaurants, shopping and events. Here are four reasons to visit.

A Farm-to-Table Weekend • The Sonoran Desert meets a verdant oasis in the Phoenix suburb of Gilbert.

Gateway to Grand • Five reasons to explore the peaceful town of Tusayan on Grand Canyon’s doorstep—from hiking in Kaibab National Forest to flying over the canyon.

This Is the Spot • Stop and stay on the doorstep to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim at these two places.

Capture the Moment • With its multi-colored canyon walls, constantly shifting light and panoramic vistas, the Grand Canyon is a paradise, and a challenge, for photographers. With more than 50 viewpoints, it can be difficult to narrow down where to shoot sunrise, sunset and the Milky Way. These are four of our favorites, plus tips from our friends at Tamron on how to pull off the perfect shot.

Hay There

Do I Need a Car? • Sure, you could drive to the Grand Canyon, but don’t discount another option: public transportation.

A Welcome Oasis

Take to the Trails • From great hiking and kayaking to a lively downtown scene, here are the top five reasons to explore this small city.

ROUTE 66 TURNS 100 • Celebrate 100 years of Route 66 by tracing the iconic Mother Road through New Mexico and Arizona, finding nostalgic charm along the way.

More Than a Desert Stopover • Santa Fe is a world class destination, but there are fascinating sights dotting the stunning landscape around it. Lose the crowds and enjoy spectacular outdoor activities with these six things to do.

Take It Easy • In Winslow, see the best eras of the Southwest brought back to life, from a historic Harvey House to Route 66.

Mountain Time • Flagstaff is an ideal...