June is Great Outdoors Month, and it’s the perfect excuse to get outside and show some love to our beautiful, natural world. While there is certainly no shortage of incredible outdoor destinations to explore, we thought we’d help get you started. Read on to discover eight noteworthy national parks, both at home and (for the extra-ambitious travelers) abroad.
1. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of Montana’s greatest gems. Located within the Rocky Mountains, it actually crosses over the Canadian border and is a haven for hiking, camping, cycling and backpacking. It’s also abundant in wildlife, so keep an eye out for grizzly bears!
Good to know:Â The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road is often closed depending on weather conditions, especially if you visit in a shoulder season month like May!
2. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southern California, is a fascinating desert landscape that you do not want to miss. An easy 2-hour drive east of LA, it’s a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. A few must-sees while you’re there? The Cholla Cactus Garden, Skull Rock, Hidden Valley, and Keys Ranch.
Good to know: There are tons of quirky Airbnbs to book, and nearby Pioneertown is also well-worth a stop!
3. Yosemite National Park
I mean, if you haven’t been to Yosemite yet, now is the time. After all, it isn’t one of America’s most iconic National Parks without good reason. Epic waterfalls, scenic hikes, and wildlife galore are just a few of the attractions that draw millions of people here every year. With 1,200 square miles of some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, put on your best hiking shoes and get a move on!
4. Banff National Park
Did you know that Banff was Canada’s first national park? Should you decide to pop up for a visit, I can assure you, you will not be disappointed. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are incredible to see. A stunning lake with a backdrop of mountain peaks and surrounded by verdant, alpine landscapes? Yes, please. Also, don’t be surprised if you come across a bear or a moose on your travels!
Good to know:Â Avoid visiting in May (and earlier months) if you want to see the gorgeous turquoise waters of the lakes! They were still very much frozen over.
5. Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Should you decide to take your adventures abroad, Plitvice National Park in central Croatia is one for the books. The park is divided into the upper lakes and the lower lakes, and consists of hiking trails designated by letters and approximate hiking times. The waterfalls that connect the upper and lower are absolutely stunning. For a full guide and suggested itinerary, you can check out more details here.
Good to know: you can rent a hotel that’s within walking distance of the park, and spend one day exploring the lower lakes, and one day exploring the upper!
6. Table Mountain National Park
Just look at this place! Table Mountain National Park in Capetown, South Africa is one of nature’s finest masterpieces. It’s a unique one, because if you want to reach the 1,086m summit (and you should), you have a few different options. Firstly, you can hike. And believe me, your legs will not forget that hike for days. You can also bike up, take a car, or my personal favorite, hop in a cable car! The views are just *chef’s kiss*. You’ll feel on top of the world and have panoramic views of Cape Town below.
7. Calanques National Park
The south of France, anyone? As if being on the coast of the Mediterranean isn’t appealing enough, Calanques National Park’s diverse landscapes and ocean inlets that you can swim in make for a fun adventure with amazing views. Another great destination for hiking enthusiasts, the foot paths are the best way to explore the area.Â
Good to know: It’s a short drive from Marseille, a city with a beautiful old town and port.
8. Iguazu National Park
I hope you like chasing waterfalls. At Iguazu National Park, you’ll find 275 individual waterfalls that are actually split between the Brazilian and Argentinian borders. 80% of the falls belong to Argentina, while the Brazilians claim the other 20%. As a result, there’s a big debate over which country has the best side. In my opinion, they’re both gorgeous and it would be silly not to make time for both!
Good to know: You could spend an entire day exploring the Argentinian side, but the Brazilian side only requires two hours or so!
Feeling inspired and ready to plan your trip? Bublup’s visual folders will help you stay organized and on top of every last detail! Your itinerary, flight, car and accommodation reservations can all be saved by side. Links to things you want to see or places you want to eat? Yep, those can be saved too. To dive into the joys of trip planning with Bublup, check out the blog The Ultimate Guide to Bublup for Vacation Planning.
