Planning a trip to a National Park can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming process. There are many things to consider: which parks to visit, what time of year to go, and how much money you should budget for food and lodging.
But one thing that often needs to be noticed is whether you should plan your visit during the peak season. While many parks are more crowded during the summer months, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to avoid them altogether - and they're all worth considering before you make your decision.
Here are some tips on how you can book your next trip outside of peak season:
Plan Your Activities
Select a few activities you'd like to do in Yosemite National Park. For example, if you have time for only one activity, you should choose hiking as it's the most popular activity in all national parks and requires more time than others.Find out about ranger-led programs and guided walks by checking the visitor center or park website for times and locations. You may also be able to participate in special events such as ranger talks, nighttime sky watches, and campfire programs that can help you learn more about the area's natural history, cultural heritage, or geology.
If specific trails interest you, ensure they're open before heading into the park. Trails may be closed due to wildlife activity or weather conditions, such as flooding or snowfall. Check with the park staff before setting out so that you don't waste time looking for places that aren't accessible on any given day.
Prepare for Bad Weather (and Good)
The National Park Service says that the best time of year to visit a national park is early spring or late fall when the weather is milder, crowds are thinner, and the scenery is at its most striking. But if you can't swing that, there are ways to prepare for bad weather and ensure your trip goes off without a hitch.First off, know what kind of weather you're traveling in. If it is hot and sunny all week, don't bring your winter jacket along; pack if it's supposed to rain every day and night.
You should also watch the forecast once you arrive at your destination — especially if it's been called "unprecedented" or "historic" by local meteorologists. Even if you're not planning on visiting any parks this year but have friends or family who are, ask them about their experiences before deciding whether or not it's worth making the trip yourself.
