As winter fades and nature awakens, national parks across the country come back to life. This change in season, specifically in Glacier, Yellowstone, Bryce Canyon, and Moab, is a must-see, once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. Spring is the ideal time to visit these 4 parks because the wildlife, such as bears, bison, and moose, re-emerge, ideal temperatures, and fewer crowds, making the parks seem like your own personal escape. If you’re looking for an epic spring getaway, here’s why these parks should be at the top of your list!
First off, we have Glacier National Park located near Columbia Falls, Montana. As the snowfall from winter melts, there is a rush of life that comes with the change from winter to spring. Here are a few reasons Glacier is a must-visit location this coming spring:
- Re-emergence of wildlife :
- Grizzly and Black Bears: come out of hibernation and start to roam their territory once more. Glacier is home to one of the largest remaining grizzly bear populations in the United States. If you want to see these majestic creatures in the wild, Glacier in the spring is the place to be.
- Moose: as the weather becomes warmer and marshy areas thaw after the cold winter, moose tend to spend their time in these places
- Bighorn Sheep: these agile creatures spend their time on steep terrain which is an amazing feat of balance and ability
- Melting Snow and Rushing Waterfalls
- Explore the numerous rushing waterfalls scattered across the park
- Going-to-the-sun-road opening
- Scenic highway that connects the east and west sides of the park
- Passes though forests, lakes and cliffs to provide an exhilarating excursion
Next, we’ll take a look at Yellowstone National Park and the magic that spring brings to this historic park!
- Abundant Wildlife
- Bison: Have you ever heard of a “red dog”? If not, you’ll have the chance to see red dogs, aka baby bison, this spring as they are born in late April through May!
- Wolves: Yellowstone gives visitors a rare chance to see wolf packs in their natural environment. You won’t want to miss the chance to see them.
- Elk: Like bison, elk calves are born in May until late June
- Steaming Geysers in cool air
- Historic geysers like Old Faithful with a backdrop of melting snow and fresh green plants. Who wouldn’t want to see that?
- Fewer Crowds
- During the summer, Yellowstone tends to get crowded very quickly. Beat the rush and experience the park with little interruption.
Yellowstone and Glacier are incredible, must-see national parks, but so is Bryce Canyon National Park! Located in Southern Utah, this park provides a combination of gorgeous scenery and breathtaking starry skies. Of course, it’s a must-see, especially this spring season! Here’s why:
- Hoodoos
- Simply, hoodoos are rock formations that have been eroded into alien-like spires. As the seasons change, the mix of snow, sun, and hoodoos creates an amazing photo op!
- Spring Wildflowers
- Unique and various wildflowers start to bloom in May and June. Their vibrant colors provide the perfect scenery while you explore the park!
- Cooler Hiking Conditions
- Bryce Canyon tends to be pretty cold during the winter and very hot during the summer. Why not come and hike in 60-70 degree weather during the spring months?
Finally, there’s Moab which is situated near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Here’s what this area has to offer to you this spring season:
- Perfect Temperatures
- Much like Bryce Canyon, Moab provides ideal outdoor weather during the spring months. Temperatures tend to hover around 70 degrees during the daytime which is pleasant for outdoor activities.
- Blooming Desert Landscape
- Clear skies, unique wildlife (deer, snakes, birds, and lizards), more greenery, and picturesque wildflowers. What more can you ask for?
- Rafting Season Begins
- Are you an adventure seeker? Spring is the perfect time to embark on a river rafting trip with high water levels, mild weather, and scenic views (family friendly options as well!). You won’t find many other locations that can offer that!
Spring in the national parks is truly an opportunity that shouldn’t be passed up on. Thanks to Wander Camp, you don’t have to lose the comforts of home and still be immersed in nature! Don’t miss out on the chance to experience these breathtaking destinations before the crowds arrive! Book your Wander Camp adventure today and immerse yourself in the beauty of spring!