PLAN MY TRIP

One Adventurer's Lone Journey Against the Wind to See the National Parks.

In the golden glow of a San Francisco sunset, Jonathan Baker straddled a rented motorcycle with the goal of seeing as much of the nearby beauty as he could in the weekend, not knowing that the twist of the throttle would kickstart an odyssey—traversing the wonders of America's National Parks. From the breezy coastal lanes to the towering redwoods, those initial 48 hours became the overture to a journey etched in tire marks and the echoes of freedom.

Q: What inspired you to embark on this epic journey of visiting all the national parks on a motorcycle?

Jonathan: I was on a work trip in San Francisco and decided to rent a motorcycle over the weekend to check out a bit of the coast. I had always heard people talk about the PCH and had always wanted to see redwood trees. During the 48 hours I had the bike, I put about 900 miles on the engine because the scenery was so breathtaking I just couldn't quit riding. My next trips were planned around some National Parks around my home state of Utah, and from there the goal emerged to eventually ride through all of them.

What started as a weekend escapade trasnformed into an audacious goal—to traverse the nation, visiting every national park he could on his motorcycle.

Q: Can you share some of your most memorable experiences during this adventure?

Jonathan: Being on Kona during the eruption of Manua Loa was incredible. Talk about good timing! During one of the few nights the lava flow wasn’t hidden by the clouds, I rode up. Ash was hitting me in the face with the visor being up, and I was awestruck by the power and beauty of nature.

Q: Did you have a favorite national park that stood out from the rest, and if so, what made it special?

Jonathan: Kings Canyon really shocked me, mostly because I had never really heard of it before planning the trip. It had elements of Yosemite and Sequoia, all in one. I loved the smells of the pines and a small hike I did where I was able to observe a black bear play with her two new cubs.

Every adventure has its challenges and Jonathan's was no different. Between blown tires, broken chains, and raindrops pelting against his visor, the road wasn't just a source of joy; it was a testing ground, challenging not only his bike's resilience but his own.

Q: Were there any unexpected challenges or obstacles you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?

Jonathan: Flat tire, blown tire, broken chain, torrential rain and near-freezing Temperatures. Sometimes had to improvise, other times the only option was to call AAA.

On a motorcycle, nature isn't a distant tableau viewed through a windshield, it's an immersive experience. The smells, the temperature changes, the wind—it's not just a ride, it's a sensory feast. Exploring on his motorcycle created completely different experiences in each of the parks, even to those he had been to before.

Q: Traveling on a motorcycle is quite different from other modes of travel. How did it shape your experience and connection with nature?

Jonathan: On a motorcycle, the scenery isn't framed in by a windshield so everything just appears bigger. While you are on a bike you are literally outside in nature, noticing all of the temperature changes, different smells, and feeling the wind. I had driven through Yellowstone several times in a car, I was shocked the first time I drove through on my bike, at how different and new of an experience it was.

Each pit stop, each interaction, and each park became a chapter in the book of Jonathan's adventure. From the sprawling vistas of Carlsbad Caverns to the icy wilderness of Denali, each place imprinted itself on his memory. Jonathan became more than a tourist but started to dig deep roots into the fabric of his surroundings. These trips helped him realize that this journey was more than a bucket list; it became one of the most impactful decisions he has made in his life.

Q: Can you share a heartwarming or enlightening interaction you had with locals?

Jonathan: Once while filling up with gas, a older gentleman asked where I was from and where I was headed and explained that when he was younger he did a similar journey. He asked if he could pray for me and when I said yes, he put one hand on my head and one hand on my bike and said a prayer for me to be safe and to "ride with the angels." I didn't really know what that meant but I was touched by how much he cared about me, being a complete stranger. That was near Durango, Colorado.

The journey wasn’t just a perpetual ride; it was nights under starlit canopies, sometimes in designated camping spots, other times in the nooks and crannies that only a seasoned traveler could find.

Q: Did you ever camp within the national parks, and if so, what was it like to spend the night in these natural wonders?

Jonathan: Yes - during Covid one of the park rangers at Carlsbad Caverns said he wanted me to set up my bed on a scenic overlook so that I could watch the sunrise over the valley. It wasn't a designated camp spot, but he said he would be the only one on patrol that night and I had his permission. That was awesome. Also those bats are insane!

Q: Your story is a testament to perseverance and dedication. What advice would you offer to others considering a similar adventure?

Jonathan: Make sure you have all the tools and skills you need to solve any mechanical issue you might face, especially if you are riding alone. Invest in AAA and carry a Satellite phone. Check in with friends/family or share your location so that people can follow you on your journey. Always carry some wet wipes and zip-lock bags in case of an emergency lol.

Q: What kind of preparation and planning went into a multi-year road trip to visit all the national parks?

Jonathan: I really only had to plan about 10 days at a time, and a lot of the planning was just figuring out the order of the parks that I wanted to hit. I never planned on where I would sleep or what I would eat, but would figure it out as I went. Usually I'd sleep next to the bike and just eat gas station food. The most planning I had to do was when I went to the east coast and had to store the bike in a storage unit for a month so I could fly home for a few months and go back to work before continuing that leg of the journey.

Jonathan had to push boundaries to accomplish this huge feat, it became a delicate balancing act. With only two weeks of vacation per year, this meant pushing his limits--riding for 12 to 14 hours to maximize park time and see them all.

Q: How did your journey impact your perspective on conservation and the importance of preserving these natural spaces?

Jonathan: I've always been a big proponent of conservation, these trips just made me appreciate the natural spaces more than ever. Wish there could be more law enforcement to keep people on trails and away from wildlife.

Each park had its own character, a unique piece in the mosaic of America's wild beauty. From the grandeur of Rainier to the misty allure of Olympic, each stop was its own adventure.

Q: What Parks would you go back to see again?

Jonathan: Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite (smells) Smoky Mtns, Glacier, Olympic, Acadia, Death Valley.

Now, as the dust settles, Jonathan has a new chapter to write. A chapter that involves sharing the wonders he discovered with family and friends.

Q: What's next on your adventure bucket list?

Jonathan: Take family and friends to the national parks to enjoy them together now.

One mile, one park... these moments add up and the numbers underpin this epic tale. What would it look like to traverse the nation, visit every national park, and live the dream of the open road?

Miles:

Over 12,000 miles traveled

Hours on Motorcycle:

Over 155 hours logged

Hotel (when used):

approx. $125 a night

Fuel:

At $5,000 for fuel, with 250 fill-ups at 40 mpg

Food:

Approximately $3,000 for food, a mix of gas station snacks and canned goods

Motorcycle:

A KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

Supplies:

Tools for the bike, a satellite phone for connectivity,pannier, and essentials like wet wipes and zip-lock bags

Jonathan's journey wasn’t just about visiting parks; it was about getting to know America, intimately. Each park, each town, each interaction contributed to a deeper understanding of the country he calls home.

From the Bay Area's cool breeze to the epic heights of the Smoky Mountains, from the fiery spectacle of a Hawaiian eruption to the deep crevices of the Grand Canyon, Jonathan's journey was a tapestry woven with the threads of adventure, resilience, and a love for the open road. Much of the experience Jonathan gained can't be taught/learned any other way than going out and becoming apart of it.

His motorcycle, more than a mode of transport, became a conduit connecting him to the pulse of America. As his wheels traced the contours of the land, Jonathan's epic adventures continue to echo through the canyons--a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most profound stories are written not with pens and paper but with the hum of engines and the winding roads of the great American landscape.

Follow for more of Jonathan's epic adventures.

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TOP 10 FAMILY FRIENDLY NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT

PLAN MY TRIP

2 3 4 5

BEST TIME TO VISIT EACH NATIONAL PARK

Jordan Hogenson
Dec 29, 2022
4 min read

Updated: May 17, 2023

US national parks offer some of the most stunning landscapes and unique natural wonders in the world. From the majestic peaks of Yosemite to the rugged coastline of Acadia, each with its own character and charm. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a hiker, a history buff, or simply looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, there's a national park that's perfect for you. Here are some examples of some of the best times to visit the parks below.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-November). In the spring, the waterfalls are at their peak and the wildflowers are in full bloom. Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn colors.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is best visited in the fall (September-October) when the leaves are changing colors. The park is known for its rugged coastline, stunning ocean views, and endless hiking trails. Plus, the fall season brings fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these times, the weather is mild, the crowds are thinner, and wildlife is abundant. Spring also brings wildflowers and waterfalls, while fall brings changing colors and bugling elk.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park in Utah is best visited in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). Spring brings wildflowers and the park's signature red rock formations contrast beautifully with the greenery. Fall brings cooler temperatures, changing colors, and fewer crowds.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee is best visited in the fall (October-November). During this time, the park's trees put on a show of vibrant autumn colors, and the park's black bears are more active as they prepare for winter.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is best visited in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). During these times, temperatures are milder, and the crowds are thinner. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall brings changing colors and cooler temperatures.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is best visited in the fall (September-October). During this time, the park's aspen trees turn brilliant shades of gold and yellow, and the elk are in rut. The park is also less crowded than in the summer months.

When it comes to the best time to visit, the shoulder season of October and November is a great option for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather. This is a great time to see wildlife, including large mammals like elk, moose, antelope, and bison, during their rutting season. Additionally, prices for lodging and activities are often lower during this time.

However, some national parks are best visited during peak season. For example, Denali National Park in Alaska is best visited during the summer months, when the weather is more accommodating and the wildlife is more active. On the other hand, parks like the Everglades are best enjoyed during the cooler months to avoid the hot and humid summer weather.

If you do visit during peak season, there are several strategies you can employ to avoid the crowds. Consider booking lodging and trail permits early, and plan to visit popular areas during off-hours, such as early mornings or mid-week. Additionally, exploring lesser-known areas and attractions can provide a unique and rewarding experience.

It's also worth considering visiting during the low season, as some parks offer unique experiences during this time. For example, the Grand Canyon can be hiked during the winter months when visitor traffic is at its lowest of the year, offering a quiet and peaceful experience in one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world.

Below is the data we collected to find out when is the right time for you to go to each National Park. You can start to see patterns in when it peaks for each month and when is the sweet spot to go and miss the crowds or to also understand that the park might be closed due to extreme weather.

In terms of affiliate links, they could be included for lodging options, outdoor gear and equipment, and travel insurance providers. For example, a link to a hotel or cabin rental website in or near a national park could be included, along with a link to a hiking gear retailer or travel insurance provider. It's important to only include affiliate links for products or services that are relevant and helpful to the reader.

# of visitors each month & year for each park 2017-2022

Data collected from NPS.GOV

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.