How Many Miles Is a National Park Road Trip?

By Michael Ferguson

Have you ever wondered how many miles it would take to complete a road trip through all the national parks in the United States? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we will explore the mileage of some of the most popular national park road trip routes.

The Grand Circle

One of the most popular national park road trips is the Grand Circle. This route takes you through several iconic national parks in Utah and Arizona. The total mileage for this road trip is approximately 1,300 miles.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. If you are planning a road trip through this park, it is important to note that there are two main rims to explore – the North Rim and the South Rim. The distance between these two rims is approximately 215 miles.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is known for its stunning red rock formations and beautiful hiking trails. If you plan on visiting Zion during your national park road trip, be prepared to drive about 80 miles from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is another must-see destination on any national park road trip. The distance between Zion and Bryce is approximately 72 miles.

The Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is another popular route for a national park road trip. This scenic drive takes you along the California coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The total mileage for this road trip is approximately 650 miles.

Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks are located in Northern California and are home to some of the tallest trees in the world. If you plan on visiting these parks during your PCH road trip, it is important to note that the total distance between the parks is approximately 140 miles.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is another popular destination on a PCH road trip. The distance between Redwood and Yosemite is approximately 280 miles.

The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. This national park road trip offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is known for its diverse wildlife. The total mileage for this road trip is approximately 469 miles.

Shenandoah National Park

If you plan on visiting the Great Smoky Mountains during your national park road trip, consider adding Shenandoah National Park to your itinerary. The distance between these two parks is approximately 390 miles.

  • Tip: When planning a national park road trip, it’s important to factor in time for unexpected detours or stops along the way.

In conclusion, there are several national park road trips that offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to explore the Grand Circle, drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, or visit the Great Smoky Mountains, be sure to take in all the natural beauty that our country has to offer.