Planning a road trip to enjoy the great outdoors in the future? National Parks are an excellent destination to consider – many Nation’s Vacation locations are a quick and economical drive for many, especially on the West Coast.

Here are some of our favorite views to enjoy when you visit. So take note and get your camera ready!

Yosemite National Park:

Tunnel View is where you’ll be able to stop and enjoy the traditional Yosemite Valley view. If you are looking to catch the waning sunlight on El Capitan, you’ll want to plan to stop at sunset.

Olympic National Park:

Hurricane Ridge offers amazing panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. Located about 18 miles from Port Angeles, and convenient to Lake Crescent Lodge, the road is open throughout summer. During the winter season, it is open Friday – Sunday, with tire chains being required. Be sure to check the road status with Hurricane Ridge NPS on Twitter before heading up the mountain.

Crater Lake National Park:

For an epic lake view with a glass of wine or locally sourced PNW brew in hand, head over to Crater Lake Lodge, pull up a rocking chair, and enjoy.

Denali National Park & Preserve:

While the mountain is the main event, one of our favorite photo spots is at Polychrome Pass. The pass is named for the colorful rocks, but the vegetation and mountains will make your photos pop. Keep in mind that travel by private vehicles is restricted into Denali National Park, so you’ll want to either jump on a transit bus or take a guided bus tour.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area:

If you are enjoying a visit to Lake Powell, be sure to visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument. It’s located about 50 miles up-lake from Wahweap Marina, near Page AZ. You can either visit with your own watercraft, or join in an organized boat tour that leaves from Lake Powell Resort.

Mesa Verde National Park:

Park Point is the highest point in Mesa Verde, and you’ll enjoy 360° views reaching into 4 states. There’s also an old fire lookout that is interesting to check out. Park Point is located off the main park road, between Morefield Campground and Far View Lodge.

Grand Teton National Park:

Moulton Barn is located in Mormon Row Historic District, just minutes outside of Jackson, Wyoming on the way up the mountains to Togwotee Pass. The area is also known as Antelope Flats, and the Teton mountain range provides an amazing backdrop to your photograph of the historic homesteads.