If you’re a senior citizen looking for a great vacation spot, consider one of the national parks. These parks offer something for everyone, and seniors will appreciate the easy access to nature and its beauty.
And the good part is that you can get a discounted national park pass. The Senior Pass is available to US Citizens or permanent residents who are at least 62 years old. The cost is $20 per year. There is also a lifetime pass available for $80. Seniors who have purchased four consecutive $20 annual passes can trade them in for a lifetime pass. For requirements and information on how to get these passes, visit the USGS website.
These parks have either easy scenic drives, tours, or otherwise have attractions that are easily accessible without a strenuous hike. Here are some of the best national parks for senior citizens.
Here are the Best National Parks for Seniors
Arches National Park – Utah
Arches Drive is the main road that runs through Arches National Park in Utah. The road is approximately 9 miles long and winds through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Along the way, visitors can take in views of the famous arches for which the park is named, as well as other natural rock formations, desert plants, and wildlife. There are also several pull-offs and trailheads along the road, providing opportunities to explore the park on foot. Arches Drive is a must-do for anyone visiting Arches National Park.
Overlooks on Arches Drive offer some of the best views in Arches National Park. The panoramas from these vantage points showcase the park’s beautiful red rock formations, including the world-famous Delicate Arch. Visitors can also get a glimpse of some of the park’s wildlife, such as mule deer and bighorn sheep. In addition, the overlooks provide an excellent opportunity to take photographs and enjoy the quiet beauty of this amazing place. The ability to see most of the park by driving to one of the many observation points makes it one of the best national parks for seniors.
For the best weather, visit April, May, September, and October. Here you’ll find comfortable temperatures. The weather in the summer months can be dangerously hot.
The hottest months also see the most visitors. To avoid crowds, April and October have dramatically smaller crowds and more moderate temperatures.
See Our Post on How to See the Best Sunrise and Sunset at Arches National Park
Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
For senior citizens looking to explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, there are a number of itineraries to choose from. One option is to start with a visit to the geysers and hot springs for which the park is famous. Old Faithful Geyser is a must-see, and visitors can also take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area to explore other geothermal features.
In addition, Yellowstone is home to some of the country’s most iconic wildlife, including bison, elk, and bears. There are a number of ranger-led programs that allow seniors to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
Finally, no trip to Yellowstone would be complete without taking in the stunning scenery. From the Grand Prismatic Spring to the soaring peaks of the Absaroka Range, there is no shortage of natural beauty to enjoy. With so much to see and do, Yellowstone National Park is the perfect destination for seniors looking to explore everything that nature has to offer.
April through October offers the best weather in the park. You’ll find decent weather with daily highs in the 70’s in the summer.
Crowds can be large in the summer, and you’ll want to plan far in advance if you want to camp. Crowds are smaller in April and drop off after Labor Day, where you can still enjoy decent weather.
Mesa Verde National Park – Colorado
For senior citizens looking to explore one of America’s most iconic national parks, Mesa Verde National Park is the perfect destination. This amazing park is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the world, and it offers a variety of activities and attractions that are perfect for seniors.
Head out to explore the Cliff Palace, one of the largest and most famous cliff dwellings in the park. Afterward, take a hike on one of the park’s many trails for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Native American dinner at the Farview Lodge restaurant.
If you have time, don’t miss a guided tour of Balcony House, another fascinating cliff dwelling. Then, take a leisurely stroll through Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area. You can also visit Spruce Tree House, another impressive cliff dwelling that is worth exploring. Finish up your day with a sunset hike to Soapstone Prairie Natural Area for incredible views of the stars.
For the best weather, visit May through October. Here you’ll find comfortable temperatures. The weather in the summer months can be hot, although still manageable.
The hottest months also see the most visitors. To avoid crowds, May and September (after Labor Day) through October should see the smallest crowds.
Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona
For seniors looking to explore the grandeur of Grand Canyon National Park, there are a few itinerary options to consider. One option is to take a ranger-led tour of the Canyon. These tours typically last between two and four hours and offer seniors an opportunity to learn about the Canyon’s geology, history, and wildlife.
Another option is to hike one of the trails that wind through the Canyon. Hiking is a great way to see the Canyon up close, but it’s important to be aware of your fitness level and choose a trail that isn’t too strenuous.
Finally, seniors can also take in the Canyon views from one of the many lookout points along the South Rim. No matter what itinerary you choose, spending time in the Grand Canyon is sure to be a memorable experience. The ability to take in the grandeur of the canyon without a strenuous hike is what makes it a great national park for seniors.
For the best weather, visit April through June. The temperatures are moderate and there is little precipitation. July is the rainiest month of the year.
It’s difficult to avoid crowds at the Grand Canyon. It’s the second most visited park in the entire national park system. The park has seen in excess of 800,000 visitors in July more than once. Late April through early June are the best balance of decent weather and manageable crowds.
Acadia National Park – Maine
Acadia National Park is a beautiful and unique place, offering seniors many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Here are a few of the top things for seniors to do in Acadia National Park:
- Hike one of the park’s many trails. With over 120 miles of hiking trails, Acadia has something for everyone. Seniors can enjoy a leisurely hike through the woods or challenge themselves with a more difficult hike up one of the park’s famous mountains. And don’t forget to visit Cadillac Mountain where you can see the first sunrise of the day in the continental United States.
- Take a boat ride around Mount Desert Island. There are several boat tour companies that operate in Acadia National Park, offering seniors the chance to see the park from a different perspective. Seniors can also go kayaking or canoeing on their own, or take a ferry ride out to one of the nearby islands.
- Spend a day exploring Bar Harbor. This charming town is located just outside of Acadia National Park and is full of shops, restaurants, and bars. Seniors can stroll along the waterfront, visit one of the local museums, or simply relax with a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes.
- Drive the Park Loop Road. This 27-mile road winds its way through Acadia National Park and will stop at some of the most scenic spots in the park.
For the best weather, visit the park between late spring and the fall. You will, of course, find the worst crowds in the high summer months. July and August see the most park visitors.
To avoid the crowds and still enjoy some decent weather, try visiting after Labor Day until the end of September. Park attendance drops about 20% from August to September, with a big drop after Labor Day.
Kenai Fjords National Park or Glacier Bay National Parks – Alaska
Think a visit to Alaska’s wild national parks is out of the question? Well, there is a way to enjoy it from the comfort of a cruise ship.
Cruises are a great way to see the amazing wildlife and scenery of Kenai Fjords National Park. There are many cruises to choose from, ranging from half-day trips to week-long excursions. Most cruises depart from Seward, Alaska, and include stops at Keyes Point, Exit Glacier, and other popular sights in the park.
Cruises typically run from May through September, when the weather is warmer and the days are longer. No matter what type of cruise you choose, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this breathtaking national park.
Cruises are also a popular way to see Glacier Bay National Park. The park is only accessible by boat or plane, so cruises are a great way to get there. There are various cruises available, from day-long excursions to week-long journeys. Glacier Bay National Park cruises offer visitors the chance to see some of the most stunning scenery in the world up close.
The park is home to glaciers, mountains, forests, and wildlife, and cruises offer the opportunity to see all of this and more. There are also cruises specially designed for wildlife watching, so you can see bears, whales, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery, a cruise through Glacier Bay National Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Badlands National Park – South Dakota
For seniors looking to explore Badlands National Park, there are a number of itineraries to choose from. One option is to start with a visit to the White River Visitor Center, where you can learn about the history and geology of the park.
From there, you can take a scenic drive through the park, making sure to stop at key overlooks such as Big Bend and Sunset Point. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a 36-mile road that traverses Badlands National Park in South Dakota. The road winds through some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the park, including the Pinnacles Overlook, the White River Valley, and the Saddle Pass. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the badlands and learn about the area’s geology, history, and wildlife. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is an essential part of any visit to Badlands National Park.
If you’re interested in getting out on foot, there are a number of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, so you can find one that’s perfect for your fitness level. And no visit to Badlands National Park would be complete without seeing the iconic formations of Chimney Rock and The Wall. With so much to see and do, Badlands National Park is the perfect destination for senior citizens who love nature and adventure.
For the best weather, and the best time to avoid crowds, visit after Labor Day until the end of October. The number of visitors drops sharply in September, but you’ll still have nice weather and the rainy season (April – July) is over.
The hottest months can also be the most crowded. July is the hottest the month and also sees the most visitors.
Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
Located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a bustling town filled with things to see and do. From hiking and rock climbing to art galleries and shopping, there’s something for everyone in Estes Park. And of course, no visit to Estes Park would be complete without a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. With its soaring peaks and pristine forests, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a leisurely stroll through nature, Estes Park is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors.
Trail Ridge Road is a scenic route that traverses Rocky Mountain National Park. The road winds through alpine forests and meadows and up to the park’s unique and fragile tundra. Along the way, it offers stunning views of the park’s jagged peaks and valleys.
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet at its highest point. The road is open from late May to early October, weather permitting. Due to its high elevation and exposed location, trail ridge road is subject to extreme weather conditions. Snow and ice can make the road impassable, even in summer. When planning a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, be sure to check the status of Trail Ridge Road before heading out.
For the best weather, visit May through September. Here you’ll find comfortable temperatures. All roads should be open, and you can enjoy everything the park has to offer. If you visit in the winter, be prepared for closed roads.
The hottest months also see the most visitors. To avoid crowds, May and October have dramatically fewer visitors. Note that it can snow any time of the year in the park, especially at higher elevations.
Everglades National Park – Florida
For a warm weather location where you can camp your RV, look no further than Everglades National Park. There are plenty of opportunities for seniors to enjoy the many attractions of the park.
Located in the heart of the Everglades, Shark Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the park. The centerpiece of the area is the Shark Valley Tram, a two-mile loop that takes visitors on a guided tour through the wetlands. Along the way, tram cars make several stops so that passengers can get out and explore on foot.
The Tram also has an open-air Observation Tower, which offers panoramic views of the sawgrass prairie and alligators sunning themselves on the banks. Whether you’re enjoying the ride or searching for wildlife, Shark Valley is an excellent way to experience this unique ecosystem.
Looking for a unique way to explore the Everglades? Then take a ten thousand island cruise! This two-hour boat tour takes you through the ten thousand islands of the Everglades National Park, giving you a front row seat to the incredible wildlife and scenery. You’ll see alligators, crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, and a variety of birds, all in their natural habitat. And your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about the park and its history. It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!
December through April are the best times to visit the park. High temperatures will generally be in the low 80’s, but there is also minimal precipitation. This is also the best time to avoid the highest humidity and insects. It also avoids travel disruption due to hurricanes.
Unfortunately, the best weather also attracts the biggest crowds. Winter is high season for crowds, so you’ll just have to deal with it, unless you want to battle the heat, humidity and insects and the summer when the park has fewer visitors.
Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Locates in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is an easy drive from most places on the East coast. Locates in the Appalachian Mountains, here you’ll find unique history and expansive vistas.
Skyline Drive is one of the most popular attractions in Shenandoah National Park. The 105-mile road offers stunning views of the Virginia landscape, and there are seventy-five overlooks along the way where visitors can stop to enjoy the scenery.
Some of the best overlooks on Skyline Drive include Hawksbill Gap, Bearfence Mountain, and Big Meadows. Hawksbill Gap is particularly scenic, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Bearfence Mountain is another great option for those looking for sweeping vistas, and it’s also a popular spot for hikers.
Big Meadows is a must-see for anyone visiting Shenandoah National Park, as it’s home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. No matter what your interests are, there’s an overlook on Skyline Drive that’s sure to please.
For the best weather, visit spring through fall. You’ll find generally warm daytime temperatures. The wintertime can bring snow and cold nights.
Shenandoah is a popular park, so avoiding crowds can be a challenge. Visit on weekdays if possible, in the spring or summer. The busiest month in the park is October when the fall foliage is at its most vibrant. If you want to visit then, plan far in advance and be prepared for crowds and traffic.
Zion National Park – Utah
Zion National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason. The park’s unique red rock formations and stunning canyon views are unlike anything else in the world. And one of the best ways to experience the park is by taking a drive on the Zion National Park Scenic Byway.
This scenic route winds through the park for 54 miles, offering breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like Angel’s Landing and the Great White Throne. Along the way, there are several overlooks where you can pull off and enjoy the scenery. Some of the best include Lookout Point, Weeping Rock, and Judge boulder. So if you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, be sure to add the scenic byway to your itinerary.
And while there are many ways to explore the park on your own, guided tours can be a great option for those who want to learn more about its history and geology. Led by experienced guides, these tours offer an intimate look at some of Zion’s most iconic landmarks, as well as a chance to see parts of the park that are inaccessible to the general public. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through the canyon or a more rigorous hike to the top of one of Zion’s peaks, guided tours can help you make the most of your visit to this incredible place.
May through September will bring hot temperatures and large crowds. About 70% of the parks yearly visitors come during these months.
Crowds drop off significantly starting in November until March. You’ll still have average high temperatures of about 64 F in November and 66 F in March, so you can still enjoy comfortable weather and smaller crowds. Even in the winter, you’ll find temperatures that can top out in the ’50s with crowds about 1/6 the size of what you’ll experience in July.
Glacier National Park – Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most popular attractions in Glacier National Park. The winding road takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in the park, including alpine meadows, forested valleys, and dramatic mountain peaks. Along the way, there are several overlooks that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the best places to stop and enjoy the view include Logan Pass, Sun Point, and Wild Goose Island. Each of these overlooks offers a unique perspective on the park and its natural wonders. So whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a picnic lunch or simply want to take in the incredible views, be sure to check out these amazing overlooks on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The best time to visit the park is June through August, where you’ll have pleasant daytime temperatures. Nighttime temperatures can frequently get in the forties. If you visit at other times of the year, you face the possibility of snow and road closures.
To avoid crowds, August has fewer visitors than July. If you’re willing to brave cooler temperatures, the number of visitors drops off significantly in September.
Redwood National Park – California
The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in California. Located in Redwood National Park, the parkway winds its way through towering redwood forests, offering visitors stunning views of these ancient trees. The parkway is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears. In addition to its natural beauty, the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is also a great place to learn about the history of the region. The parkway is named for Newton B. Drury, who was instrumental in the creation of Redwood National Park. Today, the parkway is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers from all over the world.
The best time to visit is during the summer. The dry season runs between May and September. You’ll also find warmer temperatures which are good for easy hiking and camping. November through March can often be chilly and rainy.
The summer months also see the most visitors, but crowds are generally not a problem, especially during the week.
Crater Lake National Park – Oregon
Rim Drive is one of the most popular scenic overlooks in Crater Lake National Park. Rim Drive is a 33-mile long road that follows the rim of the Crater Lake caldera. The road provides stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Rim Drive is open from mid-May to mid-October and is closed to vehicles in winter. However, the road is still open to pedestrians and cyclists. Rim Drive is one of the best ways to see crater lake national park and is a must-do for any visitors to the park.
Another great way to experience the natural beauty of Crater Lake National Park is to take a guided tour. Led by experienced park rangers, these tours provide visitors with an intimate look at one of America’s most stunning landscapes. The guided tours of Crater Lake National Park typically last between two and three hours, and they cover a variety of topics, including the geological history of the region, the park’s unique flora and fauna, and the stories of the Native Americans who have called this land home for centuries.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who just enjoys admiring the view, a guided tour of Crater Lake National Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
July through September are the best months to visit for good weather.
September sees a drop-off in visitors while still giving you decent weather. It is also the tail-end of the dry season.
