Visiting US national parks in June is the perfect way to enjoy a summer vacation filled with beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities in nature.
It may be hard to take a US National Parks list and know which are the best parks to visit in the month of June.
Consider temperature, spring runoff and wildlife as you plan a national park trip in June. Parks that still have moderate temperatures in June mean you can enjoy outdoor activities most of the day. Spring runoff at many parks results in vibrant green foliage, colorful wildflowers, and raging rivers and waterfalls to see and photograph. And wildlife is abundant and active in June at many parks, with the addition of baby animals to see that were born in the spring!
Keep in mind that summer vacation season starts after Memorial Day in the US. The biggest downfalls of a June trip to national parks are the crowds and higher hotel rates compared to other seasons.
But for many, summer may be the only time available to plan a vacation. So we asked fellow travelers to help us compile a list of the best US National Parks to visit in June:
• Acadia National Park
• Arches National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Everglades National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve
• Indiana Dunes National Park
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
• Yellowstone National Park
• Zion National Park
Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links,
we may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you! Read the full Disclosure Policy.
WHAT TO PACK FOR A US NATIONAL PARK TRIP IN JUNE
DOWNLOAD our US National Park checklists to make it easy to pack what you need for your next trip!
1. US National Parks Pass
You can order passes online or get them at any of these Federal Recreation Areas.
→ BUY THE PASS AT REI and they will donate 10% of sales to the National Park Foundation.
2. Hiking Gear
- Hiking shoes & boots: → Check out our FAVORITE hiking shoes/boots!
- Hiking socks: → Check out the BEST SOCKS EVER!
- Walking stick or trekking poles
3. Clothing – Layers
- Wicking and quick-drying base layers
- Fleece or insulated jacket
- Rain jacket
4. Daypack
- WATER: → We carry water bottles or hydration backpacks
- FOOD: → Check out our favorite healthy snacks
- Flashlight: → Check out the headlamps we like
- National Park maps
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection with sunscreen
- Polarized sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Insect repellant
- Hand lotion
- Female urination device
- Toilet paper (carry out in a bag – do not bury)
- Hand sanitizer
- First aid kit
- Bags to pack out trash
5. Other
- Cell phone
- Portable charger
- Medications
- Binoculars
- Guide books
- Camera Gear
BEST US NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT IN JUNE
Acadia National Park in June
One of the best places to visit in June is Acadia National Park. This park is filled with hikes, beaches, mountains, lighthouses, climbing, excellent seafood, and exceptional photography spots. June is one of the best times to visit this one of a kind national park due to its lovely weather and the fewer crowds that July and August bring.
Coastal views of Acadia National Park. Photo Credit: The Wandering Queen
During June, you can do some popular hikes like the Beehive Loop trail, and South Bubble Mountain. Or you soak in the sun on the Sand Beach that is located on the park loop road. Biking on the famous carriage roads is another option for enjoying the beautiful summer month of June.
A good sunset spot is, of course, the Bass Harbor Lighthouse. Many people crowd this place to experience the colorful lights reflecting off the water. Another excellent photography spot is the famous Cadillac Mountain for sunrise. It is one of the best sunrise spots I have ever witnessed. Please note, it is a popular activity so expect many others to be there. However, the area has plenty of room for everyone to take pictures.
Article and Photo: The Wandering Queen
Arches National Park in June
Be prepared for a range of temperatures when you visit Arches National Park in June. The hot and dry summer begins in June which means cooler temperatures in the morning and evening, around 60°F, and hot temperatures at midday, around 90° (but could reach 100°).
Double Arch is one of many you’ll see at Arches National Park.
To avoid the crowds and heat of the day, arrive before 9am. Since the sun rises early in June, you could easily start your day at 5:00 am to enjoy the cool morning temperatures while enjoying the hiking trails in Arches.
Since Arches is so close to Moab, you could explore the park in the morning, head back to town to enjoy the air conditioning or swimming pool at your hotel, then return to the park in the evening when the temperatures start to cool down.
Keep in mind that the slickrock you’ll find at Arches reflects heat and will be hotter than the air temperatures while hiking. You’ll also need to be prepared for the dry heat and high elevation found in this region of Utah. It’s essential that you keep hydrated, eat salty food, shade your head with a hat, wear sunscreen and carry lotion and lip balm.
Article and photo: Photo Jeepers
Tips for Visiting Arches National Park
Expert’s Guide to Arches National Park Photography
Arches National Park Hiking Trails
Bryce Canyon National Park in June
Bryce Canyon is one of the most underrated National Parks in the United States. That may be because it is sandwiched between 2 famous neighbors: Zion and Arches, but Bryce Canyon is absolutely wonderful all on its own!
Unique landscape of hoodoos at Bryce Canyon. Photo Credit: Ruhls of the Road
Bryce Canyon is home to hundreds of hoodoos scattered throughout the park. What is a hoodoo? Glad you asked! A hoodoo is a large column of rock that stands in an enormous pillar towering over the surrounding area. Nowhere else on earth are there as many hoodoos as there are at Bryce Canyon National Park, and nowhere else on earth are the hoodoos as beautiful.
Visiting Bryce Canyon in June is awesome for hiking. The early summer weather at Bryce means cool temperatures in the morning and evening, and moderate daytime temperatures.
The Rim Trail is an easy, though stunning, hike alongside the rim of Bryce Canyon. The Queen’s Garden Trail is an epic hike that takes you into the canyon, and is a must for adventurers. An underrated trail into the canyon is Tower Bridge, which brings you to a rock formation that looks just like the Tower Bridge in London! The real treat on this trail, however, is all of the stunning rock formations you’ll see. Bryce Canyon is truly a beautiful place to see and explore.
Article and Photo: Ruhls of the Road
Travel Guide for Visiting Bryce Canyon
Where to Take Bryce Canyon Photos
Canyonlands National Park in June
Canyonlands Island in the Sky and Canyonlands Needles are two adjacent areas of the park, but the natural geography requires a 137 mile drive between the two entrance points. It’s best to plan one day to visit Island in the Sky, and another day to visit Needles.
Aztec Butte hiking trail leads to ancient granaries.
June is a busy time for the two Utah national parks near Moab. And it starts the hot and dry summer season. Visiting Canyonlands in June you’ll find cooler temperatures in the morning and evening, around 60°F, and hot temperatures at midday, around 90° (but could reach 100°).
Exploring the park in the morning or evening means you’ll avoid the crowds and heat of the day. At any time when doing outdoor activities like hiking or biking, you’ll need to be prepared for the dry heat and high elevation found in this region of Utah.
Canyonlands National Park is remote, with no services, and water is only available at the visitor’s centers. It’s essential that you pack plenty of water, eat salty food, wear a hat, use sunscreen and carry lotion and lip balm for a June trip to Canyonlands.
Article and photo: Photo Jeepers
Tips for Visiting Canyonlands National Park
Things to Do at Canyonlands Island in the Sky
Things to Do at The Needles Canyonlands National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in June
While the Cuyahoga Valley National Park isn’t on many people’s radar as a place to visit in June, that is precisely why it is a great option!
Breathtaking Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Photo credit: Worldwide Honeymoon
Of course, as a Clevelander myself, I love visiting CVNP any time of year (including as an option during the winter in Cleveland). But with fewer crowds throughout the year, June may be the perfect time if you want a great combination of beautiful scenery, fewer hikers on the trails, and nice weather.
By June, the northeast Ohio area is warm and the weather is much better, making it perfect for a trip to this lesser known national park. Plus, those visiting will enjoy beautiful lookouts over endless forests, gorgeous waterfalls, and even mysterious ledges to venture between.
There are always events happening in the area this time of year as well! Enjoy some fun and competition during the Summer Sasquatch 50k, 20, and 10 miler run or the Muddy Paws run with dogs in June, or if you’d prefer to sit back and relax, then you’ll enjoy the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Train that goes through the park and has many events like Ales on Rails, Murder Mysteries, and more!
Basically, if you want to get off the national park beaten path, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit in June!
Article and photo: Worldwide Honeymoon
Everglades National Park in June
Everglades National Park is the natural crown jewel of the southernmost state. It is a wide expanse of lush green separated by the blue marshes and swamps that a diverse number of animals call home. It is Florida’s only World Heritage Site, and it draws tourists from all over the world to revel in its beauty year-round!
Visit Everglades National Park in June. Photo credit: Attractions of America
But with the summer sun setting over Florida, there is no better time to visit than June! Here’s why:
While the summer is the ‘wet season’, and that isn’t ideal for a vacation spent outdoors, the increase in rainfall really makes this site pop! In Florida, although it rains often, it is typically usually later in the day. Around 2-3 p.m., it starts to get cloudy. But the mornings are bright, inviting, and exciting! That means if you’re planning on visiting, go early! Not only do you get all the luxuries of avoiding the crowds, but the morning is your best chance at seeing some wildlife. But June is best for that true Florida feel. You can adventure all morning, without having to fear the national park crowds. While there’s sure to be some adventurers on the path, you’ll have a much better chance at sweet serenity in June.
However, there are some downfalls to visiting in June. June in Florida means not only is it hot, hot, hot, but humid to boot. And with humidity comes all the insects and mosquitoes that thrive in the summertime. June is also one of the most popular times to visit Florida (although not necessarily the park itself). But especially with the Everglades so close to Miami, flights and accommodations might be a little on the steeper side. If that’s the case, consider flying in somewhere else. Flights from Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and Orlando only require a few hours drive until you’re in the beauty of the wetlands.
The Everglades National Park is something you’re going to want to see for yourself! And what better time than with that famous Florida summertime sunshine?
Article and photo: Attractions of America
YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY FACEBOOK GROUP
This is the group for you if…
• You have a camera
• You like taking pictures
• You want to improve your photography skills
Glacier National Park in June
Located in the northwestern corner of Montana, Glacier National Park has more than 1 million acres, 130 lakes and parts of two mountain ranges. It’s a hikers’ paradise, with more than 55 trails that take you through tunnels, by lakes, into valleys, through forests and alpine meadows.
Stunning landscape to explore at Glacier National Park. Photo credit: The Travel 100
There are all levels of trails at Glacier National Park, ranging from easy and family-friendly to difficult ones with extreme elevation changes. The scenery is simply spectacular in this national park.
High season starts in July so you’ll find fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations in June. Lodging choices range from the historic Many Glacier Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge, which opened in the 1910s, to the new Cedar Creek Lodge.
While 10 miles of the Going to the Sun Road are open year-round, the majority of the 53-mile road is closed until late June so you may not be able to travel the entire road, which bisects the park. But there’s so much more to see in this park that you won’t be disappointed.
Article and photo: The Travel 100
Grand Teton National Park in June
When you visit Grand Teton National Park in June, you need to be prepared for any type of weather. It may be sunny and warm one day, with snow or rain the next.
Grizzly bear and cubs in a field of wildflowers at Grand Teton in June. Photo Credit:
Wear layers and waterproof hiking shoes for outdoor activities at Grand Teton in June. Many hiking trails will be wet with melting snow and mud – higher elevations may have snow into July.
June in the Tetons is a good time to see wildflowers and wildlife. The area around Pilgrim Creek has the best fields for wildflowers, and it’s a terrific place to spot bears.
Grand Teton photography is amazing any time of the year, but in June you’ll have the bright green foliage, wildflowers and snow-capped mountains to photograph.
Article and photo: Photo Jeepers
Photograph Grand Teton National Park
→ Check out these Grand Teton river rafting or wildlife safari tours
Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve in June
Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve is a fantastic place to visit, particularly in June. One of the main highlights of the reserve is the Manoa Falls trail hike. The rainforest trail is picturesque and beautiful. You walk through eucalyptus trees and a bamboo forest as you head towards a 150-foot tall waterfall.
June is a terrific time to explore the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve. Photo credit: Petite Capsule
The Manoa Falls trail hike is a short 0.8 mile hike one way to the waterfall, 1.6 miles return, and takes between one to two hours to complete. It is a fairly easy dirt track, which makes it suitable for most fitness levels, including when you are travelling with baby and toddler. There are also intermediate to advanced trails in the Forest Reserve for more adventurous hikers.
June is one of the best times to visit Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve as it is one of the months with the least rainfall. This is handy as some of the trails (for example, Manoa Falls) can get muddy and slippery. The weather is also perfect in June. High temperatures are in the low to mid 80s F and low temperatures are in the low 70s F. Further, June is not quite peak season. The beginning of June has fewer crowds until school in the USA finishes up towards the end of June. Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve in June is a great time to visit.
Article and photo: Petite Capsule
Indiana Dunes National Park in June
Indiana Dunes National Park in June is the perfect time for a visit. Most of the Midwest’s winter weather has moved on, yet it’s still cool enough to wear a sweatshirt most days.
Indiana Dune is a cool national park to visit in June. Photo credit: Multigenerational Vacations
As one of the newer national parks, the dunes don’t have some of the crowds you might find elsewhere. Know that there might be some rain at Indiana Dune in June, but don’t let that deter you. Just keep an eye on the weather before heading out.
This park is the perfect combination of forests, dunes, prairie lands and Lake Michigan views, with trails winding through all of these habitats. Trails are well marked and offer everything from easy strolls to arduous hikes.
Consider planning a US national park multigenerational trip in June when the kids are out of school.
Article and photo: Multigenerational Vacations
Mesa Verde National Park in June
Mesa Verde National Park was one of the highlights of our Colorado road trip. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history of the Ancestral Pueblo people. You’ll find their ancient dwellings carved into the cliffside.
The jaw-dropping dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park. Photo credit: Drink Tea & Travel
Some of the most impressive ruins are the Cliff Palace, Spruce Tree House, and Balcony House. There are a number of great lookout’s just off of the main park road.
However, the best way to explore the park is on foot. Mesa National Park in June is a very pleasant time to visit since the temperatures hover between 44F to 73F.
The park is absolutely massive and there are lots of trails geared toward the natural aspect of the park as well as the cultural significance. The Point Lookout Trail is known for its impressive views. It is 2.2 miles in total and moderately difficult. It reminds visitors of the isolation that the area must have afforded the Pueblo people when they used to call it home.
Article and photo: Drink Tea & Travel
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks in June
Nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are close enough for a weekend getaway from both Northern and Southern California. Known for their towering sequoia trees and miles of pristine wilderness trails, both national parks are great destinations for everyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature when driving across the USA.
The famous trees you’ll see at Sequoia National Park. Photo credit: Mind the Travel
While summer is definitely the busiest time of the year for both parks, June is the best time for hiking. You can access locations such as Giant Forest Museum, General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, Wuksachi Lodge, to name a few by hopping on Sequoia Shuttle that offers trips between the Sequoia National Park and the neighboring towns of Visalia and Three Rivers.
Of course, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Sequoia & Kings Canyon that will make you feel good. If you’ve only got a day to see both parks, the giant redwood trees are a must-see feature of the parks; be sure to stop by the General Sherman Tree, the largest living organism in the world, by taking a short walk from the paved trail while you’re there.
During the summer, you can drive down a narrow, winding road near the Sequoia gate off CA 198 to explore Mineral King, a small subalpine valley surrounded by steep valley walls and accessible by car. Besides, you’ll also see the Crystal Cave filled with icicle-like stalactites and mounds of stalagmites. Daily guided tours are only available in summer and early fall, so you can easily combine it with a hike to the summit of Mount Whitney – the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.
Article and photo: Mind the Travel
Yellowstone National Park in June
Yellowstone National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in June! While there is still a risk of snow, snow chains are rarely required and sunny days are frequent.
By this point in the year, many of the most popular trails have opened for hiking. There are fun national park hikes for families and all the wildlife is lively as temperatures begin to warm.
Explore Yellowstone to see hot pools and geysers. Photo credit: Explore More Clean Less
Crowds are significantly lighter at Yellowstone in June than later in the summer, letting you see all the famous landmarks without hundreds of other people and making parking less of a battle. The ranger led programs start in June. These are terrific opportunities to learn from an expert while hiking or stopping by one of the visitor’s centers.
If you’re visiting Yellowstone in early June, be sure to check which lodging and dining options are open. Be prepared for cold temperatures, and even a snow storm, which can make camping a little bit tricky in June.
Article and photo: Explore More Clean Less
How to Plan the Perfect Yellowstone Vacation
Zion National Park in June
June is a great time of year to visit Zion National Park. The park is lush with flora and the Virgin River is full. The June temperatures are still moderate enough to enjoy the many hiking trails at Zion.
There are hiking trails at Zion for all ages and levels.
The big downfall to Zion in June are the crowds which mean long lines for the shuttle buses and limited parking inside the park. Here are a few tips to avoid the crowds.
• The best tip for a June trip to Zion is get to the park early. Plan to take the first shuttle available in the morning in order to explore Zion Canyon before the crowds arrive.
• Take a drive along Highway 9 toward the east entrance, park in a pullout, and start exploring the area.
• Explore Kolob Canyon where you’ll find beautiful scenery and hiking trails.
Article and photo: Photo Jeepers
Plan a US National Park Vacation
US National Park List: 25 Beautiful Parks to Visit
US National Parks to Visit with Kids
US National Parks to Visit in the Spring
US National Parks to Visit in the Summer
US National Parks to Visit in the Fall
US National Parks to Visit in the Winter
US National Parks Packing Lists
US National Park Vacation Destinations
US National Park Travel Guides
US National Park pass – it’s really a good deal
Click to Pin for Later
The post Plan a Fantastic Summer Vacation to US National Parks in June appeared first on PhotoJeepers.
from PhotoJeepers https://ift.tt/3b6xEgX
via IFTTT
No comments:
Post a Comment