NATIONAL PARK JOURNAL is the authority on national park travel and is devoted to bringing the national park experience to the palm of your hand. Providing comprehensive seasonal trip-planning information for four of the United States’ major national parks - Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite - each issue focuses on one park and includes feature stories, photo essays, road-trip itineraries, lodging and dining information, wildlife beta and more.

4 SPECTACULAR ROAD TRIPS • Here are four of our all-time favorite road trips to the park — each with its own scenic wonders, cultural sites and one-of-a-kind attractions. Turn to our Road Trip sections starting on page 24 for details and itineraries.

Editor's Note

National Park Journal

WELCOME TO PARADISE • Ready for your ultimate Grand Canyon vacation? Our insider's guide will lead you to the best hiking trails, most fascinating attractions and much more.

THE GRANDEST CANYON

THE FOUR SIDES OF GRAND CANYON • Stretching across 1.2 million acres, Grand Canyon National Park is located in northern Arizona. While people often refer to the park as one place, there are actually four distinct areas you can visit.

The SOUTH RIM’S TOP SIX • Here are some of our favorite things to do from biking to exploring the

INTO THE WILD • You'll see more than incredible views when you visit the Grand Canyon. Keep an eye out for these animals on the trails and soaring in the park skies.

WHICH HIKE IS BEST FOR YOU IN THE GRAND CANYON?

Traveler's Checklist • Before you hit the trail, become familiar with these important hiking terms.

INSIDER'S TIPS • Every year, we help more than 1 million travelers plan a Grand Canyon National Park vacation. Here's how to build your itinerary.

Protect Your Parks • You can be a conscientious traveler instead of a tourist without expending much energy. Here’s how:

Entrance Fees*

WHICH GRAND CANYON HOTEL? • Find your perfect Grand Canyon lodging with our personalized guide. Then visit MyGrandCanyonPark.com/ where-to-stay-camp-eat for details.

WHAT TO PACK • After many trips to the Grand Canyon and Southwest, we've created the ultimate packing list. Use it to spend more time outside and less time shopping for items you forgot.

RIDE THE RAILS • If you want adventure, sightseeing and history all rolled into one on your Grand Canyon vacation, Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel is your ticket.

Happy Hour

SOUTHWEST HOT SPOTS • Discover the best of Arizona along this awe-inspiring 563-mile road trip.

FARM-TO-TABLE SCENE • In the heart of the Arizona desert, you'll find a vibrant farm-to-table dining scene, gorgeous green space and more in Gilbert.

DESERT HAVEN

PERFECT PRESCOTT • From great hiking and kayaking to a fun downtown scene, here are the top 5 reasons to explore Prescott.

UNEXPECTED OASIS • Take a stroll through this charming historic downtown packed with wine tasting rooms and restaurants before heading to a rare solitude-fueled national monument.

BEAUTY WITHOUT CROWDS • Explore five of Arizona's most beautiful state parks.

SEDONA’S SECRET SEVEN • Discover Sedona's off-the-beaten path trails while treading lightly and enjoying a lively art and food scene.

NATURAL GETAWAY • Explore Flagstaff, a vibrant university town, and its less-traveled trails and incredible food scene.

CLIFF HANGER

A GRANDER STAY • Sleep well and sustainably at Yavapai Lodge.

PICTURE THIS • This image was captured in Canyonlands National Park at Buck Canyon Overlook, 328 miles north of Grand Canyon, as a storm was passing just before sunset.

CANYONLANDS SUNSET 2

HISTORIC ROUTE 66 • Plunge deep into...