Glacier National Park is where epic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and iconic hiking trails set the stage for unforgettable adventures. But it’s just one of the many must-see destinations the Rocky Mountains have to offer. In this travel guide, we’ll take you from the turquoise lakes and towering peaks of Banff National Park to the rugged backcountry of Grand Teton National Park, the red rock wonders of Colorado Springs, and the wild desert canyons of Big Bend National Park. Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, backcountry hikes, or local gems, this guide covers the top places to visit, when to go, what to pack, and travel tips to plan your perfect Rockies escape.
1. Banff National Park: Canada’s Rugged Wonder
Uncover the best of Banff National Park with our expert guide. From top hikes and iconic sights to the perfect months to visit and essential travel tips — plan your Canadian Rockies escape right here.
Why Visit Banff National Park
Nestled in the heart of Alberta’s Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is Canada’s first and most beloved national park. Renowned for its glacial lakes, towering mountain peaks, and charming alpine town, Banff delivers a world-class combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and year-round attractions.
Whether you’re hiking to turquoise lakes, paddling calm waters, or relaxing in a historic hot spring, Banff promises an unforgettable escape.
Top Hikes in Banff National Park
- Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (4.5 miles roundtrip) — One of Banff’s signature hikes, leading to a cozy mountaintop tea house overlooking Lake Agnes.
- Plain of Six Glaciers Trail (8.5 miles roundtrip) — A stunning alpine trek with glacier views, ending at another remote tea house.
- Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls (3.2 miles roundtrip) — A family-friendly trail through limestone canyons and past beautiful waterfalls.
- Sulphur Mountain Trail (6.3 miles roundtrip) — A moderate climb or gondola ride to Banff’s panoramic summit views.
Top Things to Do in Banff National Park
- Visit Lake Louise — Paddle a canoe on its legendary turquoise waters or skate on its frozen surface in winter.
- Drive the Icefields Parkway — One of the world’s most scenic routes connecting Banff and Jasper.
- Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs — Historic mineral springs overlooking snowy peaks.
- Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain summit.
- Explore the picturesque town of Banff, filled with boutique shops, fine dining, and historic architecture.
- Wildlife spotting — Keep an eye out for elk, bears, and bighorn sheep.
Best Time to Visit Banff National Park
- June to September — Peak season for hiking, sightseeing, and lake activities. Expect longer daylight hours and clear trails.
- Late September to October — Stunning fall foliage, fewer crowds, and great hotel rates.
- December to March — For snow sports, winter hiking, and world-class skiing at nearby resorts.
Note: July and August are the warmest, busiest months with vibrant wildflowers and fully accessible trails.
Pro Tip
Arrive early to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake for parking — lots fill before 7:00 AM in summer. Alternatively, use Parks Canada shuttles for convenience.
Essential Gear for Banff Adventures
- Durable, weather-resistant hiking shoes
- Packable rain jacket and thermal layers
- Camera for wildlife and mountain photography
- National park pass (purchase online or at park gates)
Book Affordable Travel to Banff
Plan your dream Canadian Rockies trip with:
2. Glacier National Park: Trails of Ice and Wonder
Why Visit:
Often dubbed the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park boasts dramatic alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and over 700 miles of scenic trails. It’s a must-visit for hikers, wildlife lovers, and landscape photographers.
Top Hikes in Glacier National Park
- Grinnell Glacier Trail (10.6 miles) — A challenging but rewarding trail offering turquoise lakes and views of a stunning glacier.
- Highline Trail (11.8 miles one way) — Known for its cliffside ledge and alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in summer.
- Avalanche Lake via Trail of the Cedars (4.5 miles) — A family-friendly hike through ancient cedar forests to a spectacular lake.
Things to Do
- Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road — Arguably one of the most scenic drives in North America.
- Paddle or kayak Lake McDonald — The largest lake in the park with mesmerizing reflections.
- Join a ranger-led wildlife tour to spot bears, moose, and mountain goats.
Best Time to Visit
July to mid-September — This is when Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open, trails are snow-free, and lodges are operating.
Pro Tip
Book your Glacier lodging early — in-park accommodations sell out quickly.
Essential Gear for Glacier National Park Adventures
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes for rugged mountain trails
- Packable rain jacket and layered clothing for unpredictable weather
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting and panoramic viewpoints
- Bear spray (available for rent or purchase near park entrances)
- National park pass (purchase online or at park entrances)
Book Affordable Travel to Glacier National Park
Plan your unforgettable Montana adventure with:
- Flight deals to Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
- Affordable hotels, lodges, and cabins near Glacier National Park
3. Grand Teton National Park: Majestic and Untamed
Why Visit:
An iconic symbol of the American West, Grand Teton National Park offers jagged mountain peaks, serene alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
- Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point (5.8 miles) — The park’s signature hike, combining lake views, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks.
- Taggart Lake Trail (3.8 miles) — A gentle hike through meadows and forests to a tranquil alpine lake.
- Cascade Canyon Trail (9.1 miles) — A backcountry favorite, perfect for spotting moose and enjoying alpine views.
Things to Do
- Photograph sunrise at Snake River Overlook — An Ansel Adams classic.
- Paddleboard or kayak Jenny Lake.
- Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram for sweeping views from 10,450 feet.
- Visit Mormon Row for historic barn photography.
Best Time to Visit
June to September — Ideal for open trails and active wildlife.
Late September to October — Offers golden aspen groves and quieter parks.
Pro Tip
Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent in summer — plan hikes early.
Essential Gear for Grand Teton National Park Adventures
- Durable, waterproof hiking shoes for alpine and backcountry trails
- Packable down jacket and layered clothing for cool mornings and rapid weather shifts
- Trekking poles for steep, uneven mountain terrain
- Binoculars for spotting moose, elk, bears, and soaring eagles
- National park pass (purchase online or at park entrances)
Book Affordable Travel to Grand Teton National Park
Plan your Wyoming wilderness escape with:
- Flight deals to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
- Affordable hotels, mountain lodges, and rustic cabins near Grand Teton
4. Big Bend National Park: Desert Adventure Done Right
A remote treasure located in southwest Texas, on the U.S.–Mexico border, Big Bend National Park is a lesser-known gem full of desert vistas, canyons, and river adventures.
Why Visit:
A remote treasure on the U.S.–Mexico border, Big Bend National Park is famous for its rugged desert scenery, dramatic canyons, and world-class stargazing opportunities under one of the darkest skies in the country.
Top Hikes in Big Bend National Park
- Lost Mine Trail (4.8 miles) — A moderately easy hike with panoramic views of Pine Canyon and the Chisos Mountains.
- Santa Elena Canyon Trail (1.7 miles) — A short, scenic walk through towering canyon walls along the Rio Grande.
- South Rim Trail (12–14.5 miles) — A challenging full-day hike with breathtaking vistas over the Chihuahuan Desert.
Things to Do
- Soak in natural hot springs beside the Rio Grande.
- Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive for unrivaled viewpoints.
- Stargaze in the International Dark Sky Park, especially during new moon phases.
- Explore the Fossil Discovery Exhibit, showcasing prehistoric finds.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April — Cool, clear nights make hiking, hot springs, and stargazing ideal.
Pro Tip
- Plan your trip in March or April to witness blooming desert wildflowers and prime stargazing.
Essential Gear for Big Bend National Park Adventures
- Lightweight, breathable hiking shoes for desert and canyon trails
- Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen for sun protection
- Hydration pack or water bottles — desert hikes require extra water
- Flashlight or headlamp for stargazing in Big Bend’s dark sky areas
- National park pass (available online or at park entrances)
Book Affordable Travel to Big Bend National Park
Start your West Texas adventure with:
- Flight deals to Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF)
- Affordable lodges, cabins, and hotels near Big Bend National Park
5. Things to Do in Colorado Springs: Gateway to the Rockies
Why Visit:
Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs boasts breathtaking natural wonders, rich cultural sites, and a plethora of outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
Top Attractions in Colorado Springs
- Garden of the Gods: Explore towering red rock formations and enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and photography opportunities.
- Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain: Drive or hike to the summit for panoramic views and a visit to the Summit House.
- Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Book an evening tour for a unique, lantern-lit cave adventure with fewer visitors and a touch of mystery.
- Manitou Incline: Challenge yourself with a steep hike gaining over 2,000 feet in elevation in less than a mile.
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Visit America’s only mountain zoo, home to over 750 animals and offering interactive exhibits.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April to May): Enjoy blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures.
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for hiking, festivals, and outdoor concerts.
- Fall (September to October): Experience colorful foliage and fewer crowds.
💡 Pro Tip
Visit top attractions at sunrise for cooler temps, stunning light, and fewer crowds.
Essential Gear for Colorado Springs Adventures
- Comfortable, grippy hiking shoes for navigating rocky trails and natural landmarks
- Lightweight backpack with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for day hikes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection at higher elevations
- Camera or smartphone for capturing epic red rock formations and mountain vistas
- Light jacket or fleece — mountain weather can shift quickly, even in summer
Book Affordable Travel to Colorado Springs
Plan your perfect Rocky Mountain getaway with:
- Flight deals to Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
- Affordable hotels, boutique stays, and mountain lodges in Colorado Springs
Need a bike?
6. Outdoor Adventures in Michigan: Great Lakes Getaway
Why Visit:
Michigan offers a diverse landscape, from the rugged beauty of the Upper Peninsula to the serene shores of the Great Lakes. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, or exploring historic sites, Michigan provides year-round outdoor activities for all adventure seekers.
Top Outdoor Activities in Michigan
- Hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Experience miles of trails with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Kayaking the Au Sable River: Enjoy a peaceful paddle through lush forests and clear waters.
- Exploring Mackinac Island: Bike or walk around this car-free island, rich in history and natural beauty.
- Visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Marvel at colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches.
- Camping in the Upper Peninsula: Discover remote campsites surrounded by forests, lakes, and wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for water activities, hiking, and festivals.
- Fall (September to October): Witness vibrant foliage and enjoy cooler hiking temperatures.
- Winter (December to February): Perfect for snowshoeing, skiing, and ice fishing.
Pro Tip
Discover remote gems like Porcupine Mountains and Isle Royale for crowd-free wilderness escapes.
Essential Gear for Outdoor Adventures in Michigan
- Waterproof, trail-ready hiking shoes for lakeshore and forest trails
- Lightweight rain jacket — sudden showers are common near the Great Lakes
- Bug spray and sunscreen for protection in wooded and lakeside areas
- Binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting in state parks
- Map or offline trail app — cell service can be limited in remote regions
Book Affordable Travel to Michigan’s Outdoor Destinations
Plan your Great Lakes escape with:
- Flight deals to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and regional hubs
- Affordable lakeside cabins, hotels, and campgrounds in Michigan
Conclusion
The Rocky Mountains and surrounding parks offer some of North America’s most breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable outdoor adventures. From the alpine trails of Glacier and Grand Teton to the desert beauty of Big Bend, the turquoise lakes of Banff, and the red rock wonders of Colorado Springs, there’s something for every traveler.
Plan your perfect escape today. Visit our Tours & Activities and Airport & Transfers pages for your next adventure planning and for great car deals.
You may also need to read our article Tourist Places: Unique Experiences – Unconventional Destinations That Will Surprise You, or Vacations: 20 Epic Adventure Spots That Will Ignite Your Passion for Thrill Seekers