National Park Journal

Get the digital version of the National Park Journal with its four separate park editions (Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite) to discover all-time favorite road trips to the national parks. From Utah’s dazzling deserts, the adobe-lined streets of New Mexico’s charming towns, Wyoming’s authentic outposts, California’s stunning coastline and Colorado’s mountain towns, we feature all the amazing places to explore en route to the parks, no matter where you begin your adventure. Plus , our insider’s guide includes our top things to do in each national park in 48 hours. Discover the best hiking trails, campsites and attractions in our magazine. Our illustrated wildlife guide will help you discover the best of the park's wild animals, including tips on where to find them, and our packing list ensures you don’t leave anything at home.

Hit the Road

A Note From the Editor

National Park Journal

Welcome to Magic • Get ready to dive into the best of Yosemite, from sparkling waterfalls to stoic granite faces. Plan your perfect trip with a park map, weekend itinerary, trail guide and more.

Get Oriented

Comprised of more than 1,100 square miles of mountainous terrain, Yosemite National Park has FIVE entrances to choose from.

Back to Basics • Whether you’re a first time national park traveler or a seasoned pro, here are a few things you need to know about visiting Yosemite.

A Weekend in Yosemite • Short on time? You can still have an incredible vacation in the park, even if you only have 48 hours. Here’s the perfect plan.

Choose YOUR Hike

Best of the Coast • Discover the secrets of California’s beautiful—and sometimes rugged—central coast.

Joshua Tree

Tour Like A Local • This easy-to-use app makes exploring California’s national parks more engaging.

Island Basecamp • Find amazing food, uncrowded beaches and great hiking near the two marinas that offer passage to Channel Islands National Park when you explore Port Hueneme, Camarillo, Oxnard and Ventura. Here are four reasons to stay.

The American Galapagos • Take a day to explore the remote and wild chain of islands off the coast at Channel Islands National Park.

Inland Adventure • Enjoy the Santa Ynez Valley with tons of nature-fueled activities in Buellton.

Lompoc’s Top 5 • Pronounced “Lom-poke,” this scenic valley town offers a ton to see and do year round.

California Dreamin’ • Experience the best of the Golden State’s coastal culture in Pismo Beach.

Slow Tides • Embrace a calmer pace of life in this beautiful beach getaway.

Savor the Weekend • Sip approachable wine, wander through a sea of lights and take the prettiest scenic drive in Paso Robles.

Highway 1’s Wild Side • Find the unexpected in stunning San Simeon.

Santa Cruz 6 • This town and the surrounding region are synonymous with surf culture and while there’s no shortage of places to catch great waves, there’s so much more. From giant redwoods to bucolic vineyards, here are six of the best stops in the area.

Local Flavor • Visit the Garlic Capital of the World on the way to Pinnacles National Park.

Cowboys & Vineyards • Basecamp among vines and working ranches just 30 miles from Pinnacles National Park’s east entrance.

Pinnacles Perfect 6 • Here are some of our favorite things to do in this park, from gorgeous hikes to exploring a cave.

Whose Land Am I On?

Golden State of Mind • From the Golden City, wind your way through unpretentious wine country, orchards and gold rush towns to reach Yosemite.

Keep Your Trip on Track • Ride the train to Yosemite for your easiest vacation yet.

Leave Your Heart • ...