Are you tired of spending hours in airport terminals, waiting for your next flight? Do you wish you could escape the hustle and bustle of air travel and connect with nature? Look no further! We've got you covered with our list of 10 national parks near airports, perfect for quick getaways.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just looking for a brief respite from the airport grind, these national parks offer a range of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and opportunities to unwind. So why not take advantage of your layover or flight delay and explore some of America's most beautiful national parks?
Benefits of Visiting National Parks Near Airports
Visiting national parks near airports can have numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced stress: Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood.
- Increased productivity: Taking a break from the airport can help you recharge and come back to your travels feeling more focused.
- Opportunities for exercise: Many national parks offer hiking trails, biking paths, and other outdoor activities that can help you stay active while traveling.
- Chance to experience local culture: National parks often offer insight into the local culture and history of the area.
10 National Parks Near Airports for Quick Getaways
Here are 10 national parks near airports that are perfect for quick getaways:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
- Airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
- Distance: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the US, and for good reason. The park offers stunning mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Airport: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- Distance: 75 miles, 1.5-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives
Shenandoah National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife. The park is also home to over 500 miles of hiking trails, making it a hiker's paradise.
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
- Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Distance: 60 miles, 1.5-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Zion National Park, Utah
- Airport: St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
- Distance: 45 miles, 1-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, canyoneering, scenic drives
Zion National Park is known for its stunning red rock canyons and diverse wildlife. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.
- Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
- Airport: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
- Distance: 10 miles, 20-minute drive
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Olympic National Park, Washington
- Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
- Distance: 70 miles, 1.5-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
Olympic National Park is a diverse park that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The park is also home to stunning mountain scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Acadia National Park, Maine
- Airport: Bangor International Airport (BGR)
- Distance: 50 miles, 1-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, biking, scenic drives
Acadia National Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning coastal scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
- Glacier National Park, Montana
- Airport: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
- Distance: 10 miles, 20-minute drive
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
Glacier National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery and diverse wildlife. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
- Distance: 90 miles, 2-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
Yellowstone National Park is America's first national park and a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Yosemite National Park, California
- Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
- Distance: 60 miles, 1.5-hour drive
- Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, scenic drives
Yosemite National Park is known for its stunning granite cliffs and diverse wildlife. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
Gallery of National Parks Near Airports
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest national park to my airport?
+The closest national park to your airport will depend on your location. Check our list of national parks near airports to find the closest one to you.
Can I visit a national park during a layover?
+Yes, you can visit a national park during a layover. Many national parks are located near airports and offer a range of outdoor activities that can be completed in a short amount of time.
Do I need to rent a car to visit a national park?
+Some national parks may require a car to access, while others may offer public transportation or shuttle services. Check with the park you plan to visit to determine the best way to get there.
We hope this article has inspired you to take advantage of your next layover or flight delay and visit one of America's stunning national parks. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just looking for a brief respite from the airport grind, these national parks offer a range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery that is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.