Secrets Park Rangers Want You to Know Before Your Summer Trip

From excellent deals to cautionary tales, these tips and tricks will leave you perfectly prepared for a trip to the national parks.

People will do anything for a picture

A tragic accident that happens surprisingly often: People pose as if they’re falling off a cliff for a photo but then actually fall off. These gorgeous national park photos will leave you awestruck.

Go beyond the overlooks

No matter which park you’re visiting, walk at least a quarter mile down a trail. You’ll get away from the crowds and experience a completely different perspective.

Stay put if you get lost

The more you move around, the harder you are to find. If you can’t reach us on your phone, spread out brightly colored clothing.

We do a lot more than lead nature talks and campfire sing-alongs

Rangers make arrests, fight fires, search for missing hikers, conduct public health inspections, manage wildlife, and watch for suspicious characters and fugitives.

Here's how to skip summer crowds

To avoid crowds during busy summer months, check out Death Valley instead of the Grand Canyon, Kings Canyon instead of Yosemite, or Capitol Reef instead of Zion.