Food often tastes just a little bit better when you are surrounded by mountains, meadows, babbling brooks, ocean waves, or just a simple park. Summer is also a great time for a picnic, especially throughout the U.S. national parks. These stretches of protected and awe-inspiring land provide ideal settings to set out for a picnic. What’s more, some of these national parks make picnics downright inspiring.
So, pack your basket and head to these three appealing picnic-ready national parks.
Crater Lake National Park – Oregon
In terms of picnic perches, Crater Lake seems to rise above the rest. Quite literally, in fact. Especially in the summer months, the deep, pure lake surrounded by cliffs stretching around 2,000 feet high provides ideal spots to throw down a red and white checked tablecloth and rifle through a picnic basket. The five-mile lake in Oregon features a number of viewpoints and picnic areas along Rim Drive, the 33-mile road encircling the lake. With views of the deep blue of Crater Lake and its two islands, this just might be the best peanut butter and jelly sandwich you’ve ever had.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee and North Carolina
There is a reason why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is frequently the most visited national park in the country. This park, encompassing the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is much more than just a wilderness area. Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains a rich plant and animal life, including black bears.
In addition, you can see mountain rivers, panoramic views, mystical forests, and nearly 80 historic structures in the park, such as log cabins and mills. Picnickers have a wealth of settings to choose from for their national park meals, including Cades Cove, Greenbrier, and Look Rock. To work up an appetite, you can roam over 800 miles of trails, too.
Haleakalā National Park – Hawaii
Along Maui’s southern and eastern coastline, picnickers have many opportunities to find an appealing spot to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. Haleakalā National Park sprawls Across 30,000 acres, and features a number of different self-contained natural environments. The park is also home to Maui’s highest peak, rising 10,023 feet above sea level. Sunrise is a particularly good time to head up to these dizzying heights for a morning picnic, in particular the Haleakalā Visitor Center. There are no food services in Haleakalā National Park, so you’ll need to bring your own food with which to enjoy the view.
Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
Nestled deep into Rocky Mountain National Park, Sprague Lake is a 13-acre body of water known for its stunning views of the towering mountains that rise up all around it. You can work off your picnic lunch by taking a walk around the half-mile loop that provides several viewpoints of Hallett Peak and the other mountains along the Continental Divide. The pathway is handicap-accessible, making this a good journey for those with special challenges. Since this is a popular wedding spot, you may even be able to watch lucky couples take their vows as you enjoy your picnic under the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. The charming mountain town of Estes Park is a good place to make your home base as you explore this gorgeous national park and all of its surroundings.
Yosemite National Park – California
Located in the Sierra Nevada between Yosemite Valley and the Tuolumne Meadows is Tenaya Lake, boasting crystal blue waters that make it a lovely spot to set up a picnic. The glacial lake is the largest in the front country area of Yosemite National Park. Picnickers will enjoy gazing up at the granite mountain peaks and domes that surround the lake. A sandy beach surrounding the lake provides ample space to lay out a blanket and your picnic spread. Work up your appetite by taking a pre-picnic hike along the 2.5-mile loop that wraps around the water. Be sure to pack a jacket as the lake is located at over 8,000 feet, making it a chilly venture even during the warmer months.
Zion National Park – Utah
While most visitors to Zion National Park tend to focus their adventure on the southern end of this natural gem, the northern end features smaller crowds and just as much natural beauty. The Kolob Canyons is a vast network of narrow box canyons distinguished by their iconic burnt orange hue. You can check out these unusual formations by hiking the half-mile long Timber Creek Overlook Trail. Check out the beauty of Shuntavi Butte from this vantage point. Continue from the trailhead for a few minutes to find a group of picnic tables to set up your meal.
Plenty of trees surrounding the tables offer much-needed shade during the summer months. Keep in mind that the road through the canyons is often closed during the winter because of snow and ice. The late spring and the early fall are ideal times to pack your picnic and head to Kolob Canyons.
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Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is not short on picnic spots, particularly if you are exploring the popular Skyline Drive. As one of the most awe-inspiring scenic drives in the country, this 105-mile road will not disappoint. Visitors will delight in the many picnic areas scattered along the drive, including a large grouping of tables at the visitors center. Stake your spot and take in the panoramic view of the Shenandoah Valley.
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Consider hiking the summit trail to Hawksbill Mountain, delivering views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond. The summit of the mountain features a shaded picnic area with plenty of seating for your group.
FAQs:
Q: Are there designated picnic areas in most national parks?
A: Yes, many U.S. national parks have designated picnic areas with tables and sometimes grills. These areas are usually close to scenic viewpoints, trails, or parking lots, making them easy to access.
Q: Can I bring my own grill or camp stove for a picnic in a national park?
A: Some parks allow personal grills or camp stoves in picnic areas, while others have restrictions due to fire risks. Check each park’s website for specific regulations.
Q: Is alcohol allowed in national parks during picnics?
A: Alcohol policies vary by park. While some parks permit alcohol in picnic areas, others prohibit it. It’s best to consult the rules for the specific park you plan to visit.
Q: Are there any fees to enter national parks for a picnic?
A: Yes, most national parks charge an entrance fee, which typically applies regardless of whether you’re there for a picnic or other activities. Many parks offer annual passes as well.
Q: Are pets allowed in picnic areas of national parks?
A: Many national parks allow pets in designated picnic areas but require them to be on a leash. Restrictions may vary, so check each park’s pet policy before you go.
Q: Do any national parks provide picnic shelters or shaded areas?
A: Some parks offer picnic shelters, particularly in larger, popular parks. However, not all picnic areas have shade, so consider bringing an umbrella or sunshade for comfort.
Q: Are trash bins available at picnic spots in national parks?
A: Most national parks provide trash bins in picnic areas, but some have a “pack-in, pack-out” policy, meaning you must take all your trash with you. Be sure to follow park guidelines to keep the area clean.
Have you had the pleasure of picnicking in one of these spectacular locations? Tell us about it in the comments below!
