Ahh, vacations. What is it about July and August that screams, road trip? We recently enjoyed a week in northern Michigan with my mom and my sister’s family. What a great time!
As much as I love visiting destinations we can drive to in half a day, there are several trips out West I’d love to take, too.
In no particular order:
These are the big three. The ones I will prioritize. And, yes, I’m seeing a theme. They’re all national parks!
I grew up awed by nature. I spent a lot of time outdoors, and we were surrounded by farm fields and forests. Very beautiful. But mountains? Waterfalls? Hot Springs? Giant red rock formations? We didn’t have those.
Why haven’t I gotten out to these fabulous parks yet? Well, I don’t have a good excuse. Just the usual. It’s not cheap to fly out there, rent a car, and pay for lodging. Plus, we prioritized vacations with our kids and close family. Now that it’s just my husband and I, these big trips become more doable.
Let’s start with Yellowstone. Ideally, I’d like to stay in one of the lodge’s within the park. Besides oohing and ahhing over the mountains, I want to tour Historic Fort Yellowstone. What can I say? I brake for forts! American history fascinates me. Mammoth Hot Springs, Fountain Paint Pot, Grand Prismatic Spring, and any hypothermal spot I can find are next on my list. Beyond that, I’d enjoy seeing waterfalls and hiking in general.
As far as Zion National Park goes, I’m mainly there for the geology. I just want to let my jaw drop and gaze in wonder at God’s splendor. Since I love bird-watching, I’d be on the lookout for birds I don’t see in the Midwest.
Mount Rushmore has an information center and BOOKSTORE. That would be our first stop–and our last stop. I love books! I’m not sure what all there is to see besides the national memorial, so anything besides that will be a welcome surprise.
Have you been to any of these national parks? Where do you want to go? Any recommendations for me?
Enjoy your day!