National Park Lodges We Can't Wait To Visit
With their easy access to breathtaking landscapes, national parks make for some of the most unforgettable adventures.
And the best part about visiting these days, is that there are lots of great national park lodges and hotels, so you don’t have to abandon comfort to get close to nature.
Check out some of the best national park lodges in America.
Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Since 1904, the Old Faithful Inn has provided luxurious accommodations for all who come to take in the wonders of America's first national park.
Upon arrival, people are instantly wowed by the property's incredible 76-foot-high ceilings and four levels of balconies with rustic railings that are made from tree branches.
Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (cont’d)
The stone chimney at the inn is made from 500 tons of rhyolite that was quarried nearby. And of course, a visit to this lodge provides unparalleled views of Old Faithful.
The Old Faithful Inn is only open from May to October, but the nearby Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins and Riversbend Lodge are open year-round.
Zion Lodge, Zion National Park, Utah
This lodge was designed by the architect of many great national park lodges, Gilbert Stanley Underwood.
The Union Pacific Railroad oversaw construction of the lodge in 1925 and it was a popular destination until a fire destroyed the main building in 1966.
Zion Lodge, Zion National Park, Utah (cont’d)
Months later, a new building was constructed, and the lodge returned to its former glory. In more recent years, some of the cabins have been beautifully renovated.
This is the only lodge in Zion National Park, so staying here is a unique opportunity to see the park's iconic canyons and hiking trails which are within walking distance.
This lodge is open year-round.
Asticou Inn, Acadia National Park, Maine
Built in 1883 by a schooner captain and businessman named A.C. Savage, this 48-room inn is steeped in traditional New England aesthetics—there’s lots of floral patterns, rocking chairs, and knotty round rugs.
NewTestLeper79, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Asticou Inn, Acadia National Park, Maine (cont’d)
The Asticou Inn isn’t officially in the national park, but it does provide a great view of Northwest Harbor. It’s also right near the Asticou Azalea Garden, and visitors can easily explore the rest of the park with a bike or car ride.
This park is open from mid-May to mid-October.
The Ahwahnee, Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is world-famous for its giant sequoia trees, and granite cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls.
If you're looking to visit without being swarmed by other tourists, head over to The Ahwahnee. for unparalleled views of Half Dome, Glacier Point, the Royal Arches, and Upper Yosemite Fall.
The Ahwahnee, Yosemite National Park, California (cont’d)
The Ahwahnee opened in 1927 and got some refurbishing in 2004. This six-floor property has 99 rooms for visitors to choose from as well as two dozen cottages.
It’s open year-round, but the rates can vary based on the time of year you visit.
Glacier Park Lodge, Glacier National Park, Montana
Built in 1912, the 161-room Glacier Park Lodge is a great example of rustic luxury. Its nine-hole golf course, day spa, and outdoor pool are almost as enchanting as the surrounding glaciers—almost.
Glacier Park Lodge, Glacier National Park, Montana (cont’d)
The views at this lodge are incredible and since the park is over 100 years old, everyone should try to take in this natural wonder at least once.
The lodge is open from early June to late September.
Acroterion, CC BY-SA 3.0 , Wikimedia Commons
El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Since its grand opening in 1905, the 78-room El Tovar has hosted some of the most elite visitors, including Albert Einstein and Theodore Roosevelt.
Today, it stands as a National Historic Landmark.
Grand Canyon National Park, Flickr
El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (cont’d)
The luxurious hunting lodge is the perfect place to get views of the canyon, and guests are sure to relax with a turndown service, themed suites, and unique dining options.
Visitors can check into this lodge year-round.
Grand Canyon National Park, Flickr
Dancing Bear Lodge, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Dancing Bear Lodge is the closest place to bunk down near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It' so close that you can bike to one of the park's most popular attractions: Cades Cove.
Chris Light, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Dancing Bear Lodge, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (cont’d)
The property was Built in 2000 and was originally named Maple Leaf Lodge. When the current owners bought it in 2004, they revamped the rooms, and gave it a new name.
Today, guests at Dancing Bear can enjoy the property's 18 cabins, 21 rooms, and 36 acres of grounds. It’s also open all year.
Crater Lake Lodge, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
While the national park opened in 1902, it would take another decade before Crater Lake Lodge opened its doors to the public. Now, visitors can stay in one the lodge's 71 luxurious rooms.
M.O. Stevens, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Crater Lake Lodge, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon (cont’d)
Most of the rooms at the lodge offer incredible views of the shimmering blue lake, which is the deepest lake in America. Guests can enjoy the large stone fireplace in the Great Hall while kicking back in cozy a wooden rocking chair.
You can visit this property from mid-May to late October.
Hotel Terra: Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Welcome to the newest property from Hotel Terra. Built in 2008, this state-of-the-art lodge is a LEED-certified property that combines rustic charm with comforts of the modern world.
During their stay, guests can enjoy rooms with flat-screen TVs, modern amenities, and organic cotton sheets.
Hotel Terra: Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming (cont’d)
This fun hotel is just a mile from Grand Teton National Park and an hour from Yellowstone. Its older sister property, Teton Mountain Lodge, is right next door.
Both lodges are open year-round.
Paradise Inn, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Paradise Inn is one of two option for accommodations inside Mount Rainier National Park. Built in 1916, this gorgeous property is surrounded by pristine meadows and miles of hiking trails.
Paradise Inn, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (cont’d)
At this hotel, guests can unplug completely. They’ll get a comfy bed, but there are no electronic distractions like telephones or televisions.
It’s open from late May to early October.
Acroterion, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Under Canvas has many glamping sites in a dozen national parks across America, but when it comes to favorites, most visitors choose Bryce Canyon outpost.
This lodge opened 2022 and has been winning hearts ever since.
I, Luca Galuzzi, CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons
Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (cont’d)
The camp is situated about 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park. While it's not actually in the park, it's the best home base for those who want to explore the area's hiking trails without giving up creature comforts like hot water, fresh food, and a real bed.
The camp is open from May to September.
King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 4.0 , Wikimedia Commons
Kalaloch Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Many people stop by Olympic National Park during their visit to Seattle, but the best way to experience this incredible landscape is to actually camp there for a night.
When it comes to in-park accommodations, Kalaloch Lodge is among the best.
Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 4.0 , Wikimedia Commons
Kalaloch Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington (cont’d)
This charming, rustic lodge is nestled among towering pine trees and rugged beaches. It's also near two of the most beautiful spots in the park: Ruby Beach and the Hoh Rainforest.
You can visit Kalaloch Lodge any time during the year.
Ross Lake Resort, North Cascades National Park, Washington
North Cascades National Park is one of the less crowded parks in the country, but that doesn't mean it's lacking charm.
Guests at Ross Lake Resort have the unique opportunity of staying in "floating" cabins on the lake. There are a range of styles and sizes to choose from but each cabin comes with a kitchen, bathrooms, hot water, and electricity.
Ross Lake Resort, North Cascades National Park, Washington (cont’d)
While the cabins themselves are enchanting, they also provide incredible views of the surrounding mountains. It's the perfect place to kick back and relax in the lap of nature—and with no cell service, there's nothing to interrupt your peaceful retreat.
You can visit Ross Lake from mid-June to October.
Blackberry Mountain, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Blackberry Mountain is a luxury lodge but staying here is like an upscale version of summer camp. Guests have their choice of 36 unique accommodations, including treehouses, stone cottages, and family-friendly houses.
No matter what you choose, you'll be treated to unparalleled views of the legendary smoky mountains.
cdorobek, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Blackberry Mountain, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (cont’d)
Relaxation is guaranteed at Blackberry Mountain with amenities like soaking tubs, Egyptian cotton bedding, and Bose smart speakers. Visitors also love the holistic remedies at the on-site spa, called Nest. Soundbaths in the yoga loft are equally restorative.
You can enjoy a visit to Blackberry Mountain any time of the year.
National Parks Gallery, Picryl
Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park, Montana
Most people don't get too excited about staying in a place with no air conditions, television, or Wi-Fi. However, at Many Glacier Hotel, the stunning landscape of Glacier National Park more than makes up for the lack of technology and certain creature comforts.
Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park, Montana (cont’d)
Many Glacier Hotel is situated on the edge of Swiftcurrent Lake. This part of the park has been called the “Switzerland of North America” because of all the tall mountains and crystal-clear glacial waters.
There are many luxurious suites and more standards rooms at this five-story chalet. And fun is guaranteed with cool activities like horseback riding, boat cruises, and tours the park’s iconic Red Buses.
The Oasis at Death Valley, Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley may be the driest and hottest place on earth, but it's also where you'll find one of California's most luxurious hotels: The Oasis of Death Valley.
Visitors at this in property can stay in one two hotels, The Inn at Death Valley or the Ranch at Death Valley.
The Oasis at Death Valley, Death Valley National Park, California (cont’d)
The Oasis has everything you could ever need, including a world-class spa, golf course, spa, and spring-fed pools. The stunning sunsets against the park's majestic rock formations are another bonus to staying here.
The best way to see these natural wonders is by booking a mountain bike or jeep ride with the resort.
Volcano House, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
If you've ever wondered what it's like to live near a volcano, here's your chance. This incredible hotel is located right next to the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which is just a stone's thrown from the summit of Kilauea, Hawaii's active volcano.
Volcano House, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
While the views of the volcano are an obvious draw, staying at Volcano House is also a great opportunity to learn more about the island and indulge in authentic Hawaiian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
You can also trek to the summit of Kilauea with a hotel-led tour or braving off on your own with rental bikes. This amazing hotel is open year-round.
Phillip B. Espinasse, Shutterstock
Big Meadows Lodge, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
This lodge is named for the grassy field near the property, which is the grazing site of many deer. The creation of Big Meadows Lodge was funded in the 1930s by the New Deal, and was part of an effort to improve the infrastructure of national parks.
Today, the lodge wows visitors with aesthetic details like native wood paneling from nearly-extinct chestnut trees in the main building to cozy fireplaces in the property's cabins.
Big Meadows Lodge, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (cont’d)
Big Meadows Lodge is the perfect home base for exploring Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive, as the property is located about half-way through the route. At the on-site Spottswood Dining Room, guests partake in local goodies like pan-seared trout and blackberry-ice-cream pie.
This enchanting lodge is open from April to November, but you’ll have to book about a year in advance.
