America’s national parks have long been a top destination for road trips, where travelers get to experience scenic drives and expansive landscapes. However, for those who prefer not to drive, there are several national parks that offer accessible transportation options, making it easy to explore without the need for a personal vehicle. Thanks to a mix of public shuttles, nearby airports, and private tours, visiting these parks car-free is not only feasible but can also enhance your experience. Here’s a look at 12 U.S. national parks where you can leave the car behind and still have a fulfilling adventure.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a prime example of how accessible national parks can be without a car. Amtrak’s Empire Builder line offers train services that pass along the park’s southern edge, with stops in West Glacier and East Glacier Park. Once there, visitors can easily connect to seasonal shuttle services that take you to popular destinations like the Going-to-the-Sun Road. East Glacier is a particularly scenic spot to explore on foot, with the historic Glacier Park Lodge right in town. The train journey itself offers incredible views of the surrounding wilderness, adding another layer of adventure to your visit.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park is an ideal destination for car-free travel. The nearby town of Bar Harbor offers plenty of transport options, including the Island Explorer, a free bus service that makes stops at Acadia’s trailheads, landmarks, and local attractions. Visitors can fly into Bar Harbor’s small airport or take a cruise to the town’s port and easily hop onto the Island Explorer bus. Whether you’re hiking the park’s granite peaks or cycling along the scenic carriage roads, Acadia is an easy park to explore without needing to drive.
Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Haleakalā National Park, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, is accessible for those who want to avoid renting a car. Visitors can start their journey by flying into Maui’s main airport and taking a shuttle or a bike to the park. The park is known for its incredible sunrise views from the summit of Haleakalā, which can be experienced through organized tours. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a bike ride down the volcano after a visit to the summit, adding a thrilling element to the experience.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park offers a unique advantage for car-free travelers: Jackson Hole Airport, which is located within the park. With direct flights from several major U.S. cities, visitors can land in the heart of the Tetons and easily access the park without the need for a car. Jackson, a nearby town, offers various tour options to explore the park, including guided hikes, wildlife safaris, and boat trips on Jackson Lake. The park’s southern entrance is just a short distance from downtown, so it’s easy to get around by bike or on foot.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is another great destination for visitors who prefer not to drive. The park operates a free shuttle system that runs from March to late November, taking visitors to key spots like The Narrows, Angels Landing, and other trailheads. The shuttle system reduces congestion in the park, allowing for a more relaxing experience. Getting to Zion is also easier now, with new bus routes connecting the park’s gateway town of Springdale to the nearby city of St. George, where the nearest airport is located.
Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
Situated in the heart of St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park is perfect for those who want to explore a national park without leaving the city. The park, which features the iconic Gateway Arch, is easily accessible via public transport. Light rail from St. Louis Lambert International Airport takes visitors directly to the Arch in less than an hour. Once there, visitors can explore the Arch, the museum, and surrounding parkland all within walking distance from local hotels. The park’s central location makes it one of the most accessible national parks in the U.S.
Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands National Park, located on the island of St. John, is unique because the island has very few roads and no airport. Visitors can reach the park by boat, either via a ferry or cruise ship. Once on St. John, visitors can access the park’s stunning beaches and hiking trails. The main entrance to the park is just a short walk from the Cruz Bay ferry terminal, and from there, you can explore some of the park’s most beautiful spots, including Honeymoon Beach, by foot or with a guided tour.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, and it’s also accessible without a car. While the park itself is vast and remote, visitors can easily reach nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, where they can hop on shuttle buses to the park’s various trailheads. Luxury resorts like Blackberry Farm, just a short drive from the park, offer guided hiking tours to explore the region’s diverse flora and fauna, making this a great option for those looking for a car-free and luxury-infused experience.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is famous for its vast landscapes and geothermal wonders. While it’s traditionally a road trip destination, there are plenty of ways to experience the park without a car. Many tour companies, including MT Sobek, offer guided bus tours, with expert hiking guides handling the driving. These tours allow visitors to explore off-the-beaten-path locations in the park, where shuttle buses don’t go, providing a unique way to see Yellowstone’s hidden gems.
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Just outside Tucson, Saguaro National Park offers easy access for those visiting without a vehicle. The park is divided into two segments, both of which are a short ride from the city. Whether you choose to take a taxi or an Uber, you’ll be at one of the park’s visitor centers in less than 30 minutes. Hiking trails here take you through iconic saguaro cactus forests, offering a unique desert experience. Make sure to stay hydrated, as summer temperatures can be extreme.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali National Park, known for its towering peak, is a vast wilderness that’s easy to visit without a car. Visitors can take the Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train to reach the park from Anchorage or Fairbanks. Once there, a network of buses and shuttles will take you into the park’s interior, where you can view wildlife, hike, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery. The park offers a more intimate experience with nature, as car traffic is limited to preserve the natural beauty.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park is one of the most unique ecosystems in the United States, and it’s surprisingly easy to explore without a car. Visitors can take a shuttle or guided tour from Miami to the park’s entrance. Once there, guided boat tours are available to explore the wetlands, or you can hop on a tram or bus to take you to key spots like the Shark Valley Observation Tower. This is a great park for wildlife enthusiasts, as it’s home to a variety of birds, alligators, and other animals.
Exploring national parks without a car can open up a new perspective on these natural wonders. From scenic train rides to guided tours, these parks offer unique and accessible ways to experience the great outdoors, so you can focus on the views instead of the drive.
