Planning Adventures? See How We Use Our Checklist of National Parks to Explore All 63!
How to Check Off Your National Park Bucket List: A Comprehensive Guide
The U.S. National Parks are a collection of natural wonders that span across the country, from majestic mountains to sweeping deserts, and lush forests to crystal-clear lakes. Visiting each of the 63 official U.S. National Parks is an adventure unlike any other, offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and experiences that are truly once-in-a-lifetime.
If checking off all the National Parks is on your bucket list, you’re not alone. In fact, more and more people are seeking to explore these iconic landmarks and make lasting memories. But, where do you begin? How do you keep track of your visits and plan future trips to the diverse range of parks that exist?
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to approach your National Park adventure, offer practical tips for planning your trips, and show you how you can use a checklist of national parks to help you keep track of your journey. We’ll also highlight some of the best parks to visit, how to plan your trips efficiently, and why a National Park checklist can be both a helpful tool and a cherished keepsake.
Step 1: Start With the Basics: Why National Parks?
The U.S. National Parks system is made up of some of the most incredible natural wonders on Earth. From the iconic Yosemite waterfalls to the vastness of the Grand Canyon, these parks not only showcase natural beauty but also serve as important conservation efforts to preserve the nation’s heritage for future generations.
Each National Park is unique, offering different types of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, stargazing, photography, or just soaking in breathtaking views, there’s a park for every type of adventurer.
So why embark on this journey to visit all of them? For many, it’s about experiencing the country’s natural beauty firsthand, connecting with nature, and challenging themselves with the diversity of terrain. Plus, as you travel, you’ll have the chance to create incredible memories and check off some bucket-list experiences along the way.
Step 2: Use a Checklist of National Parks to Stay Organized
A checklist of national parks is the perfect tool to track your progress as you visit each park. Not only does it help you stay organized, but it also gives you a visual reminder of all the amazing places you’ve been. At Mod Day Art, we’ve created a beautifully hand-illustrated National Parks checklist that includes all 63 national parks. The poster features checkboxes next to each park, making it easy for you to mark off the ones you’ve visited and plan your next adventure.
What makes our National Park checklist truly special is the stunning design. Each park is paired with the state or states where it’s located, so you can easily see where your travels have taken you. Plus, the top of the checklist is adorned with a hand-drawn illustration of Yosemite Falls, one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S. national park system. This artistic touch makes the checklist not just a tracking tool, but a beautiful piece of art that you’ll be proud to display in your home.
Step 3: Plan Your Route and Prioritize Parks
Visiting all 63 National Parks requires careful planning. Here are a few key strategies to consider when mapping out your National Park adventure:
- Start with the Parks that Are Close to You: If you live near one or more National Parks, start there! This will give you the opportunity to check off parks with less travel time and cost.
- Plan Based on Seasons: Some National Parks are best visited during certain times of the year due to weather conditions. For example, if you want to experience Yellowstone in the winter, you’ll need to prepare for cold temperatures and possible road closures. On the other hand, visiting Acadia National Park in the fall means you’ll catch the stunning foliage.
- Group Parks by Region: The U.S. is vast, and planning your visits based on geography can help you minimize travel time and make the most of your trip. For example, you can visit the parks in California (like Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon) all in one road trip, or explore the parks in the Pacific Northwest, such as Olympic and Mount Rainier.
- Consider Your Activity Preferences: Do you love hiking? Try Glacier National Park or Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re into stargazing, Joshua Tree National Park and Big Bend offer incredible dark skies for the best view of the stars.
Step 4: Pack the Essentials for Your National Park Adventures
When visiting a National Park, it’s crucial to come prepared. Different parks have different ecosystems, elevations, and weather conditions, so your packing list will change depending on the location and time of year. However, there are a few items that should always be on your checklist:
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: For those rugged trails and varied terrains.
- Water and Snacks: National Parks can be remote, and it's always a good idea to stay hydrated and fueled for your adventures.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layering is key, as temperatures can fluctuate dramatically depending on the elevation and time of day.
- National Park Pass: An America the Beautiful annual pass is a great option if you're planning to visit multiple parks. It gives you access to all national parks and federal lands for one low price. (Also, there are FREE passes available under certain circumstances, so make sure you visit the National Park Service website to see if you qualify!)
- Map and Guidebook: Many parks have limited cell service, so having a physical map or guidebook can help you navigate the trails. Stopping by the park’s visitor center first before heading out on the trails is always a good idea!
Step 5: Take Time to Immerse Yourself
While it’s tempting to rush through a park to check it off your list, take the time to really immerse yourself in the experience. Each National Park offers something unique—from hiking to historical sites, to wildlife watching and photography opportunities. If you have time, stay for a day or two, and consider participating in ranger-led programs to learn more about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Whether you’re capturing photos of the Grand Canyon or watching the geysers erupt in Yellowstone, be sure to savor the moment and reflect on your surroundings. These experiences are what make a National Park trip truly unforgettable.
Step 6: Document Your National Park Journey
Alongside your checklist of national parks, consider documenting your trips in other ways. Create a photo album, start a travel blog, or keep a journal of your thoughts and experiences. These memories will only become more valuable over time, especially as you continue to check off parks from your list.
One of the best ways to celebrate your National Park visits is by framing your National Park Posters. At Mod Day Art, we also offer a collection of vintage-inspired National Park posters that capture the beauty of each location. These pieces make for a fantastic addition to your home, and they’ll serve as a reminder of the adventures you’ve had in these iconic parks.
Step 7: Stay Inspired to Keep Going
The journey to visit every U.S. National Park is a long one, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Each park is unique, offering new challenges and awe-inspiring views. Use your checklist of national parks to stay motivated and keep track of your progress. As you check off more parks, you’ll find new places to explore and more adventures waiting just around the corner.
Ready to get started? Head over to the National Park collection in our shopto grab your own beautifully illustrated National Parks checklist, and start planning your first adventure. Remember: it’s not just about checking off parks—it’s about embracing the journey and enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. Happy exploring! 🌲
And… if you love the checklist poster, you might also enjoy our collection of Vintage National Park Posters, each designed to capture the beauty of these iconic destinations.
Top 10 National Parks Worth Visiting
When it comes to exploring the natural wonders of the United States, these top 10 national parks are definitely worth visiting:
1. Yosemite National Park – Majestic waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and stunning granite cliffs.
2. Grand Canyon National Park – Breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and the Colorado River.
3. Yellowstone National Park – Famous for geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.
4. Zion National Park – Towering sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons.
5. Glacier National Park – Over 700 miles of hiking trails and pristine lakes.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park – Majestic mountain views and diverse wildlife.
7. Grand Teton National Park – Stunning mountain landscapes and pristine lakes.
8. Acadia National Park – Rugged coastlines and granite peaks.
9. Olympic National Park – Diverse ecosystems, including rainforests and coastlines.
10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Mist-covered mountains and rich cultural history.
https://moddayart.com/pages/about-our-woman-owned-business
Michael is the creative force behind Mod Day Art, a small, woman-owned business based in Fort Worth, Texas. As the in-house artist, he crafts unique designs in their home studio, drawing inspiration from his and Yvette’s shared passions for faith, travel, and the art of a well-made cocktail. Together, they have successfully leveraged their combined expertise in business, graphic design, and illustration to serve hundreds of clients through their previous marketing ventures.