Winter is one of the best-kept secrets for road tripping in Texas. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and wide-open trails make this season perfect for exploring some of the most epic landscapes in the state — all without hopping on a plane.
If you’re looking for winter road trips from Dallas, these three destinations are ideal for weekend getaways, outdoor lovers, and families who want adventure without the heat.
Why Winter Is the Best Time for Texas Road Trips
Texas summers are brutal — but winter? That’s when the magic happens.
If you’re looking for epic hiking, Guadalupe Mountains National Park delivers. Home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, this park is best tackled during cooler months.
Why Winter Is Ideal Here:
Cooler temps for strenuous hikes
Clear skies and incredible visibility
Less foot traffic on popular trails
Top experiences:
Devil’s Hall Trail (dramatic canyon hike)
Guadalupe Peak for experienced hikers
Scenic desert-mountain landscapes
👉 Great for: experienced hikers, national park lovers, winter adventure trips
Which Texas Winter Road Trip Is Right for You?
Go to Palo Duro if you want iconic views and family-friendly trails
Choose Caprock if you want solitude, wildlife, and quiet beauty
Pick Guadalupe Mountains if you’re craving a true hiking challenge
You truly can’t go wrong — it just depends on the kind of adventure you want.
Tips for Planning a Winter Road Trip from Dallas
Check weather forecasts (temps can vary by region)
Pack layers — mornings and evenings can be chilly
Start hikes earlier for daylight
Bring plenty of water (even in winter!)
Final Thoughts
Texas has some incredible landscapes, and winter is the perfect time to experience them. These road trips prove you don’t need a flight — just a good playlist, a packed cooler, and a sense of adventure.
If you’re planning a winter getaway or even looking ahead to spring break, add these destinations to your list.
Looking for more family-friendly road trips and hiking ideas? Follow along here or on IG @Road.Trip.Queen for weekend itineraries, Texas adventures, and seasonal travel inspiration.
There’s something unforgettable about a road trip that winds through charming small towns, dramatic mountain passes, and ends with ocean breezes and rugged coastline views. Our recent adventure took us from the thunderous roar of Niagara Falls all the way to the peaceful shores of Bar Harbor, Maine, with scenic and soul-refreshing stops in Stowe, Vermont and Conway, New Hampshire. From waterfalls to winding mountain roads and cozy village vibes, every leg of the journey had something special to offer—and we soaked up every minute of it.
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Ultimate Niagara Falls Adventure: Views, Cave of the Winds & Night Fireworks
Our summer road trip began in Niagara Falls, New York — where we stayed just steps from the falls, experienced the powerful Cave of the Winds, and ended the night with fireworks over the water. Below, I’m sharing exactly what we did and what you need to know if you’re planning your own adventure.
We stayed at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino, just a short walk from Niagara Falls State Park, which made exploring easy and fun. We took in stunning sights from Goat Island, where the roar of the falls and the mist in the air set the tone for the day. One of the highlights was the Cave of the Winds tour—getting up close to the falls and braving the Hurricane Deck, where we were absolutely soaked and laughing the whole time.
Located at Niagara Falls State Park, Goat Island (U.S. side)
Entrance is near the Cave of the Winds Pavilion
Adults (12+): $23
Children (6–12): $19
Ages 5 and under: Free
Park at Goat Island Parking Lot 2 (closest to Cave of the Winds)
Open daily, typically 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM in peak season (May – October)
Last ticketed entry usually 30–60 minutes before close
Best time to visit: Mornings for fewer crowds
Cave of the Winds deck area is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to stairs and slippery surfaces
To top it all off, we capped the evening with the seasonal fireworks show at 10 PM, watching bursts of color light up the sky over the falls. It was the perfect end to an adventurous and awe-inspiring day.
Exploring Stowe: Waterfalls and Woodland Trails
Nestled in the beautiful forests of Stowe, Vermont, the hike to Bingham Falls is the perfect family-friendly adventure. This relatively short and easy trail winds through lush woods, making it accessible for kids and casual hikers alike. Along the way, the sounds of rushing water and chirping birds build the excitement as you get closer to the falls. It’s a wonderful spot to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy nature together.
When we reached Bingham Falls, we were instantly captivated by the cascade tumbling over the rocks into a clear pool below. The waterfall drops about 40 feet, creating a refreshing oasis that’s popular for swimming and cliff jumping in the warmer months. My youngest son couldn’t resist the thrill — he took a brave leap from one of the cliffs into the cool water below! Whether you’re here to dip your toes or just soak in the scenery, Bingham Falls offers a memorable and joyful experience for the whole family.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate — mostly well-marked, slight elevation changes
Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour round trip, depending on pace and stops
Trailhead Location: Off Vermont Route 108, near Smugglers’ Notch Resort parking area
Parking: Free parking available near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and summer holidays
Family Friendly: Yes — suitable for kids old enough to hike on uneven terrain
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, water, swimsuit or towel if you want to swim
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall; avoid winter due to slippery rocks and trail conditions
Amenities: No restrooms or facilities on trail — plan accordingly
After a day of hiking and exploring, we found the perfect spot to unwind at Idletyme Brewing Company in Stowe. This cozy tavern offers a warm, rustic atmosphere with a welcoming vibe for families and travelers alike. Sitting on the outdoor patio, we enjoyed a refreshing beer flight and crispy fried pickles. The menu features hearty pub fare, including juicy burgers and flavorful wings, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing meal after a day of adventure or a place to gather with friends, Idletyme provides a memorable dining experience in the heart of Stowe.
Mountain Magic in New Hampshire
Leaving Vermont behind, we headed toward the stunning landscapes of New Hampshire, making a memorable stop at Flume Gorge along the way. The hike through this natural granite gorge was a magical experience—walking across covered bridges, listening to rushing water, and marveling at the sheer walls towering above us. It was a perfect blend of easy adventure and breathtaking scenery that the whole family enjoyed.
Location: 852 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH (Franconia Notch State Park)
Open mid-May to mid-October
Trails: 9 AM–5 PM (May–Oct 13), 9 AM–4 PM (Oct 14–26); last entry at closing time
Adults (13+): $18 online / $21 at window
Children (6–12): $16 online / $19 at window
Kids under 6: Free
Reservations: Strongly recommended; required for time-slot entry and to save $3/ticket
Trail Details: 2‑mile one-way loop through gorge and rim trails.
Elevation gain ~500 ft; moderate difficulty with packed gravel, boardwalks, and many stairs
Restrooms and food/gift shop available at Gilman Visitor Center
Not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible
Wear sturdy footwear—the boardwalks and stairs can be slippery.
After our hike, we checked in to the amazing White Mountain Resort, a cozy mountain retreat that quickly became our home away from home. We savored delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, enjoying both dinner and breakfast with spectacular mountain views as our backdrop. Evenings were all about relaxation—while the boys splashed in the heated pool, we unwound in the hot tub, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and crisp mountain air. It was the perfect balance of adventure and comfort to recharge for the next day’s explorations.
After a relaxing stay in the White Mountains, we continued our road trip eastward toward the rugged coastline of Maine. The drive from New Hampshire to Bar Harbor was beautiful in itself—winding through small towns, dense forests, and glimpses of the Atlantic as we drew closer to the coast. With a few quick stops to stretch and snack, we arrived in Bar Harbor by afternoon, ready to trade mountain views for salty sea breezes. As we crossed the bridge onto Mount Desert Island, the charm of coastal Maine greeted us immediately, and we couldn’t wait to explore everything this picturesque seaside town had to offer.
Nestled along the serene waters of Frenchman’s Bay, the Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina served as a perfect coastal retreat for our Bar Harbor stop. With 187–193 guest rooms and suites featuring marble bathrooms, in-room coffee, and semi-private balconies overlooking the harbor, the accommodations were spacious, comfortable, and ideal for families. Located in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor, Harborside let us walk easily to local shops, restaurants, and waterfront trails—and still offered stunning views back at the hotel. It truly balanced relaxation and exploration in a way that made our Maine getaway feel special.
Cadillac Summit Road
Our first adventure in Bar Harbor was a drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain, and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day. The skies were crystal clear, and the views only got better with each twist and turn of the Cadillac Summit Road. As we climbed higher, sweeping vistas of Frenchman Bay, scattered islands, and the distant outline of Bar Harbor came into view. You will need the $6 timed-entry vehicle permit to drive to the summit, please see this link for booking!
At the summit, we parked and wandered the short loop trail, soaking in panoramic views in every direction. It felt like standing on top of the world. The cool breeze, endless blue sky, and jagged coastline below made it one of those moments you just want to bottle up and take home. Whether you hike or drive, the summit of Cadillac Mountain is an absolute must when visiting Acadia—and we were lucky enough to enjoy it in all its sun-drenched glory.
Cadillac Summit Road Info
Location: Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park — 3.5 mi winding paved road to the 1,530 ft summit
Vehicle Reservation Required: $6 per vehicle, required mid-May through late October
Reservations open 90 days in advance for 30% of spots; remaining 70% release 2 days before
Best time to go: For daytime viewing: late morning to early afternoon (8 AM–11 AM avoids crowds and fog)
Sunrise is spectacular, but requires early reservation and prime timing
Road open mid-May through mid-October; closed December–mid-April
No RVs or trailers; max vehicle length 21 ft
Summit offers two paved parking areas with restrooms, gift shop, scenic overlooks
A paved 0.7 mi loop trail (about 15 min) encircles the summit — easy and accessible
Highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast
Panoramic views of Frenchman Bay, the Atlantic, and nearby islands
Tide Pooling in Acadia National Park
Our next adventure took us to the Ship Harbor Trail in Acadia National Park, perfectly timed for low tide in the early evening. This easy, family-friendly loop winds through coastal forest before opening up to dramatic rocky shoreline—an ideal spot for tide pooling. Although we were hoping to spot starfish, the sea had other plans. Still, we had a blast discovering tiny snails, colorful anemones, and all sorts of marine life tucked between the rocks.
The kids loved climbing over the granite boulders, peering into pools, and exploring the alien-like world revealed by the retreating tide. The golden hour light made everything feel magical, and the peaceful setting gave us a perfect moment to slow down and appreciate the rugged beauty of Acadia’s coastline. Even without starfish, it was one of those simple, satisfying evenings that make road trips so memorable.
Ship Harbor Trail Information
Location: Off Maine Route 102A (Seawall Road), southwest side of Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park
Trail Type: Easy figure‑8 loop (~1.3 mi / 2.1 km round trip) through coastal forest and rocky shoreline
Easy grade with about 60–65 ft of elevation gain; suitable for all ages
Time Needed: 30–60 minutes, plan around 45 minutes (longer if exploring tide pools)
Best Time to Visit: Target 1 hour before to 30 minutes after low tide for best tide pooling
Coastal rocks can be slippery, especially near algae
After hiking the peaceful loop at Ship Harbor Trail, we made our way to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse—one of Acadia’s most iconic coastal sights. Perched on the edge of a rugged cliff, the lighthouse offers a dramatic view of the rocky shoreline and crashing waves below. The parking lot is small but turns over quickly, and the short walk down to the overlook rewards you with postcard-worthy views of the lighthouse framed by the Atlantic. It’s a quick stop, but one you absolutely don’t want to miss. We ended the evening with dinner at La Bella Vita at the hotel and it was delicious!
The next day, we took on the thrilling Beehive Trail—one of Acadia’s most adventurous hikes. This short but steep climb rewards hikers with stunning views, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Iron rungs, narrow ledges, and exposed cliffs make the ascent feel more like a vertical scramble than a typical trail. At the top, we were greeted with clouds and fog, but on a clear day you’ll find sweeping views of Sand Beach and the Atlantic Ocean below. It was an adrenaline-pumping hike, but absolutely worth!
Beehive Trail Information
Located in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, Maine
Entrance Fee: Required for Acadia National Park – $35 weekly vehicle pass
Trailhead is across from Sand Beach Parking Lot on Park Loop Road
Distance: 1.4 miles round trip (loop option available)
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous (not recommended for those with fear of heights)
Trail Type: Loop (ascend via Beehive, descend via Bowl Trail or same way)
Steep granite ascent with iron rungs, ladders, and narrow ledges
No technical climbing skills required, but agility and confidence with heights are important
Not recommended in rain or for young children
After hiking, we ended the day with shopping in Bar Harbor and dinner at Salsa Verde Grill! This restaurant features New Mexican style cuisine and it was actually really good! We needed a break from all the seafood and lobster rolls.
What I Wore on Our Niagara Falls to Maine Road Trip
Wondering what to pack for a road trip like this? I’ve linked a few of my favorite travel-friendly outfits and gear we used throughout the trip below!
From thundering waterfalls to misty mountain hikes and dramatic coastal views, this road trip from Niagara Falls to Maine gave us a little bit of everything. Whether we were climbing iron rungs in Acadia or chasing sunsets along the coast, each stop offered a chance to explore, reconnect, and make unforgettable family memories. If you’re dreaming of a scenic adventure packed with natural beauty, small-town charm, and just the right amount of thrill—this route delivers. Until the next road trip… happy trails!
Follow along for more family-friendly adventures and travel tips on Instagram @road.trip.queen!
If you’re craving a road trip packed with adventure, natural beauty, and a little slice of Americana, Kentucky is calling your name. This state has it all—underground kayaking, jaw-dropping hikes, epic caves, and a stop at one of baseball’s most iconic landmarks. Buckle up, because this Kentucky road trip is one for the books!
Stop #1: Kayak Underground
Kicking off the adventure in the most unique way possible—paddling through an underground cave! The Gorge Underground offers an unforgettable kayaking experience through a flooded limestone mine. Picture glowing waters, eerie rock formations, and total silence except for the dip of your paddle. Whether you’re a kayaking pro or a total newbie, this is a must-do.
Pro Tip: Book your tour in advance—they fill up fast, especially in peak seasons! Make reservations here.
Stop #2: Hike the Red River Gorge Geological Area
Once you’re back above ground, it’s time to stretch those legs with some epic hiking. Red River Gorge is packed with stunning rock formations, towering cliffs, and lush forests. Whether you want a short scenic stroll or a challenging backcountry trek, there’s a trail for you.
Must-Do Hikes:
• Natural Bridge Trail – A moderate hike leading to a massive natural rock arch.
• Auxier Ridge Loop – Jaw-dropping panoramic views of the gorge.
• Sky Bridge Trail – A short hike to another incredible rock arch.
After your hike, grab a bite at Miguel’s Pizza, a local favorite known for fueling hungry adventurers with delicious, fresh-made pizza.
Stop #3: Step Up to the Plate at the Louisville Slugger Museum
Next, it’s time for a little history and nostalgia in Louisville. Baseball fan or not, the Louisville Slugger Museum is an absolute blast. You’ll get to see how the legendary bats are made, check out memorabilia from some of baseball’s greatest players, and even hold game-used bats from legends like Babe Ruth and Derek Jeter.
Don’t forget to take a photo with the giant bat outside—it’s the world’s largest baseball bat, standing at 120 feet tall!
Stop #4: Explore Carter Caves State Park
No Kentucky road trip is complete without exploring its underground wonders, and Carter Caves State Park is the perfect place to do just that. With over 20 caves, scenic trails, and natural bridges, this park is an adventurer’s paradise.
Top Experiences:
• Natural Bridge Trail – A short but scenic hike to a unique rock bridge.
• X-Cave & Cascade Cave Tours – Walk through massive underground passageways and see stunning rock formations.
• Horn Hollow Trail – Short hike that leads to a little “wild caving!” You will need a permit, easily obtained at the visitor center!
Final Thoughts
This Kentucky road trip is the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and history. From underground kayaking and hiking through towering rock formations to swinging by one of baseball’s most famous museums, this journey has something for everyone.
Have you road-tripped through Kentucky before? What was your favorite stop? Drop a comment and let me know!
If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and a little bit of luxury, Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit. We recently took a trip with the kids and stayed at theLodge at Fall Creek Falls, and let me tell you—it was an unforgettable experience!
Where We Stayed: The Lodge at Fall Creek Falls
Photo from Trip Advisor website
We booked aking suite at the lodge, and it was absolutely worth it. The spacious room, modern amenities, and beautiful views made it the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The kids loved having space to spread out, and I loved the cozy yet upscale feel of the lodge.
Dining at the Lodge
We ate at the restaurant inside the lodge, and the food was great! It’s so convenient to have an on-site dining option, especially after a day of hiking and adventure. The menu had something for everyone, including kid-friendly options, and we left full and happy every time.
Hiking to the Base of Fall Creek Falls
One of the highlights of our trip was hiking down to the base of Fall Creek Falls. It’s a short but steep hike, and when we reached the bottom, the view was breathtaking.
The kids had a blast scrambling over the rocks, and we all got completely soaked from the mist! It was so worth it. If you go, be sure to bring waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and a change of clothes—you’ll thank me later.
Exploring the Other Waterfalls in the Park
While Fall Creek Falls is the star of the show, the park is home to several other waterfalls that are just as stunning and worth visiting.
• Cane Creek Falls – This waterfall is easily accessible and offers a beautiful view from an overlook. There’s also a suspension bridge nearby, which the kids loved crossing!
• Cane Creek Cascades – A short walk from the Nature Center, this cascade is a fun spot where the kids enjoyed splashing in the water. It’s a great place to take a break and let them explore.
• Piney Falls – A bit more off the beaten path, Piney Falls is another scenic waterfall with a dramatic drop. We enjoyed the peacefulness of this spot compared to the more popular areas of the park.
• Rockhouse Falls – Located near Cane Creek Falls, this one is a bit smaller but still beautiful, especially after a good rain.
If you have time, I highly recommend checking out as many waterfalls as possible—each one has its own unique beauty!
Exploring the Overlooks
Fall Creek Falls has some of the best scenic overlooks, and we made it a mission to visit them all. Each one offered a different perspective of the park’s stunning waterfalls, gorges, and forests. The kids loved peering over the railings and taking in the views, and it was a great way to see a lot without too much hiking.
A fun way to view waterfall overlooks is by accessing suspension bridges at Fall Creek Falls. Each one offers an exhilarating way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes. As you cross these swaying bridges, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests and deep gorges, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The bridges add a sense of thrill to your hike while providing a unique perspective of the cascading falls and the surrounding beauty. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the area!
Horseback Riding Outside the Park
For a fun and unique experience, we also went horseback riding. The guided trail ride was a relaxing way to explore the area, and the kids were so excited to ride their own horses. It was a great mix of adventure and calm, and we all agreed it was one of the best parts of our trip.
Tips for Visiting Fall Creek Falls with Kids
Stay at the Lodge – The suite was perfect for families, and having a restaurant on-site made meals easy.
Bring extra clothes – If you’re hiking to the base of the falls, expect to get wet!
Plan for a mix of activities – Between hiking, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone.
Check trail difficulty – Some hikes are short and easy, while others can be steep. Know what to expect before heading out with little ones.
Our trip to Fall Creek Falls was an amazing family adventure, and we can’t wait to go back! Have you visited with kids? Let me know your favorite part in the comments!
As someone that’s always looking for the next trail to hike, I cannot believe that I didn’t make the trip to Palo Duro Canyon sooner! I was absolutely blown away that this State Park exists… in Texas! Here are 3 hikes you can’t miss in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
Photo taken from inside the Big Cave
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Park Information
Palo Duro Canyon is located in the Texas Panhandle.
Park Address: 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015.
Daily Fees: $8 per adult, children under 12 are free
Hours: 7 am – 9 pm
Park Map
Things to Know
Palo Duro Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas!”
This canyon is the 2nd largest canyon in the US!
Palo Duro Canyon spans 120 miles and is 800 feet deep.
The best time to visit is spring and fall.
Summer visits can be dangerous because of the heat and high temps.
Make sure to bring more water than you think you’ll need during your hikes!
Palo Duro Canyon is a great place for a weekend getaway!
It only takes about 45 minutes to drive the loop through the Park.
You can stay nearby in the town of Canyon, TX.
My best friend and I visited Palo Duro Canyon in mid-February. We were pleasantly surprised with the weather and really enjoyed the hikes we were able to squeeze in during our weekend visit! Keep reading to learn more about the three hikes you can’t miss in Palo Duro Canyon!
Photo taken at the beginning of the Lighthouse Trail hike
The Hikes
The Lighthouse Trail – Distance: 5.9 miles | Time: 2.5 hours | Level: Moderate
This is the Lighthouse!
Our favorite hike was the Lighthouse Trail. This 6 mile hike is fairly easy until you get closer to the “Lighthouse” rock formation. At this point the hike gains slightly in elevation and you have to make a climb to get close to the Lighthouse.
Gorgeous landscape along the Lighthouse Trail
The Lighthouse Trail took us about two and a half hours to complete. I was very impressed with how well the entire trail was marked. And, my friend and I felt very safe the entire time we were hiking!
The stunning desert landscape and dramatic colors make for an excellent hike. These unique colors of Palo Duro Canyon represent different geologic time periods spanning 240 million years!
The Big Cave – Distance: short walk from parking spot | Time: 30 min. | Level: Easy
The Big Cave
Our second hike of the day was more of a short walk. We drove under two miles from the Lighthouse Trail parking lot to reach the Big Cave. You will see a sign for The Big Cave on the side of the road past the Juniper Campground.
I have a new love of exploring caves… especially on my own without a guide or a group! This cave is BIG and was so fun to explore at our own pace. Even better, it’s only a short walk from the parking spots near the trailhead.
I had so much fun exploring this short trail and the cave. If you have children with you, this hike is a must! They’ll love the cave and all the climbing around it!
The Caves Trail – Distance: 0.9 | Time: 30 min | Level: Easy
This is another really cool hike with several caves to explore at your own pace! I wish we would’ve spent more time here, but we were pretty tired after the other two hikes of the day.
The beginning of the Caves Trail
If I had it to do all over again, or if I had my boys with me, I would like to start the day on this trail. There is a small parking lot right at the trailhead, but unlike the hike on the Lighthouse Trail, this one is not very well marked.
I recommend bringing headlamps or a flashlight to go deeper into some of the caves. It was cloudy off and on during our visit and kind of dark at times. You may not need them, but I wished that I would’ve had mine on this hike!
Palo Duro CanyonHighlights
Well marked trails
I had excellent cell service in most areas of the Park
Stunning views and colors
The Park was easy to navigate
No crowds
The trails were scenic and not too hard
Hiking Essentials
These are some of my tried and true hiking essentials that I cannot trek without! I really do consider myself a minimalist when I hike, but I do feel like you need to be prepared for anything when you’re out in the wilderness. Here are the things I never hike without.
Hiking shoes – I’ve been wearing these instead of my tall hiking boots and love the comfort of them!
Hiking backpack – This backpack is the perfect size for me. My husband carries a larger one, but this one is great for a smaller amount of stuff.
Cell phone arm band – I like the ease of this phone case. I can easily grab my phone and put it up throughout the hike as needed.
Camera stand– I love capturing family photos, but I don’t like having to ask other people to take them. This is great for all kinds of traveling, not just hiking!
Headlamps– these are the ones I own and won’t hike these trails again without!
Where to Stay
If you’re planning a trip to Palo Duro Canyon, I recommend lodging in Canyon, TX which is only about 19 miles/33 minutes from the entrance of Palo Duro Canyon State Park. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. The room was clean and cozy and we enjoyed the free breakfast buffet in the morning!
The Hiker’s 365 Adventure!
On a final note, my best friend and I signed up for the Hiker’s 365 Adventure Challenge! We’ve set a goal to hike 365 miles in 365 days. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, this challenge offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature one mile at a time! We’d love for you to join this community of hikers, too! If you’re interested, register today using my Hiker’s 365 Adventure referral link!
Do you crave getting outside and exploring new places? Does your family enjoy activities like hiking, camping, or kayaking? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then I highly recommend visiting your nearest State Park!
It seems like National Parks are all the rave right now, but State Parks are just as amazing! Plus, there’s way more State Parks out there to explore than National Parks. Keep reading to learn about our favorites across the US and why we love them!
Dead Horse Point State Park – Utah
Hands down, one of the most beautiful views we’ve ever seen!
Did you know that the vista from Dead Horse Point State Park is one of the most photographed scenes in the world? Once you visit, you’ll totally understand why! In my honest opinion, I prefer this state park over the Grand Canyon. The views are breathtaking, the hiking was easier for the kiddos, and the location in relation to Moab and the National Parks in the area made for an amazing trip!
We visited in March over our spring break and felt like we had the whole entire place to ourselves! I loved the views and the pictures I was able to take of my family here. The boys loved exploring and climbing around on the rocks (not anywhere close to the edge, I promise). You’ll come across this park right before Canyonlands National Park, so we enjoyed the easiness of seeing both places in the same day!
If you have kids that love to run and climb, then take them to this beach! We visited this state park over spring break in March, so the weather was still quiet chilly and too cold to swim at the beach. That didn’t stop any of the fun, though! This is an awesome beach to visit to search for shells and shark teeth, too!
My boys loved climbing on all of the driftwood along the shore. And they also had a blast running through the trees and bushes farther away from the water. They made little forts under the trees and played together for hours while the grownups relaxed to the sounds of crashing waves! It was nice to see how much fun these brothers had playing together and we have the best memories of this day! I loved the Marsh Boardwalk, so be sure to check that out!
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, this state park is AMAZING! I only spent half a day here exploring the caves, but I could’ve stayed for days. Picture it, you’re deep in the forest walking along trails that you know lead to different caves. Limestone bluffs surround you. And then you spot the first cave opening and the true adventure begins!
This state park is considered to be Iowa’s most unique and I couldn’t agree more! There are about 13 caves to explore and inside the caves it stays about 55 degrees, even in the summer! Plan to wear hiking boots, bring a flashlight, and prepare to get dirty! It really is a memorable adventure. I’m not sure who enjoyed this place the most, my kids or myself!
Have you ever been to a lake that looked like a beach in the Caribbean?
This is another beautiful state park. We kept saying that it felt like we were at the beach and not at the lake! I really enjoyed the hiking trails, the trees are huge and the views along the way are stunning. The beach area at the lake is also great for relaxing, picnicking, swimming, and renting kayaks, canoes, and SUP boards.
We rented a kayak and explored on the water! It was so much fun. We paddled out to an island and got to hike around it and up to the ruins on top. The weather here is also amazing, not too hot at all and we visited in August. We enjoyed snorkeling here, too and just relaxing along the shore after a day on the water and hiking in the area. California is just so dreamy!
This is one of the most memorable state parks we’ve visited, probably because it was the first long hike we took our boys on! The Black Hills of South Dakota are already pretty fantastic, but add in this state park with lake access, wildlife galore, and rugged hiking trails and the experience is one you’ll remember for a lifetime!
If you’re able to visit, be sure to check out the Sunday Gulch Trail. It’s not the easiest trail, but it is so much fun! Who wouldn’t love hiking over streams and around waterfalls? Seriously, besides driving through the park and taking in the sights, the trail is my most favorite memory here!
We come to this state park for the dinosaurs! Where else can you go hunt for dinosaurs tracks? Here, you can find them in different places along the riverbed of the Paluxy River and walk right in them if you choose to! After all, Glen Rose is known as the Dinosaur Capital of Texas!
We’ve always enjoyed bringing our boys here on warm summer days. The river is a great place to cool off and we all really enjoy hunting for those dinosaur tracks! You can also camp, hike, and look for wildlife here. Glen Rose has a lot of other options in the area, from a drive through wildlife park, to campgrounds, river floats, and more!
I have never seen trees so tall and forest trails so quiet and serene!
There’s not a lot of words that describe just how magical these groves of trees are. And the pictures I took definitely do not come close to showing the massive size of them. Truly an unforgettable day of hiking and exploring and a place that I personally feel everyone should visit if given the chance!
I’ve never seen my boys so happy out in nature. They were impressed with the views, but loved exploring the most. They ran, played, climbed on tree logs, crawled through downed trees, and just acted like kids. It made my mama heart so happy. The Redwoods are unforgettable and this park is a place that we all want to visit again!
We felt like outlaws on the run here at this park!
Nestled in the San Bois Mountains of Oklahoma sits Robbers Cave State Park. The landscape and hiking trails are just as legendary as the infamous outlaws that used to flee to the caves to hide.
We find ourselves going back time and again because it’s fairly close to us and it’s just such a fun and easy getaway. The kids love exploring the caves in the area and climbing all the rocks that dot the landscape behind the cabin rentals. We enjoy sitting around the fire pit roasting marshmallows and watching our kids doing all the things that kids like to do when out in nature!
Short hike to an impressive waterfall, yes please!
This was a surprisingly wonderful stop on our road trip from Texas to South Dakota! We happened to see this state park sign off the road in Nebraska and decided it would be a great place to get out and move around after driving all day. It ended up being so much more than we had expected!
We were utterly shocked at the size of the waterfall we found at the end of a fairly easy walk. Even more surprising though, was that nobody else was there! This is a place that I hope to explore more of one day!
This is another state park that my boys give two thumbs up to! I don’t know your thoughts on sand, but my kids love it! So, can you imagine their delight when we pulled up to a park full of sand dunes for miles and miles? This is a great stop if you’re driving through Texas towards New Mexico. We stopped here along the route to Carlsbad Caverns!
If you visit, bring a sled or something to slide down the dunes on and let the kids run free! There are great facilities to shower off in after a day of playing in the sand. Trust me, it will be everywhere, but totally worth it!
As you can see, there are so many amazing places out there to explore! If you find yourself on an adventure, look to see if there are any state parks in the area. I promise you won’t be disappointed! We love adding state parks to our itinerary. They are typically very inexpensive and offer a wide range of activities for all the different interest levels in our family.
Be sure to check back in on the blog to see just which state parks we add to our list this year! We have some fun plans in the works that I can’t wait to share with you all. If you have a favorite state park, I’d love for you to share. As always, happy travels!
If you are craving a unique travel adventure, then look no further! Our visit to Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa ranks in my top 3 favorite experiences of all-time and I am already planning our next trip back!
So, maybe you’re like us and you’re on a quest to visit all fifty states. Maybe you’re looking for something different, or maybe you live in the Midwest. Either way, I cannot recommend a trip to this State Park enough! If you follow along already, then you know that I have set a goal to visit all 50 states with my boys. When planning our summer adventures I knew that I wanted to knock out some new states that we haven’t visited yet and so I got out my map and started making plans. Most of the states we have left to visit are not really in driving range, but Iowa looked doable. My first thought though was, “What on earth are we going to do in Iowa”? Little did I know that I would come across one of the most epic hiking trails I could ever imagine!
What makes this State Park so incredible is that it has 6 miles of hiking trails and 13 caves to explore, completely on your own. My family loves visiting caves, but usually that comes with a guided tour and a time limit on your caving experience. Not this place! You park your car and your adventure begins! There are no guides, no time limits, just a nicely marked trail system to venture at your own pace.
My boys loved this adventure just as much as I did! We started with the lower caves, so that involved walking down wooden stairs to get inside the caves. There were different places for the boys to climb and explore, and if you have kids, you know that they love to climb and explore! I could not get over all of the geologic features and was just in awe the whole time!
The caves stay the same temperature year round, but I found that they were pretty humid in August when we visited. There’s lots of water dripping throughout the caves, so wear a hat if that is something that might bother you. I also recommend wearing waterproof shoes and bringing a flashlight or headlamps. Some of the caves are really wet, some even require you to walk through shallow waters to explore!
For more information on Maquoketa Caves State Park, visit their website linked HERE! If you would like to check out videos of our hike through the caves, check out my Instagram page: road_trip_queen!
Road Trip Queen 