Thinking about visiting a National Park?

Travel Tips

• What to Pack

  Clothing

  What type of clothes you pack for your trip will depend on the time of year you visit. Generally, we suggest packing layers since that can easily be removed or added. In addition, hiking shoes with good traction are wise if you plan on exploring some of the trails that many parks offer. Lastly, we suggest packing sturdy jacket for the year-round wind that occurs at higher altitudes.

  Portable Charger

  A portable charger is always great to have as backup for when your phone or any other devices run out of battery. They are especially great for when you are on a long drive. 

  First-Aid Kit

  When it comes to a national parks trip, especially if you choose to camp, it is crucial to have a first-aid kit. Minor scrapes, cuts, and bumps are inevitable when adventuring, so you will need Antibiotic ointment, bandages, gauze, and other basic supplies to treat them. It is also helpful to bring preventative supplies, like insect and mosquito repellent.

  Maps

  A GPS or GPS map is great for giving you directions when you are driving or on a hike, but it can be difficult to have access to cell service when you’re in the wilderness. This is why it is important to also have a map. You can find them at any national park visitor or welcome center when you arrive. 

  Universal Plug

  If you are traveling from out of the country, it is important to bring a plug that works in the United States, or a universal plug that will work in any country you plan to visit.

• How to Plan

  1. Make an Itinerary

  There are many national parks and sights to see nearby The Durango Train so it is important to start by deciding where you would like to visit. Luckily, we’ve made it easier by creating a few itineraries you can choose from. These itineraries have suggested stops mapped out for you with how many miles you will have to drive, what time of year to go, and how long you should spend on your trip.

  2. Make a Map

  Again, we have done this step for you in our itineraries. Each one has every stopped mapped out for you! 

  3. Plan Your Time

  Once you have an idea of where you are going, you’ll need to decide how much time you’d like to spend at each stop. Each itinerary has given you a suggested trip time, but you can always spend more time at each stop if you’d like. You’ll need to consider how long it takes to drive to and from each stop. It is easiest to do this stop by stop. 

  4. Plan Your Vehicle 

  You’ll want to start by deciding if you are driving your vehicle from your home or renting one from the airport. If you choose to rent a car, we suggest reserving your car at least four to six weeks in advance from the airport you will arrive. If you choose to get an RV, you’ll have to find an independant operator, as you can’t rent them at most airports. 

  5. Decide Where To Stay

  With deciding how long you still stay at each stop, you’ll also have to decide where you will sleep. Make sure you make your hotel or camping reservations early. In some of the more crowded national parks, like Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone, you may only be allows to stay in the park overnight with reservations. Reservations for many national park campsites and lodges almost all open 3-6 months in advance. Additionally, the most popular campsites sell out within seconds of going online, so plan early!

• Road Trip Tips

  1. Make a Packing List

  Every great road trip starts with a packing list. Luckily, we’ve already created one for you! Go to the “What to Pack’ section for help. 

  2. Make a Playlist

  What’s a road trip without a road trip playlist? Make sure to download your favorite songs to keep you singing for miles. Another great option is to have some podcasts downloaded to help make the time go by. 

  3. Never Delay Bathroom or Gas Breaks

  You never want to find yourself without gas or a bathroom. Emergency stops on mountainous roads can sometimes be dangerous, or even impossible. Additionally, in the the desert or in the mountain, you may be without cell signal to find your next gas station. Make sure to plan accordingly!

  4. Make Pit Stops

  Sometimes the best stops are the unexpected ones. Try to take lots of pit stops to stretch your legs and give yourselves a break! These out stops are often overlooked small towns, historical sites, and scenic overlooks. It’s nice to break up your long drives with a pit stop to go on a scenic hike and have lunch. 

• Hiking Essentials

  A Backpack

  A backpack is also important when hiking to keep your food, water, and emergency items. If you’re planning to hike a shorter distance (under a few miles), a 15 liter pack is likely all you need. If you’re wanting to go on a longer hike that will take more than a few hours, or weather is a factor, then we recommend a 30 or 45 liter backpack. 

  A First-Aid Kit

  It is very important to have a first-aid kit in your backpack. There are many affordable pre-assembles first-aid kits that will have everything you need, but you can always adjust it based on how long you’ll be out and how large your group it. We suggest adding bug spray and hydrocortisone cream to your kit to help with bug bites too.

  Trail Shoes

  You don’t necessarily need trail-specific shoes, but it is helpful, especially for longer and more difficult hikes. Trail shoes or hiking boots will offer more support than your regular sneakers. Additionally, some are waterproof and have rubber soles to prevent slipping on rocks and other weather conditions.

  Moisture-Wicking Clothes and Layers

  Layers are very important when hiking, because the weather can change quickly and it allows you to be prepared for all conditions. Additionally, you won’t want to bring cotton clothing because it doesn’t breathe well, takes longer to dry, and doesn’t insulate heat. Moisture-wicking clothes are the best for hiking. 

  A Hydration Bladder or Water Bottle

  If your backpack is designed for it, a hydration bladder is a great companion. If not, any water bottle will do, but we suggest something lightweight and affordable. 

  Plenty of Food/Snacks

  Hiking can make you very hungry, so make sure to pack lots of food! You’ll need to replenish all the calories you’re burning, so pack snacks that are high in protein, like nuts or jerky. 

  A Knife of Multi-Tool

  Some kind of knife of multi-tool is essential for hiking trips. They are helpful in many situations, like first-aid, gear repair, and food preparation. 

  A Headlamp

  A headlamp is great for hiking because it keeps your hands free for other items. Even if your hike is not planned to go in to the night, it’s always good to pack it just in case. You may end up staying later than you expect.

  A Map or GPS

  A physical GPS or GPS app is very important to keeping you on the right track, but you should also always carry a physical map. You may lose cell service or your devices, so it’s always good to have a back up. 

  Sun Protection

  Because you are outside, you should always have some kind of sun protection. Especially on a hike, you are often on higher elevation and closer to the sun. We suggest, bringing sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen in your backpack. 

• International Visitors

  Here are some things to consider for your vacation if you are visiting from outside of the United States.

  Clothes

  The weather in the United States changes often and the climate is very diverse, so make sure to understand the weather and season you are traveling in to have the proper clothing. You make be going to metropolitan cities to high elevated mountains with below freezing weather at night. 

  Camera Equipment

  The United States is one of the most unique places with lots of different sceneries. From mountains and forests to deserts and open roads, you’ll have a trip of lifetime, so be prepared to take lots of photos. We recommend brining a cell phone with a camera or a SLR camera to get some great photos. 

  Print and Save Documents Online 

  We suggest printing out all of your documents online and keeping them all together in one place. This is great to have as a back up in case things get lost in your email, you lose service, or your phone dies. 

  Cell Phone

  Make sure to check with your local cell phone provider about coverage and plans before you visit the United States. Keep in mind that most national parks have limited to no cell service. You can also buy a pre-paid phone plan once you get in to the United States for local calls. Additionally, many places, like coffee shops and hotels, offer free WiFi. 

Additional Durango Resources

Lodging

You’re sure to find your vacation sweet spot in Durango’s variety of accommodations. From some of the West’s most iconic hotels to comfy B&Bs, cabins and vacation rentals, to a lovely camping spot close to nature, Durango gives you more for your visit. Be sure to book in advance to ensure availability during your travel dates!

Learn More

Things to Do

There are endless things to see and do in Colorado. Durango, Colorado offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. With Durango as your base, you won’t run out of things to do. 

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Dining in Durango

A road trip from Durango, CO to Grand Canyon National Park is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the American Southwest. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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