From the window of your hotel room, imagine waking up to breathtaking views of iconic landscapes such as the plateaus and gorges of the Grand Canyon or witnessing shooting stars streaking across the skies of Death Valley. Welcome to a world where nature's majesty and human ingenuity intertwine seamlessly. These historic lodges, nestled amidst America's national parks, offer a unique blend of nature-inspired architecture, rich heritage, and unparalleled access to the country's most stunning natural treasures.
While people visit national parks primarily to enjoy the great outdoors, indoor experiences can be equally exciting. After an exhilarating hike, the comfort and beauty of these lodges provide a welcome respite. What's more, they are also a great way to enjoy nature! Read on to discover some of the most iconic national park hotels and lodges in America.
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In 1904, a collaboration between the Yellowstone Park Association and the Northern Pacific Railroad gave birth to the Old Faithful Inn, situated at the heart of America's inaugural national park. Serving as a testament to history, this legendary establishment has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and has hosted numerous presidents.
Constructed using local stone and lumber, the Old Faithful Inn proudly stands as the largest surviving log structure to this day, boasting fascinating features such as its towering stone fireplace, rustic wooden staircases, and a meticulously crafted handmade clock.
There's nothing like the view from El Tovar's perch on the southern rim of the Grand Canyon. When this magnificent hotel opened its doors in 1905, it stood in splendid isolation, so remote that water had to be transported by train. Over the years, El Tovar has gained worldwide acclaim, becoming one of the most renowned and sought-after national park hotels. Its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1987 only solidifies its significance.
Distinguished personalities such as Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, and Bill Clinton have graced its rooms and delighted in the rustic charms of El Tovar Dining Room, where guests can indulge in hearty local delicacies like pancakes drizzled with Arizona prickly pear syrup. Each one of the hotel's 78 unique rooms promises an unforgettable experience.
The Many Glacier Hotel, built by the Great Northern Railway between 1914 and 1915, is an idyllic retreat nestled on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains. The absence of televisions in guest rooms encourages visitors to embrace the great outdoors, indulging in activities like fly-fishing, embarking on exhilarating hikes to Grinnell Glacier, exploring forested mountains and verdant meadow valleys on horseback, or simply unwinding during a leisurely boat trip.
An absolute must-do is the guided tour aboard the iconic Red Buses, renowned as the world's oldest touring fleet, allowing passengers to soak in the panoramic vistas of the mountains and Montana's vast Big Sky.
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Originally built in the 1920s as a haven for the affluent, the Ahwahnee, now known as the Majestic Yosemite Hotel, epitomizes luxury within the park. A well-heeled adventurer's dream, this establishment is situated in the beautiful Yosemite Valley. Today, visitors from around the world come here to admire the hotel's exquisite blend of Art Deco and Native American architectural influences.
Alongside the main lodge, which offers a range of 97 rooms, including the prestigious presidential suite once occupied by JFK, are 24 charming cottages. Surprisingly, this historic and secluded national park hotel also provides internet access. However, you'll likely be too besotted by the stunning Yosemite Falls Trail, Mirror Lake Loop, and other amazing hikes to spend much time online. If a stay isn't within your budget, drop by for a drink or meal and revel in the spectacular views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.
Tucked away in Utah's beloved Zion National Park, Zion Lodge stands as the solitary accommodation option within this enchanting realm of outdoor exploration. Blending the nostalgic ambiance of 1920s cabins with contemporary conveniences like gas log fireplaces, microwaves, and mini-fridges, this lodge offers a truly memorable retreat.
With two on-site restaurants and bicycle rentals available, guests have everything they need for an unforgettable stay. Moreover, the lodge provides a range of exciting opportunities to explore the park's renowned red cliffs, from exhilarating horseback rides to enlightening ranger-led tours.
Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, was formed by Mount Mazama's collapse and lures visitors with its vibrant azure waters and awesome hiking trails. The Crater Lake Lodge is located at one end of the caldera, offering lakeside accommodations with the most stunning views.
Following a day filled with invigorating activities such as hiking, swimming, or fishing in the vicinity of the lake, indulge in a delicious meal in the lodge's dining room before retiring to your comfortable guest room. Beyond its picturesque allure, the lodge serves as an ideal place to learn about the park's legacy. For instance, the Exhibit Room illustrates the history of Crater Lake and the hotel in fascinating detail.
Although Death Valley is well known as one of the driest and hottest places on earth, it also boasts one of the most luxurious hotels in the southern California region. The Oasis at Death Valley, an expansive compound that includes The Inn at Death Valley and The Ranch at Death Valley, presents an indulgent escape.
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With its vast golf course, rejuvenating spa, refreshing spring-fed pools, and awe-inspiring vistas of the park's rock formations and breathtaking sunsets, this destination is truly extraordinary. Enhance your desert adventure by indulging in the resort's array of tours and activities, such as mountain biking excursions and thrilling jeep drives to ghost towns.
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If you've ever dreamed of staying somewhere near a volcano, here's your opportunity. This storied hotel is strategically positioned near the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater on the Big Island, near the summit of Kilauea.
Originally established in 1846 within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the hotel underwent a lavish $7 million renovation and reopened its doors in 2013. With rooms providing picturesque views of the Kilauea volcano and the lush Hawaiian rainforest, visitors can take the Napau Trail for an unforgettable hike. Aside from the wonderful view of the volcano, the hotel offers daily tours, bike rentals, a restaurant with authentic Hawaiian cuisine, and beautifully appointed rooms with stunning caldera views.
