12 U.S. National Parks You Can Visit Without a Car

Exploring the beauty of U.S. national parks doesn't always require a car. Whether you're seeking adventure, peace, or stunning landscapes, there are several national parks across the United States that you can visit without the need for a vehicle. Many of these parks offer public transportation, bike rentals, shuttle services, and even hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural wonders without driving. In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best national parks in the U.S. that you can enjoy without needing a car.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park, located on the scenic coast of Maine, is one of the most accessible national parks for those looking to enjoy nature without a car. The park offers a free Island Explorer shuttle service that connects visitors to popular destinations like Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, and Jordan Pond. The shuttle service is seasonal, making it an easy and eco-friendly way to explore the park's rugged coastline, dense forests, and spectacular views.

2. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park in California is another top destination where visitors can easily get around without a car. The park operates a free shuttle service throughout the Yosemite Valley, which stops at popular spots like Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and El Capitan. Additionally, visitors can explore the valley on foot or by renting bikes from the Yosemite Valley Lodge. Yosemite’s well-marked trails and efficient public transportation system make it easy to navigate this natural wonder without a car.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The iconic Grand Canyon is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Luckily, you don’t need a car to get around in this vast park. The Rim-to-Rim shuttle bus operates along the South Rim, stopping at popular viewpoints like Mather Point, Grand Canyon Village, and Yaki Point. For visitors exploring the park from the South Rim, the shuttle is a convenient way to avoid the hassle of parking and enjoy breathtaking views without the stress of driving.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park in Utah offers a shuttle system that operates from March through late November, allowing visitors to explore the park’s dramatic cliffs, canyons, and rock formations without a car. The shuttle stops at key locations such as The Grotto, The Temple of Sinawava, and The Court of the Patriarchs. The shuttle service is part of an effort to reduce congestion and preserve the park’s natural beauty, ensuring that visitors can enjoy Zion in a more sustainable way.

5. Glacier National Park, Montana

For those visiting Glacier National Park in Montana, the free shuttle service along the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a fantastic way to see the park’s stunning mountain landscapes. The park’s shuttle system runs seasonally and provides transportation to various hiking trailheads and viewpoints like Logan Pass and Avalanche Lake. Glacier also offers a train service that connects travelers from Whitefish to the park, making it a great option for those looking to explore the area without a car.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers multiple ways to explore its diverse landscapes without a car. Although the park itself doesn’t have a formal shuttle system, local towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer public transportation services that can take visitors to the park entrance. Once in the park, visitors can take advantage of hiking trails, which lead to breathtaking waterfalls and scenic overlooks, and explore the park by foot or bike.

7. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah has a well-established shuttle system that allows visitors to explore its otherworldly rock formations, known as hoodoos, without a car. The shuttle connects visitors to key areas of the park, such as Sunset Point, Bryce Point, and Inspiration Point. The shuttle is an ideal way to see the park’s famous viewpoints while avoiding crowded parking lots during peak season.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park offers seasonal shuttle services that make it easy to explore the park’s stunning high-altitude scenery without a car. The Rocky Mountain National Park Shuttle runs between Estes Park and the park’s most popular areas, including Bear Lake, Moraine Park, and Sprague Lake. The shuttle is a great way to access these areas while avoiding the challenge of parking in busy spots during peak visitation times.

9. Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park is a true wilderness experience, and getting around without a car is relatively easy. While private vehicles are not permitted beyond the first few miles of the park road, visitors can use the park shuttle buses that run from the park entrance to popular destinations like Eielson Visitor Center and Toklat River. These buses provide a unique opportunity to view wildlife and dramatic landscapes while traveling comfortably throughout the park.

10. Everglades National Park, Florida

Everglades National Park, the largest tropical wilderness in the U.S., is another destination where you don’t need a car. Visitors can take advantage of the shuttle bus services that operate in certain areas of the park, including Shark Valley and Anhinga Trail. For a more interactive experience, you can also take guided boat tours or kayak rentals to explore the Everglades’ waterways, spotting wildlife like alligators, manatees, and exotic birds.

11. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are famous for their towering giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth. To explore the parks without a car, visitors can utilize the seasonal shuttle system that operates in key areas, including Lodgepole and Cedar Grove. Additionally, the park offers numerous hiking trails and activities that can be accessed by foot, providing a car-free way to experience the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada.

12. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

Though known for its extreme temperatures, Death Valley National Park offers visitors the chance to explore its vast desert landscape without a car. The shuttle bus service operates seasonally, providing access to popular sites like Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, and Zabriskie Point. Visitors can also take part in ranger-led programs and guided tours, which make it easier to explore the park’s unique features in a sustainable way.

Conclusion

Visiting a U.S. national park doesn’t have to mean driving everywhere. With convenient shuttle systems, bike rentals, and guided tours available in many of these parks, you can experience the beauty of nature without a car. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes of Great Smoky Mountains, the towering cliffs of Zion, or the stunning coastlines of Acadia, these 12 national parks offer easy access and unforgettable experiences for travelers who prefer to explore without the hassle of driving.