3 Ways to Experience National Parks That Aren’t Hiking

by Vibrant Management

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Jul 30, 2021

Besides the stunning views, hiking is no doubt one of the biggest things that draw visitors to our country’s national parks. But while this popular activity is certainly a must-do in top parks like Yellowstone or Zion, it’s far from the only way to experience these parks.

If you’re ready to mix things up, keep reading to learn 3 other ways to experience national parks that aren’t hiking.

Take a Boat Ride

A 1-hour cruise on the Jenny Lake Boat Tour is the perfect addition to your visit to Grand Teton National Park. This scenic cruise offers sweeping views of the snow-capped mountains and thick evergreen groves found in the park. Besides being great for relaxing between hikes, this boat tour is a chance to see an entirely different side of the region and its native plants and animal life.

The knowledgeable guides on board will give you a brief history of the region. They’ll highlight the geology you can see at work in the surrounding mountains and valleys. You’ll also learn about the native flora and fauna you’ll see during your cruise. Enjoy some stunning photo opportunities. You’ll also have a chance to get your questions about the park answered by the experts.

Does this relaxing cruise sound like the perfect addition to your next trip? You’ll find it on the itinerary of our Yellowstone and Grand Teton 7-Day Private Custom Tour, as well as on our Yellowstone and Grand Teton 7-Day Scheduled Departure Tours. While the latter is sold out for 2021, there are still dates available in 2022. Act fast to secure your spot on this incredible adventure through two of our nation’s most iconic national parks!

Another exciting boat ride to add to your itinerary is a cruise on Lake Powell. Instead of mountain peaks and lush forests, this cruise will bring you past stunning red and orange rock formations that rise out of this desert oasis. You’ll find this boat tour on our Wonders of the West 10-Day Private Custom Tour and Scheduled Departure Tours. The latter is also sold out for 2021, but dates are available in 2022.

Soar to New Heights

Another exciting activity you can enjoy on our popular Yellowstone and Grand Teton 7-Day Tours is the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. This incredible journey will have you climbing aboard a large aerial tram, for views of Jackson Hole and the Tetons that you won’t see while hiking. 

The 12-minute journey offers 360-degree views, and you can wander about the tram to take them in from every angle. When you reach the summit, you’ll exit at the “Top of the World” overlook. Here, you’ll enjoy even more incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. From here, you can access some hiking and running trails, or maybe start a snowball fight. Grab a snack at the famous Corbet’s Cabin. Then, start your descent back down into the valley once more to continue your adventure.

To make the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram a part of your next adventure with Utah Luxury Tours, give us a call to check the availability of our Yellowstone and Grand Teton 7-Day Private Custom or Scheduled Departure Tours.

Go Horseback Riding

Take a look out across the unspoiled landscapes of Zion National Park, and it isn’t tough to imagine what early settlers in the area would have seen. If you want to experience the park in the same way they once did, a horseback ride is a great addition to your trip. Mount your four-legged ride and take a leisurely, relaxing 1-hour ride through the canyon, following the Virgin River. A 3-hour ride is also available. This trip offers a 500-foot climb to incredible views of the southern end of the park. No horseback riding experience is necessary, though riders may need to be aged 6 or older to participate.

Another great opportunity for horseback riding during your visit to Utah is at Bryce Canyon National Park. On this tour, you’ll wind your way through Losee Canyon. You’ll also get a chance to see some of the famous HooDoo rock formations up close.

Horseback riding can be added to some of our tours that feature stops at Zion and Bryce Canyon, including the Wonders of the West Tours and the Triple Canyon Private Custom and Scheduled Tours.

Planning Your Own Custom Tours

Whether you’re looking to soar to new heights on an aerial tram or want to experience the wild west on horseback like the pioneers once did, the best way to do it is with a custom tour experience. Our experienced guides will help to customize every aspect of your adventure. From relaxing vacations to exciting adventures, you’ll find it all with Utah Luxury Tours. 

Spots are filling up fast for our fall 2021 tours. Book your spot today, or start planning your 2022 vacation to guarantee your choice of trips and dates.

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