There’s something deeply grounding about stepping into a national park—the hush in the canyons, the scent of sun-warmed trees, the sound of birds calling from beyond the bend in the trail. It’s where many of us go to breathe a little deeper and to appreciate the gift of God’s creation.
But if you’re planning a trip in 2025, you may be worried that things will look a little different. Staffing is down in many parks. Visitor numbers are still high. Services that used to be a given might not be available. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go—quite the opposite, really. With a little extra preparation and a healthy dose of grace, you can still experience the wonder that drew you there in the first place.
Here’s how to plan ahead and visit with both wisdom and wonder in your pack.
1. Do Your Research Before You Go
In years past, you might have strolled into a visitor center and picked up a paper map, chatted with a ranger about trail conditions, or signed up for a program. With lower staffing, those luxuries might not be available.
Before you leave home:
Visit the park’s official website for current conditions, alerts, and any reservation requirements.
Download trail maps and directions—you can’t count on cell service.
Look into apps like AllTrails or the NPS app to cache your route.
If it’s your first time to that park, read up a bit. A well-loved guidebook or a ranger-led YouTube talk can add layers of meaning to your adventure.
2. Expect Limited Services
With fewer hands on deck, you might find closed restrooms, limited hours at visitor centers, and fewer trash pickups. It’s not ideal, but it’s manageable if you plan ahead.
What to bring:
- Your own water, snacks, and lunch (just watch out for the ravens and chipmunks—they’re clever).
- A small bag to pack out your own trash.
- Extra toilet paper and hand sanitizer for backcountry or vault restrooms.
A little preparation here can turn a frustrating moment into just another story for the campfire.
3. Be Your Own Naturalist
While ranger talks and junior ranger programs might be on hold or scaled back, that doesn’t mean you can’t dive deep into the natural world around you. In fact, learning on your own might make it feel even more personal.
Bring along:
- A field guide or plant ID app
- A nature journal (even a pocket notebook will do)
- Curiosity, always
Let the forest be your teacher. Let your questions lead you.
Podcasts and audiobooks about your park can also make for great pre-trip or on-the-road listening. You might even want to check out Guide Along, which offers audio tours for various parks via your phone. We really enjoyed the Yellowstone one on our last trip.
4. Stick to Designated Trails
Trails are the threads that weave us safely through wild spaces. And in times of low staffing, it’s harder for rangers to keep an eye on fragile habitats and off-trail wanderers.
Staying on marked paths:
- Protects delicate plant life
- Keeps you safe from hidden hazards
- Makes it easier for search and rescue to find you—if that need ever arises
Remember: your footprints matter.
5. Pack Your Patience
You may wait a little longer at the entrance gate. You might find the shuttle bus full or the trail a little more crowded than expected. And you might not see a single ranger on your entire visit.
But you’re still there. Among the trees, beside the river, under the open sky. That’s the gift.
When things get frustrating, take a deep breath and offer grace—to others, to the park staff doing their best, and even to yourself
6. Essentials for your 2025 Adventures
Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel confident and prepared:
- Reusable water bottle
- Layers for shifting weather
- Trail map (downloaded or paper)
- Snacks and a meal
- First aid kit
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Small trash bag
- Sunscreen, bug spray, hat
- An open heart
✅ Bonus: Bring an extra map and share it if you see someone looking lost.
7. Seek the Quiet Moments
While the crowds gather at famous overlooks, try a lesser-known trail, a picnic by a creek, or a sunrise walk through the trees.
It’s in those quiet, unscripted moments when you’ll discover a park’s unexpected blessings.
Final Thoughts
Things might look a little different for our national parks in 2025, but the trails are still calling, the trees are still standing, and the parks are still worth the effort. With a little preparation and a good attitude, you’ll walk away with something unforgettable.
Curious which parks show up in my stories? Browse my collection of national park novels and see where the trails take you!
