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Beginner Friendly Guides

Your First National Park Adventure Starts Here

Discover accessible trails, family-friendly viewpoints, and the magic of nature without the overwhelm.

Beginner's Favorites

Hand-picked parks with excellent accessibility, clear signage, and breathtaking rewards for minimal effort.

Indiana Dunes National Park

IN

Indiana Dunes National Park

Beginner: 86
Family: 98

Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the park’s 16,000 acres.

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

WV

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

Beginner: 86
Family: 76

A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

NE

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Beginner: 86
Family: 67

Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River, Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for peoples from Native Americans to emigrants on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails to modern travelers. Rich with geological and paleontological history as well as human history, there is much to discover while exploring the 3,000 acres of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

CA

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Beginner: 86
Family: 90

Huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world’s largest trees exemplify the diversity of landscapes, life, and beauty here. Explore these pages to plan your visit or to learn about the plants and animals here and the threats they face. Ancient giant sequoias may seem invincible, but they, too are vulnerable.

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Love for Nature

We believe everyone should experience the wonder of our wild places, regardless of their skill level.

Family-First

Focusing on trails with visitor centers, bathrooms, and paved paths perfect for strollers or tiny legs.

Safe Discovery

Providing up-to-date alerts and practical advice to ensure your first trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

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