Our national parks are some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places on earth. They offer a chance to connect with nature, take in breathtaking views, and explore the hidden gems that make each park unique. In this post, we will explore some tips on getting the most out of your national park photography trip.
Research the Park Ahead of Time: Before visiting a national park, it’s important to do your research. Find out what the park is known for and what the popular attractions are, but also look for the lesser-known areas and trails. Check the park’s website and guidebooks for information on trails, landmarks, and other points of interest, as well as any lesser known but intriguing areas.
Get Off the Beaten Path: Many national parks have popular trails and attractions that draw large crowds. To discover the true hidden gems of any park, be sure to also get off the beaten path. Look for lesser-known trails, side canyons, and overlooks. These areas may not have as many visitors, but they can often reveal stunning views and unique experiences. Be sure to know the best times of the day to photograph the areas of the park you’re most interested in. I like to use The Photographer’s Ephemeris which shows how the light will fall on the land, day or night, for any location on earth, as well as Google Earth to know the route and topography before you go.
Talk to Park Rangers: Park rangers are a great resource for discovering the hidden gems and less traveled areas of any national park. They know the park like the back of their hand and can offer recommendations for trails and areas that are less crowded. Don’t be afraid to ask them for advice or suggestions.
Take a Guided Tour: Many national parks offer guided tours that can take you to some of the lesser-known areas of the park. These tours may be led by park rangers, volunteers, or commercial tour operators. They can offer a unique perspective on the park and take you to areas that are difficult to access on your own.
Explore the Park at Different Times of Day: The light and atmosphere in a national park can change dramatically depending on the time of day. To discover the hidden gems of the park, try exploring at different times of day. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset are often the best times to capture stunning photos and experience the park in a different light, with the added benefit of potentially being less crowded.
Be Respectful of the Environment: Whether exploring the well known areas or the hidden gems of our national parks, it’s always important to be respectful of the environment. Stay on designated trails, pack out your trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles. By doing so, you can help preserve the beauty of all areas of the park for future generations.
National parks are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. By doing your research, getting off the beaten path, talking to park rangers, taking guided tours, exploring at different times of day, and being respectful of the environment, you can uncover the beauty and uniqueness of each park. So, the next time you visit a national park, take the time to explore the hidden gems and discover the magic of nature. Hopefully you’ll be rewarded with some memorable experiences and a few stunning photographs to cherish.
