ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Offering some of the most dramatic mountain scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks. Glacial lakes, wild streams and herds of elk are accessible through miles of trails and some of the highest elevated roads in the U.S. It’s also the perfect time for spotting snow-capped mountains and elk and moose calves.

Pro tip: End your day with a visit to Vail Village, just a short walk from Tivoli Lodge, for a slopeside view at one of many local restaurants.

NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE

The newest member of the national system, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia in an adventure lover’s dream. In addition to its serene hiking trails and scenic views, New River Gorge is popular for whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, base jumping and more. Spring rains and snowmelt give way to rushing rivers, waterfalls, wildflowers and lush Appalachian Mountain landscapes.

Pro tip: Purchase a West Virginia fishing license online. Stonewall Resort is located on the shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake, one of top fishing spots in the state. Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, saugeye and muskie are plentiful in its waters during the spring months.

CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK

Home to the deepest lake in the U.S., Crater Lake National Park is one of the crowned jewels of the Pacific Northwest. A photographer’s paradise, Crater Lake provides the perfect contrast of deep blue water surrounded by walls of snow. Don’t miss the famous Rim Drive, which covers the 33-mile caldera of Crater Lake and makes for one of the most stunning drives in Oregon. The spring season offers endless opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in mild temperatures.

Pro tip: Sample some local brews along the Bend Ale Trail, just minutes from Riverhouse Lodge. Boasting more than 30 local breweries, it is one of the most famous self-guided brewery tours in the U.S.

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

One of the most unique locations in the national park system, Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a diverse array of wildlife including alligators, crocodiles, manatees and over 350 species of birds. An airboat ride through the sawgrass prairies of the Everglades is easily one of the most iconic adventures you could have in a U.S. national park. Spring is the ideal season to visit the park as mild temperatures and lower humidity make animal and bird sightings easier, with fewer bugs.

Pro tip: Hop on the tram from the Naples Grande Beach Resort, and ride through the mangroves to the resort’s private beach, Clam Pass, to catch the sunset over Florida’s Gulf Coast.

MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK

Arguably the most photogenic of the national parks, Mount Rainier National Park is the perfect combination of snowy landscapes, rushing rivers, alpine lakes and wild forests. Home to Washington’s tallest mountain, the park offers over 250 miles of hiking trails, dozens of waterfalls and glaciers, all in the vicinity of an active volcano. Wildlife viewing opportunities are endless with herds of elk along with mountain goats, black bears and marmots. Spring is the best time to catch raging waterfalls as melting snow carries millions of gallons of water down the slopes of Mount Rainier.

Pro tip: Rent a complimentary bike from Hotel Max to explore the neighborhoods of downtown Seattle, and take in the views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound from Elliott Bay Trail.

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK

Considered one of the most underrated parks in California, Pinnacles National Park is paradise for any rock climber or geology lover. Spiky rock formations created millions of years ago by volcanic activity dot the landscape and there are hiking trails, caves and scrambling zones throughout the park. Pinnacles National Park is also a primary release site for California condors, making it one of the most ideal locations to see the endangered birds soar in the wild. Springtime transforms the terrain by showcasing an array of colorful wildflowers in the park, including California poppies, Indian paintbrushes, lupines and more.

Pro tip: After a day exploring Pinnacles National Park, enjoy dinner and cocktails while watching the sunset over Monterey Bay at The View Restaurant at Chaminade Resort & Spa.

Explore more adventure destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio, a collection of distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program.