Introduction: Best National Park Lodges in The U.S.
National parks are some of the most remarkable destinations in the United States, offering visitors unparalleled access to nature and unforgettable landscapes. Staying at a national park lodge can enhance your visit, giving you the chance to experience the parks in comfort and style. These lodges, located in or near iconic parks, combine rustic charm with modern amenities, making them ideal basecamps for outdoor adventures. Below, we highlight 10 of the best national park lodges, including their unique features, best times to visit, and average room rates.
Lake McDonald Lodge – Glacier National Park, Montana
Built in 1913, Lake McDonald Lodge is a Swiss-chalet-style retreat located on the shores of Glacier National Park’s largest lake. The lodge’s picturesque setting offers breathtaking views, and its proximity to the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road makes it a prime location for adventurers. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or taking a scenic boat tour right from the lodge’s dock. Inside, the grand lobby features timber beams, a large stone fireplace, and vintage charm that transports you back in time.
Best Time to Visit:
Late June to mid-September, when the Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open and hiking trails are most accessible.
Average Room Rate: $250–$350 per night.
Wuksachi Lodge – Sequoia National Park, California
Tucked away in the heart of Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge is surrounded by towering sequoias and dramatic mountain landscapes. Built with stone and cedar, the lodge blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, offering a rustic yet comfortable retreat. It’s the perfect jumping-off point for visiting the General Sherman Tree—the largest tree in the world—or hiking the park’s numerous trails. The on-site Peaks restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine, making it easy to refuel after a day of exploring.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall for pleasant weather; winter for snowshoeing and a quieter experience.
Average Room Rate: $220–$300 per night.
Crater Lake Lodge – Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Perched on the rim of the crater, Crater Lake Lodge offers some of the best views of Crater Lake’s brilliant blue waters. Since opening in 1915, this historic lodge has welcomed travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Guests can relax on the patio while taking in the caldera’s awe-inspiring views, or explore nearby hiking trails like the Watchman Peak Trail. The lodge’s cozy interiors, including its inviting stone fireplace, make it a perfect retreat after a day outdoors.
Best Time to Visit:
July to September for warm weather and clear views; early fall for quieter visits and stunning autumn colors.
Average Room Rate: $280–$400 per night.
Jackson Lake Lodge – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Jackson Lake Lodge is famed for its floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Teton Range and Jackson Lake. Located in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, this lodge offers everything from lodge rooms to private cottages. Guests can enjoy activities like horseback riding, hiking, and boat tours on Jackson Lake. The lodge’s eco-friendly practices and gourmet dining options, including locally inspired dishes, add to its appeal. The serene location is ideal for wildlife viewing, with elk, moose, and bison frequently spotted nearby.
Best Time to Visit:
June through September for mild weather and peak wildlife viewing.
Average Room Rate: $300–$450 per night.
Bryce View Lodge – Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce View Lodge provides an affordable and convenient base for exploring the unique landscapes of Bryce Canyon. Located just a short walk from the park’s entrance, the lodge offers simple but comfortable accommodations with easy access to Bryce Canyon’s iconic hoodoos. The park’s shuttle system makes it easy to reach popular viewpoints like Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point. While the lodge is modest, its unbeatable location and budget-friendly rates make it a top choice for adventurers.
Best Time to Visit:
April through May and September through October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Average Room Rate: $100–$180 per night.
Far View Lodge – Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Situated atop a mesa, Far View Lodge is the only lodging option within Mesa Verde National Park, making it a gateway to exploring the park’s ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings. Each room features a private balcony with panoramic views of the surrounding Four Corners region. The lodge’s Metate Room restaurant offers a menu inspired by Southwestern flavors, making dining here a highlight of the stay. Visitors can easily access guided tours of the park’s cliff dwellings, including Balcony House and Cliff Palace.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to early fall for guided tours and clear weather.
Average Room Rate: $160–$250 per night.
John Muir Lodge – Kings Canyon National Park, California
Nestled in Grant Grove Village, John Muir Lodge offers a cozy retreat in the heart of Kings Canyon National Park. The lodge’s rustic architecture and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Guests can relax by the large stone fireplace in the lounge or set out on nearby trails to explore the park’s towering sequoias and serene meadows. Its location near General Grant Grove makes it easy to see some of the largest trees on Earth.
Best Time to Visit:
May through October for mild weather and accessible trails.
Average Room Rate: $175–$250 per night.
Grande Denali Lodge – Denali National Park, Alaska
Perched high above the Nenana River, Grande Denali Lodge offers sweeping views of Alaska’s rugged wilderness. The lodge is located near the entrance to Denali National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the park’s vast tundra and spotting wildlife like grizzly bears and caribou. Guests can enjoy modern accommodations with a touch of Alaskan charm and dine at the Alpenglow Restaurant, which features local seafood and panoramic views.
Best Time to Visit:
June through August for long daylight hours and active wildlife.
Average Room Rate: $250–$400 per night.
El Tovar Hotel – Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
El Tovar Hotel, a National Historic Landmark, has been welcoming guests to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon since 1905. The lodge’s location steps away from iconic viewpoints like Mather Point makes it an unparalleled choice for exploring the canyon. Inside, El Tovar combines historic charm with luxurious accommodations, and its dining room offers gourmet meals with views of the canyon. Guests can enjoy sunset walks along the rim or guided tours into the canyon itself.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for mild weather and smaller crowds; winter for snow-dusted canyon views.
Average Room Rate: $300–$500 per night.
Old Faithful Inn – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Old Faithful Inn is a masterpiece of “parkitecture,” built in 1904 with towering logs and a massive stone fireplace. Its location near Yellowstone’s most famous geyser makes it one of the most iconic lodges in the park system. Guests can watch eruptions of Old Faithful from the lodge’s upper deck or explore nearby geothermal features like hot springs and mud pots. The inn’s rustic charm and unparalleled location make it a favorite among Yellowstone visitors.
Best Time to Visit:
June through September for mild weather and access to all park areas.
Average Room Rate: $250–$400 per night.
Final Thoughts
Each of these national park lodges offers a unique way to experience the incredible natural beauty of America’s protected lands. Whether you’re seeking the alpine charm of Lake McDonald Lodge, the cozy seclusion of John Muir Lodge, or the historic grandeur of El Tovar Hotel, there’s something for every traveler. Be sure to book early, as these lodges often fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Let us know in the comments which lodge you’re planning to visit next!
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