Choose a different path, tell National Parks to take a hike

The National Parks are closed; now what? The recent government shut down has deeply affected travel for Americans and visiting foreigners alike. Some of the limitations are a bit ludicrous: no stopping to take photos on roads that go through a national park and if you had a reservation and are technically allowed to stay, you can’t hike or enjoy the park.

Tell the National Parks to take a hike and go for the State Parks

The Utah Office of Tourism came up with a list of “50 Awesome Alternatives”. Many other states have done the same. Get online and do some research to see what’s open. Many state websites make it very easy by providing lists like Utah does. After all, they’d like to have your business. Do watch out for safety issues. Their may not be staff and guides in some parks or there may be a smaller staff than normal if some of the funding was provided by national government. Be prepared with a safety strategy: maps, plenty of water, a cell phone and a compass.

Indian reservations are open

Tribal Parks are all open. Many states have beautiful tribal parks which allow camping and day hiking. Navajo National Tribal Parks can be found throughout the Southwest and include Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park, Lake Powell Navajo tribal Park, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Four Corners Monument, Bowl Canyon Recreation Area and Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park.

Off the beaten path

Try the unusual or challenging. While Mount Rushmore might be closed, Custer State Park is open and just an hour south. There are plenty of twisting mountain roads, gorgeous views, and incredible wildlife encounters to feast your adventurous eyes on. Find a Buffalo Safari Jeep Ride and really get close to nature.

While your plans might be altered, your best trip ever might be on the horizon. Look at places you have long overlooked and try a tour you’ve pushed down your list. Take the path less traveled by; it could make all the difference.

Source: Travel Yahoo