The Best 5-Day Escapes to U.S. National Parks

The World’s Leading Nature Travel Company Introduces a Set of Short, Active U.S. National Parks Adventures

Nat Hab has unveiled a collection of five-day, small group, active itineraries for compact yet in-depth exploration in Arches, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone national parks. The three “Escape” itineraries offer more active adventures with moderate hikes, wildlife safaris, dark sky experiences and more.

“At Natural Habitat Adventures, we’re continually innovating to create adventures that resonate with our guests while introducing new travelers to the joy of immersive nature exploration. Our line of Escape trips are designed for those who seek meaningful travel experiences but may not have the time for extended expeditions,” says Ben Bressler, Nat Hab’s Founder and CEO. “With the guidance of our naturalist Expedition Leaders, travelers will discover highlights and hidden corners of America’s most iconic national parks, in a way that fits busy schedules.”

See our Escape itineraries, which feature some of the top national parks in the American West:

Moab, Arches & Canyonlands Escape

Begin in Grand Junction, Colorado and take the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive with views of the canyons on the way to Moab. In Moab, hike the Dinosaur Stomping Grounds Trail to view Jurassic-era tracks, followed by a Colorado River float. Witness sunrise in Arches National Park and hike to Delicate Arch before exploring ancient petroglyphs and Deadhorse Point State Park’s dramatic vistas. Discover the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park with a scenic hike and a Dark Sky stargazing experience in the desert. End with a sunrise walk along the Colorado River and a drive on the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway back to Grand Junction.

Grand Canyon & Sedona Escape

The trip begins in Flagstaff, Arizona, surrounded by the Coconino National Forest’s Ponderosa pines. Explore the fossils and vibrant hues of the Painted Desert at Petrified Forest National Park. Travelers will visit highlights of the park including the Rainbow Forest Museum, the Giant Logs Trail and the Blue Mesa Trail. Hike Sedona’s striking red rock landscapes and visit ancient Sinagua ruins in the Verde Valley. A luxury dome train ride to the Grand Canyon offers stunning views, followed by a hike along the South Rim and a spectacular sunset over the canyon. Conclude with a serene sunrise at Yavapai Point before an early morning walk along the scenic South Rim.

Wild Yellowstone Escape

Explore the Old West heritage of Bozeman, Montana, before traveling through the Paradise Valley to Yellowstone’s Mammoth Hot Springs, where white travertine terraces and abundant wildlife await. In the Lamar Valley, often called “America’s Serengeti,” search for wolves, bison and grizzlies in their natural habitat. Explore Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, including the iconic eruption of Old Faithful and the dynamic features of the Upper Geyser Basin. Conclude with a scenic return to Bozeman, flanking the peaks of the Absaroka Range and looking for wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.