This Valentine's Day, skip the crowded restaurants and predictable gifts. Instead, create a memory that will last a lifetime with a romantic getaway to a national park. It's a chance to disconnect from the everyday, reconnect with each other, and find a little magic in the quiet beauty of the natural world.
We've chosen five national parks that offer a unique and romantic experience for couples, from watching a fiery sunset to stargazing in a certified dark sky park.
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Romance: There is nothing more humbling and awe-inspiring than watching the sunset over the Grand Canyon. Sharing that moment, as the canyon's vast layers are painted in shades of orange, red, and purple, is a truly unforgettable experience.
What to Do: Find a quiet spot along the Rim Trail to watch the sunset. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the historic El Tovar Dining Room, with its classic ambiance and stunning views. Take a walk under the stars and marvel at the clear, dark skies.
Pro Tip: For a less crowded sunset experience, walk a short distance from the main viewpoints like Mather Point. The views are just as spectacular with a fraction of the people. Make dinner reservations for El Tovar well in advance.
2. Redwood National and State Parks, California
The Romance: There is a profound sense of peace and intimacy that comes from walking among the tallest trees on Earth. The misty, moody atmosphere of the redwood forest in winter is perfect for quiet walks and shared moments of awe.
What to Do: Take a peaceful walk through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a beautiful and accessible trail among old-growth redwoods. Drive the scenic Newton B. Drury Parkway. Find a secluded spot on the coast to watch the waves and look for migrating whales.
Pro Tip: Embrace the rain! The forest is often at its most beautiful and atmospheric in wet weather. Dress in layers and bring a good waterproof jacket. The quiet and solitude of the winter season are a key part of the romantic experience.
3. Death Valley National Park, California
The Romance: Death Valley offers a unique combination of dramatic landscapes and incredible stargazing. The feeling of being in such a vast, remote, and otherworldly place creates a powerful sense of adventure and connection.
What to Do: Watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point as the badlands glow in the morning light. Explore the colorful mineral deposits of Artist's Palette. After dark, find a spot away from any lights and simply look up. Death Valley is a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, and the sheer number of stars is breathtaking.
Pro Tip: The nights are cold, so bring warm layers for stargazing. The Oasis at Death Valley offers more upscale lodging and dining options for a more comfortable and romantic stay.
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
The Romance: The rugged, windswept coast of Maine has a wild and dramatic beauty in winter. It's a place for invigorating walks, cozy evenings, and feeling like you have the world to yourselves.
What to Do: Drive the open section of Ocean Drive and stop to watch the waves crash against the rocky shore. Take a walk on Sand Beach. In the evening, enjoy the cozy atmosphere and fresh seafood at a restaurant in the nearby town of Bar Harbor.
Pro Tip: While much of the park is closed, the accessible coastal areas offer plenty of beauty and solitude. Dress warmly and embrace the brisk sea air. The quiet of the off-season is a rare treat in this popular park.
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
The Romance: Big Bend is a place of grand, wide-open spaces and incredible solitude. It's a park for adventurous couples who want to feel like they're at the edge of the world. The mild weather and dark skies make it a perfect February escape.
What to Do: Hike into the stunning Santa Elena Canyon. Soak in the historic Hot Springs on the edge of the Rio Grande. Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive for breathtaking vistas. As night falls, lay back and enjoy the spectacular stargazing in this remote, dark sky park.
Pro Tip: Services are limited, so come prepared. The town of Terlingua, just outside the park, offers unique and quirky lodging and dining options that can add to the adventurous spirit of your trip.
Final Thoughts
This Valentine's Day, give the gift of a shared experience. A moment of quiet awe, a shared adventure, a memory made in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Grab your America the Beautiful Pass and go find a little romance in the wild.
