In this two part story, we’re going to list our favorite luxury hotels that border the 10 most popular National Parks in the United States. We already covered the Top 5, including Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Olympic and Yellowstone.
One the great treasures of the United States is the chance to explore the vast array of National Parks that stretch from coast to coast. The summer road trip is a staple in American family history, with mom and dad piling all the kids into the station wagon or minivan or RV and heading out on the open road. These days, it’s kind of nice sometimes to mix the rustic with the luxurious. In a country that covers 3,718,711 square miles, it helps to have a bit of direction as to where to visit and where to stay.
Here are the remaining 5 to round out the Top 10.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
This living showcase of the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, with elevations ranging from 8,000 feet in the wet, grassy valleys to 14,259 feet at the weather-ravaged top of Longs Peak, provides visitors with opportunities for countless breathtaking experiences and adventures.
The Home Ranch, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Laughter, smiles, and contentment are found here at our beautiful northwest Colorado dude ranch. Ride over rolling meadows to fascinating vistas with a riding program that is progressive and varied. The cuisine created by Chef Clyde Nelson and crew is a big part of why Home Ranch is a member of Relais and Chateaux. Be it riding, fishing or hiking – a dude ranch vacation should be experienced for the pure joy it provides both children and adults.
Massive canyon walls ascend toward a brilliant blue sky. To experience Zion, you need to walk among the towering cliffs, or challenge your courage in a small narrow canyon. These unique sandstone cliffs range in color from cream, to pink, to red. They could be described as sand castles crowning desert canyons.
Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Nevada
Granted, when you talk about a national park, Las Vegas is not what comes readily to mind. But Green Valley Ranch is located outside the Strip on the way to Zion. And it’s a perfect place to retreat and get the dirt out from under your fingernails.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Though a short distance from the urban environments of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The winding Cuyahoga—the “crooked river” as named by American Indians—gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. The park is a refuge for flora and fauna, gives a sense of times past, and provides recreation and solitude for Ohio’s residents and visitors.
With just 25 luxurious suites, Walden Country Inn & Stables is the perfect hideaway for relaxing getaways, timeless weddings and executive retreats. The elegantly proportioned buildings surround a 175-year-old barn and silo located on 32 acres, and horses roaming in the pasture provide the drama of strength, color, and majesty. Dramatic glass walls bring in natural light and contrast with the traditional farmhouse feel of the buildings. Guests enjoy a host of recreational activities, world-class dining, unobtrusive service and a wealth of meeting space.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park preserves a spectacular landscape rich with majestic mountains, pristine lakes and extraordinary wildlife. The abrupt vertical rise of the jagged Teton Range contrasts with the horizontal sage-covered valley and glacial lakes at their base, creating world-renowned scenery that attracts nearly four million visitors per year.
Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Amangani is located on a high mountain valley in northwest Wyoming. Nearly 7000-ft above sea level, it looks across to the Teton Pass. A 40-suite resort made from Oklahoma sandstone and Pacific redwood offers a library, gym, spa and boutique. The suites are air-conditioned with separate bath and shower. The Grill Restaurant serves regionally produced organic foods and often has a wood fire burning. The outdoor swimming pool can be enjoyed all year round.
Acadia National Park, Maine
People have been drawn to the rugged coast of Maine throughout history. Awed by its beauty and diversity, early 20th-century visionaries donated the land that became Acadia National Park. The park is home to many plants and animals, and the tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast. Today visitors come to Acadia to hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage roads, or relax and enjoy the scenery.
Voted by Conde Nast as one of the greatest places to stay in the world, The White Barn Inn is located in Kennebunkport, “an achingly romantic destination…” The inn boasts the only Mobil 5-star restaurant north of New York that changes its menu weekly, depending on what is in season either by sea or local poultry. With butlers and valets at your beckon call, the White Barn Inn expresses why so many past presidents have retreated to this area.
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Top 10 Luxury Hotels Near National Parks, Part 1
