Ahoy there! Are you a water lover looking for a new adventure? Look no further! There are numerous national parks across the US that can be explored by boat. Whether you are looking for a leisurely paddle along a calm river or a thrilling whitewater excursion, national parks have it all. In this blog, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the best national parks to explore by boat.

Acadia National Park 🌊

Located on the east coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and stunning rocky coastline. The park has several water trails that are perfect for kayaking and canoeing, including Somes Sound and Northeast Harbor. You can also take a guided boat tour to explore the park’s secluded coves and islands, where you can spot wildlife such as bald eagles, harbor seals, and porpoises. Paddle to the base of the Otter Cliffs and take in the spectacular views of the ocean crashing against the rocky coastline.

An image of kayakers paddling along the rocky coast of Acadia National Park

Everglades National Park 🐊

Explore the mysterious and wild mangrove forests of the Everglades National Park in southern Florida. Paddle through the winding rivers and swamps as you search for lurking alligators, manatees, and other unique wildlife. The Nine Mile Pond Trail is a popular route for kayakers, and the ranger-guided boating tours of the park’s backcountry are a must-do for visitors. As you explore the vibrant and colorful ecosystem of this park, you’ll be amazed by the sights and sounds of this truly unique wetland.

An image of kayakers paddling through the mangrove forests in the Everglades National Park

Glacier National Park ❄️

The stunningly beautiful Glacier National Park in Montana boasts over 700 miles of rivers and streams that are perfect for a summer adventure on the water. The crystal-clear waters of Lake McDonald are a particularly popular spot for kayaking or fishing. If you are looking for a more peaceful experience on the water, try paddling the Two Medicine Lake or the St. Mary Lake. For the more adventurous, try whitewater rafting on the Middle and North Forks of the Flathead River.

An image of a kayaker paddling on a clear lake with an iconic glacier as a background

Grand Canyon National Park 🌄

While best known for its magnificent canyon formations, the Grand Canyon National Park also offers several boat tours and trips that will take you down the Colorado River. With a majestic canyon rising high above on both sides, rafting along the Colorado River is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The river offers multiple rapids for thrill-seekers to conquer, but also slower sections that provide the perfect opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the park. Paddle between towering cliffs, through serene pools, and beneath stunning waterfalls that all contribute to the incredible beauty that is the Grand Canyon.

An image of a group of rafters maneuvering through the rapids of the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon National Park

Yellowstone National Park 🌲

Home to half of the world’s geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming offers a unique experience on the water. While Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in the park, the Yellowstone River offers prime opportunities to explore. Kayaking and canoeing in the calm waters of Yellowstone Lake give you an unmatched view of the park’s beauty. The Yellowstone River offers a scenic float that is perfect for those looking for a calm and serene journey, while Trout fishing is a popular activity in the park’s many streams and rivers.

An image of a kayaker paddling on the clear waters of Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park

National parks offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States, and exploring them by boat adds an entirely new dimension to your experience. With so many parks to choose from, there’s no better time to plan a new water adventure. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or an adrenaline-pumping excursion, the national parks have something for everyone.

An image of a person paddling alone in the calm waters of a scenic national park with the title "Water Trails and Wilderness: Exploring National Parks by Boat" in bold text above it