Visiting the American National Parks
As an online English teacher, I get to “travel” to many different places with my students. I have heard about all sorts of destinations people love to visit. A few of my students from Europe like to travel to the United States, not just to go shopping in New York, wonderful as that is, but to see the great natural beauty of the American National Parks. These protected landscapes are some of the most spectacular places on the planet, and a trip to any of them is a fantastic reason to sharpen your English.
Yellowstone National Park
One of the most interesting parks is Yellowstone, in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It is famous for its natural geysers, which spew water and steam from deep inside the Earth. There are literally thousands of geysers in the park, the most famous and punctual being Old Faithful. Yellowstone was established as America’s first National Park in 1872, and it remains a symbol of the whole idea of protecting wild places for everyone to enjoy.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite, in Northern California, is another favourite. You often have to reserve a cabin inside the park about a year ahead of time, because it fills up fast. In summer the whole park is open and you can drive for miles admiring the beautiful vistas that open up through the mountains. If you plan a winter trip, check the website for road closures caused by snow. Whenever you go, you will be amazed by the granite cliffs, waterfalls and giant sequoia trees.
The Grand Canyon
Further south, in Arizona, is the famous Grand Canyon. The canyon was carved by the Colorado River cutting through the rock over millions of years, revealing layer after layer of the Earth’s geological history. The area was home to Native Americans at least 12,000 years ago. Standing at the rim and looking across the vast, colourful gorge is an experience that photographs never quite capture.
Planning your visit
America’s National Parks are a treasure preserved for us to appreciate. To make the most of your trip, plan in advance. Reserve accommodation early, check seasonal opening hours and road conditions, and buy an “America the Beautiful” pass if you intend to visit several parks. Carry water, respect the wildlife, and stay on marked trails. A little preparation goes a long way when you are far from a town.
Useful English phrases for the parks
You will speak to park rangers, staff at visitor centres and fellow travellers. Keep these English phrases as they are and use them on your trip.
| Situation | What you can say |
|---|---|
| At the entrance | “How much is the entrance fee, and is it valid for the whole week?” |
| Asking about trails | “Which trail do you recommend for a half-day hike?” |
| Checking conditions | “Are any roads or trails closed today?” |
| Safety question | “What should I do if I see a bear on the trail?” |
Get ready for your American adventure
If the parks spark your curiosity about the country, read our piece on the American Dream to understand a little more of the culture, or take a completely different journey with New Zealand on film. To feel at home with the accent you will hear on your trip, our American accent conversation course gives you focused practice with a native teacher before you pack your bags.
Do I need to book National Park accommodation in advance?
When is the best time to visit the American National Parks?
Is English in the parks hard to understand?
Which park is best for a first visit?
Plan your trip in English
Practise real travel conversations with a native American English teacher before you go.
