Plan Ahead

Safety

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  Alerts & Current Conditions

  Check out where to get the most up-to-date information about Arizona NPS sites and amenities.

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  NPS COVID-19 Response

  Learn about the National Park Service response to coronavirus.

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  Recreate Responsibly

  Help protect each other in the outdoors during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Basic Information

Use the National Park Service Trip Planning Guide and Checklist to help plan your trip. The guide provides key safety considerations to help you avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when visiting national parks. Here are some additional tips for planning your visit:

• Always check a park’s website for trip planning ideas and updates.

• Check for reservation requirements.

• Check the weather and any potential closures.

  • HEAT: Summers in Arizona can be extremely hot. Hike within your ability and rest often when hiking in the heat. Be prepared to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses: dehydration, hypernatremia, heat exhaustion and heat stroke; and be prepared to treat these cases. To learn more about extreme heat visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

  • MONSOONS: Arizona's monsoon season begins in June and continues through September. Some storms are severe enough, and drop enough rain at once to cause flooding. Flash floods come quickly and can be dangerous.

• Always bring plenty of water and food.

  • WATER: On hot, dry, summer days, you should be drinking 1 quart of water per hour of hiking. Drinking water before hiking can help reduce the risk of dehydration, as well as drinking during the hike (don't wait until you feel thirsty). Bring Electrolytes replacements such as sports drinks, or salty snacks, (bodies not only suffer from lack of water, but lack of sodium electrolytes as well.) This can be lifesaving in the case of heat exhaustion. Drink your water often and turn back when half your supply is gone. Dehydration can happen fast and is a serious health concern.

• Do not rely on your navigation device. It will not work in all parks; bring an old-fashioned map!

• Stop at the park’s visitor center upon arrival to get oriented and ask questions.

When you're ready to, get your pass! The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series includes several passes that cover entrance fees at national parks.

Plan Your Vacation Like a Park Ranger

Check out some insider tips for making the most out of your national park adventures in Arizona.

Visit the National Park Service Plan Like a Park Ranger page for some additional tips on trip planning.