Ultimate Family Road Trip, on a Budget

Travel Expert Peter Greenberg Suggests National Parks -- Beautiful, and Family and Wallet-Friendly

(CBS) 

ZION

What makes it special: This park is famous for its red rock formations, which are best experienced by hiking. The most spectacular trail is Angel's Landing (accessible by free shuttle), which is about five miles/five hours roundtrip, a steep and narrow climb that ends with a panoramic view of Zion Canyon. (Fun fact: You can actually do an Angel's Landing "ehike" on the NPS/Zion Web site!)

Low-cost activities: The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is accessible by free shuttle (private vehicles aren't allowed on this road in the summertime). You can drive yourself to the Kolob Terrace Road, which is much less crowded and takes you to Lava Point for wonderful views across the canyons. Rangers offer guided hikes (1-2 miles) and evening presentations on topics like "Things That Go Bump in the Night" and "Starry Nights." All of these programs are free. Horseback riding is available through Canyon Trail Rides from $40. For any photographers in the family, the red rocks of Zion offer some great opportunities for stunning snapshots, particularly in the early morning and at dusk.

Admission fee: $25 per car - good for seven days.

On the Cheap: 30 Bucks for a family of four for 2 days: The is a worthwhile state park addition: just south of Zion is the spectacular Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Utah ($5), which sprawls over 3,730 acres with coral-colored dunes, red sandstone cliffs and forests.

Suggested lodging: Zion Lodge, which offers historic cabins inside the park from $159 a night.

MT. RAINIER

What makes it special: Beautiful views of Mt. Rainier, even if you're not up for the strenuous climb to the summit of this 14,000-foot active volcano. The park is easily accessible from Seattle, for those who live in that area or are planning a trip to the city.

Low-cost activities: Go to Paradise Meadow for day hikes and beautiful wildflowers. Drive up to Mowich Lake - it's a rough dirt road and is closed sometimes due to weather conditions, but it's the park's largest and deepest lake with lovely views. You can also hike in this area. Another nice drive is along Route 410 up to Chinook Pass, where you can see Rainier reflected in Tipsoo Lake. Bring your bike or kayak - you can do the latter on all but a few select lakes, and biking is allowed on most park roads.

Admission fee: $15 per car - good for seven days.

On the Cheap: A Family of four for 2 nights of camping $45 Bucks

Suggested lodging: Paradise Inn, which has nice views of the park and has been recently renovated, from $104.
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