5 Off-Road Trails for National Park Week Free Entry Day

National Park Week is coming up April 19–27, 2025, and if you’ve been waiting for the perfect reason to plan a trip, here it is: free entry to all U.S. national parks on Saturday, April 19. Whether you're thinking about a big spring road trip or just want to get out for the day, it’s a great chance to visit some of the most iconic places in the country—without spending a dime at the gate.

And if you’re someone who likes to explore beyond the paved overlooks, you’re in luck. Some national parks allow off-road driving on designated 4x4 routes, giving you access to quieter corners that most visitors may never see. With the right prep and a solid trail guide, you can turn this celebration into a real off-grid adventure.

Here’s what you need to know about off-roading in national parks, how to find the right trails, and five great picks to check out during the free entry day.

What Is National Park Week?

National Park Week is a yearly celebration of our country’s national parks, hosted by the National Park Service. It’s all about encouraging people to get outside, explore, and learn more about the places that make the U.S. so unique.

In 2025, it runs from April 19 through April 27, and it kicks off with a big bonus: free entry to all national parks on Saturday, April 19. It’s one of the best excuses to visit a park you’ve been eyeing, without having to pay the entrance fee.

Throughout the week, parks across the country host events, ranger talks, and programs that highlight everything from wildlife and geology to local history and culture. It’s a great time to plan a visit—whether you're heading out for a quick hike, a scenic drive, or a full-on camping trip.

Just keep in mind: while entrance fees are waived on April 19, things like campsites, backcountry permits, and other extras might still cost a little.

Can You Off-Road in National Parks?

You can—but only in designated areas.

Unlike national forests or BLM land, national parks have strict rules to protect sensitive landscapes. Off-roading is only allowed on specific unpaved roads open to street-legal vehicles. That means no rock crawling, no cross-country travel, and no riding OHVs or side-by-sides in the backcountry.

Still, many parks do have rough dirt roads designed for high-clearance 4x4s. Some are mellow scenic drives; others are remote and challenging—requiring extra planning and supplies.

To stay legal and tread lightly, always check:

• The National Park Service website for rules and trail updates
• Park maps for backcountry road info
• Local visitor centers for current conditions and closures

How to Use Trails Offroad™ to Find Trails in National Parks

When it comes to planning your next off-road trip, Trails Offroad™ can be your best tool. We offer in-depth trail guides for thousands of 4x4 roads across the U.S., including many inside national park boundaries.

While free members can view all of the trails on our maps, signing up for a yearly All-Access Membership where you will get access to our entire catalog of trails. Our guides provide you with more in-depth trail information to help you plan your route with confidence and get access to all our offline maps.

Every Trail Guide includes:

• Trail difficulty and vehicle recommendations
• Length, elevation, and time estimates
• Seasonal access notes and photos
• Waypoints, GPX files, and offline navigation support

5 Off-Road Trails to Explore in National Parks

Ready to hit the trail on National Park Week’s free entry day? These five off-road trails—available on Trails Offroad™—are all located within national park boundaries. They’re legal, scenic, and a great way to explore the parks from behind the wheel.

If you are looking for trails in other parks or maybe want to see other options, make sure to download our app and sign up for our free trial!

Heintooga Round Bottom Road - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tucked away in the nation’s most-visited national park, Heintooga Round Bottom Road offers a peaceful escape into the backcountry. This 16-mile gravel route winds downhill through dense forest, with the occasional glimpse of Smoky Mountain views. The upper section is one-way only, eventually leveling out and becoming two-way as it follows along the Straight Fork River.

While there’s no roadside camping, the nearby Round Bottom Horse Camp is an option if you plan ahead with a reservation.

Whitmore Overlook - Grand Canyon National Park

If you’re looking for solitude with a view, Whitmore Overlook delivers. Located 500 feet above the Colorado River at the western edge of the Grand Canyon, this remote trail is worth every mile.

The route starts at the old Mount Trumbull Schoolhouse and winds through lava rock and desert cliffs. The 23-mile road drops about 3,000 feet over rough terrain. The final few miles are steep and rocky, so use lower gears.

With no light pollution and incredible views, camping at the overlook is an unforgettable experience.

Old Fall River Road - Rocky Mountain National Park

Old Fall River Road is one of the best ways to experience the Rocky Mountain National Park. Built by hand over a century ago, it was the park’s original road and is now a scenic, 9-mile, one-way drive climbing up the slopes of Mount Chapin.

Along the way, you’ll pass through forest, alpine meadows, and into the tundra, all on a narrow dirt road with sharp switchbacks and no guardrails. It’s closed to trailers and longer vehicles, but perfect for a slow-paced journey with plenty of stops to take it all in.

Berdoo Canyon - Joshua Tree National Park

Berdoo Canyon is a history-rich route that takes you through desert canyons and into Joshua Tree. This 14-mile trail leads to the crumbling remains of Berdoo Camp, built in the 1930s to house workers building the Colorado River Aqueduct.

Now all that’s left are concrete shells surrounded by desert plants, rocky washes, and the occasional ghost story. The terrain is a mix of rock, sand, and hardpack, and while the route isn’t well marked, it’s easy to follow.

Eye of the Whale - Arches National Park

The Eye of the Whale trail takes you off the main loop and straight into the Arches National Park’s stunning backcountry. The trail winds through sand, slickrock, and desert washes, ending at a unique arch formation.

It’s quiet, colorful, and full of that classic Arches magic—without the crowds. You’ll hit a few sandy climbs and a slickrock obstacle, so a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must. Just don’t forget your entry pass and timed permit if you’re visiting between April and October.

Tips for Off-Roading in National Parks

To have a safe and responsible trip on April 19—or any time—keep these tips in mind:

• Download trail maps from Trails Offroad™ ahead of time for offline use.
• Carry recovery gear, a spare tire, and extra water. Check out our complete guide to all recovery gear here.
• Check the park’s current conditions and road status before your trip.
• Stay on the trail to protect the environment and avoid fines.
• Tell someone where you're going, especially on remote backcountry routes.

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April 19 is the perfect excuse to get out and explore a national park—no entrance fee, no strings attached. And if you’d rather skip the crowds and see the wilder side of things, these off-road routes are a great way to do just that.

With a Trails Offroad™ membership, you’ll have everything you need to explore confidently—whether you're cruising down scenic dirt roads or tackling something a little more rugged.

So fill up the tank, grab your gear, and make the most of this one-day adventure. National Park Week only comes once a year—might as well make it count!