President Donald Trump publicly scorned Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Thursday for the cost of an extensive building renovation as the two officials began a tour of the unfinished project.
Trump said the project cost $3.1 billion, much higher than the Fed’s $2.5 billion figure, while Powell, standing next to him, silently shook his head.
“This came from us?” Powell said, then figuring out that Trump was including the renovation of the Martin Building that was finished five years ago.
“Do you expect any more additional cost overruns?” Trump asked.
“Don’t expect them,” Powell said.
Trump said in his career as a real estate developer he would fire someone for cost overruns. The president joked that he would back off Powell if he lowered interest rates.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve, known for its tight lips, structured formality and extraordinary power to shape the global economy, opened up a costly building renovation Thursday to reporters and President Donald Trump.
Trump and his allies say a $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed headquarters and a neighboring building reflects an institution run amok — a belief they hope to verify in an afternoon tour of the construction site. The Fed allowed reporters to tour the building before the visit by Trump, who, in his real estate career, has bragged about his lavish spending on architectural accoutrements that gave a Versailles-like golden flair to his buildings.
The visit is an attempt to further ratchet up pressure on Fed Chair Jerome Powell, whom the Republican president has relentlessly attacked for not cutting borrowing costs. Trump’s criticisms have put the Fed, a historically independent institution, under a harsh spotlight. Undermining its independence could reduce the Fed’s ability to calm financial markets and stabilize the U.S. economy.
“This stubborn guy at the Fed just doesn’t get it — Never did, and never will,” Trump said Wednesday on Truth Social. “The Board should act, but they don’t have the Courage to do so!”
Journalists get rare tour of Fed renovation
On Thursday, reporters wound through cement mixers, front loaders, and plastic pipes as they got a close-up view of the active construction site that encompasses the Fed’s historic headquarters, known as the Marriner S. Eccles building, and a second building across 20th Street in Washington.
Fed staff, who declined to be identified, said that greater security requirements, rising materials costs and tariffs, and the need to comply with historic preservation measures drove up the cost of the project, which was budgeted in 2022 at $1.9 billion.
The staff pointed out new blast-resistant windows and seismic walls that were needed to comply with modern building codes and security standards set out by the Department of Homeland Security. The Fed has to build with the highest level of security in mind, Fed staff said, including something called “progressive collapse,” in which only parts of the building would fall if hit with explosives.
Sensitivity to the president’s pending visit among Fed staff was high during the tour. Reporters were ushered into a small room outside the Fed’s boardroom, where 19 officials meet eight times a year to decide whether to change short-term interest rates. The room, which will have a security booth, is oval-shaped, and someone had written “oval office” on plywood walls.
The Fed staff downplayed the inscription as a joke. When reporters returned to the room later, it had been painted over.
During the tour, Fed staff also showed the elevator shaft that congressional critics have said is for “VIPs” only. Powell has since said it will be open to all Fed staff. The renovation includes an 18-inch (45-cm) extension so the elevator reaches a slightly elevated area that is now accessible only by steps or a ramp. A planning document that said the elevator will only be for the Fed’s seven governors was erroneous and later amended, staff said.
Renovations have been in the works for a while
Plans for the renovation were first approved by the Fed’s governing board in 2017. The project then wended its way through several local commissions for approval, at least one of which, the Commission for Fine Arts, included several Trump appointees. The commission pushed for more marble in the second of the two buildings the Fed is renovating, known as 1951 Constitution Avenue, specifically in a mostly glass extension that some of Trump’s appointees derided as a “glass box.”
Fed staff also said tariffs and inflationary increases in building material prices drove up costs. Trump in 2018 imposed a 25% duty on steel and 10% on aluminum. He increased them this year to 50%. Steel prices are up about 60% since the plans were approved, while construction materials costs overall are up about 50%, according to government data.
Fed staff also pointed to the complication of historic renovations — both buildings have significant preservation needs. Constructing a new building on an empty site would have been cheaper, they said.
As one example, the staff pointed reporters to where they had excavated beneath the Eccles building to add a floor of mechanical rooms, storage space, and some offices. The Fed staff acknowledged such structural additions underground are expensive, but said it was done to avoid adding HVAC equipment and other mechanics on the roof, which is historic.
The Fed has previously attributed much of the project’s cost to underground construction. It is also adding three underground levels of parking for its second building. Initially the central bank proposed building more above ground, but ran into Washington, D.C.’s height restrictions, forcing more underground construction.
Renovation project could be impetus to push out Powell
Trump wants Powell to dramatically slash the Fed’s benchmark interest rate under the belief that inflation is not a problem, but Powell wants to see how Trump’s tariffs impact the economy before making any rate cuts that could potentially cause inflation to accelerate.
The renovation project has emerged as a possible justification by Trump to take the extraordinary step of firing Powell for cause, an act that some administration officials have played down given that the Fed chair’s term ends in May 2026. White House budget director Russell Vought suggested in a July 10 letter to Powell that changes to the renovations in order to save money might have violated the National Capital Planning Act.
Fed staff said there were just two changes to the plans they had submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission, and neither were significant enough to warrant a re-submission of the plans. They removed a seating area on the roof of the Eccles building, because it was an amenity, and two water features in front of the second building, which they said saved money.
More recently, Trump has said he has no plans to oust Powell, which could be illegal based on a note in a May Supreme Court ruling. The Supreme Court found that Trump had the power to remove board members of other independent agencies, but indicated that a Fed chair could only be removed for cause.
Pushing Powell out also would almost certainly jilt global markets, potentially having the opposite effect that Trump wants as he pushes for lower borrowing costs.
Not everyone in Trump’s administration agrees with the president’s contention that Powell needs to resign.
“There’s nothing that tells me that he should step down right now,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, whom Trump has floated as a potential replacement for Powell, in a recent interview with Fox Business. “He’s been a good public servant.”
When asked last week if the costly rebuilding could be grounds to fire Powell, Trump said, “I think it sort of is.”
“When you spend $2.5 billion on, really, a renovation,” Trump said, “I think it’s really disgraceful.”
On Monday, July 21st, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee publicized a new policy regarding transgender athlete participation, stating that transgender athletes will not be permitted to compete in women’s events for Team USA at Olympic and Paralympic competitions.
“As a federally chartered organization, we have an obligation to comply with federal expectations,” USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland and presidentGene Sykes wrote in a company letter. “Our revised policy emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair and safe competition environments for women. All National Governing Bodies are required to update their applicable policies in alignment.”
The policy has drawn immediate criticism from advocacy groups. “By giving in to political demands, the USOPC is sacrificing the rights and dignity of transgender athletes,” said National Women’s Law Center President and CEO Fatima Goss Graves in a statement criticizing the move.
The new rules do not specify implementation details or clarify whether similar restrictions apply to men’s sports categories.
The executive order states that participation in women’s sports should be limited to individuals assigned female at birth. It calls for federal agencies to define sex based on biological sex at birth for the purposes of athletic competition. It also threatens to revoke federal funding from any elementary, secondary, and postsecondary institution that allows transgender girls to play on girls’ teams, claiming they are in violation of Title IX.
The USOPC’s decision reflects a broader national debate over transgender participation in sports that has intensified across state and federal levels. Republican lawmakers have framed the issue as ensuring competitive fairness, leading more than 25 states to pass legislation restricting transgender women and girls from certain athletic competitions. Legal challenges have emerged against several of these measures, with opponents suggesting that they target a small population of athletes.
Internationally, the Olympic movement is grappling with similar questions under IOC President Kirsty Coventry, who has emphasized efforts to maintain distinct female competition categories.
Coventry, who replaced Thomas Bach in late June, addressed the topic at her first press conference: “We understand that there will be differences depending on the sport, but it was very clear from the members that we have to protect the female category, first and foremost to ensure fairness. But we need to do that with a scientific approach and the inclusion of the international federations who have already done a lot of work in this area.”
USA Swimming has acknowledged the USOPC’s policy change and is working with the committee to determine necessary adjustments to its own rules, according to the Associated Press.
USA Fencing has already announced it will revise its eligibility requirements starting August 1, restricting women’s events to female athletes while allowing all other competitors to participate in men’s categories.
It doesn’t matter if you’re headed West, Midwest or to the East Coast—there’s profound beauty to explore in every US national park. Mountains, waterfalls, caves, volcanoes, rainforests, and grasslands are some of the diverse environments you’ll get to experience along the way.
I’ve organized these national parks by region to help you plan the ultimate national park road trip. Whether you plan on traveling for just a few days or for much longer, there’s a national park road trip for everyone here.
Pacific Northwest National Parks Road Trips
The stunning Pacific Northwest has four national parks to explore. You can link all four parks together over two weeks, or visit each one individually. All three Washington parks are also within a few hours of each other, so it’s easy to link these national parks together too.
There’s so much to explore here, and there’s a variety of lodging and camping options at each of these national parks. Read on to learn more about these national parks highlights.
1
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, reaching a depth of almost 2,000 feet. It also has some of the clearest water in the country.
If you want secluded lake life, this is the place to be. Located in Southern Oregon, the best time to visit Crater Lake National Park is from spring to fall. Winter offers white-capped landscapes, but many park roads close due to snow. I recommend at least two days to fully experience Crater Lake National Park.
Hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail down to the lake and go for a swim. Enjoy scenic views from the pullouts on Rim Drive. Hike up Scott Peak for impressive vistas, and reserve a boat tour to explore Wizard Island.
There are minimal services in and around the park, so fuel up your car before entering Crater Lake National Park. If you want to stay in a hotel within the park, check out Crater Lake Lodge. There are also cabins and other accommodations available nearby, or you can camp. Outside of the park, there are minimal accommodation options. Dispersed camping is allowed in Umpqua National Forest.
2
North Cascades National Park
Washington’s North Cascades National Park, also known as the “American Alps,” is one of the least visited parks in the country—and yet it’s also one of the most strikingly beautiful. Located in the northern park of Washington, this glacially carved range is covered with snow-topped peaks with water flowing down into alpine lakes, rivers, and valleys. Drive the scenic highway, hike up to Cascade Pass, or stop by Diablo Lake Vista.
The park is beautiful year-round but most accessible in the summer and early fall before it snows. North Cascades Highway is generally open from June to November, which is the main road to access most of the park.
Although you can drive through the park and go on a short hike in a day, if you want to get off the beaten path you’ll need a few days here. North Cascades National Park has extensive backcountry areas which require a few days of visiting to truly dive into.
There are lodging options in the park and along the highway, as well as just outside the park. There are also some drive-in campgrounds and plenty of dispersed camping in the surrounding national forests.
3
Olympic National Park
Located on Washington’s northwest peninsula, Olympic National Park is famous for its diverse ecosystems ranging from high mountains peaks topped with glaciers, lush rainforests, and rocky coastal beaches.
With varying environments and so many things to do, you’ll want a few days to explore this park. If you’re limited on time at least spend a morning watching the sunrise from Hurricane Ridge, hike the Hoh Rainforest Loop to check out the flourishing forest, and spend an evening watching the sunset at Rialto or Ruby Beaches.
You can visit Olympic National Park year-round from spring through fall for the best weather. Winter is typically rainier and snowy at high elevations.
The park layout is different than other national parks. Many towns are within the park area and offer plenty of accommodation options, including small inns and hotels. There are also numerous campgrounds throughout Olympic National Park.
4
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washinton and is home to the tallest cascade volcano, Mount Rainier. The best time for you to visit is from late spring to early fall. If you want to experience vivid carpets of wildflowers, visit in July and August—otherwise, peak fall foliage is from late September to mid-October.
It’s worth spending two or three days at Mount Rainier National Park. While visiting the park, don’t miss hiking the Skyline Trail and Tolmie Peak Lookout. Catch views of Mount Rainier’s glaciers at Paradise, and make sure you stay late enough for a bit of stargazing.
I might be a little biased because I live here, but California is a great state to go on a national park road trip. There are so many incredible sites to see, ranging from the desert in Southern California, the Sierra Mountains in Central California, up to the Cascades in Northern California.
The size of California is important to understand. It’s an incredibly large state and has some big national parks that take a few days to check out. Visit these national parks individually, or if you have a few weeks to check several of them them out, link them together in one California road trip.
Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Kings Canyon National Parks are all located closest together. If you have a week, it would work out great to visit those three national parks together. But if you want to knock all of these California national parks off your bucket list, I’d recommend at least three weeks to dive in. You can use my West Coast road trip itinerary for guidance.
5
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Explore the bubbling pools, mud pots, and vent steams at Lassen Volcanic National Park located in the central northern part of California, at the start of the Cascade Mountain Range.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is best to visit from the late spring through fall. Once it starts snowing, many park roads close.
I recommend at least two days in Lassen. If you visit in winter, join a ranger-led snowshoe tour. When it’s warmer and the snow has all melted, hike up Mount Lassen, walk around Manzanita Lake, trek up to the Cinder Cone, or drive through the park for more scenic views.
Joshua trees, rugged mountains, desert vistas, and gigantic rocks all make up Joshua Tree National Park. There’s tons to do here. Located in the Mojave and Colorado deserts in Southern California, Joshua Tree is ideal to visit from October to April for the most comfortable temperatures.
Hike up Ryan Mountain for sweeping views overlooking Joshua Tree National Park, drive up to Keys View for an impressive viewpoint, wander through the Cholla Cactus Garden, and visit Barker Dam. If you want to do more hiking, here’s a list of fantastic hikes in Joshua Tree.
While there are no hotels in Joshua Tree National Park, the camping in the park is incredible for a chance to see the Milky Way. If camping doesn’t suit your fancy, there are plenty of hotel accommodations in the towns surrounding Joshua Tree National Park.
While it’s possible to visit some of Joshua Tree National Park’s highlights in a day, I’d stay at least one night to enjoy the clearest skies for skygazing in Southern California. If you have longer, you won’t regret hiking in the park and relaxing in the evenings when visiting Joshua Tree. I wrote a whole article about road tripping around Joshua Tree to help you plan better.
7
Yosemite National Park
A glacier-formed valley, round domes, jagged mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and roaring waterfalls are just a few highlights awaiting you at Yosemite National Park.
There’s so much to see and do at Yosemite National Park—I highly recommend spending at least three days here. Spend one day exploring the valley and another visiting the Giant Sequoias at Mariposa Grove, and then head over to Glacier Point for sunset. Spend your third day in Yosemite National Park driving and hiking along Tioga Pass in the high country.
While most people visit Yosemite National Park between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the park gets pretty crowded. For rushing waterfalls, visit in the early spring. For fall foliage you should visit in October, and to enjoy the tranquility of the valley covered in snow, visit the park in the winter.
There are hotel options both inside and outside of Yosemite National Park, as well as campsites and options for glamping. Check out The Ahwahnee for a luxury stay, or head over to my article about where to stay in Yosemite for even more options.
8
Death Valley National Park
Photo: Michelle Halpern
Death Valley National Park is known as the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the US. While visiting, you should check out Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Hike among the Artists Pallete Painted Hills, run through the Mesquite Sand Dunes, and catch a sunset at Zabriskie Point.
Death Valley is known for the hottest temperatures in the country so it’s best to visit Death Valley National Park from mid-October to April.
From the low-lying valley to the towering mountain peaks, there are plenty of things to explore in Death Valley National Park. The park is laid out to easily drive everywhere, so spend at least two days traveling around. If you have an off-road vehicle, spend an extra day driving out to Sailing Stones. Check out my three-day Death Valley road trip itinerary for more inspiration!
Death Valley National Park is very remote, so fuel up before you enter, bring extra food and water, and don’t count on any cell reception. Death Valley has limited hotel options in the park itself but there are plenty of places to camp, and it’s very easy to park a camper or van in a pull-out and crash there.
9
Sequoia National Park
Home to the largest trees in the world, the highest mountain in the 48 states, and numerous alpine lakes, you’ll definitely want Sequoia National Park on your itinerary when you’re traveling through California.
Stand in awe under General Sherman (the world’s largest tree by volume), hike up Moro Rock for spectacular panoramic vistas, or plan a backpacking trip to the vast wilderness of the Sierra.
It’s possible to visit the main parts of Sequoia National Park in a day but if you plan to do any long hikes, you’ll need additional time. Sequoia National Park also connects to Kings Canyon National Park so you’ll want to check that out too.
With varying elevations creating many ecosystems throughout the park, Sequoia is a great park to visit at any time of year. During the summer, spend time at higher elevations in the mountains. In the spring and fall, you’ll have great weather for lots of hikes. In the winter, walk amongst the gigantic trees after a fresh snow.
There are both front-country and backcountry campgrounds throughout the park but they book up quickly. The Wuksachi Lodge is a lovely place to stay in the park, and there are hotel and private accommodations available outside the park in Three Rivers.
Kings Canyon National Park borders Sequoia and is an easy visit while you’re in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Believe me, it’s worth it. Kings Canyon is also home to many giant sequoias, including Redwood Canyon, the largest remaining Sequoia Grove in the world.
With just one main out and back road running through the park, it’s possible to visit Kings Canyon in a day if you’re pressed for time and don’t want to backpack. But to fully explore this park, a backpacking trip is the best option.
The main road through the park closes in the winter so it’s best to visit from late spring to early fall. There are a few lodging options in the park (and outside the park) as well as campsites, but book them early!
Southwest National Park Road Trips
The Big 5 Utah National Parks and the Grand Canyon are all located close together in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. They’re naturally a great option for your national park road trip.
Some of these parks can be visited in a day, but for some of them, you’ll need at least three days to explore all the natural wonders they offer.
If you plan to check out all the national parks at once, I’d recommend at least one to two weeks to fully experience them on a Utah road trip. Otherwise, it’s possible to link the closest ones.
Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are only two hours from each other, and they’re commonly visited together. The Grand Canyon is only two hours south of Zion and is a great addition to that trip. Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park are less than an hour from each other, so they’re also worth visiting together.
All these national parks have a variety of accommodation options and things to do, so check out the following highlights for the best national park road trip.
11
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the seven wonders of the world, Grand Canyon National Park is a can’t-miss spot on a southwest road trip. If you only have a day, definitely visit the South Rim of the park and walk the scenic paved trail along the rim. If you want to hike down into the canyon, hike a mile or two along the Bright Angel Trail.
If you want to be fully immersed into Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll need a few days to fully explore it. Hike the Rim to Rim Trail down into the canyon and back up, or check out the park from both the North and South Rim. Whatever you do, be sure to catch a sunrise or sunset over the canyon; it brings out the best colors in the layers of rock.
It’s possible to visit Grand Canyon National Park at any time of year, but spring and fall offer the best weather for hiking. In the winter, you should prepare for snow. In the summer, plan for very hot temperatures and limit your activity outside.
When visiting Grand Canyon National Park there are a variety of hotel options located near the South Rim. If you plan to camp, there are designated campgrounds in the park or a variety of primitive camping options near the North Rim.
12
Zion National Park
Photo: Jeremy Scott Foster
Zion Natural Park is Utah’s most visited national park, and it might have something to do with the fact it’s home to some of the tallest sandstone cliffs in the world. They naturally frame the park’s deep, stunning canyon.
Visit Zion in the late spring or early fall for the best temperatures for hiking. I’d avoid summer because it’s so hot. Winter can be nice, but plan for the cold and snow.
Sitting in the southwestern corner of Utah, you’ll need at least three days to fully experience Zion National Park. Hike the Narrows, hike along a narrow chain-link path to the summit of Angels Landing, or visit the Emerald Pools. I also suggest driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and looking out for wildlife like mule deer and bighorn sheep.
The Zion National Park Lodge is the only hotel in the park; however, there are plenty of hotel options right outside the park in Springdale. Kanab is also a popular town to stay but it’s a bit farther out. There are a few established campgrounds inside and outside the park, as well as dispersed camping on the surrounding public land.
13
Bryce Canyon National Park
Photo: Jeremy Scott Foster
Bryce Canyon National Park is famously known for its unique geological formation: the hoodoo. It’s home to the largest concentration of hoodoos on earth, carved out by erosion. Amphitheaters are filled with hoodoo spires, walls, and windows ranging in colors from bright oranges to deep reds, to bright whites.
Bryce Canyon National Park is a smaller park, so you can see the highlights in a day; however, there’s always plenty to explore if you have more time. My favorite hike is the 8-mile Fairyland Loop Trail where you can walk amongst the hoodoo towers and get a feel for the park. It also passes by Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, two must-visit viewpoints for obvious reasons.
The park has a simple layout with one main road running through it. You can easily drive through and stop at many viewpoints, or if it’s crowded, hop on the park shuttle at the visitor center.
Compared to other Utah parks, Bryce Canyon National Park is a great option to visit in the summer; it’s located at higher elevations and therefore has cooler temperatures.
The Bryce Canyon Lodge is the only hotel accommodation in the park, otherwise, just outside the entrance in the town of Bryce, you can find a place to stay. There are two campgrounds in the park, many sites are first come first served or there are additional campgrounds outside the park. There are some areas to car camp outside the park but can take a bit to find.
14
Arches National Park
Photo: Jeremy Scott Foster
Arches National Park is located in central-eastern Utah and is home to the world’s densest concentration of natural stone arches. With the blisteringly hot summer heat, it’s best to visit Arches National Park in the spring or the fall. It’s less crowded in the winter, but it does snow in the desert, so dress warmly.
It’s possible to see Arches National Park highlights in a long full-day trip, but the extra time allows you to go on longer hikes. Don’t miss Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and Fiery Furnace. The park has plenty of pull-outs and hiking trails along the main out and back route running it.
Arches get very crowded during the middle of the day so plan to arrive early. Devils Garden Campground is the only campground in the park but there are plenty of primitive camping areas on the BLM land surrounding the park.
For hotel and accommodations, book a place in Moab. This quaint town is located just south of the park and has a fun downtown with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.
15
Canyonlands National Park
Another central-eastern Utah National Park, Canyonlands is known for its massive mesas, buttes, spires, arches, and canyons. Canyonlands National Park is the largest park in Utah and it’s divided into three sections: Island in the Sky, The Maze, and The Needles.
If you only have one day in the park, check out Island in the Sky. Visit the Grand View Point for sweeping vistas overlooking layers of canyons carved out by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Take a short hike to Mesa Arch and hike out to Buck Canyon Overlook.
If you have more than a day, wander through the massive sandstone spires, The Needles. It’s easy to get lost in these for hours. If you have a high clearance vehicle, get lost in trail-less canyons in The Maze.
April to May and September to October offer the most comfortable temperatures in Canyonlands National Park.
There are no hotels in the park, so like Arches, Canyonlands National Park is located just north of Moab, so I recommend booking a hotel there for a few nights. There is one campground in the Island in the Sky district and one in the Needles district in addition to plenty of backcountry camping and primitive camping on the surrounding BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land.
16
Capitol Reef National Park
Canyons, cliffs, domes, bridges, and the famous water pocket fold all make up the diverse desert landscape in Capitol Reef National Park. Sitting in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef National Park has the most moderate temperatures in spring and fall. Summers are hot, and winters are cold and sometimes snowy.
While it’s possible to see a lot in one day at Capitol Reef National Park, it’s best to spend 2-3 days here. Check out Cassidy Arch, the Hickman Natural Bridge, Cathedral Valley, and drive the Capitol Reef scenic drive.
While there is no lodging directly in the park, there are some hotels, ranches, cabins, and Airbnbs within a quick drive of Capitol Reef National Park. There are also a few established campgrounds both in and outside of Capitol Reef as well as plenty of areas for dispersed camping.
Rockies National Parks
The Rocky Mountains Range is home to four stunning national parks running through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado.
Each of these four parks are big, and each one requires at least three days to fully experience them. Check out these national parks on one long 2-3 week road trip or each one individually to dive in.
Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks are connected, so it’s easy to spend a few days to a week visiting this area. Glacier is a few hours north, so if you have the time, a scenic highway runs up north and is worth the addition to the trip.
Rocky Mountain is a bit farther south so it’s easiest to visit that park on its own.
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Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and overall incredible scenery. Hike up to Bear, Emerald, or Dream Lake then drive the Trail Ridge Road. If you’re in for a long day, hike up Longs Peak.
There is plenty to explore at Rocky Mountain National Park year-round, but spring and fall bring the best temperatures with moderate crowds. Because Rocky Mountain National Park is so popular, there is a strict reservation system. Reserve a spot at recreation.gov before you head out.
Rocky Mountain National Park spans over 400 square miles. With over 350 miles of hiking trails, you’ll want to spend at least two or three days checking out this famous Colorado national park.
Rocky Mountain National Park has five front-country campgrounds and plenty of backcountry access. The surrounding national forests are great for car camping or RV parking. There are no lodges in Rocky Mountain National Park, but nearby Estes Park has plenty of hotel accommodations and a fun downtown to explore.
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Glacier National Park
Active glaciers, jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and ancient forests all make up this northern Montana park, Glacier National Park.
With so many highlights and hiking trails, you’ll need at least three days to see all the hot spots in Glacier National Park, and five days if you plan to explore the backcountry.
Late June through mid-September is the best time to visit Glacier National Park for the best temperatures and most road access. If you want to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road this is only accessible when free of snow.
There are a few hotel options in the park as well as hotels, cabins, and Airbnb’s located outside the park in Whitefish, Bigfork, and Columbia Falls. There are also many front and backcountry campgrounds in the park. Outside of the park there are established campgrounds and primitive camping in the national forests.
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Yellowstone National Park
Known for its geysers, hot springs, and traffic-stopping bison herds, there’s a reason Yellowstone National Park became the first national park back in 1872. It’s located on the borders of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho and is one of the largest national parks in the states.
You’ll need a few days to fully experience the wonders Yellowstone offers. Don’t miss Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Hot Springs for some of the most impressive geologic features in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Lake, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Hayden Valley are some other can’t miss spots. You’ll need to always stay on the lookout for wildlife as Yellowstone National Park is known for its large mammals, including grizzly bears, moose, wolves, and bison.
Sitting at high altitudes, Yellowstone is most accessible in the late spring to early fall before the snow. During the winter many roads close and most of the park is only accessible by snowmobile.
There are a variety of hotel lodging options in the park as well as in surrounding towns including West Yellowstone and Gardiner. There are also plenty of campgrounds both in the park and in the nearby national forests.
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Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is famously known for its dramatic mountain skyline overlooking a large open valley. Hike up to Cascade Canyon, raft the Snake River, paddle around Jackson Lake, or drive the 42 Mile Scenic Loop.
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are connected by highway 191 making them a perfect joint trip option. Like Yellowstone, Grand Teton is most accessible from the late spring to early fall, making that the best time to visit.
I would spend at least two days visiting Grand Teton National Park. There are so many hikes, activities, and beautiful viewpoints to check out here. If you love hiking, you could easily spend a week exploring this area.
There are a variety of lodging options in the park including rustic hotel lodging, cabins, and lakefront apartments. The town of Jackson is also a popular place to stay or rent an Airbnb. If you plan to camp, book a campsite in the park ahead of time or head out to Bridger-Teton National Forest the best van life/car camping primitive options.
East Coast National Parks
The east coast national parks aren’t as plentiful as out west; however, there’s still tons of stuff to see and do. Mountains, forests, caves, wetlands, and gorges make up this part of the country.
You can visit some of these parks in a day but in some of them, you’ll want a few days to explore. If you have two weeks, connect them all! But if you’re limited on time, I’d recommend the three closest together: the Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah, and New River Gorge.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US. It sits on the North Carolina-Tennessee border and is famous for its diverse wildlife, waterfalls, scenic fog-covered mountains, and the scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Spring to fall is the best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy the wildflowers in the spring, jump in swimming holes in the summer, and enjoy the colorful foliage in the fall.
You’ll want to spend at least two or three days in the Great Smoky Mountains to explore them. Don’t miss the Chimney Tops Trail or the Rainbow Falls Trail and take a dip at The Sinks swimming hole. Always look out for wildlife, as the Great Smoky Mountains are well known for their diverse flora and fauna.
Le Conte Lodge is the only lodging accommodation in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are plenty of hotel options outside the park, with plenty of stays in the touristy town of Gatlinburg. The park also has 10 front-country campgrounds with tent, car, and RV options.
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Shenandoah National Park
Sitting along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is known for its rolling mountains, tall waterfalls, and the picturesque Skyline Drive.
Visit Shenandoah National Park from spring to fall for the best weather, but plan for hot, humid temperatures in the summer. You’ll want to spend 2-3 days here to check it all out. Drive Skyline Drive to wind through the park and see all the scenic viewpoints.
There are a few cabin and lodging options available in the park, otherwise, there are small hotel options just outside. There are also a few campgrounds in the park as well as limited dispersed camping in the surrounding national forest.
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New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge National Park is the newest national park, signed in December 2020. It’s home to the roaring whitewater river flowing through its deep canyon—one of the oldest rivers in the world.
I’d spend at least a day checking out this park; hike the Endless Wall Trail or check out the massive bridge. If you plan to book one of the many adventures activities like whitewater rafting I’d suggest an extra day. There are plenty of adventure activities at this central West Virginia national park.
Whatever time of year you visit, there is always something to do. Spring, summer, and fall have the best temperatures; however, winter brings snow offering scenic panoramic vistas.
There are plenty of primitive campsites along the water’s edge, as well as established campgrounds in towns a few miles back from the river. Because the park runs along the river’s edge, there is plenty of hotel accommodations in the surrounding towns.
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Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park, located in Kentucky, preserves the world’s largest known cave system spanning over 400 explored miles…although there is much more to discover.
Mammoth Cave is worth a day trip on your east coast road trip. Reserve a ranger-led tour to explore this incredible cave system. If you’re in the area for a longer amount of time, there are some state parks nearby that are also worth checking out.
It’s possible to visit Mammoth Cave National Park at any time of year; however, it’s least crowded from November to February.
Located in a relatively populated area, there are plenty of hotels within close proximity. The park has one small campground reservable online. There is minimal to no camping outside of the park
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Congaree National Park
Towering pines and giant hardwoods in Congaree National Park make up one of the highest forest canopies in the world. Located in South Carolina, this is a perfect day trip destination when in the area or on an east coast national parks road trip.
Wander on some hiking trails, kayak the Congaree River, go fishing, or join a ranger-led tour to experience the best of this park.
Fall through spring are the best seasons to visit Congaree National Park as summer temperatures make it too hot to enjoy. Come prepared with bug spray and head nets to avoid the mosquitos which are around most of the year.
If you’re in the area for a few days, there are a few campgrounds in the park and there are plenty of hotel options in nearby towns, including the city of Columbia
Midwest National Parks
The midwest national parks are home to badlands, grasslands, and caves. Collectively, they make a great road trip option through the Dakotas.
I’d spend a week visiting these three national parks, and if you have extra time, there are some state parks to stop at nearby too, Prepare yourself for plentiful wildlife, and when visiting these national parks, fuel up frequently as they are all pretty remote!
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Bison, elk, pronghorn, deer, bighorn sheep, and wild horses fill the open grasslands across Theodore Roosevelt National Park. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, this is the place for you. Visit the park from spring to fall for the best weather; winters get very cold and snowy.
While it’s possible to see most park highlights in a day, the park is divided into three sections. If you want to check them all out, I recommend spending at least two days here. Don’t miss the Painted Canyon Badlands, Prairie Dog Town, the Scenic Loop Drive, and Oxbow Overlook. And always stay on the lookout for the diverse wildlife roaming throughout the park.
There is no lodging available in the park but there are many hotels, cabins, ranches, and Airbnb options located nearby. The park does have two campgrounds as well as many just outside.
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Badlands National Park
Sitting in the corner of southwest South Dakota, Badlands National Park is known for its sprawling grasslands, eroding canyons, jagged buttes, and plentiful wildlife. Badlands National Park is the closest you can get to an American Safari.
The park’s eastern side is famously known for its badland rock formations. There are many short hiking trails off of Highway 240 the main road in the park. Continuing west you’ll end up in the park’s grassland area which is home to bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorns, prairie dogs, and many birds.
I spent a day and a half exploring Badlands National Park because I love long hikes; however, it’s very doable in a day. Watch the sunrise over the badlands for the best colors in the rock, go on a short hike, then drive through the west side of the park on the search for wildlife.
Spring and fall are the most comfortable times of year to explore the park. Winters get very cold, and snow makes travel difficult. Summers are very hot so you should avoid hiking during the middle of the day.
Badlands National Park is remote and has limited services. Fuel up ahead of time and pack plenty of water and food. Cedar Pass Lodge is the only accommodation in the park besides camping. However, there are plenty of hotel options in surrounding towns as well as additional campgrounds.
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Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is located just south of Badlands National Park, and although it’s very small, it’s worth a quick few-hours of exploration.
Wind Cave is known for its unique boxwork cave resembling honeycomb formations. While there are minimal hikes above ground, sign up for a ranger-led tour to explore these incredible cave formations.
There are limited services in the park and no hotel accommodations. Unlike Badlands National Park, Wind Cave is worth visiting during the summer heat of the day because cave temperatures are rather cool. Tours are offered year-round but check online for the most up-to-date information before heading out.
What to Pack for a National Park Road Trip
Depending on the time of year and what national parks you’re visiting, you’ll need to pack different supplies for your national park road trip. For the best experience, these are some essentials you’ll want most of the time no matter what season it is and where you’re traveling.
Water – Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day; if you plan to camp on your national park road trip, bring additional water for washing dishes and yourself.
Food – Always bring plenty of food and have an extra supply of dry food in case you are in a remote area with minimal services. For snacks, carry high-calorie foods like bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
Hiking Daypack – A good hiking daypack is essential for these national park road trips. I’d recommend a 20-25 liter pack. Osprey makes some great ones; men, check out the Osprey Talon and women check out the Tempest 20. If you want something bigger, check out our round up of the best hiking backpacks.
Hiking Shoes – Whether you’re hiking or walking on paved paths, comfortable, durable hiking shoes are another essential for any of these national park road trips. Every foot is different so try them on and break them in before heading out. Hiking boots are great for ankle support. Hiking shoes, like trail runners, are awesome if you want something a bit lighter.
First Aid Kit – Check out the MyMedic first aid kit for your go-to first aid supplies for these national park road trips.
Warm Clothing – Layers are essential when visiting these national parks with varying temperatures, seasons, and elevation ranges. These are some great midlayers to pack for any national park road trip.
Sun Hoodie – Protect your skin from the sun in the summer with a thin lightweight sun hoodie with UPF protection. I love Mountain Hardware’s Crater Lake Hoodie for both men and women.
Merino Wool – In the winter, merino wool is a great option. It dries quickly and keeps you very warm. I always wear my Smartwool baselayers when visiting national parks in cooler months.
Hiking Pants – Quick-drying hiking pants protect from the sun, vegetation, and sharp rocks when hiking in the national parks.
Rain Jacket – Whatever season it is, always bring a rain jacket. The weather can always change and it doubles as a good wind shell layer.
Puffy Coat – A down or synthetic puffy is also essential when visiting national parks. Even during the warmer months, some parks get very cold at night. I’ve worn both down and synthetic puffy’s from Patagonia over the years and love their products.
Hat – In the summer, pack a baseball cap. In the cooler months you’ll want a winter hat.
Sunglasses – Don’t forget to protect your eyes from the sun when visiting the national parks.
Sunscreen – Whether you’re in the desert, mountains, or near water, always bring sunblock.
Map – Download offline maps and carry paper maps in the areas of these national park road trips. Both types of maps are great options when out of cell service. For hiking, download AllTrails offline maps.
Headlamp – Always carry a headlamp. It’s very helpful at camp or if you get stuck on the trail later than expected.
Final Thoughts on a National Park Road Trip
It’s time to start planning your next national park road trip! Whether you plan to hike mountains, take a relaxing scenic drive, explore caves, or go swimming in waterfalls there are plenty of national park road trip options all across the country.
With so many national park road trips to explore, there is something for every type of traveler no matter the season. Have fun, and let me know about your favorite national park in the comments.
National Park Road Trip FAQs
How long would a road trip to all national parks take?
It would take about 3 months to visit all the national parks if you were going as fast as possible and not stopping much to spend time in each park.
How many days do you need at a national park?
1-3 days is enough to enjoy most national parks.
What is the #1 visited national park?
Great Smokey Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country.
What time of year is best for national park road trip?
Summer is the best time for most national parks, but the desert parks in Utah, Arizona, and California are better in cooler seasons.
How much does it cost to visit every national park?
With the American the Beautiful Pass, you get unlimited national park admissions for a full year for $80!
Nicole Jordan is an adventure guide who leads backpacking, hiking, sea kayaking, and snowshoeing trips. She’s on a lifelong pursuit to climb as many mountains as possible and sleep under the night sky in all of the National Parks. When she’s not traveling internationally you can find her living out of her Subaru Forester, exploring the best of the United States.
While other brands are convinced that outrageous price tags and ostentatious cosmetics are the key to a market-topping camper van, Alphavan has won the day with a quieter grade of van life luxury. Its family-size Sprinter RV is one of the most luxurious live-in vans we’ve covered, and it’s proven a versatile platform for various uses. The latest model becomes something of a wandering five-star backcountry lodge aimed at thrill-seeking families and groups, combining Alphavan’s spacious floor plan with gear-shuttling capabilities meant to haul skis, paddleboards, bikes and more into thrilling, hard-to-reach spaces.
Alphavan has previously created convincing Mercedes Sprinter 4×4 and Sprinter toy hauler camper van models, and last year, it introduced the original Off Grid 4×4 van. It’s now preparing to give the updated 2026 model a full and proper debut at this year’s Düsseldorf Caravan Salon.
The Off Grid 4×4 spec picks up where those previous Adventure Alphas left off, designed to transform distant dirt into glamping-grade base camps and bring along the gear necessary to keep pushing beyond the campsite circles, gravel road ends, faded-out trails and over-forested offshoots that a hulking 736-cm-long (290-in) super-high-roof van simply can’t maneuver.
Alphavan was one of the world’s first camper van converters to include Starlink and it carries the feature over to the Off Grid 4×4’s roof rack
Alphavan
The backbone of the Off Grid 4×4 package is the large full-length roof rack that’s topped the van since last year’s launch, fronted by a side-to-side line of beefy off-road auxiliary lights. The rack carries up to 1 kW of solar panels as standard to help feed the LPG-free off-grid power system. The rack can also hold a rooftop tent, adding another story and two more sleeping berths to the spacious two-room, four-sleeper interior for a total of six people.
The large tubular roof rack is back for MY2026, and this time it’s complemented by a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) carrier that hangs off the van’s side. The addition is part of what Alphavan calls a newfound focus on “multi-sport and regeneration,” a design that promises to turn a humble Mercedes Sprinter van into a remote backcountry adventure lodge loaded up for days’ and weeks’ worth of high-adrenaline outdoor pursuits and comfy overnight recovery.
Store mountain bikes on the back of the doors or inside on a sliding tray
Alphavan
The theme continues on the dual rear doors, where Alphavan offers the option of a combination ski/bike rack for all-season outdoor endeavoring. Those who prefer can opt to keep their bikes inside the doors, either secured down via the rear garage tie-down track or more easily accessible via an available slide-out tray.
Called the FlexPort, the rear garage doubles as a children’s bedroom, one of Alphavan’s original signature features. During the ride, it can be used to store luggage and gear, including those skis and bicycles. At camp, owners install a single or double short mattress transversely atop over-wheel-well consoles to create a private kids’ room, separated from the rest of the floor plan via a front wall with access door.
The rear space is designed to be a dedicated downstairs children’s bedroom, a gear and cargo garage, and a laundry room, all in one
Alphavan
Those mattress-supporting consoles hold key systems hardware, and the FlexPort is also where you’ll find the washing machine – a potential game-changer since all those outdoor activities are going to create some seriously dirty laundry.
The Off Grid 4×4 doesn’t lean solely on its solar-backed electrical system to earn its “off grid” status, further cutting ties in the communications and bathroom departments. Alphavan was among the first RV companies in the world to include Starlink internet, which it carries over to its latest van. It then uses a waterless “sealing bag” toilet, one of the hot, growing trends of the 2025 RV season, to eliminate the need to separately store and dump waste water. The sealed toilet bags can simply be disposed of in the garbage.
The primary Alphavan queen bedroom is a cozy space that becomes mesmerizing with the addition of the available starry sky headliner
Alphavan
The floor plan of the Off Grid 4×4 appears much the same as in all past Alphavans, a slight spin on the classic European rear bed layout with a raised bed nook that’s carved out into its own private space, complete with 200 x 160-cm (79 x 63-in) queen bed and starlight headliner. The center of the van is occupied by the wet bathroom and galley, the front filled out with a dinette that includes an extendable table, swivel cab seats and a two-seat rear bench.
For the 2026 Off Grid, Alphavan has added the option of an additional removable rear seat so the van can seat up to five and sleep up to six (with rooftop tent). It’s installed the most recently updated Mercedes-Benz MBAC smart home hardware for full systems monitoring and control from the driver’s cab infotainment display, living area display and mobile app. It’s also upgraded the master bed with a mattress it developed in collaboration with German sport and recovery specialist Blackroll – the “regeneration” part of the equation.
A look at the Alphavan interior
Alphavan
The Alphavan Off Grid 4×4 comes built atop the 736-cm Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 419 CDI 4Matic panel van with super-high roof. Thanks to the lightweight construction ethic around which Alphavan was founded, it maintains a vehicle weight below 3,500 kg (7,700 lb), leaving between 600 and 1,000 kg (1,322 to 2,200 lb) of payload, depending upon whether buyers select the 4,100- or 4,500-kg (9,259- or 9,920-lb) chassis.
We’ll look to get critical details about what size battery and complementing electrical hardware are at the business end of the solar panel wiring, additional standard features, pricing information and optional equipment once Alphavan officially premieres the 2026 Off Grid 4×4 at the Caravan Salon next month.
We can say that the current 2025 Alphavan 4×4 starts at a cool €260,000 (incl. VAT, approx. US$305,925) in Germany, with the Off Grid package tacking on another €15,000 ($17,650). That’s an athletic leap from the €167,000 price tag from just three years ago, though that was before taxes. We’ll wait to see how many euros the new 2026 Off Grid 4×4 package adds to the final equation.
In addition to its two-story rear, the Off Grid 4×4 includes a front dinette, central wet bathroom and galley, available fifth seat, and more
Alphavan
Alphavan recently moved its production and development headquarters to Leutkirch im Allgäu, down low in southern Germany, and is kicking off the new era with the 2026 Off Grid 4×4.
“With the move to Leutkirch, we are now looking forward to the future of our manufactory in a great environment with a lot of commitment from the community,” managing director Philipp Wex said. “The latest Alphavan model gives a first glimpse of where the journey is headed.”
President Emmanuel Macron says France will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly.
France will recognise Palestine as a state, President Emmanuel Macron has said.
Macron said in a post on X on Thursday that he will formalise the decision at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
“The urgent thing today is that the war in Gaza stops and the civilian population is saved,” he wrote.
“In keeping with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine,” Macron wrote.
“I will solemnly announce this at the United Nations General Assembly in September this year,” he added.
Germany’s recorded music trade group says it still sees potential upside ahead, despite a slowdown in the growth rate of recorded music sales.
The German Music Industry Association (BVMI) says recorded music sales in the first half of 2025 hit EUR €1.157 billion (USD $1.36 billion at the average exchange rate for Q2 2025),on a retail basis. That’s up 1.4% from the same period a year earlier.
Given that Germany’s year-on-year inflation rate has been running at around 2% in recent months, this suggests that, on an inflation-adjusted basis, retail music sales shrank slightly in H1.
The latest numbers represent a significant slowdown from H1 2024, when recorded sales rose by 7.6% YoY.
The H1 2025 numbers were somewhat stronger for digital music sales specifically (streaming and a la carte downloads), which rose 3.9% YoY.
However, that growth was partly offset by a 13.2% YoY decline in physical sales (vinyl and CDs), with CD sales dropping 20.1% YoY.
The numbers reflect a general malaise in Germany’s economy, which has stagnated in the past several years mainly due to high energy prices. However, after near-zero growth in 2023 and 2024, there have been signs of a pickup recently. The country’s real (inflation-adjusted) GDP grew 0.3% in Q2 2025.
Dr. Florian Drücke, Chairman & CEO of BVMI, remains optimistic about the recorded music business going forward.
“As an industry, we are currently in an exciting phase in which there is still potential for growth, even in developed markets such as Germany,” he said in a statement on Thursday (July 24).
“In this environment characterized by huge technological leaps, our industry is particularly reliant on European legislators keeping an eye on the legal framework for future digital business areas. This currently includes the consistent continuation of the path taken with the AI Regulation in order to enable the digital license business.”
“We are currently in an exciting phase in which there is still potential for growth, even in developed markets such as Germany.”
Dr. Florian Drücke, BVMI
Large parts of the European Union’s AI Act will come into force in early August, and earlier this month the European Commission unveiled a voluntary Code of Practice for AI companies, designed to help them avoid regulatory burdens from the Act.
The Code’s principles include guidelines on how AI companies collect copyrighted content online, requiring them not to circumvent restrictions placed by rightsholders on web-scraping of data. The Code also requires them to avoid collecting material from copyright-infringing sources such as digital piracy websites.
Many of the most prominent AI companies, including Anthropic, Microsoft and OpenAI, have committed to abiding by the Code, although Facebook and Instagram owner Meta Platformshas said it won’t sign on.
Some aspects of the EU’s AI regulations have proven controversial with rightsholders, for instance the “opt-out” mechanism that requires copyright owners to explicitly state that they don’t want their content to be used to train AI.
That regulation last year prompted both Sony Music Group and Warner Music Group to send out letters to AI developers informing them that they are opting out of having their materials used to train AI.
German performing rights collection society GEMA has been at the forefront of music industry bodies calling for a licensing marketplace that would enable artists and music companies to be paid for the use of their music in training AI.
“We are prepared to negotiate fair terms of use and remuneration models with the AI companies,” GEMA’s Christina von Gemmingen-Hornbergsaid last year.Music Business Worldwide
Hulk Hogan, who has died at the age of 71, was the all-American hero of professional wrestling, with his combination of macho athleticism and larger-than-life showmanship playing a huge part as the sport exploded in popularity in the 1980s.
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Hulk facing Andre the Giant in 1980
Born Terry Gene Bollea, he started his career in Florida in the 1970s and reputedly gained the “Hulk” nickname after towering over The Incredible Hulk actor Lou Ferrigno on a local TV show.
He then became Hogan after joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) – whose owner Vince McMahon wanted a fighter with an Irish-sounding name.
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Hogan is pictured with parents Peter and Ruth backstage at Madison Square Garden in New York in 1984.
His rise to fame went hand-in-hand with the rise of wrestling as a TV spectacle, blending sport with the drama, characters and storylines of show business.
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With good guys pitted against bad, he was the quintissential hero and fan favourite.
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Hogan put his acting skills to use on screen when he played Thunderlips, Sylvester Stallone’s opponent in a charity bout, in 1982 film Rocky III.
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He also portrayed Starlight Starbright in Dolly Parton’s variety show in 1987, with the country singer appearing as his superfan-turned-wife in a video for her song Headlock On My Heart.
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When Wrestlemania V was held at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in 1989, Hogan met the event’s host – and would go on to endorse Donald as president.
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He forged a Hollywood career outside the ring in films including No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, Mr Nanny (pictured) and Santa with Muscles.
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Back in the ring, he faced a new generation of wrestling stars in the 2000s, including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in a match-up billed as “Icon vs Icon” at Wrestlemania X8.
“I’m in better shape than him,” Hogan told Reuters, five months before his 50th birthday – but The Rock emerged victorious.
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John Cena felt the force of Hulk Hogan – or at least appeared to – when they presented together at the 2005 Teen Choice Awards.
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Hogan kept fighting as his fame continued to ride high even as the years marched on – pictured taking on fellow veteran Ric Flair in 2009.
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The storylines may often have been pre-written but the blood was real.
In total, Hogan won six WWF/WWE championships, headlined WrestleMania eight times, and was inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame.
He also enjoyed reality TV success in his own series, Hogan Knows Best, alongside his wife Linda and their two children from 2005-07.
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His image took an unscripted knock in 2015 when he was suspended by the WWE for using a racial slur in a leaked video. “Please forgive me,” he said in a tearful interview with ABC’s Good Morning America. “I’m a nice guy.”
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In recent years, he divided opinion among fans as one of Donald Trump’s most vocal celebrity supporters, endorsing him in his trademark theatrical style at events including the Republican National Convention one year ago, and a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York in October (pictured).
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