National parks are a literal treasure. They’re a break from life while boosting our love of nature. But once we are far from the urban sprawl, where do you get that latte? Here’s a list of fantastic coffee shops around our National parks.
LessThe Blue Elk is quite the down-home Virginia coffee shop and roastery. They hand make gorgeous blue ceramic mugs emblazoned with their logo and have a tempting selection of freshly roasted coffee. Better yet, you’ll enjoy some good conversation and friendly service the instant you waltz in. Their interior is modern, yet warm and hospitable—this is certainly the place to be on your way to Shenandoah.
Inkwell & Brew is a treasure that’s got Colorado written all over it. This cafe has fantastic coffee, but also great local beers to unwind with after a day in the Rocky Mountains. And get this, it’s packed to the gills with unique writing equipment, journals, notebooks, and locally-crafted cards. So you can chill out, enjoy the view, and get working on that book you’ve been talking about writing for the last five years.
Joshua Tree Coffee Company is almost more hip than Joshua Tree itself! Their house-roasted beans are wrapped-up in millennial pink packaging, and their roastery bar looks like a Bill Nye set. Take a step outside and enjoy the sprawling desert landscape, and hey, mind as well take some pictures for Instagram. This is definitely the best coffee for miles, and you probably won’t want to leave.
Despite the fact that Big Bear isn’t on the National Park registry, it mind as well be one. While chilling out by the lake in the summer or hitting the slopes in the winter, visit the Moonridge Coffee Company. From heartwarming lattes, tea drinks, and homemade baked goods, this little spot is a fantastic place to warm you up during the snowy season, or cool you down with some iced beverages during the hot season.
Deep Creek Coffee Company is a delectable one-stop spot to hit up before exploring the beautiful canyons of Zion National Park. Their roasts hold up to any coffee shop in NYC or SF with masterfully executed latte art to boot. They also have an irresistible variety of drinks from seasonal kombucha on tap to nourishing smoothie bowls— all perfect options to fuel up for a day of hiking.
Fogtown may have a simple menu, but they do it right. Featuring a coffee selection of “The Usual Suspects’ like expertly-crafted cortados and lattes, and a simple brunch menu, it’s easy to get something tasty on-the-go. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, try their coffee blends like the Cinnamon Dulce (sweet cream and cinnamon with espresso). And after a long hike on a hot day, jump into their refreshing spritzers!
Walking into Piecewise, you may think you transported directly into a Portland coffee shop. They feature seasonal drinks, lovely pastries, and treats. With its sleek white interiors, expertly crafted drinks, and fresh roasted coffee beans, this is a great stop on your way up to the beautiful, tree-lined forests of Congaree National Park. Plus, when the seasons allow, they host various local markets featuring local honeys, crafts, art, and much more.
Kollective Coffee & Tea is a must-stop shop before you hit the Hot Springs. Their coffee and tea selection is very extensive and brewed *just* right. From hot blooming greens to wellness blends, they literally have dozens of teas to choose from. Their coffee selection is also quite customizable, with homemade syrups that will make you an instant devotee. All topped off with a great selection of healthy brunch options for both carnivores and vegans alike.