Celebrate 110 years of national parks with Maps, Search, and Gemini
Google introduces tools to help plan visits to U.S. national parks during the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service, including AI-powered itinerary planning and real-time landmark identification.
National Parks Week marks 110 years since the National Park Service was established, with Google providing tools to assist travelers. Search interest in outdoor activities has surged, prompting Google to offer features like beginner gear recommendations, scenic road trip planning via Maps, and real-time landmark identification through the Gemini app. The United Parks of America collection on Google Arts & Culture also helps users build travel itineraries. These tools aim to simplify trip preparation for both new and experienced visitors.
Americans are increasingly turning to Google’s services to plan national park visits, with searches for hiking gear and itineraries reaching record highs. The company reports a 165% increase in queries for “hiking for beginners” over the past month, while Rocky Mountain National Park ranks as the top trending park for novice hikers. AI Mode in Search provides tailored gear recommendations, including shoppable product listings, while Maps and Search help users identify top-rated parks like Haleakalā and Mount Rainier.
Road trips to national parks are gaining popularity, with a 190% rise in searches for trip planning over the past month. Great Sand Dunes National Park leads as the top trending road trip destination. Google’s Ask Maps feature suggests scenic stops, dining options, and traffic updates, while also helping users book accommodations along the route. Offline map downloads ensure navigation remains possible in remote areas, addressing common concerns for travelers.
The Gemini app enhances outdoor experiences by allowing users to identify plants, rocks, and landmarks in real time using their device’s camera. Zion National Park’s Narrows trail is the most-searched hike, reflecting growing interest in detailed trail information. The United Parks of America collection on Google Arts & Culture offers interactive explorations of parks like the Everglades and Yellowstone, enabling users to curate bucket lists and learn about park history and wildlife.