America’s national parks are known for their breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and opportunities to connect with nature. However, when it comes to food options, especially for those seeking heathy plant-based meals, there’s a significant gap in availability. While some national parks are making strides to offer more inclusive dining options, many still lack sufficient choices for plant-based eaters. Let’s take a closer look at the progress being made, the challenges that remain, and how you can enjoy a plant-based feast in the great outdoors.
The Current Landscape of Plant-Based Options in National Park
According to the National Park Service (NPS), there are 433 sites in the National Park system of which 63 are called “National Parks.” Many parks rely on independently operated concessions, which means the availability of plant-based meals can vary widely depending on the vendor.
Notable Efforts to Include Plant-Based Options
- Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone’s Xanterra-operated lodges and restaurants have introduced several plant-based dishes, including veggie burgers, grain bowls, and tofu stir-fries. These additions align with the park’s sustainability goals.
- Grand Canyon National Park: The park has begun offering Beyond Burgers at some of its lodges, catering to both plant-based eaters and those looking to reduce their meat consumption.
- Yosemite National Park: In Yosemite’s Ahwahnee Dining Room, guests can find thoughtfully crafted plant-based entrees, including dishes featuring seasonal produce and whole grains.
While these efforts are commendable, they are the exception rather than the rule. With limited options, visitors seeking healthy choices may be entirely dependent on what they bring with them.
Challenges to Expanding Plant-Based Offerings
Several factors contribute to the slow adoption of plant-based menu items in national parks:
- Independent Concessionaires: Many park dining facilities are managed by private vendors, making it difficult to standardize offerings across the NPS. Those vendors have been limited to companies that are able to bid complex government contracts, which omits many mom-and-pop concessionaires.
- Remote Locations: Parks situated in remote areas face logistical challenges in sourcing fresh ingredients, which can limit the feasibility of offering diverse plant-based options.
- Limited Awareness: Despite the growing popularity of plant-based diets, some concessionaires underestimate the demand for these options among visitors.
- Environmental Sustainability Goals: Ironically, while plant-based eating aligns with sustainability efforts, some parks prioritize other green initiatives, such as zero waste or local sourcing, over menu diversification.
How You Can Enjoy a Plant-Based Feast in the Parks
Even if your destination lacks plant-based dining options, you can still create an incredible culinary experience with a little planning. Here are some tips:
1. Pack Your Own Plant-Based Picnic
- Protein-Rich Options: Bring ready-to-eat meals like quinoa salads, lentil wraps, or hummus with whole-grain crackers.
- Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes are easy to pack and eat on the go.
- Snacks for Energy: Include nuts, seeds, plant-based granola bars, and dried fruits to keep your energy up during hikes.
2. Invest in a Portable Cooler
A high-quality cooler can keep your plant-based dishes fresh throughout the day. Look for compact, lightweight models that are easy to transport.
3. Try Plant-Based Camping Recipes
If you’re camping, use a portable stove to prepare hearty plant-based meals like veggie chili, pasta with marinara sauce, or stir-fried tofu and vegetables.
4. Check Nearby Towns for Options
Many national parks are close to towns with excellent plant-based dining options. For example:
- Estes Park (near Rocky Mountain National Park): A growing number of restaurants here cater to plant-based eaters. If you want to take a tour of Estes Park check out my video on Rocky Mountain National Park and Beyond
- Springdale (near Zion National Park): This charming town offers several cafes with plant-based menus. Take a virtual tour of Zion via E-Bike from Springdale.
How You Can Advocate for Change
Want to see more plant-based options in the parks? Here’s how you can help:
- Provide Feedback: After visiting a park, submit feedback to the concessionaire or the NPS, requesting more plant-based options.
- Support Sustainable Vendors: Choose dining facilities that prioritize plant-based and environmentally friendly offerings.
- Spread the Word: Share your experiences on social media to raise awareness and encourage others to ask for plant-based choices.
America’s national parks offer so much for nature lovers, and with a little effort, they can also become havens for plant-based travelers. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a lodge, packing your own feast, or advocating for change, you’re contributing to a movement that’s not just better for your health but also for the planet. Happy exploring!