The Classic Lodges . . . and Then Some

PLAN B:

Grand Canyon Lodge. While 90 percent of visitors flock to the South Rim, those who prefer their views unobstructed by humans go to the 1937 limestone and timber structure perched on the North Rim (it's the only North Rim property). Rates from $91.

OTHER OPTIONS:

Lodging mainly rests along the South Rim, with one on the North Rim (see Plan B) and another in the Inner Canyon. The other six lodges on the South Rim include the 26-building Maswik Lodge complex (from $66). The Phantom Ranch, meanwhile, sits in the belly of the canyon, with dorm rooms from $27.

BOOKING:

888-297-2757, www.grandcanyon lodges.com (South Rim).

www.grand canyonlodge.com (North Rim).

PARK

Yosemite

California

209-372-0200

www.nps.gov/yose

CLASSIC CHOICE

Ahwahnee. Built in 1927, the 123-room lodge is a slide show of styles, including art deco, Middle Eastern, Native American and Arts and Crafts, all wrapped up in nature (and those views! -- of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point). From $371.

PLAN B:

Tucked between the Mariposa Grove of Big Trees and the Yosemite Valley, the 104-room Wawana is one of the state's oldest mountain resorts, complete with elegant European-style rooms and a killer veranda for lounge-chair viewing. From $113.

OTHER OPTIONS:

Six other lodgings, but many are quite basic. The exceptions: Yosemite Lodge ($110), near the falls, with spacious lodge rooms and simpler motel rooms, and the behemoth 628-room Curry Village, which offers motel rooms and cabins. From $64 to $110. Most of the other options are wood or canvas cabins.