From dramatic landscapes to rare wildlife and breathtaking outdoor escapes, planning the best national parks to visit in the USA ranks among the most rewarding activities in a lifetime of travel. Here is a national park travel guide with some of the best national parks to visit in the USA, with an eye toward the most iconic sights, the best times to see them at their best, and a sense of what is so special about each destination.
Here are recommendations on the best US national parks for hiking and the best national parks to visit this summer.
When thinking about visiting one of the best national parks in the USA, Yellowstone is the first name that comes to your mind. This park offers rare geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and vast wilderness as the world's first national park. With erupting geysers and hot springs colored by rainbow-hued microorganisms, Yellowstone would be a major attraction when thinking about US national parks.
Why It's a Top Choice for Nature Lovers:
Of all other outdoor adventure desires among travelers in the USA, Yellowstone offers particularly attractive opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring virgin terrain throughout the year. It is especially popular during the summer, making it one of the best national parks to visit in summer if you prefer warmer weather and full access to the park's popular routes.
With its soaring granite cliffs, powerful waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite is often considered one of the best national parks to visit in the USA. The dramatic views of Yosemite Valley alone would make the park iconic, but outdoor enthusiasts will find endless trails and scenic lookout points across its sprawling wilderness.
Top Highlights:
From leisurely valley loops to serious summit hikes, Yosemite ranks among the finest US National Parks for hikers. Whether following the Mist Trail or taking a trek toward Half Dome, Yosemite promises a memorable outdoor adventure in the USA.
The Grand Canyon is a geological masterpiece that has taken millions of years to create, and no national park travel guide can be complete without its inclusion. It is one of the best national parks to visit in the USA for travelers who appreciate dramatic landscapes, with its enormous size and vibrantly colored rock layers.
What Makes It Special:
Of course, summer is the best time to visit this national park, but especially for those families who wish to take a road trip through it. During spring and fall, the temperatures remain much cooler, perfect for longer trails.
Still, with lush forests, fog-smothered mountains, and rich biodiversity, it's unsurprising that the number of visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains is the highest among any national parks in the country. It's one of the best national parks to include in your USA visit if you're looking for a more approachable and family-friendly destination.
Why Nature Lovers Love the Smoky Mountains:
The Smokies would hold one of the highest ratings for national parks in the US, given trails like Clingmans Dome and Alum Cave, among others. It would also be one of the standout parks for wildflower beauty in the spring and adventure activities in summer.
It contains some of the most dramatic canyon walls, narrow slot canyons, and striking red rock landscapes that make Zion one of the best national parks to visit in the USA for photography lovers and adrenaline seekers. The unique landscape of this park offers unforgettable outdoor adventures within the USA.
Must-See Features:
Zion is one of the best national parks to visit during the summer because of its warm and dry climate. It's a must-visit for all water hike enthusiasts, especially The Narrows. Its variety of challenging and beginner-friendly trails makes it one of the top picks that should be included in any national park travel guide.
Glacier National Park is a dream come true for all those dreaming about emerald alpine lakes, craggy mountains, and untouched wilderness. It is also called the "Crown of the Continent" and tops the list of best national parks to visit in the USA if you like traveling in peace and solitude.
What makes Glacier special:
Glacier easily earns its place among the best US national parks for hiking, with some of the country's most spectacular trails. It's also one of the best national parks to visit in summer, since it's really only possible to visit some areas when it's warm.
The rugged Atlantic coastline is mixed with granite mountains to create an exceptionally unique and refreshing addition to the best national parks to visit in the USA. Those seeking a mix of coastal beauty and forested trails need look no further than Acadia.
Highlights of Acadia:
Because Acadia has very mild coastal weather, it is one of the best US national parks to visit during the summer. Scenic trails and shoreline walks are ideal for travelers who want lighter, scenic outdoor adventure in the USA.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest-elevation landscapes in the national park system and, as such, is among the best national parks to visit in the USA for any mountain enthusiasts. Its dramatic peaks and alpine lakes draw millions each year.
What You'll Love:
Hiking here is memorable, placing Rocky Mountain firmly among the best US national parks for hiking. Summer is prime season, so it's one of the best national parks to visit during summer for warm-weather mountain adventures.
Unlike other entries in this national park travel guide, Olympic contains three different ecosystems in one location: rainforest, coastline, and mountains. Because of this extraordinary diversity, it is one of the best national parks to visit in the USA if you are a nature lover seeking variety.
Olympic's Distinctive Features:
In the Olympics, temperatures remain moderate, making it one of the best national parks to visit during the summer for travelers hoping to escape extreme heat.
Ranging from deserts to mountains, forests, glaciers, and coastlines, more than 60 protected areas in US national parks have something for every kind of nature enthusiast. These natural wonders provide unparalleled outdoor adventures in the USA, from rugged trails to peaceful scenic drives and memorable camping trips.
A: The best time to visit US national parks depends on which region and what activities are involved. Summer is the best time to explore high-elevation parks like Glacier and the Rocky Mountains, while spring and fall are ideal times to visit parks such as the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid crowds, then winter will be an excellent time to explore desert parks like Zion and Joshua Tree.
A: Among the best national parks to go hiking in the United States are: Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, and the Great Smoky Mountains. These parks offer everything from light, easy, scenic walks to challenging summit climbs that are perfect for almost any experience level of hiker.
A: Yes, some national parks are extremely family-friendly. Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone, and Acadia are just a few that offer easily accessible trails, scenic drives, ranger programs, and educational visitor centers-perfect for a family vacation and outdoor learning.
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