25 Best National Parks in the USA to Explore Nature’s Wonders
Soaring canyons and alpine meadows await in these protected landscapes with wildlife.
The United States is blessed with a stunning diversity of landscapes, preserved within a network of national parks that together tell the country’s natural story. From thundering waterfalls and rugged canyons to alpine meadows and tropical islands, these parks offer something for every kind of nature lover. Whether you seek epic hiking adventures or peaceful scenic drives, this curated guide highlights 25 of the best national parks in the USA—each with its unique highlights, helpful tips, and reasons it earned a spot on this essential list.
What Makes America’s National Parks Special?
- Diversity of landscapes: Desert vistas, snowy peaks, rainforests, grasslands, and oceans.
- Preservation of wildlife: Home to bison, bears, alligators, birds, and rare plant species.
- Recreational opportunities: Hiking, camping, kayaking, climbing, and more.
- Accessibility: Many parks offer visitor centers, shuttle services, and accessible trails.
Read on to find out which national parks stand out for their beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage.
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
America’s first national park, Yellowstone is famous for its geysers, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife. Covering over 2.2 million acres, it’s a showcase of natural wonders, including the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, colorful hot springs, and the mesmerizing Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Spot bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves in their native habitat.
- Don’t miss the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and its impressive Lower Falls.
- Ideal for: Families, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, hikers.
2. Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite dazzles with towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, cascading waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoia trees. The Yosemite Valley, accessible by car and shuttle buses, is home to meadows, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife.
- Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls for classic views.
- Best time to visit: Spring (for waterfalls) and autumn (for quieter trails).
- Pro tip: Book accommodations far in advance—Yosemite is popular!
3. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Carved by the Colorado River, the canyon plunges up to a mile deep and spans 277 miles long. Scenic overlooks on both the South and North Rims offer breathtaking vistas.
- Try a sunrise or sunset at Mather Point for unforgettable colors.
- Adventure options: Hike into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail or take a rafting trip.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
Zion is known for its red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and lush river valleys. The park’s dramatic landscapes can be experienced via scenic drives or thrilling hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
- Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is open to shuttles in peak season to reduce congestion.
- Plan ahead: Permit systems are in place for popular trails.
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Acadia brings coastal beauty to the national park system. Its rugged coastline, pine forests, and granite summit of Cadillac Mountain draw visitors year-round. Wildflower-filled meadows and carriage roads make exploring easy for all ages.
- Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is among the earliest in the USA.
- Explore historic carriage roads by bike or foot.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
This park boasts some of the highest peaks in North America, crystalline alpine lakes, and fields of summer wildflowers. The 48-mile Trail Ridge Road offers high-altitude driving with jaw-dropping mountain views.
What others are reading
- Spot elk herds in the meadows and hike up to Bear Lake or Dream Lake.
- Trail Ridge Road is closed in winter.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)
The most visited park in the nation, Great Smoky Mountains stuns with misty ridges, lush forests, and wildflower displays. Explore by car along Newfound Gap Road or hike to waterfalls and historic buildings.
- Cades Cove Loop Road is perfect for wildlife viewing, especially black bears.
- Peak autumn foliage draws crowds—arrive early or on weekdays.
8. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier features turquoise lakes, jagged peaks, and the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road. Climate change is rapidly melting the park’s namesake glaciers, making now a critical time to visit.
- Don’t miss the drive over Logan Pass for mountain vistas and possible mountain goat sightings.
- Hiking and boating opportunities abound.
9. Olympic National Park (Washington)
In a single day at Olympic, you can walk among ancient temperate rainforests, hike alpine ridges, and stroll along Pacific beaches. The Hoh Rainforest and Rialto Beach showcase the park’s diversity.
- Bring rain gear—Olympic is known for mossy, wet beauty!
- Sol Duc Hot Springs offers a relaxing reward after nature walks.
10. Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, you’ll find the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree. Distinctive Joshua trees, fascinating rock formations, and starry night skies make this park a favorite for photographers and climbers.
- Sunsets here are magical. Bring your camera!
- Popular for stargazing due to clear desert skies.
11. Arches National Park (Utah)
Arches is famous for its more than 2,000 natural stone arches, red-hued spires, and scenic drives. Delicate Arch, iconic against the evening sky, is a must-see.
- Best explored in early morning or late afternoon, when crowds are lighter and lighting is dramatic.
- Reserve tickets or entry when possible due to high visitation.
12. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
This park features the dramatic peaks of the Teton Range, reflected in pristine lakes like Jenny Lake. Its rugged beauty and proximity to Yellowstone make it a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers alike.
- Early morning is best for spotting moose and grizzly bears.
- Don’t miss a scenic boat ride on Jenny Lake.
13. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
Bryce Canyon is home to extraordinary red and orange rock spires called hoodoos. The Queen’s Garden Trail leads you past these surreal formations for enchanting photographs and gentle hikes.
- Attend a ranger-led stargazing session—Bryce is famed for clear night skies.
14. Denali National Park (Alaska)
Denali surrounds North America’s highest peak, Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley). Big tundra vistas, Dall sheep, and grizzly bears await. Most of the park is accessible by bus or tour vehicles only.
- Ideal for wildlife viewing and remote hiking.
- Be prepared for dramatic weather changes.
15. Everglades National Park (Florida)
The largest subtropical wilderness in the US, Everglades is known for its slow-moving waters, sawgrass wetlands, and myriad birds. Take a boat, kayak, or airboat ride to spot alligators, manatees, and roseate spoonbills.
- Visit in winter to avoid bugs and seasonal flooding.
- Don’t miss the Anhinga Trail for up-close wildlife encounters.
16. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
A snow-capped volcanic giant towers over wildflower meadows and ancient forests in Mount Rainier. The park’s 14,410-foot peak dominates the landscape and offers epic hiking trails and subalpine vistas.
- Wildflower season (mid-July to mid-August) fills Paradise and Sunrise areas with color.
- Summer crowds are significant; visit on weekdays when possible.
17. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
Shenandoah follows the ridges of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The Skyline Drive winds 105 miles along the spine, offering mountain vistas and forested trails (especially beautiful in autumn).
- Fall foliage is among the best in the eastern U.S.
- Hike a stretch of the famed Appalachian Trail.
18. Big Bend National Park (Texas)
Remote and rugged, Big Bend spans canyons, river bottoms, and desert mountains along the Rio Grande. Its isolation rewards visitors with solitude, spring wildflowers, and vivid starry skies.
- Temperature extremes are common; best visited in early spring or late fall.
- Bring plenty of water and supplies—the park is far from major cities.
19. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (California)
These two parks jointly protect the world’s largest trees—giant sequoias—and the rugged High Sierra wilderness. The General Sherman Tree is the largest living tree on Earth!
- Walk among giants in the Giant Forest.
- Don’t miss the scenic drive through Kings Canyon.
20. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
Home to thousands of spire-shaped rock formations named hoodoos, Bryce’s vivid colors change throughout the day and night. Numerous short hiking trails descend into the amphitheater for the best views.
- Sunrise and sunset are magical times for photographers.
- Dark sky programs are offered for stargazing enthusiasts.
21. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii)
Hawai’i Volcanoes features two of the world’s most active volcanoes—Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Lava flows, steam vents, and volcanic craters form a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
- Check volcanic activity and air quality before visiting.
- Walk the Kīlauea Iki Crater trail for a dramatic trek over cooled lava fields.
22. Glacier Bay National Park (Alaska)
A shimmering world of tidewater glaciers, snow-peaked mountains, and marine wildlife, Glacier Bay is typically reached by cruise or kayak. See sea otters, whales, sea lions, and massive calving glaciers.
- Best explored by boat tours offering close-up glacier and wildlife views.
- Summer months bring longer daylight and warmer temperatures.
23. Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands)
Virgin Islands National Park protects tropical beaches, coral reefs, and scenic hiking trails on St. John. Enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, or relaxing on white sand beaches like Trunk Bay.
- Snorkel the underwater trail for vibrant marine life.
- Winter is the most pleasant time for weather.
24. North Cascades National Park (Washington)
Home to jagged mountain ranges, more than 300 glaciers, and turquoise alpine lakes, North Cascades is among the least visited parks, offering true wilderness for hikers and climbers.
- Take the scenic North Cascades Highway for spectacular viewpoints.
- Ideal for backpackers and solitude-seekers.
25. Kenai Fjords National Park (Alaska)
Located on Alaska’s southern coast, Kenai Fjords features tidewater glaciers, lush forests, and abundant marine life. Boat tours and sea kayaking bring visitors close to glaciers calving into the sea and pods of orcas and humpback whales.
- Boat tours depart from Seward for the best wildlife and glacier viewing.
- Trails near Exit Glacier provide land-based glacier access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which US national park should I visit first?
A: It depends on your interests! Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon are classic choices for first-timers seeking a mix of wildlife, iconic vistas, and accessibility.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit national parks?
A: Spring and fall often offer mild weather and lighter crowds. However, some parks are best in summer (for hiking and wildflowers) while others, like Everglades or Death Valley, are more pleasant in winter.
Q: Are national parks accessible for all ages and abilities?
A: Many parks provide accessible trails, shuttle buses, and programs for visitors with mobility challenges. Check specific park websites for details and accessibility guides.
Q: Do I need reservations to enter national parks?
A: Some popular parks now require timed entry or reservations, especially during peak season. Always check the official park website before your visit.
Q: What should I pack for a national park trip?
A: Essentials include sturdy shoes, reusable water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, maps, sunscreen, and snacks. Insect repellent and bear spray may be needed in some locations.
References
- https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-ranked/
- https://www.wellplannedjourney.com/list-of-national-parks-by-state/
- https://www.uhcsafetrip.com/tips/natural-wonders-of-the-u-s-the-best-national-parks-to-visit/
- https://www.prevention.com/life/g38054913/best-national-parks-in-usa/
- https://www.nps.gov
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
