Looking to escape into the wild beauty of nature, breathe in fresh mountain air, or marvel at breathtaking landscapes that seem straight out of a dream? The best national parks in the US offer all that and more. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the dramatic desert vistas of the Grand Canyon, America’s national parks showcase the incredible diversity and grandeur of the country’s natural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who craves a scenic road trip, there’s a park waiting to capture your heart.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the top national parks to visit in the United States, highlighting what makes each destination special. Ready to explore with National Park Shops?
One of the best national parks in the US: Yellowstone National Park
– Overall Rating: 7 out of 10
– What We Loved: The geysers and hot springs offer breathtaking, otherworldly scenery.
– What We Didn’t: The strong sulfur smell and crowded walkways can make it feel like navigating a steamy, foul-smelling obstacle course.
Yellowstone, the very first national park ever established, stands as a sanctuary for one of North America’s most diverse natural landscapes. Encompassing everything from vast grasslands and serene lakes to rugged mountain ranges, it’s home to thriving populations of bison, elk, moose, and deer. If you’re fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of elusive wolves or powerful grizzly bears, while sightings of black bears are more common.
A key reason Yellowstone ranks among the best national parks in the US is its remarkable geothermal activity, featuring colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and over half of the planet’s active geysers. The legendary Old Faithful geyser, known for its predictability, erupts around 20 times daily. Visitors are also treated to the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the river cascades through dramatic cliffs in a series of awe-inspiring waterfalls.
Grand Canyon National Park
– Overall Rating: 10 out of 10
– Highlights: Absolutely breathtaking scenery and incredible hiking routes – it’s famous for a reason!
– Downsides: The overwhelming number of visitors can make it feel packed and hectic.
No roundup of the best national parks in the US would be complete without the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Revered as one of America’s most legendary natural wonders, this vast chasm carved by the winding Colorado River leaves an unforgettable impression on all who visit. Many travelers describe being overwhelmed with emotion upon first laying eyes on its sheer scale and once you witness it in person, it’s easy to see why.
The Grand Canyon’s surreal landscape walks the line between fearsome and mesmerizing. The massive rock formations, layered with geological history, stretch endlessly under the sky, creating a visual spectacle that stirs both wonder and humility. While no photograph can ever truly capture its magnitude, standing at the rim offers an experience unlike any other. It’s no surprise that Grand Canyon National Park consistently ranks among the best national parks in the US for travelers seeking scenery that stuns the soul.
Top experiences in Grand Canyon National Park include:
– Driving along Desert View Drive for panoramic viewpoints
– Strolling the Trail of Time to explore geological history
– Visiting the Grand Canyon Visitor Center for insights and exhibits
Grand Teton National Park
– Overall Rating: 9.5/10
– Highlights: Dramatic mountain views, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
– Downsides: Crowds in peak season and fast-changing weather.
Tucked just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, but that only adds to its charm. With fewer tourists passing through, you’re more likely to enjoy the peaceful serenity of its towering peaks and crystal-clear alpine lakes. It’s surprising that such a majestic landscape lies so close to Old Faithful, yet still feels like a hidden gem.
Grand Teton undoubtedly earns its place among the best national parks in the US thanks to its dramatic mountain skyline, pristine wilderness, and countless outdoor adventures. One of the top ways to experience its natural beauty is by driving the 42-Mile Scenic Loop, a route that offers jaw-dropping views and access to some of the park’s most stunning lakes. For those seeking unforgettable sights, Grand Teton delivers in every season and easily competes with the best national parks in the US for breathtaking scenery.
Highlights of Grand Teton National Park include:
– Watching the sun dip behind the peaks at Mormon Row
– Hiking through the spectacular Cascade Canyon
– Capturing reflections at Oxbow Bend Viewpoint
Yosemite National Park, California
– Overall Rating: 7/10
– Highlights: Convenient to reach and enjoyable for visitors of any age
– Downsides: The scenery lacks color variety, mostly shades of grey, green, and blue
Yosemite National Park stands out as one of the best national parks in the US, drawing millions of visitors each year with its breathtaking beauty, and for good reason. Even after more than 15 visits, this place still captivates with its timeless allure and majestic scenery that never gets old.
Dominated by colossal granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls, Yosemite’s landscape is the epitome of natural grandeur. Towering sequoia groves and dramatic vistas come together to create a scene so enchanting, it feels like something out of a dream. It’s no wonder this iconic park frequently tops the list of the best national parks in the US, often hailed as the most picturesque of them all.
Top experiences in Yosemite National Park include:
– Trekking to Bridalveil Falls
– Taking on the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls
– Exploring the ancient sequoias at Mariposa Grove
– Driving up to the panoramic views at Glacier Point
Redwood National and State Parks, California
– Overall rating: 9/10
– Highlights: Towering ancient redwoods and peaceful, uncrowded trails
– Downsides: Coastal fog can limit visibility and dampen views
Nestled along Northern California’s rugged coast, the Redwood National and State Parks protect the tallest trees on Earth, towering up to 370 feet with trunks as wide as 22 feet. Some of these awe-inspiring giants are believed to be thousands of years old, having endured waves of logging that once threatened their very existence.
In the mid-1800s, as westward expansion brought settlers to the region, the vast redwood forests became a seemingly endless source of timber, fueling the local economy and accelerating deforestation. Logging intensified through the early 20th century, and by the 1960s, only a fraction – around 10% – of the original redwoods remained. The creation of Redwood National Park in 1968 marked a turning point, cementing federal protection for these natural treasures. Today, the park collaborates with Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks under a joint management system, offering a one-of-a-kind model for conservation. This cooperative effort has helped preserve an ecosystem that makes Redwood one of the best national parks in the US.
While the colossal trees are the stars, the landscape here is just as varied and mesmerizing. Visitors can also explore open prairies, two major rivers, and over 30 miles of stunning coastline where sea stacks pierce the Pacific and cliffs plunge dramatically into the waves. It’s this diversity that helps secure the park’s place among the best national parks in the US for travelers seeking both serenity and adventure.
If you’re short on time, the 1.5-mile Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail offers a scenic stroll among ancient redwoods and Douglas firs near the ridge tops. For something more immersive, the Boy Scout Tree Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park leads you 5.3 miles through a lush, moss-draped lowland forest. And for coastal explorers, roughly 70 miles of the 200-mile trail system belong to the Coastal Trail, winding through sandy shores, tide pools, and cliffside viewpoints. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise Redwood stands out as one of the best national parks in the US for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.
Virgin Islands National Park
– Overall Rating: 8.5/10
– Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling
– Downsides: Limited infrastructure and access can be challenging without planning ahead
Covering nearly two-thirds of the tranquil island of Saint John, Virgin Islands National Park offers a Caribbean experience far removed from the usual crowds and cruise ships. Instead of glitzy resorts, visitors are welcomed by untouched white-sand beaches, rugged coastlines, and lush green hills, making it a peaceful alternative to other tropical hotspots. This unspoiled paradise is one reason the park continues to earn recognition as one of the best national parks in the US.
Long before it became a protected site, Saint John was home to the Taino people, who lived on the island for over a millennium. In the early 1700s, Danish settlers arrived, establishing plantations worked by enslaved Africans to cultivate sugar, tobacco, and cotton. The island’s transformation into a national treasure began when Laurance Rockefeller purchased large portions of land in the 20th century and donated them to help create what is now Virgin Islands National Park.
Echoes of this layered history remain woven into the landscape. The 6-mile Reef Bay Trail leads hikers down 900 feet through tropical forests past ancient Taino petroglyphs, the ruins of colonial sugar mills, and even a waterfall before reaching a pristine beach. Visitors can also explore the Cinnamon Bay Plantation site, where trails wind past historical remains and offer scenic viewpoints of Francis and Maho Bays. These experiences showcase the cultural depth and natural beauty that make this park one of the best national parks in the US for those seeking a rich blend of history and scenery.
What sets this park apart even more is that over 40% of its protected area lies beneath the water. With vibrant coral reefs, sea grass beds, and calm bays, it’s a haven for snorkelers and kayakers. Maho Bay, in particular, is a highlight, not just for its turquoise waters, but for the sea turtles that gracefully glide through its shallows. This blend of marine life, history, and serenity easily secures Virgin Islands National Park’s place among the best national parks in the US for both adventurers and escape-seekers alike.
Olympic National Park
– Overall Rating: 9/10
– Highlights: Incredible diversity, from lush rainforests and alpine peaks to wild Pacific beaches
– Downsides: Unpredictable weather and long drives between ecosystems
Olympic National Park holds a special place in my heart. With the dramatic Olympic Mountains standing tall behind us, it was the kind of setting that makes memories unforgettable and photos truly timeless.
Spanning over a million acres, this remarkable park captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. From alpine peaks and temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines and glacial lakes, its landscapes are as diverse as they are breathtaking. It’s no wonder Olympic is often counted among the best national parks in the US, drawing outdoor lovers eager to experience its wild, untouched beauty.
For those planning a visit, the park offers no shortage of unforgettable activities. Whether you’re hiking up Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views, watching the sun rise over the tranquil waters of Crescent Lake, wandering through the lush, moss-draped Hoh Rain Forest, or taking in the peaceful trail to Marymere Falls, every moment here affirms why Olympic belongs on any list of the best national parks in the US.
Acadia National Park
– Overall Rating: 8.5/10
– Highlights: Stunning coastal views, granite peaks, and scenic drives like Park Loop Road
– Downsides: Crowds in peak season and limited parking at popular trailheads
As the only national park located in the northeastern United States, Acadia National Park offers an iconic New England experience filled with natural charm and coastal beauty. With its rugged shoreline, rounded granite peaks, historic lighthouses, and charming fishing villages, the park perfectly captures the spirit of the region. It’s easy to see why Acadia is often listed among the best national parks in the US for scenic drives and outdoor adventures.
Visitors can wander through a unique forest ecosystem that blends elements of both northern boreal and southern deciduous woodlands, creating an ideal environment for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. One of the most beloved spots in the park is Cadillac Mountain, rising 1,530 feet and offering panoramic views that are especially magical at sunrise or sunset. This dynamic mix of forest, sea, and mountain landscapes makes Acadia one of the best national parks in the US for travelers craving nature with a touch of coastal charm.
>> Discover more about Acadia through the following blog posts: Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park, Things To Do In Acadia National Park, Best Places To Visit In Acadia National Park, Closest Airport To Acadia National Park
Zion National Park
– Overall rating: 5/10
– Pros: Stunning scenery with a wide range of interesting and diverse hiking trails
– Cons: Parking is extremely limited, and the area tends to get very crowded
I know it’s an unpopular opinion, but Zion felt a bit overrated. The hikes – like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows, were stunning, but the crowds and logistics were frustrating. We had to line up at 2 AM just to get in when the park opened at 6, since parking fills up fast and the gates close. While Zion is often listed as one of the best national parks in the US, visiting during peak times can be more stressful than scenic.
>> Read More: Zion National Park Uncovered, Road Trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
Glacier National Park
– Overall Rating: 9/10
– Highlights: Breathtaking mountain views, pristine lakes, and amazing wildlife; iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road
– Downsides: Can be crowded during peak season, and some areas are only accessible via long hikes
Glacier National Park spans the Continental Divide, where waters split to flow toward either the Atlantic or Pacific. Its most iconic feature, the Going-to-the-Sun Road, winds through alpine scenery from forested valleys to the 6,646-foot Logan Pass, typically open from early July to October. This route alone makes it easy to see why Glacier is considered one of the best national parks in the US.
With over 700 miles of trails, the park offers everything from short strolls to rugged backcountry treks, all set against a backdrop of glacial lakes and towering peaks. Wildlife is abundant, grizzlies, mountain goats, moose, and elk are commonly spotted across the park’s diverse ecosystems. The glaciers, which give the park its name, are vanishing quickly due to climate change, making now a crucial time to experience this natural wonder. Glacier truly earns its place among the best national parks in the US for both its beauty and its urgency.
If you want to learn more about Glacier, you can check out the best time to visit Glacier National Park and distance from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
– Overall Rating: 8/10
– Highlights: Rich biodiversity, scenic mountain views, waterfalls, and a wide variety of hiking trails
– Downsides: Heavy traffic and crowds, especially during peak seasons; some areas can feel overcrowded
Maybe it’s because I was raised near the Great Smoky Mountains, but the park didn’t leave a strong impression on me. While it offers endless greenery and gently rolling, forest-covered hills, many of the trails lack scenic payoffs unless you happen to visit during peak fall foliage. Even then, most paths are densely wooded, with limited views until you reach the very end.
Though it’s often mentioned among the best national parks in the US due to its popularity and accessibility, the experience can feel underwhelming if you’re seeking dramatic vistas or varied terrain.
Sequoia National Park
– Overall Rating: 9/10
– Highlights: Home to the world’s largest trees, stunning mountain views, and a variety of hiking trails
– Downsides: Can be quite crowded during peak seasons, with limited parking at popular spots
Sequoia National Park is, without a doubt, one of the most visually stunning places I’ve ever visited and a proud highlight when I’m sharing stories about the U.S. abroad. Whenever I chat with people during international travels, I often find myself pulling out my phone to showcase photos of this majestic landscape, eager to introduce them to a place that captures the natural magic of America.
You truly can’t grasp the sheer scale of the park’s iconic sequoia trees until you’re standing beneath them, towering giants that leave you speechless even in person. We explored the park during winter, when fresh snow blanketed the forest floor and clung to the cinnamon-colored trunks, creating an unforgettable scene. After spending five incredible days there, we were already planning our return. Sequoia has that magnetic pull that keeps you coming back, and it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best national parks in the US for anyone who loves raw, humbling beauty.
Rocky Mountain National Park
– Overall Rating: 9/10
– Highlights: Breathtaking alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and miles of scenic hiking trails
– Downsides: Can be overcrowded in peak summer months, with some areas having limited parking and accessibility due to weather conditions
If you’re craving crisp alpine air and breathtaking mountain scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect escape, especially during the vibrant autumn months. This spectacular park offers a wide variety of scenic hiking trails, making it easy to immerse yourself in nature, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the mountains. Adding to its charm, the abundance of wildlife creates unforgettable encounters around every corner.
As one of the best national parks in the US, Rocky Mountain never fails to impress. Top highlights include cruising along the iconic Trail Ridge Road, which offers sweeping panoramic views, and hiking the Emerald Lake Trail – arguably the most picturesque route in the park. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true, consistently ranking as one of the best spots in the world to observe elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and more in their natural habitat.
Mt. Rainier National Park
– Overall Rating: 8/10
– Highlights: Majestic mountain views, stunning wildflower meadows, diverse hiking trails, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing
– Downsides: Can be very crowded in the summer, with limited accessibility in winter months due to heavy snowfall
It’s hard to talk about the most breathtaking places in America without mentioning Mount Rainier National Park, easily one of my all-time favorites. When we were living in Portland, Oregon, we spent nearly every summer weekend driving out to the park. For three years straight, it became our go-to adventure spot (and honestly, I never got tired of it).
During that time, we explored over 80% of the hiking trails and completely fell in love with the park’s dramatic beauty. Since moving to New York City, I often find myself missing our old life in the Pacific Northwest, mainly because of how close we used to be to Mount Rainier. There’s just something about it that stays with you.
With glacier-capped peaks, lush forests, sparkling alpine lakes, and fields of wildflowers that explode with color in summer, Mount Rainier truly delivers on every level. It’s no surprise that this national park is often considered one of the best national parks in the US, especially for those seeking both serenity and scenery.
Death Valley National Park
– Overall rating: 8/10
– Pros: Varied scenery offering stunning vistas for those who know the best spots
– Cons: It can be disorienting or disappointing without proper guidance on where to explore
Death Valley is one of those places with incredible hidden gems, Badwater Basin’s surreal salt flats, the vibrant swirls of Artist’s Palette, and the surprise of wildflower super blooms in spring all showcase its dramatic beauty. But because so much of the landscape appears dry and desolate at first glance, it’s easy to underestimate. This is definitely one of the best national parks in the US, where a little planning goes a long way.
It’s a park full of mystery, contrast, and extremes, and I’ve only scratched the surface of what it has to offer. There’s still so much left for me to explore, and every visit feels like uncovering something new. For those willing to look beyond the obvious, Death Valley reveals why it belongs among the best national parks in the US, especially for travelers drawn to stark, otherworldly beauty.
Tips for visiting the beautiful national parks in the US
National Park Pass
Most parks charge around $30 for a 7-day entry, but the smartest investment is the $80 annual America the Beautiful Pass. It grants unlimited access for a full year to all national parks and over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including many of the best national parks in the US.
Respect Leave No Trace Principles
It’s a set of guidelines to help protect the natural world while enjoying it. You can explore all seven principles online and make sure you’re doing your part to preserve some of the best national parks in the US for future generations.
Sunscreen Is a Must
This French sunscreen is my holy grail – lightweight, scent-free, and non-greasy. I stock up whenever I can because you’ll never catch me outdoors without it.
Wear Reliable Hiking Boots
Even though national park trails are usually in good shape, exposed roots and uneven terrain are everywhere. A pair of sturdy hiking boots with solid grip will make all the difference, and save you from unnecessary stumbles.
Stick to the Trail
Beautiful meadows and forest floors are fragile ecosystems. Wandering off the path can damage native plants and compact soil. Always stay on marked trails, and step over roots – not on them – to avoid harming the trees.
Pack Smart
Don’t forget bug spray during warmer months and a lightweight rain jacket, no matter the season. Most importantly, always carry plenty of water, more than you think you’ll need.
Expect the Crowds
With millions of visitors each year, even the most remote trails in top parks can get busy. To beat the rush, aim for weekday visits and hit the trailhead early, before 8 AM is usually a good call.
Conclusion
The best national parks in the US offer an incredible variety of experiences. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon, these parks provide something for everyone. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, planning a trip to one of these iconic parks is sure to be a memorable journey filled with awe-inspiring beauty and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore these natural wonders – your next adventure awaits!
>> Read More:
– Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park: Ultimate Travel Guide
– Explore the Road Trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
