All of these reasons contribute to why national parks in America are so popular and beloved among nature enthusiasts, hikers, campers, climbers — anyone who appreciates a great view! Featuring everything from iconic deserts and sprawling canyons to expansive forests and towering mountains, each park highlights a different facet of the American wild. It is not for nothing that these are some of the best places and national parks listed here that deserve to be visited, each with unique experiences.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Dazzling granite cliff walls, ancient groves of giant sequoias, and unforgettable waterfalls captivate at Yosemite. Rock climbers and photographers converge here for the iconic Half Dome El Capitan mountains. Hiking trails such as Mist Trail take you to roaring waterfalls with incredible views. Home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears and mule deer, the park has several different ecosystems within its borders. Season Matters, though, and each brings a slightly different perspective of Yosemite’s Landscapes.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
One of those is the immense size and complex rock layers that make up the Grand Canyon, drawing millions to visit every year. Formed by the Colorado River, this impressive landscape displays over 2 billion years of Earth history. The South Rim is home to the most comprehensive and sweeping canyon views as well as hike-friendly trails from which you can hit up Bright Angel or South Kaibab. North Rim is quieter and less crowded than the South, so if you like a little more isolation, it’ll be better. The canyon walls look particularly micro-small, making it a first-rate photographer’s idealistic.
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Yellowstone is America’s first national park and is evidence of the most significant number of geothermal features and wildlife, in addition to its waterfalls. Old Faithful is a world-renowned geyser that reliably offers spectacular eruptions. Colored hot springs, mud pots, and steam vents are just some of the features of this unique park. Visitors can spot bison roaming the plains, along with elk and grizzly bears, showcasing the park’s rich wildlife. The Grand Prismatic Spring is vibrant and definitely worth a look.
4. Zion National Park, Utah
Steep red cliffs, narrow canyons, and unique rock formations have made Zion National Park a favorite among hikers and photographers. 3, 2017 baskets more Kettler Getty via The Narrows and Angels Landing thrill hikers seeking views of Zion Canyon. A hike suitable for all levels that is equally as beautiful but much less strenuous, Riverside Walk follows the majestic Virgin River and features abundant fresh greenery throughout the park. The best time to visit is spring and fall; with pleasant weather and fewer tourists, it’s ideal.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
With dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and an extensive trail network (for hiking and horseback riding), this park offers families plenty of options. The highest continuously flat, paved U.S. road provides clear-day views stretching from the Continental Divide to Wyoming. Visitors can paddle boat on Bear Lake, hike up Longs Peak’s 14,000-ft summit, or enjoy stunning dusk views, perfect for elk-watching. The park becomes a snowshoe and cross-country ski wonderland for people in the wintertime.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina, Tennessee)
Great Smoky Mountains: With mist-shrouded mountains, the Great Smokies is America’s most famous national park. Renowned for its thorough biodiversity, the park harbors black bears and a number of species of wildflowers, amongst which are synchronous fireflies. Walk up the 1/4-mile paved trail to reach Clingmans Dome, where the observation tower, perched over 6,600 feet (2,029 m) high, offers breathtaking views. Discover hiking trails like Alum Cave and the Appalachian Trail, leading through lush forests to breathtaking mountaintop views. The sheer variety is dazzling — some visitors come for the fall foliage; others prefer wildflowers in blossom.
7. Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on Maine’s rugged coastline, Acadia National Park combines mountain views with ocean vistas. Home to one of the earliest sunrises in the U.S., Cadillac Mountain offers breathtaking views and photography moments. Visit the Coast with the most Sand Beach and Thunder Hole to experience the stunning beauty of the Atlantic Ocean up close. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from flat, easy walks to demanding climbs into the granite cliffs. The fall brings a fantastic array of colors as the forest explodes into every color imaginable.
8. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park — a preserve called “Crown of the Continent” known for its pristine lakes, rugged peaks, and scenic glaciers. For example, drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road to enjoy scenic views and access various trailheads throughout the park. Hike to Lake McDonald or hit the Highline Trail for some of Glacier’s best alpine views. Keep an eye out for wildlife; you might spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or, with some luck, even a grizzly bear in the park’s remote areas. The park is best explored in summer, with freedom to wander, and in winter, where snowshoeing and cross-country skiing add adventure.
9. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park has more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches carved by millions of years’ worth of weathering and erosion. Everyone and their dog go to see Delicate Arch at sunset, the park’s most famous formation. Devil’s Garden Trail leads to some of the park’s most significant, and strangest arches—Landscape Arch included. Arches, with its red-rock terrain, transforms into an otherworldly landscape under a starry night, making it an incredible spot for dreamy Milky Way photos.. Summer highs are extreme, so go early in the morning or evening.
10. Everglades National Park, Florida
Florida’s subtropical wetlands, just south of the state, host diverse wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and over 300 bird species. Travelers can explore by kayak or take guided boat tours, learning about the local wildlife along the way. Anhinga Trail is an enjoyable, wheelchair-accessible walk where you are almost guaranteed to see alligators and birds. Go even higher with the outlook tower at Shark Valley for sweeping vistas all over Everglades National Park. With summer temperatures reaching over 50°C, along with intense heat and rain, winter is clearly the ideal season to visit.
