Best U.S. National Parks

Exploring the vast landscapes of the United States, the national parks offer some of the most breathtaking views and experiences. Each park provides a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems that stretch across the country. But which parks are best for those seeking unforgettable adventures and stunning scenery?

From towering mountains to serene coastlines, these destinations promise memorable journeys that connect visitors to the wonders of nature. Whether it’s the lure of hiking trails, the tranquility of secluded spots, or the awe-inspiring wildlife, these parks invite everyone to discover and cherish the natural world.

Yosemite National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Yosemite National Park, located in California, is a wonderland of towering granite peaks and lush valleys. It is famous for its stunning waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls, which cascade down in breathtaking displays.

Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, like the renowned Mist Trail, offering close views of the waterfalls and spectacular views of the valley below. Rock climbing enthusiasts worldwide come to scale the park’s iconic cliffs, including the challenging El Capitan. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, serene meadows and scenic drives through sights like Tunnel View offer peaceful moments to enjoy nature’s beauty.

Yellowstone National Park

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Yellowstone National Park spans Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It’s famous for its geothermal features, like the breathtaking Old Faithful geyser. This iconic landmark shoots water into the air at predictably regular intervals, offering a truly mesmerizing sight.

The park is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors might spot bison, elk, and even grizzly bears roaming the vast landscapes. Exploring the picturesque trails, visitors can find hidden waterfalls and stunning views. Those looking to relax can enjoy fishing or boating on Yellowstone Lake, surrounded by serene scenery. Whether hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in nature, Yellowstone offers unforgettable experiences.

Grand Canyon National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a breathtaking destination that captivates visitors with its vast landscapes. Its sheer cliffs and vibrant colors offer stunning views. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like the Bright Angel Trail, which offers spectacular views.

For those who prefer water, rafting on the Colorado River through the canyon provides an adrenaline-pumping experience. Wildlife lovers might spot elk and eagles along the rim. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of sunrise or sunset as light dances across the ridges. The Grand Canyon indeed provides an unforgettable adventure for anyone who visits.

Zion National Park

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Zion National Park is a place of breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore awe-inspiring cliffs and canyons that stretch across the horizon. Nature lovers enjoy hiking through trails like Angels Landing, where the view from the top feels like touching the sky.

For those who love water activities, the Narrows offers a thrilling wade through the Virgin River, with towering canyon walls on either side. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot desert bighorn sheep as they wander through the park’s rugged terrain. Whether seeking solitude or excitement, Zion’s majestic beauty invites exploration and discovery at every turn.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Nestled in the heart of Colorado, it boasts breathtaking mountain views and lush forests. The park offers over 300 miles of trails, perfect for hikers of all levels. Each path promises unique encounters with nature, from alpine lakes to cascading waterfalls.

Visitors can drive along Trail Ridge Road, North America’s highest continuous paved road. This scenic route gives an unparalleled view of the park’s diverse terrain. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, moose, and bighorn sheep. The park’s diverse ecosystems make every visit unique, no matter the season.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Great Smoky Mountains National Park invites visitors with its endless beauty and exciting adventures. Imagine wandering through lush, green forests divided by the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. Nature thrives here, with a rich diversity of plants and animals.

Day hikes along scenic trails lead to breathtaking waterfalls and enchanting woods. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point, offers panoramic views for those ready to climb. Families will love picnicking in quiet meadows surrounded by stunning mountain views. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting black bears, deer, and various bird species. The park’s old-growth forests make it a paradise for nature lovers.

Glacier National Park

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Nestled in the rugged mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers more than 700 miles of hiking trails, each winding through breathtaking alpine landscapes. One popular trail, the Highline Trail, hugs the Garden Wall, providing jaw-dropping views of distant peaks and deep valleys.

Wildlife enthusiasts find joy in spotting grizzly bears, elusive lynxes, and majestic moose in their natural habitats. Scenic drives like the Going-to-the-Sun Road treat visitors to glacial views and lush meadows teeming with wildflowers. For a more tranquil experience, over 700 stunning lakes and pristine rivers offer perfect opportunities for kayaking or canoeing.

Olympic National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Olympic National Park in Washington offers a stunning mix of landscapes, from lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines. Visitors can explore vibrant wildflower meadows or hike rugged mountain trails with breathtaking views. The diverse ecosystems provide a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The park’s coastline is perfect for beachcombing or catching a sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Inland, the dense Hoh Rain Forest invites peaceful strolls under ancient trees, while the rocky peaks of Hurricane Ridge offer thrilling opportunities for hiking and skiing. Olympic National Park’s rich cultural history adds another wonder to this awe-inspiring destination.

Acadia National Park

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Situated on Maine’s coast, Acadia National Park offers breathtaking views and abundant wildlife. Visitors are often drawn to Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the U.S. East Coast, where they can experience sunrise like nowhere else.

Explorers can hike miles of trails that weave through forests and along rocky shores. The adventurous may bike along the historic carriage roads, offering a smooth and scenic ride. For those who enjoy water activities, kayaking on the serene waters or simply relaxing by Jordan Pond are delightful options. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot eagles soaring above or glimpse seals basking on rocks.

Joshua Tree National Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Perched where two deserts meet, Joshua Tree National Park offers a stunning blend of landscapes and outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike through trails with unique rock formations and the iconic Joshua Trees. This park is a haven for rock climbers, with thousands of climbing routes on its rugged terrain. Stargazers delight in the park’s clear night skies, perfect for viewing constellations.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot numerous species of birds and reptiles. Photographers will relish capturing the surreal desert sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant hues. Joshua Tree provides endless exploration opportunities for adventure lovers and nature fans alike.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in Utah, captivates with its otherworldly landscapes. The park is famous for its unique hoodoos, tall, thin spires of rock that paint the landscape in shades of orange and pink. Visitors can explore breathtaking trails where these natural wonders stand against the vast sky.

Like the Navajo Loop Trail, hiking trails offer adventures through the canyon’s heart. For those seeking stunning views, the Rim Trail provides panoramic views of the amphitheater. Stargazing here is equally phenomenal, with clear nights revealing over 7,500 stars. The dry air and minimal light pollution make stargazing a must-experience activity in this designated Dark Sky reserve.

Arches National Park

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Arches National Park is a stunning destination with over 2,000 natural stone arches. Visitors can marvel at these incredible rock formations crafted by nature over millions of years. Hiking trails range from short walks to more challenging treks, offering opportunities for breathtaking views. Delicate Arch, a standout attraction, invites adventurers to explore its beauty up close during a scenic hike.

The park also features unique rock formations like hoodoos and balanced rocks. Photographers will find countless opportunities to capture the vibrant red hues of the landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light transforms the rocks in glowing shades of orange and red.

Sequoia National Park

Our Rating: 9.4/10

The towering giants of Sequoia National Park offer visitors an awe-inspiring experience. The park is home to the General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree by volume. Stroll the Giant Forest, an enchanting area filled with these colossal wonders, perfect for those seeking a peaceful nature walk.

Hikers can meander through the park’s trails, which range from easy paths to challenging routes. The Moro Rock Trail provides a stunning view of the Sierra Nevada. Adventurers can ascend the 400 steps to the top, which rewards them with breathtaking panoramic views. Caves like Crystal Cave tempt explorers with their fascinating underground formations.

Death Valley National Park

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Death Valley National Park is a place of striking contrasts. Visitors can explore Badwater Basin’s salt flats, the lowest point in North America. Here, the oddly shaped salt crusts create a surreal landscape that feels like another world. For those who enjoy breathtaking views, Dante’s View offers a panoramic look over the valley, incredibly stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Hiking trails like Golden Canyon lead trekkers through vivid rock formations and colorful badlands. The park’s landscape is also a haven for photographers. Artists Palette’s vibrant array of colors makes it a favorite spot for capturing the beauty of nature’s art. Together, these experiences make Death Valley a unique and memorable adventure.

Haleakalā National Park

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Haleakalā National Park on the island of Maui in Hawai’i offers a stunning blend of volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests. Visitors can hike through unique terrains, from desert-like craters to dense greenery. The park is a paradise for rare and endangered species, making wildlife spotting a thrilling experience.

Witness sunrise at the summit of Haleakalā, a breathtaking sight as colors paint the sky. The backcountry offers trails that weave through striking landscapes for those seeking adventure. Stargazing here is unmatched, with the park’s clear skies providing a magical view of the night stars. The park also celebrates the rich Hawaiian culture, linking the natural beauty with its cultural heritage. With diverse ecosystems, Haleakalā promises endless exploration.

Mesa Verde National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Mesa Verde National Park offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore ancient cliff dwellings made by the Ancestral Pueblo people over 700 years ago. The park protects these remarkable structures, allowing guests to wander through history.

The park is a haven for adventure lovers. Hiking trails wind through stunning landscapes, showcasing mesa-top views and cliffside paths. Each hike offers a chance to connect with the natural beauty and cultural history unique to this region. Wildlife lovers will find the park filled with diverse species. It’s a perfect place for bird watching and spotting rare animals.

Mount Rainier National Park

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington offers breathtaking views and thrilling outdoor adventures. Rising to 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier itself captivates travelers with its majestic presence.

Visitors can embark on the stunning Skyline Trail in the Paradise area. This trail winds through vibrant wildflower meadows and offers sweeping mountain views. It’s a rewarding challenge with unforgettable sights. Adventure seekers enjoy exploring the park’s diverse terrain, from lush forests to glacial landscapes. The alpine wonderland is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Denali National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Denali National Park is a breathtaking Alaskan wilderness where adventure awaits. Stretching over six million acres, this park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Visitors can explore various landscapes, from lush forests to soaring, snow-capped mountains.

Hiking is a must-do activity here. The park’s trails range from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot grizzly bears, moose, and caribou in their natural habitat. For a unique experience, a bus tour along the park road provides stunning views and chances to witness the majestic Denali, North America’s tallest peak. Whether hiking or joining a guided tour, Denali offers unforgettable memories.

Everglades National Park

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Everglades National Park, located in Florida, is a unique treasure of subtropical wilderness. Visitors can wander through a maze of mangroves and spot rare animals like manatees and the elusive Florida panther. This park offers a remarkable chance to explore diverse habitats.

Adventurers can bike or hike the Shark Valley trail and experience the open views. The trail stretches 15 miles and provides thrilling encounters with local wildlife. A tram tour is also available for those who prefer a more relaxed journey. Birdwatchers can revel in the park, a paradise for various bird species.

Badlands National Park

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Badlands National Park in South Dakota’s jagged landscape captivates visitors with its stunning geological formations. Vibrant layers of rock create a mesmerizing backdrop for exploration. Driving the Badlands Loop Road offers breathtaking views of sharp ridges and deep canyons. Wildlife like bison and bighorn sheep often surprise travelers along this scenic route.

Hiking trails like the Notch Trail provide an adventurous experience as they weave through narrow passages and climb steep ladders to rewarding views. Whether it’s the striking beauty or the thrill of adventure, Badlands National Park offers unforgettable moments for all.

Crater Lake National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a stunning gem of nature. It boasts the deepest lake in the United States, renowned for its striking blue color and clarity. The park offers plenty of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Visitors can hike trails that provide breathtaking lake views and surrounding volcanic landscapes. During the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer unique ways to explore the snow-covered park. For stargazers, the park is a dream come true. Crater Lake provides an unparalleled night sky view with minimal light pollution, leaving visitors in awe of its celestial beauty.

Channel Islands National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of Southern California. This park consists of five unique islands offering stunning vistas and rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore over 150 species found nowhere else. Kayaking through sea caves is a thrilling adventure. The crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant marine life below.

Hiking trails lead to breathtaking views at the El Montañon summit on Santa Cruz Island, rising 1,812 feet above sea level. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting seals, sea lions, and diverse bird species. The isolation of these islands means fewer animals than on the mainland, but the unique species and tranquil atmosphere make up for it.

Saguaro National Park

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Saguaro National Park, nestled in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, offers a unique look at some of the world’s most enormous cacti. These towering giants create a landscape unlike any other, making for excellent photo opportunities and memorable hikes. Adventurers can explore trails that weave through cactus forests and enjoy the desert’s quiet beauty.

Wildlife enthusiasts might catch glimpses of roadrunners zipping by or listen for the call of Gila woodpeckers echoing through the cacti. The park is divided into two districts, Rincon Mountain and Tucson Mountain, offering something unique. Sunsets here are breathtaking, painting the sky in vivid oranges and purples—an unforgettable sight for any visitor.

Canyonlands National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Canyonlands National Park, located in the heart of Utah, offers an awe-inspiring landscape filled with vast canyons and towering mesas. It’s a haven for adventurers seeking rugged, unspoiled beauty. Divided into four districts, each area presents unique experiences for visitors.

The Island in the Sky district is popular for its breathtaking viewpoints and short hiking trails. Visitors can witness panoramic vistas that stretch forever, perfect for photography and serene contemplation. The Needles district offers exciting hikes through vibrant rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, ideal for those eager to explore the park’s rich history. The Maze is remote and challenging, enticing seasoned hikers and wilderness enthusiasts with its labyrinthine canyons.

Great Basin National Park

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem in Nevada, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Visitors can hike up to the 13,063-foot summit of Wheeler Peak for breathtaking views. The night sky here is a stargazer’s paradise, providing one of the darkest skies in the country for unparalleled celestial views.

Wander among ancient bristlecone pines, some over 4,000 years old, which stand as a testament to time’s passage. Explore the intriguing Lehman Caves with their magnificent limestone formations. This park is perfect for those seeking the serenity of the wilderness and wishing to experience some of the oldest natural features in the United States.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Our Rating: 8.2/10

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, nestled between Cleveland and Akron, offers a charming escape into nature’s beauty. Explore over 125 miles of winding trails that invite hikers and bikers alike. The Ledges Trail promises breathtaking views and unique rock formations. At 2.6 miles, it’s a rewarding adventure for those who seek an easy but scenic hike.

The historic Towpath Trail follows the path of the Ohio & Erie Canal. It offers visitors a way to walk or cycle through history, surrounded by lush scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting native animals in the deep forests and open fields. This hidden gem combines natural wonders with a dash of history and is a must-visit.

Petrified Forest National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

A world where time stands still awaits visitors at Petrified Forest National Park. This park is a wonderland of ancient trees turned to stone, stretching over hundreds of miles. It’s like stepping into a surreal landscape featuring the vivid hues of the Painted Desert.

Visitors can explore the park’s easy trails and discover the longest petrified tree, towering at an impressive 116 feet. Fossil exhibits glimpse a prehistoric world filled with ancient plants and creatures. Adventurers can also hike through colorful badlands and capture the essence of this unique terrain, where history and nature paint a magnificent picture.

Big Bend National Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Big Bend National Park in Texas showcases breathtaking desert vistas and rugged mountain landscapes. It’s an enchanting place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park’s vast trails wind through diverse terrains, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring.

Admire towering rock formations or watch the Rio Grande River meander through deep canyons. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with the variety of avian species found here, while stargazers can enjoy some of the darkest skies in the country. Visitors can also embark on thrilling river trips or enjoy mountain biking. Whether exploring the Chisos Mountains or soaking in the hot springs, Big Bend promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Shenandoah National Park

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Shenandoah National Park is a treasure in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Visitors will find endless trails to explore. The Appalachian Trail runs through it, offering breathtaking vistas and a chance to spot wildlife. Nature lovers can find peace in its quiet woods and rolling hills.

Travelers who drive along the Skyline Drive enjoy scenic overlooks that are perfect for taking stunning photos. Each season brings unique beauty, from the bright hues of fall to wildflowers in spring. This park provides a wide range of outdoor adventures for everyone. For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, there are picnicking spots and camping areas to unwind. Whether hiking, driving, or birdwatching, Shenandoah offers unforgettable experiences.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a paradise for adventure lovers. The park boasts a variety of trails that weave through stunning landscapes. Visitors can hike through forests, past bubbling mud pots, and up to awe-inspiring volcanic peaks. Wildflower meadows add vibrant splashes of color in spring and summer, making every step a breathtaking experience.

For those seeking tranquility, the park’s clear mountain lakes are perfect for kayaking or fishing. Snow blankets the park in winter, transforming it into a picturesque wonderland. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities, offering chances to explore this snowy haven. Each season unveils a new way to enjoy the park’s incredible natural beauty.

Capitol Reef National Park

Our Rating: 8.1/10

Capitol Reef National Park, nestled in southern Utah, dazzles visitors with its vast landscapes of striking red rock formations. This hidden gem offers a peek into another world. Adventurous travelers will enjoy hiking through narrow slot canyons. Routes like Cohab Canyon and Capitol Gorge promise breathtaking views and rock cliffs soaring above.

For a peaceful visit, explore the Fruita Historic District. Here, you can see orchards and old settler cabins, charming echoes of the past. In spring and fall, lush greenery and blooming flowers contrast beautifully against the red rocks. Those interested in history can view ancient rock art carved by Native Americans. These petroglyphs whisper stories from centuries ago, revealing a rich culture.

Redwood National and State Parks

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Among California’s towering giants, Redwood National and State Parks offer visitors a chance to wander through awe-inspiring forest landscapes. The combination of four parks provides a sanctuary for ancient coastal redwoods. Hiking trails, like the famous Redwood Creek Trail, invite adventurers to immerse themselves in lush greenery and sparkling streams.

The parks offer breathtaking forest views and access to nearby rugged coastlines, where the ocean meets the forest in harmony. Each visit promises discoveries, whether camping under starry skies or capturing the perfect photo of the majestic redwoods. This natural wonderland captures the imagination and leaves lasting memories for all who explore it.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Our Rating: 8.2/10

Visitors to Carlsbad Caverns National Park enter a world of wonder beneath the earth. The park is a maze of 119 breathtaking caves formed by sulfuric acid dissolving limestone. The caves are adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites that spark the imagination. Above ground, the Chihuahuan Desert offers high ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, and a colorful array of desert flowers.

Hikers can explore trails that wind through this unique landscape, providing a glimpse into the beauty of the desert. Ranger-led tours invite visitors to learn about the caves’ formation and history. For the adventurous, there’s the chance to witness bats emerging from the caves at dusk, a surprising and memorable spectacle.

Voyageurs National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota offers visitors a unique water-based experience. The park is accessible mainly by boat, which adds a sense of adventure to exploring its vast wilderness. Visitors can navigate interconnected waterways and immerse themselves in serene, unspoiled nature.

Kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to paddle through the park’s clear waters. Fishing is widespread, with species like walleye and northern pike in abundance. For those who enjoy hiking, trails wind through lush forests and offer picturesque views of the surrounding lakes. Camping in Voyageurs allows you to sleep under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Theodore Roosevelt National Park spans a stunning 70,000 acres in western North Dakota. Visitors can embark on a scenic drive along the South Scenic Loop Road, where sweeping vistas reveal vibrant landscapes rich with history. The colorful Painted Canyon Overlook offers breathtaking views that capture the natural beauty of this expansive park.

For a more adventurous outing, explore the park’s hiking trails. These paths weave through rugged terrain, presenting an opportunity for wildlife sightings. Bison, elk, and prairie dogs roam freely, providing an unforgettable experience. The North and South Units are easily accessible, while Elkhorn Ranch requires more effort, rewarding determined travelers with a unique glimpse into Roosevelt’s cherished retreat.

Exploring the best U.S. National Parks offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the vast beauty of the American landscape. Whether you’re hiking through verdant forests, marveling at geothermal wonders, or stargazing under pristine skies, each park provides a memorable escape into the wild.