The United States is a dream destination for all the nature enthusiasts out there. Home to a whopping 419 national parks, the country offers a huge variety of breathtaking landscapes, unique natural wonders and an incredibly diverse flora and fauna to explore.
It comes as no surprise then, that most visitors will squeeze in at least one or two different natural parks to visit when planning their tailormade holidays in the US. It’s no easy choice though, with such a wide selection to pick from. To help you out, here are 10 stunning US national parks to consider.
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General Tips for Visiting National Parks
Plan Ahead
Research and plan your trip, including accommodations, permits, and park regulations.
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Leave No Trace
Follow the Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the parks.
Safety First
Be prepared for the specific conditions of each park, including weather, wildlife, and terrain.
Stay Informed
Check for any park alerts, closures, or specific guidelines before and during your visit.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed animals.
Hydration and Nutrition
Carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for long hikes or outdoor activities.
Most Stunning National Parks in the US
Yellowstone
Located in Wyoming as well as parts of Montana and Idaho, the Yellowstone National Park is one of the most world-famous natural attractions that the US can be proud of. Visiting this beautiful location is an unforgettable experience for most due to the, quite literally, active nature of Yellowstone park.
Being situated on a volcano, the national park has a number of unique wonders, such as thermal features, geysers, waterfalls, hot springs, valleys and a canyon. The wildlife of this destination is just as impressive too, as you may get to spot a black and grizzly bear, elk and moose, bison and bighorn sheep.
Highlights
Old Faithful Geyser
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone Lake
Mammoth Hot Springs
Wildlife (bison, elk, grizzly bears)
Tips
Accommodations and campgrounds fill up quickly, so book well in advance. Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds at popular spots. For safety and conservation, stay on marked trails and boardwalks.
Grand Canyon
You could simply not make this list without including the Grand Canyon National Park – one of the most popular destinations in the country, around which thousands of tourists will plan their holiday to the United States. There is not much you can say other than you have to see it for yourself..
The Grand Canyon is a whopping 446 km long, 29 km wide and 1.6 km deep. The unique landscape of erosional forms that were formed over millions of years by the Colorado River is guaranteed to take your breath away. The park is one of the most magnificent spots for sunrise and sunset as well as a great destination for an active day out hiking.
Highlights
South Rim viewpoints (Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station)
North Rim (less crowded, cooler temperatures)
Bright Angel Trail
Colorado River Rafting
Tips
The South Rim is more accessible and open year-round, while the North Rim is less crowded but open from May to October. The desert climate can be dehydrating; carry plenty of water. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Yosemite
Another world-famous destination of the US, Yosemite National Park is commonly crowned as the jewel of California. The park is home to a simply stunning diversity of landscapes, rock formations, gigantic rock walls and, its most popular attraction, the Yosemite Valley.
The picturesque location is surrounded by powerful waterfalls and tranquil glaciers – an astonishing combination that does not leave its visitors disappointed. The Yosemite National Park is also where you’ll find the infamous El Capitan – a granite rock wall that was featured in various movies about rock climbing, the most popular being Free Solo in 2018.
Highlights
Yosemite Valley
El Capitan
Half Dome
Yosemite Falls
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Tips
Some areas and activities require reservations, especially during peak season. Spring for waterfalls, fall for fewer crowds and beautiful colors. Use the park shuttle to get around Yosemite Valley and reduce congestion.
Hawaii
If you are looking for a paradise-on-earth type of destination, Hawaii is the place to be with no less than 50 national parks to choose from. The incredibly diverse nature of Hawaii can be seen in every corner, including the tropical rainforests, stunning waterfalls, mighty volcanoes and a huge variety of unique plants and animals to witness.
Hawaii is also famous for its heavenly beaches and turquoise blue waters, where many love to go snorkelling with exotic sea animals and colourful corals.
Glacier Bay
Located in Alaska, the Glacier Bay National Park is our last but by no means least destination in the US. Filled with extraordinary nature and landscapes, the park is one of the largest World Heritage Sites. You will see numerous glaciers and deep fjords, all surrounded by mountain peaks, rainforests and astonishing coastlines.
Not only that, you will have the opportunity to get on a boat trip through the glaciers and kayak together with killer whales that can be spotted regularly. The Glacier Bay National Park is filled with beauty and serenity, making it the perfect destination to recharge your batteries and get back in touch with nature.
Zion National Park
Location: Utah
Highlights
The Narrows (river hike)
Angel’s Landing (challenging hike with stunning views)
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Emerald Pools
Tips
The main canyon is accessible only by shuttle bus from March to November. Start hikes early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Flash floods can occur, especially in The Narrows.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Location: Tennessee, North Carolina
Highlights
Clingmans Dome (highest point)
Cades Cove (wildlife viewing and historic buildings)
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Abrams Falls
Tips
Stop by Sugarlands or Oconaluftee Visitor Center for maps and information. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, particularly bears. Explore the park’s scenic drives for beautiful views and easy access to nature.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Location: Colorado
Highlights
Trail Ridge Road (scenic drive above the treeline)
Bear Lake
Longs Peak (challenging hike)
Alpine Visitor Center
Tips
Allow time to acclimate to higher elevations. Trail Ridge Road is typically closed from October to June due to snow. Bring layers, as the weather can change rapidly.
Glacier National Park
Location: Montana
Highlights
Going-to-the-Sun Road (scenic drive)
Lake McDonald
Grinnell Glacier
Logan Pass
Tips
Late June to mid-September for full access to the park. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Accommodations and campgrounds book quickly in peak season.
Olympic National Park
Location: Washington
Highlights
Hoh Rain Forest
Hurricane Ridge
Rialto Beach and sea stacks
Sol Duc Hot Springs
Tips
Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from mountains to coastline to rain forests. The park’s weather varies greatly by region; pack accordingly. Check tide charts if exploring coastal areas.
Acadia National Park
Location: Maine
Highlights
Cadillac Mountain (sunrise views)
Jordan Pond
Sand Beach
Park Loop Road
Tips
Fall for foliage and fewer crowds; summer is busiest. Explore the park’s carriage roads for biking and hiking. Required for Cadillac Mountain summit drive during peak season.
Everglades National Park
Location: Florida
Highlights
Anhinga Trail (wildlife viewing)
Shark Valley (tram tours and biking)
Airboat Tours
Flamingo Visitor Center
Tips
Bring insect repellent, especially in the summer. June to November is wet season; plan accordingly for higher water levels and wildlife activity. Early morning or late afternoon are best for wildlife activity.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.