As summer rolls around, it’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures and memorable family vacations. There’s no better way to bond with loved ones than by exploring the stunning natural beauty of America’s National Parks. From breathtaking landscapes to thrilling activities, these parks offer endless opportunities for fun and togetherness. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first national park trip, we’ve got the tips, hidden gems, and must-see attractions to make your visit extraordinary. So pack your bags, grab your family, and let’s embark on an adventure through the top National Parks in the United States!
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes approximately 12.1 million visitors annually, making it the most visited national park in the United States. The best times to visit are in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the scenery is breathtakingly colorful. This park offers an abundance of wildlife, scenic drives, and historic sites, providing endless opportunities for exploration and family fun.
Top Attractions:
- Cades Cove: A scenic valley surrounded by mountains, perfect for wildlife viewing.
- Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park, offering panoramic views.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A beautiful drive through lush forests and historic buildings.
Less Traveled Options:
- Deep Creek: Known for its waterfalls and tubing opportunities.
- Cosby Campground: A quieter area with excellent hiking trails.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park attracts around 5.9 million visitors each year, drawn by its awe-inspiring vistas and geological wonders. The ideal times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the temperatures are more moderate. With iconic viewpoints like the South Rim and the less crowded North Rim, this park offers something for every adventurer.
Top Attractions:
- South Rim: Offers iconic views and accessible trails.
- North Rim: Less crowded, with equally stunning vistas.
- Havasu Falls: A hidden gem with turquoise waters (permit required).
- Phantom Ranch: A place to camp/stay at the bottom of the canyon (reservations required).
3. Rocky Mountain National Park
With approximately 4.7 million annual visitors, Rocky Mountain National Park is a favorite destination for nature lovers. The best times to visit are in the summer (June to September) and fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the trails are open. Visitors can enjoy stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road.
Top Attractions:
- Trail Ridge Road: The highest paved road in North America.
- Bear Lake: A scenic, accessible lake with stunning views.
- Alpine Visitor Center: The highest elevation visitor center in the National Park system.
Less Traveled Options:
- Wild Basin Area: Offers serene hiking trails and waterfalls.
- Longs Peak: For experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
4. Zion National Park
Zion National Park sees about 4.5 million visitors each year, captivated by its dramatic landscapes and adventurous trails. Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are the optimal times to visit, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Highlights include the Narrows, Angels Landing, and the picturesque Emerald Pools.
Top Attractions:
- The Narrows: A hike through the river with towering canyon walls.
- Angels Landing: A thrilling hike with breathtaking views.
- Emerald Pools: A series of beautiful pools and waterfalls.
Fun Fact: Zion was originally called Mukuntuweap National Monument before being renamed in 1919.
5. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, welcomes roughly 4.1 million visitors annually. The best times to visit are in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when wildlife is active, and the crowds are thinner. Famous for Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone is a must-see for any nature enthusiast.
Top Attractions:
- Old Faithful: The iconic geyser that erupts regularly.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States.
- Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-elevation lake in North America.
Less Traveled Options:
- Lamar Valley: Known as America’s Serengeti for its abundant wildlife.
- Bechler Region: Also known as Cascade Corner for its numerous waterfalls.
6. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park draws around 4.4 million visitors each year with its stunning granite cliffs and ancient sequoias. The best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the waterfalls are at their peak flow and the weather is perfect for hiking. Don’t miss Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and the serene Mariposa Grove. Note: unless you have a reservation inside the park, visitors are required to have a permit in or through the valley during peak travel months.
Top Attractions:
- Yosemite Valley: Home to landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome.
- Glacier Point: Offers panoramic views of the valley.
- Mariposa Grove: Home to over 500 giant sequoias.
Less Traveled Options:
- Tuolumne Meadows: A serene area with fewer crowds and stunning scenery.
- Hetch Hetchy Valley: Offers beautiful hikes and is less visited than Yosemite Valley.
7. Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, visited by approximately 3.5 million people annually, offers a unique blend of oceanic and mountainous landscapes. The optimal times to visit are in the fall (September to October) and summer (June to August), when the foliage is vibrant, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Top attractions include Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and Sand Beach.
Top Attractions:
- Cadillac Mountain: The first place to see the sunrise in the United States.
- Jordan Pond: Known for its clear waters and surrounding mountains.
- Sand Beach: A picturesque beach nestled between rocky shores.
Fun Fact: Acadia was the first National Park established east of the Mississippi River.
8. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park attracts about 3.4 million visitors each year with its rugged mountain scenery and pristine lakes. The best times to visit are in the summer (June to August) and fall (September to October), when the weather is warm, and the park’s natural beauty is on full display. Highlights include Jenny Lake, Snake River Overlook, and the Teton Park Road.
Top Attractions:
- Jenny Lake: Offers boat rides and scenic hikes.
- Snake River Overlook: Made famous by Ansel Adams’ photographs.
- Teton Park Road: A scenic drive with stunning mountain views.
Less Traveled Options:
- Cascade Canyon: A beautiful hike with fewer crowds.
- Signal Mountain: Offers panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole.
9. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park sees around 3.2 million annual visitors, drawn by its diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Summer (June to September) is the best time to visit, offering the best weather for exploring the park’s rainforests, mountains, and coastline. Must-see spots include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and Lake Crescent.
Top Attractions:
- Hurricane Ridge: Offers stunning mountain views and hiking trails.
- Hoh Rain Forest: A lush, green rainforest with ancient trees.
- Lake Crescent: A clear glacial lake perfect for kayaking.
Fun Fact: Olympic National Park is home to three distinct ecosystems: subalpine forest, temperate rain forest, and the Pacific coastline.
10. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park welcomes about 3 million visitors each year, enchanted by its rugged beauty and glacial landscapes. The best times to visit are in the summer (July to August) and fall (September), when the park is fully accessible, and the weather is ideal for hiking. Key attractions include Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and Lake McDonald.
Top Attractions:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road: A scenic drive with breathtaking views.
- Many Glacier: Known as the “Switzerland of North America.”
- Lake McDonald: The largest lake in the park, with colorful rocks along the shore.
Less Traveled Options:
- Two Medicine: Offers beautiful hikes and fewer crowds.
- North Fork: A remote area with stunning landscapes and wildlife.