Top 13: Best US National Parks

Many of us are eager to explore the best US national parks, which offer thrilling outdoor adventures and a glimpse into the country’s rich history.

Spanning nearly 3.8 million square miles (9.8 million square kilometers), the US is home to remarkable landscapes of stunning natural beauty that have been preserved for generations, thanks to the National Park Service. For over 100 years, NPS has been caring for and protecting untouched wilderness!

With over 63 National Parks under their care, that attract millions of visitors every year, you may be wondering: which national parks should top your list? To help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the 13 best US national parks to visit, so you can plan your ultimate getaway.

1. Yellowstone National Park

 Best for: geothermal features, volcanic history

We’ll kick off our list with a classic like Yellowstone, the first National Park to be declared in 1872. Stretching across 3 states—Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho—this iconic park offers unbeatable landscapes and a chance to experience the American West in all its glory.

The park’s main draw is the Old Faithful geyser, erupting every 44 minutes to 2 hours for the past 22 years. Beyond Old Faithful, a variety of geothermal wonders like bubbling hot springs and hissing fumaroles showcase the area’s volcanic history. 

At Yellowstone, visitors can enjoy endless outdoor adventures in this photographer’s paradise. Amid breathtaking landscapes, where wildlife like elk, bison, grizzly bears, and bald eagles roam freely, travelers have a chance to witness nature at its wildest.

With Yellowstone’s vast expanse, planning your visit can feel overwhelming. But a guided tour of the Lower Loop ensures you make the most of your time and see the park’s highlights. Book your guided tour of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop for the ultimate adventure!

2. Yosemite National Park

Best for: climbing, granite cliffs

Another classic, Yosemite National Park is one of California state’s most visited sites. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Yosemite is famous for its granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and many more natural wonders.

Climbers around the world flock to famous cliffsides like El Capitan and Half Dome for a turn at scaling these towering monoliths. Not to mention, hikers looking to hit the trails leading to Bridalveil Falls. Don’t just read about Yosemite, book a day trip to the most famous national park in the US and see it for yourself!

Looking for a more rugged adventure? Book a 3-day camping tour for your Yosemite expedition. Explore the park’s highlights like the sequoia groves and Yosemite High Country, while also enjoying time to venture at your own pace.

3. Grand Teton National Park

Best for: mountain landscapes, wildlife

Located in Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone, you’ll find Grand Teton National Park. This wild backcountry, home to the Teton Mountain Range, was formed billions of years ago by earthquakes, glaciers, and erosion. In fact, some of the oldest rocks in North America can be found here!

Grand Teton doesn’t get as much attention as Yellowstone, but that only adds to its charm. Visitors can enjoy a much more tranquil experience, away from crowds, and really explore the landscape. With over 250 miles (402 km) of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, the park offers something for everyone to explore and connect with its wild beauty.

As you weave through the many trails, keep your eyes peeled for an incredible amount of wildlife. Thanks to diligent preservation efforts from the NPS, Grand Teton remains a vital habitat, making it one of the best national parks in the US for wildlife viewing. Get in on the action and book your wildlife tour! Who knows, you may just make friends with locals like elk, bison, black bears, and gray wolves.

4. Glacier National Park

Best for: glacial-carved peaks, turquoise lakes

Glacier National Park, right on the US border with Canada, boasts numerous ecosystems, from prairies to tundras, spanning over 1 million acres, and includes 2 sub-ranges of the Rocky Mountains.

Despite its more remote location, the park attracts millions of visitors every year, offering over 700 miles (1,127 km) of hiking trails. Winding through glacial lakes, a stroll along these striking bodies of water is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plus, you don’t have to be an expert hiker to enjoy the natural scenery! With plenty of trail options suited to all skill levels, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

5. Zion National Park

Best for: red rock canyons, hiking

Famous for its sandstone cliffs and slot canyons, Zion National Park in Utah is a true gem of the American Southwest. As a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike, the park offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails through canyon country.

Zion is a hiker’s paradise, boasting hundreds of miles of trails, but two stand out. Angels Landing rewards those who conquer its 1,500 ft (457 m)natural staircase with sweeping panoramic views. Though challenging, it’s well worth the extra cardio! 

The Narrows offers a different adventure—a 16-km (10-mile) trek takes you through a narrow slot canyon carved by the Virgin River. Be careful though, you may get a little wet!

Pro tip: While Zion is famed for its sandstone cliffs and slot canyons, Bryce Canyon National Park—just a 2-hour drive away—is a hidden gem worth exploring. Perfect for geology enthusiasts, Bryce Canyon features unique hoodoos: striking rock towers shaped by millions of years of erosion. Plan a combo day trip and experience the wonders of both Zion and Bryce Canyon in a single day!

6. Arches National Park

Best for: natural arches, desert hiking

Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah, is a geological wonderland that feels like stepping into another world. Famous for its more than 2,000 natural stone arches, this park showcases millions of years of erosion and geological history. Its striking red rock formations and dramatic desert landscapes make it one of the most photogenic national parks in the United States.

Adventure seekers and sightseers alike will find plenty to explore. Iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch, the park’s most recognizable feature, and Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural spans in the world, draw visitors from across the globe. For those looking to hike, trails like the Devils Garden Loop or the short trek to Balanced Rock offer stunning views and easy access to the park’s most impressive formations.

What truly sets Arches apart is the sense of wonder it inspires. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or simply someone looking to marvel at nature’s artistry, Arches National Park is a must-visit destination. Consider visiting on a guided tour, so you don’t miss anything during your adventure.

Pro tip: for an unforgettable experience, consider booking a flyover tour of Arches National Park and see the incredible rock formations from above! While you’re at it, check out this flyover tour of Canyonlands National Park right next door.

7. Grand Canyon National Park

Best for: indigenous heritage, geological history

Aside from being a world-renowned attraction, there’s much more than meets the eye at Grand Canyon National Park! The canyon, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see national park in the US.

Visiting the Grand Canyon often means dealing with crowds, especially in summer. The best way to beat the crowds during peak season is to check out the quieter North Rim. Plan your trip during the Heritage Days celebration and learn about the Grand Canyon’s deep connection to 11 indigenous tribes through talks on Native American mythology and traditional dance performances.

Given its major status as a top tourist destination, it comes as no surprise there are dozens of ways to experience the Canyon. When planning your trip, you can’t ever go wrong with an off-roading tour. Browse all the activities and experiences we offer and make memories that will last a lifetime.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park

Best for: scenic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes

Nestled in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a perfect blend of rugged mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. With over 100 peaks towering above 12,000 feet (3,657 m), the park provides hiking, climbing, and outdoor exploration opportunities.

For hiking enthusiasts, Bear Lake and Sky Pond trails are popular for their spectacular scenery. Adventurous explorers can take on Longs Peak, a challenging summit that draws experienced climbers from around the world.

Wildlife sightings are another highlight—elk, bighorn sheep, and moose are commonly seen grazing in the park’s valleys and meadows. Cozy up next to the four-legged locals and really immerse yourself in the landscape!

What we love most about Rocky Mountain National Park is its accessibility—just a short drive from Denver, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip. Get your adrenaline pumping on an action-packed mountain biking tour through the park.

If you’re visiting in the winter, the adventures don’t stop! Embrace the cold with snowshoeing through the Front Range, and you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking beauty of a winter wonderland.

9. Mount Rainier National Park

Best for: volcanoes and wildflower meadows

Mount Rainier National Park is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Washington state, it’s no surprise the main attraction here is, well, Mount Rainier, the tallest volcano in the contiguous US standing at 14,411 feet (4,392 m). At its peak, you can enjoy dramatic landscapes of alpine meadows and lush forests. 

Popular trails like Skyline Trail lead hikers up to panoramic views of the mountain, glaciers, and valleys, while the Paradise Loop provides a more moderate trek through wildflower-filled meadows.

If you’re visiting during the summer, the park truly comes alive with vibrant wildflowers. Plan your visit in late July or early August to experience the beauty. While our favorite time of year to visit is in summer for those wildflower blooms, a winter visit also offers snowy wonderland landscapes that captivate visitors too. Check out this guided tour of Mount Rainier and start planning your trip today.

10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Best for: waterfalls and misty mountain views

While the western half of the US has the lion’s share of national parks, the rest of the country has some good ones too! For example, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in Tennessee, is one of the most visited national parks in the US!

Preserving a large chunk of the southern Appalachian Mountains ecosystem, which includes its scenic beauty and natural resources, the park invites adventurers to slow down and connect with the landscape. Fun fact, the Appalachian Mountains are 1.2 billion years old!

Home to endless waterfalls, naturally a great amount of wildlife has come to thrive here. Under the watchful eye of the National Park Service, herds of elk and black bears call the park home. Don’t miss Laurel Falls, one of the park’s most breathtaking cascades and a must-see during your visit.

Make the most of your trip with the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Pass, which grants you access to the park plus additional attractions in the surrounding areas.

11. Big Bend National Park

Best for: stargazing, desert landscapes

Located in the rugged terrain of West Texas, Big Bend National Park is a hidden gem. Known for its vast desert expanses, towering canyons, and the winding Rio Grande River, Big Bend is a dream destination for adventurers and those seeking a tranquil escape.

What really sets Big Bend apart from other National Parks, is its night skies. For stargazers, Big Bend is one of the best places in the US to see the night sky. As an International Dark Sky Park, it offers unparalleled views of the Milky Way.

Our favorite part about Big Bend? After a chilly night admiring the wide open skies, head over to the Hot Springs Historic District for a soothing dip in the mineral-rich waters. Talk about a complete experience!

12. Everglades National Park

Best for: wetlands, marshy landscapes

Stretching across the southern tip of Florida, Everglades National Park is a subtropical wonderland teeming with life and offering experiences unlike any other national park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, home to a fascinating mix of ecosystems, from sawgrass prairies to mangrove forests.

What makes the Everglades truly unique is its role as the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist in the wild. Head to the Anhinga Trail, one of the park’s most popular boardwalks, to safely spot these iconic reptiles basking in the sun alongside turtles and wading birds. Plan your visit to Florida, and book your tour of the Everglades!

13. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Best for: active volcanoes, lava flows

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dramatic and ever-changing landscape shaped by some of the world’s most powerful forces. Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the planet’s most active volcanoes, this park offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness the raw power of Earth’s geological activity.

One of the park’s most unique features is the chance to walk on hardened lava flows, some of which are only a few decades old. The Crater Rim Drive provides stunning views of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which glows with molten lava during active eruptions. For those seeking a truly surreal experience, explore the Thurston Lava Tube, a hidden underground tunnel carved by flowing lava thousands of years ago.

Book a guided tour of park so you don’t miss a thing and marvel at the magma-tude of these volcanoes.

With that, our list comes to a close, but your adventure is just beginning! We hope this guide has inspired you to start planning your journey to some of the best national parks in the US. 

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls (or sticking to the rivers and lakes you’re used to), climbing towering peaks, or stargazing in remote wilderness, America’s national parks are calling. So, pack your bags, hit the trails, and create memories that will last a lifetime!