There are some pretty amazing landscapes in the United States, from mountains that soar to deserts that never seem to end, to forests that go on forever and coastlines that never cease to amaze. The US National Parks protect these landscapes and give everyone a chance to have an outdoor experience amongst spectacular scenery to help in forming a memory. Planning a National Park Vacation can feel daunting, especially with so many great options, but no need to worry! This guide will guide you through some of the Best National Parks to Visit, and help you figure out your next adventure.
Ready to Unleash Your Inner Explorer? Discover the Top National Parks!
Deciding where to start your adventure through our National Parks can be difficult. Do you want to hike among giants, gawk at colorful canyons or search for spectacular wildlife? Regardless of the style and flavor you prefer, there is a US Park ready for your journey. Here are some Scenic National Parks often found at the top of the list.
Yellowstone National Park: A Geothermal Wonderland
Picture a place where geysers erupt high into the sky, hot springs bubble and pop in vibrant colors, and wildlife roam freely. That is Yellowstone National Park: a truly iconic American landscape and for good reason, one of the Top National Parks.
Features: Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features such as Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring (a very cool rainbow of colors), and all of the mudpots and fumaroles. For more than just its geothermal features, Yellowstone hosts a plethora of wildlife including bison, elk, bears, wolves & eagles; as well as vending machine ice cream. Heavey hiking opportunities exist too- from boardwalking to rugged backcountry strolls.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) has the warmest weather and most accessible trails, but it is also the busiest time. Spring (April- May) and fall (September-October) are also great choices, with more pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, although some roads and facilities may be closed. While winter transforms Yellowstone into a snowy wonderland, you can only access the park via snowmobile or snowcoach.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive at the West Yellowstone entrance, check into your accommodation, and explore the geyser basins along the Firehole River. Catch an Old Faithful eruption.
Day 2 : Drive the Grand Loop Road, stopping at various viewpoints and short hiking trails. Visit the Grand Prismatic Spring and Midway Geyser Basin.
Day 3: Explore the northern part of the park, including Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley (known as “America’s Serengeti” for its wildlife viewing opportunities). Consider a guided wildlife tour.
Grand Canyon National Park: A Monumental Masterpiece
The Grand Canyon stands as one of the most well-known natural features in the world. Formed by the Colorado River over millions of years, the breathtaking views, size, and the sense of "awesome" created by the little earth we occupy in space is impossible to describe. This park is definitely one of the best National parks in the United States.
Features: Grand Canyon's most popular feature is its enormous size. Hiking options range from flat and easy rim walks to steep and strenuous measures down into the canyon. Mule rides have become a favorite way to experience the canyon while helicopter rides allow you to see everything from 5,000 feet above. The South Rim is open year-round, while the North Rim is typically open from mid-May to mid-October.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) provide the best temperatures and the least amount of crowds compared to the summer months. Summer (June-August) can be blisteringly hot, especially on your knee joints if you hike into the canyon. Finally, winter (December-February) may bring snow to the rims which creates a beautiful contrast between the snowy rims and bright red rocks.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive at the South Rim, check into your accommodation, and take a walk along the Rim Trail. Watch the sunset over the canyon.
Day 2: Hike a portion of the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail (be prepared for a strenuous hike and bring plenty of water). Consider a mule ride.
Day 3: Drive along Desert View Drive, stopping at various viewpoints and the Desert View Watchtower. Learn about the canyon's geology and history at the Yavapai Geology Museum.
Zion National Park: Hiking Paradise
Zion National Park in Utah is a refuge for people with magnificent sandstone cliffs, canyons, and the Virgin River. Zion is a destination for hikers from gentle walks on the river's edge to more challenging treks. Many would argue Zion is one of Best National Parks.
Highlights: The Virgin River Narrows is a unique hike where you hike in the river wading through water in narrow canyons. Angels Landing is an iconic hike and is very strenuous but has amazing views (permit required). The Emerald Pools Trail is a relatively moderate hike with waterfalls and greenery.
Best Time to Visit: I would suggest visiting in the spring months (April-May) and fall months (September-October) because they will provide the most comfortable temperatures for hiking. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot and the Narrows carry the inherent risk of flash flooding. The winter months (December-February) can bring snow and ice which would make it difficult to complete some of the trailheads.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Springdale, the town just outside Zion's entrance. Take the park shuttle into the canyon and hike the Pa'rus Trail.
Day 2: Hike the Emerald Pools Trail or, if you have a permit, Angels Landing.
Day 3: Explore the Virgin River Narrows (check water levels and wear appropriate footwear). Consider a canyoneering adventure with a guided tour.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Alpine Majesty
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado highlights the beauty of the alpine environment. This is one of the US National Parks you need to see because of its tall peaks, stunning alpine lakes, and lots of wild animals.
Features: The Trail Ridge Road is a paved highway, and it is North America's highest continuous paved road. You will have outstanding views of the park's Alpine tundra along this road. There are hiking trails for everyone, from lakeside (easy) walks, to difficult trails to the mountain peaks. The variety of wild animals in the park includes; elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and bears.
Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) is a very popular time to visit this park with warm temperatures and full access to the roads. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) can also be a beautiful time to visit, but some roads and trails may be closed due to snow. Winter (December-February) allows for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Enter the park near Estes Park and drive along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at various viewpoints. Hike to Bear Lake.
Day 2: Hike to Alberta Falls and Emerald Lake. Look for wildlife in Moraine Park.
Day 3: Explore the east side of the park, hiking to Sprague Lake and taking in the views from Many Parks Curve.
Acadia National Park: Coastal Charm
Acadia National Park of Maine preserves a dramatic coast, soaring granite peaks and wooded landscapes all in one park. This park combines unique geological features and history that cannot be found anywhere else. It is definitely among the Top National Parks list.
Features: Cadillac Mountain is the tallest point on the United States Atlantic coast and has breathtaking views at sunrise. The Park Loop Road gives easy access to many of the parks highlights and scenic views. Hiking trails vary from easy coastal strolls to strenuous mountain climbs. Biking and walking are enjoyable on the carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) probably takes the cake for most popular seasonal visit, with average comfortable temperatures and generally good weather. Fall (September-October) is absolutely dazzling with its foliage. Spring (April-May) is often enjoyable yet unpredictable.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive the Park Loop Road, stopping at Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. Hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain.
Day 2: Bike or walk along the carriage roads. Hike the Beehive Trail (a challenging but rewarding hike with iron rungs and ladders).
Day 3: Explore the town of Bar Harbor. Take a boat tour to see whales and puffins.
Tips for Planning Your National Park Adventure
* Reserve accommodations and tours well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak seasons.
* Buy a National Park Pass to gain entry into all national parks for a year.
* Check the park's website to find out updated information regarding trail closures, the condition of roads, and weather forecasts.
* Bring suitable attire and gear, such as hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, and sufficient water.
* Leave no trace, which means to pack out everything you pack in, and stay on marked trails.
* Respect wildlife. Observe them from a safe distance, and NEVER feed them.
Discovering the Best Parks in America is an experience you will treasure for a lifetime. You can make fantastic memories in the wonderful places we have, through a bit of planning ahead of time and being conscious of the environment. So prepare your backpack, your camera, and get outside to discover the stunning beauty of the US National Parks!
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