The 7 Best National Parks in the US You Have to Visit

It’s well known that the United States is one of the most incredible destinations for nature lovers. It boasts 63 national parks that span over 50 million acres of wilderness stretching from the south pacific, across the United States, and into the Caribbean.

Along with their well-preserved lands, miles of hiking trails, and rustic campsites, these parks offer endless opportunities for exploring wildlife and seeing the best of what this planet has to offer. Every US national park offers something unique, but a few stand out above the rest.

Here’s our list of the best national parks in the U.S. that every nature lover needs to visit at least once in their life.

• State: California
• Size: 1200sq miles

Known worldwide for its iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, Yosemite National Park is undoubtedly one of the best National Parks in the USA.

If you are a hiker, this will likely be at the top of your list. With its long list of hiking trails to suit any level, this park is tailor-made for all hiking enthusiasts.

However, you don’t have to be a hiking fan to enjoy your time at Yosemite National Park. You can go for a stroll through Yosemite Valley, drive to the overlooks on Glacier Point Road, or see the 1,328 feet tall Bridal Veil fall.

Yosemite is one of the oldest national parks in the U.S. and gets hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. In 2021, it became the eighth most visited National Park in the country, as more than 2.5 million visitors flocked to see the park’s tall waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and ancient Giant sequoia trees.

The best time to visit Yosemite tends to be the off-season, which helps avoid the peak summer crowds. The park is open all year long, so rather than visiting in the peak summer season, like most people, visit during the fall or spring and be rewarded with a dazzling display of colour.

• State: Montana
• Size: 1583sq miles

With 1.4 million new visitors in 2021, the impressive Glacier National Park became the 10th most popular national park in the States.

Known for its striking aquamarine lakes, spectacular alpine scenery, breathtaking snow-capped peaks, and some of the most remarkable hiking trails on the continent, Glacier National Park is worth it. Being up in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, on the edge of Canada, means it’s a trek (excuse the pun) to get to, but one that’s worth it.

Make sure to visit the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road on your visit there. This road is a true engineering marvel that winds through the mountains and offers picturesque views of the entire park. The road does close partially in peak winter (you don’t want to be attempting that drive in the snow) but otherwise stays open throughout the year.

The best time to visit is during the summer and fall. However, remember that these are the most popular times to visit the park, which means that the place will be pretty crowded during your visit. But let’s be honest, there’s certainly enough space for everyone.

• States: Wyoming, Idaho, Montana
• Size: 3500sq miles

Officially established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the world.

Spread over 2.2 million acres, the Yellowstone National Park is home to hot springs, waterfalls, lakes, and different types of wildlife, thanks to its position on top of a volcanic hotspot.

Among the biggest draws of this national park are the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and herds of bison that can be seen roaming around. This includes packs of wolves in the Lamar Valley and the sweeping mountain views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

One of the best things about this national park is the attention to accessibility. There are many wheelchair and stroller-friendly trails making this park an all-inclusive space where everyone can come to have a great time.

• State: Utah
• Size: 593sq miles

Utah is home to some of the best National Parks in the country; however, there aren’t many parks in America more popular than Zion National Park.

Established in 1919, it spreads over 229 square miles of wild land in southwestern Utah and is one of the oldest in the region. It is known for its unique slot canyons, jagged sandstone cliffs, and other geological formations (if you’ve seen striking pictures in America, then you’ve likely already seen Zion).

Some of the most popular activities at Zion include hiking, bird watching, star gazing, biking, and rock climbing. It does get busy, such is its massive appeal. It’s best to visit during the fall when crowds thin and the park becomes much calmer and cleaner.

If you’re heading to California or even Las Vegas after camp, try and score an extra day or two for Zion (and the park below); they’re definitely worth it.

• State: Arizona
• Size: 4926sq miles

Talking of plans should you go to California or Las Vegas, The Grand Canyon National Park is another famous protected area nearby you have to create time for.

Home to one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, the Grand Canyon National Park was the fourth most visited national park in 2021, with 1.6 million more visitors than in 2020 (albeit a Covid year). The Colorado River has been carving its way through this Canyon for a tiny while (the last 5 to 6 million years, to give it a number), which has resulted in this exceptional National Park and the world-famous Grand Canyon.

Here you can spend your time hiking along the Canyon’s walls or choose to go rafting down the Colorado River, or better yet, take a car or train ride to take in the picturesque scenery the park has to offer while you learn about Native American culture and history. For those with a bit extra cash, even try a helicopter ride over the Canyon; it’s genuinely awe-inspiring.

Some of the best viewpoints to enjoy the spectacular view of the park are Mather Point, Mohave Point, and Grandview Point; however, there is no better way to explore the park than going for a hike on the famous Bright Angel Trail.

• State: Indiana
• Size: 61sq miles

Spreading over 15,000 acres of land on the shore of Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes National Park is known for its sandy beaches and scenic trails along dunes, forests, and wetlands.

Until 2021, Indiana Dunes National Park was among the lesser-known national parks in the country, but since restrictions were lifted, people have flocked to the outdoors in general, and Indiana Dunes is no different.

With nine different beaches along the Fifteen-mile southern shore of Lake Michigan, there is plenty of room for all beach lovers in the Indiana Dunes National Park.

Some other popular activities at the Indiana Dunes National Park include bike riding, hiking, camping, fishing, birdwatching, and horseback riding, so there’s a little something for everyone.

• State: Wyoming
• Size: 485sq miles

Home to the breathtaking Teton mountains, the winding snake road, and a diverse range of wild animals, Grand Teton National Park is one of those parks that have something for everyone.

It makes for a perfect post-camp American road trip, as the actual drive around is incredible, whilst also including hiking, fishing, and boat riding throughout. You might also get the chance to see elk, moose, and bison whilst driving along this incredibly scenic route.

There are miles and miles of hiking trails in the Grand Teton National Park; some are nice and easy, while others are more suitable for hiking enthusiasts. Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls hikes are among the most popular ones among tourists.

The best time to visit is June through October as the weather is a bit warmer and all the roads are open, ideal for summer camp staff who finish in August.

So, there you have it, these are some of the best national parks in the U.S.

From pristine beaches and alpine regions to rainforests and winding hiking trails, these parks protect nature at its purest.

Visiting these national parks can be as easy or challenging as you want. You can spend days hiking the toughest trails in the country, or you could drive in a comfortable car on paved roads and see the best views these parks have to offer.

So, be sure to choose wisely and stay safe.