The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world. From towering mountains and deep canyons to wild coastlines and geothermal wonders, these parks offer diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here is a guide to the top 10 best national parks in the US that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
1. Yellowstone National Park — The First and Most Iconic
Established as the first national park in the world, Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its geothermal activity and diverse wildlife. Located primarily in Wyoming, it features more than 500 active geysers, including the famous Old Faithful. Visitors can explore colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and vast forests home to bison, wolves, and bears. The park’s vast wilderness offers hiking, camping, and scenic drives, making it a year-round destination rich with natural wonders.
2. Grand Canyon National Park — Awe-Inspiring Landscape
One of the most iconic natural landmarks on the planet, the Grand Canyon offers jaw-dropping vistas of an immense canyon carved by the Colorado River. Spanning 1,904 square miles in Arizona, this park is a marvel of geology and natural beauty. Visitors can hike the rim trails, descend into the canyon, or take helicopter tours for a bird’s-eye view. The changing light throughout the day paints the rock formations in spectacular hues, creating an emotional and unforgettable experience.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Rich Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage
Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US. Known for its mist-covered ridges, diverse wildlife, and ancient Appalachian forests, it offers over 2,000 miles of hiking trails and numerous waterfalls. The park comes alive in fall when the foliage turns vivid shades of red, orange, and gold. It is also celebrated for its preserved historic cabins and Appalachian culture.
4. Zion National Park — Stunning Red Rock Landscapes
Zion National Park in Utah is famous for its towering red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and scenic majesty. Popular hikes include Angels Landing and The Narrows, where visitors can walk through a river inside dramatic canyon walls. Zion’s accessible trails and stunning viewpoints make it a favorite for both casual visitors and serious hikers. The park’s unique geology and desert ecosystem provide a striking contrast to other US national parks.
5. Yosemite National Park — Iconic Cliffs and Waterfalls
Yosemite is famed for its granite cliffs such as El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as its spectacular waterfalls like Yosemite Falls, the tallest in North America. Located in California, Yosemite offers some of the best hiking, rock climbing, and photography opportunities in the country. It has preserved vast wilderness areas covering forests, meadows, and alpine terrain, inspiring legendary naturalists like John Muir.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park — Alpine Beauty and Wildlife
Situated in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for alpine scenery lovers. The park boasts towering peaks, lush forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and pristine alpine lakes. Visitors can explore over 700 miles of hiking trails and drive the spectacular Trail Ridge Road, which climbs to over 12,000 feet. The park also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.
7. Acadia National Park — Rugged Atlantic Coast Charm
Acadia National Park in Maine is the only national park in the northeastern US and is beloved for its rugged coastline, rocky beaches, and forested mountains. Cadillac Mountain offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Atlantic. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking on car-free carriage roads, and exploring quaint lighthouses and fishing villages around the park.
8. Glacier National Park — Majestic Glaciers and Wildlife
Located in Montana, Glacier National Park is known for its dramatic alpine scenery, including glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged peaks. The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road traverses the park, revealing stunning vistas at multiple points. The park supports rich biodiversity with animals like grizzly bears, mountain goats, and elk. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is ideal for both day hikes and longer backpacking adventures.
9. Arches National Park — World’s Greatest Collection of Natural Sandstone Arches
This Utah park features more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. The park’s red rock formations glow beautifully in the morning and late afternoon light, creating popular photo opportunities. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, short walks to iconic arches, and more strenuous hikes and rock climbing activities.
10. Denali National Park and Preserve — Alaska’s Wild Frontier
Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, offers a rugged, subarctic wilderness experience. Covering over six million acres of tundra, boreal forests, and glaciers, it shelters diverse wildlife such as grizzly bears, caribou, and moose. Visitors can take guided bus tours, hike, or simply enjoy the solitude and grandeur of this remote natural landscape.
Best Times to Visit and Tips
- Yellowstone is best from April to May and September to October to avoid summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Grand Canyon is ideal in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate.
- Great Smoky Mountains shine in spring for wildflowers and fall for spectacular foliage.
- Zion and Arches are best visited in spring and fall to avoid the extreme desert heat.
- Yosemite offers year-round opportunities but spring is perfect for waterfall viewing.
- Rocky Mountain is excellent from late spring to early fall, with fall colors peaking in October.
- Acadia is most pleasant in summer and fall for coastal views and mild temperatures.
- Glacier is accessible primarily from July to early October when roads are snow-free.
- Denali offers summer access, with peak visitor season in June and July.
Visiting these top 10 national parks offers a chance to witness some of the most diverse and stunning natural landscapes in the United States, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Whether seeking towering cliffs, ancient forests, vast deserts, or icy wilderness, each park holds its unique charm and adventure.
