10 Best U.S. National Parks to Visit (and When to Go)

America’s national parks are often called “America’s best idea,” and for good reason. They preserve some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth – sweeping canyons, towering mountains, geothermal wonders, and diverse wildlife. This guide highlights the 10 best U.S. national parks to visit, why they’re special, and the ideal times to experience them. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, a senior traveler looking for accessible adventure, or a family planning a summer road trip, these national parks offer something for everyone. We’ve also included insider tips (like avoiding crowds or finding hidden sights) to help you make the most of your park visit. Let’s dive into America’s great outdoors!

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Why It’s One of the Best: Yellowstone is a crown jewel of the park system – the world’s first national park and home to otherworldly geothermal features. Visitors can witness Old Faithful geyser shooting boiling water skyward, colorful hot springs like Grand Prismatic Spring, and bubbling mudpots. Beyond the geothermal wonders, Yellowstone boasts abundant wildlife (bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears) and stunning landscapes from the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to vast forests and lakes.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather, full park access, and active wildlife. However, it’s also the busiest – to avoid crowds, visit in late May or early September when weather is still mild but visitor numbers dip. For a unique experience, winter in Yellowstone is magical: the park’s interior is accessible by snowcoach or snowmobile, and you’ll see geysers erupting into frigid air and wildlife concentrated in thermal areas. Keep in mind many facilities close in winter, so plan accordingly.

Tips: Stay at least 2-3 days to cover the park’s vast expanse. Start your day early to beat the crowds at popular geysers. Carry bear spray when hiking (and know how to use it), as this is bear country. If you’re a senior traveler or with young kids, take advantage of the boardwalks around geothermal areas for easy, safe viewing. For more guidance on accommodating different ages, check out our 8 U.S. National Parks Perfect for Senior Travelers (which includes Yellowstone) for accessibility tips and must-see sights for all ages.

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Why It’s One of the Best: Few sights are as awe-inspiring as the Grand Canyon. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, this mile-deep canyon offers panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. The park is split into the popular South Rim (with Grand Canyon Village, many overlooks, and visitor services) and the quieter North Rim (more remote, open seasonally). Whether you’re standing at Mather Point at sunrise or hiking down the Bright Angel Trail, the scale of the canyon is unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are ideal – cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to peak summer. In spring, desert wildflowers bloom, while fall offers crisp air and stunning light for photography. The South Rim is open year-round, but summer brings large crowds and very hot temperatures inside the canyon. The North Rim is only open mid-May to mid-October and provides a more tranquil experience if you visit in early June or late September.

Tips: If you visit in summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon for hikes to avoid midday heat. The Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail are famous hikes; you can do short sections or multi-day backpacking to the river (permits required for overnight). For a bucket-list experience, consider riding a mule into the canyon or taking a rafting trip on the Colorado River. Families should check out the Junior Ranger program at the visitor center. When planning a trip here or to other warm-weather parks, read our Travel with Peace of Mind: 12 Safest Beaches and Outdoor Destinations guide – while centered on beaches, it has general safety tips (like sun protection and hydration) that apply to desert parks like Grand Canyon​.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Why It’s One of the Best: Yosemite is famed for its towering granite cliffs and thundering waterfalls. Iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome draw rock climbers and photographers from around the world. In Yosemite Valley, you’ll find Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls (one of the tallest waterfalls on earth), and lush meadows with deer. Beyond the valley, the park offers giant sequoia groves (Mariposa Grove), alpine scenery along Tioga Road, and beautiful Glacier Point overlooks.

Best Time to Visit: Late Spring (May-June) is wonderful because waterfalls are at their peak flow from snowmelt, and wildflowers bloom, yet the summer crowds haven’t fully arrived. Early Fall (September) is another great window – the summer rush is over, temperatures are pleasant, and you get some fall color in the high country. July and August have the best weather but expect heavy crowds; if visiting then, make campground or lodging reservations far in advance. Note that some areas (like Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road) are closed in winter due to snow, typically from November through April.

Tips: Use the park’s shuttle in Yosemite Valley to avoid parking hassles during peak months. If you’re up for a challenge (and have a permit), hiking Half Dome is an epic adventure – permits are awarded via lottery in advance. For something less strenuous, the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall is a popular moderate hike (prepare to get a little wet). Yosemite’s high country (Tuolumne Meadows) is less crowded – plan a day there if roads are open. Also, remember some of the most stunning views are at sunset/dusk – Glacier Point and Taft Point offer incredible evening panoramas. If you love stargazing, Yosemite’s night skies are incredibly clear on a moonless night.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Why It’s One of the Best: Zion dazzles with its red rock cliffs and canyons that create a hiker’s paradise. The Virgin River carves through Zion Canyon, where lush oases contrast with towering sandstone walls. Famous hikes include Angel’s Landing (a thrilling trek with chains to hold on the ridge) and The Narrows (hiking upstream through a river in a slot canyon). Even from the canyon floor, the views of formations like the Great White Throne are spectacular. Zion’s mix of adventure and accessible beauty makes it a must-visit.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September-October) is arguably the best – temperatures are cooler (great for hiking), fall colors dot the canyon (golden cottonwoods along the river), and crowds are a bit thinner than summer. Spring (April-May) is also lovely as water flow in The Narrows is manageable and wildflowers bloom. Summer is peak season but can be extremely hot and crowded; if visiting in July/August, start hikes at dawn and use the required park shuttle to get around Zion Canyon. Winter is the quietest and the landscape can be dusted with snow – a beautiful sight – but some trails (and the Narrows) may be inaccessible due to icy conditions or high water.

Tips: The Zion Canyon Shuttle is mandatory in peak season; plan to park in Springdale or the visitor center and ride the shuttle to trailheads. Angel’s Landing now requires a permit via lottery due to popularity – apply in advance if it’s on your bucket list. For a family-friendly hike, try the Emerald Pools Trails or Riverside Walk. If you have an extra day, consider driving the Zion-Mount Carmel highway (connecting to Bryce Canyon nearby) for stunning tunnels and overlook views. And always check the weather before entering The Narrows – flash floods can be dangerous.

5. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Why It’s One of the Best: Often visited in tandem with Yellowstone (they’re only ~10 miles apart), Grand Teton National Park offers a different but equally mesmerizing experience. The Teton Range is a serrated line of 13,000+ foot peaks rising abruptly from the valley floor with no foothills – a dramatic skyline. Below the peaks lie pristine alpine lakes (Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake), dense forests, and the Snake River. Wildlife is plentiful (moose, bison, bears, elk), and the park’s trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain climbs. The combination of scenic drives, like along Teton Park Road, and outdoor activities (boating, hiking, photography) makes Grand Teton a must-visit.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-early September) is ideal for hiking and water activities, as all park facilities are open and trails are mostly snow-free. July and August have wildflowers in bloom across the meadows. Fall (mid-September to early October) is fantastic for wildlife viewing – elk are bugling during the rut, and animals are active preparing for winter; the foliage (especially aspens) turns golden, contrasting beautifully with snow-dusted peaks. Late fall through May is off-season due to cold and snow – the mountains are gorgeous in winter (popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing), but many roads close.

Tips: Don’t miss the view at Oxbow Bend, especially at sunrise or sunset, where the Tetons reflect in the Snake River. Take the boat shuttle across Jenny Lake to hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point – a great half-day adventure for all ages. If you’re a paddler, consider a canoe or kayak on Jenny or String Lake in summer. Grand Teton is bear country; carry bear spray on trails and know proper food storage if camping. Also, the town of Jackson just outside the park is worth a visit for dining and Western charm after your park explorations.

6. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Why It’s One of the Best: Showcasing the grandeur of the Colorado Rockies, this park boasts over 60 peaks above 12,000 feet, including Longs Peak (14,259 ft). Alpine lakes, lush valleys, and abundant wildlife (elk, bighorn sheep, marmots) make it a nature lover’s paradise. A highlight is Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., which crosses the Continental Divide and reaches elevations over 12,000 feet with jaw-dropping vistas. The park offers everything from easy nature walks (Bear Lake loop) to challenging hikes (Longs Peak summit or Sky Pond), and even in a short visit you can experience environments ranging from montane forests to alpine tundra.

Best Time to Visit: Summer through early Fall (July-September) is prime time. Trail Ridge Road typically opens by late May and closes by October with the first heavy snow, so July/August are best for full access. Wildflower season in the alpine meadows peaks in July. Autumn (Sept) brings gorgeous fall foliage—the aspens turn golden and elk mating season (the rut) is in full swing, offering exceptional wildlife viewing (and bugling sounds). Winter is beautiful but much of the park above the valleys is snowbound; it’s a great time for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing if you’re prepared for cold. Spring is very brief at these elevations and can still feel like winter at times.

Tips: Altitude is a factor here—take it slow on your first day to acclimate, stay hydrated, and be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms when going above 10,000 feet. The popular Bear Lake Corridor now requires timed entry permits in peak season; plan ahead and reserve if visiting in summer mornings. Definitely drive Trail Ridge Road (or take a tour) for unparalleled alpine views—stop at the Alpine Visitor Center at 11,796 ft for perspective. For a serene hike, try Emerald Lake Trail or Moraine Park. Photographers will love sunrise at Sprague Lake with reflections of the peaks. If you’re including Rocky Mountain in a larger trip, see our Road Trip America: 10 Most Scenic Drives in the USA guide for how Trail Ridge Road and Colorado’s mountains fit into a cross-country adventure (and other drives you might pair it with).

7. Acadia National Park, Maine

Why It’s One of the Best: Acadia is a gem on the East Coast, where mountains meet the sea. Located primarily on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia offers a unique mix of rocky coastlines, forested peaks, and charming New England flavor. Visitors can drive up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. East Coast (and the first place to see sunrise in the U.S. in certain months). The park has over 100 miles of historic carriage roads perfect for biking, plus hiking trails ranging from gentle ocean-side strolls to the thrilling Precipice Trail. Thunder Hole (where waves crash into a crevice creating a thunderous sound) and Jordan Pond (with its famous tea & popovers at Jordan Pond House) are popular stops. In fall, Acadia’s foliage is simply spectacular.

Best Time to Visit: Fall (September – October) is arguably Acadia’s most stunning season – crisp weather, vibrant red-orange foliage, and fewer crowds than summer. Summer (July – August) is peak season with warmer temperatures ideal for kayaking, hiking, and swimming, but expect a lot of visitors (especially in August). Late spring (May-June) sees fewer tourists, though ocean waters are still cold. Winters are quiet in Acadia and many facilities close, but the park’s carriage roads turn into great cross-country skiing routes for the adventurous.

Tips: Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain is famous – if visiting in summer or fall, you’ll need to reserve a sunrise ticket online to drive up. Alternatively, go for sunset which is also gorgeous and less crowded. Take advantage of the free Island Explorer shuttles in summer to get around without a car. Don’t leave without trying the popovers at Jordan Pond House or fresh seafood in neighboring Bar Harbor. For an easy hike with huge payoff, walk the Ocean Path from Sand Beach to Otter Point – you’ll see Thunder Hole and enjoy constant coastal views. Acadia is smaller than many western parks, but it packs in diverse scenery that will delight photographers and families alike.

8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC

Why It’s One of the Best: America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains straddle Tennessee and North Carolina and are renowned for their lush forests, misty mountains, and rich Appalachian culture. The “Smokies” offer something for everyone: cascading waterfalls (like Laurel and Abrams Falls), scenic drives (the Cades Cove loop is famous for wildlife and historic cabins), and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Wildflowers abound in spring, while fireflies light up summer nights (Synchronous Firefly events are a spectacle). The park’s biodiversity is incredible – from black bears to salamanders – and the mountain vistas from points like Clingmans Dome (the highest point in the park) are breathtaking.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn (October) is legendary here – the fall foliage is among the best in the country, drawing leaf-peepers to the park’s vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Early summer (June) is also wonderful: mountain laurel and rhododendron bloom, and the synchronous fireflies appear late May to mid-June (lottery system for viewing). Spring (April) is great for wildflowers (there’s a reason it’s called the Wildflower National Park) but can be rainy. Summer is very busy, especially around popular areas like Cades Cove and Newfound Gap, and it’s humid in lower elevations though cooler up high. Winter sees low visitation – some roads close with snow, but you can find solitude, and lower elevation hikes remain accessible most of winter.

Tips: Traffic can be heavy; use park shuttles where available or explore early in the day. Cades Cove is beautiful but often jammed – consider the vehicle-free mornings (they close it to cars on certain mornings for cyclists/pedestrians in summer). For views, drive or hike to Clingmans Dome (a short steep walk to an observation tower) or try the less-crowded Foothills Parkway drive. The Alum Cave Trail is a popular moderate hike leading toward Mount LeConte with great scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife – spotting a black bear (from a safe distance) is a highlight for many. If you’re interested in history, tour the preserved pioneer cabins and churches in Cataloochee or along Cades Cove. Finally, note that there’s no entrance fee for the Smokies – it’s free to enjoy!

9. Olympic National Park, Washington

Why It’s One of the Best: Olympic is like three parks in one, showcasing an astonishing variety of ecosystems within a few hours’ drive. You can experience rugged Pacific beaches with tidepools and sea stacks (at Rialto Beach or Shi Shi Beach), hike through moss-draped rainforests (the Hoh Rainforest and Quinault rainforest, among the only temperate rainforests in the U.S.), and then ascend to alpine meadows and peaks (Hurricane Ridge) – all in one trip. This diversity, along with relative remoteness, makes Olympic a true wilderness escape. It’s perfect for travelers who want coastal scenery one day and mountain hikes the next.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (July-August) is the driest and most accessible time across all areas of the park. The Olympic Peninsula is notoriously rainy for much of the year, but in summer you’ll have mild temperatures and clearer skies – ideal for hiking Hurricane Ridge and camping on the beach. Late spring (May-June) can also be good, especially for waterfalls and seeing the rainforest at its greenest (expect some rain). Early fall (September) is pleasant with fewer crowds, though rain starts increasing. Winter is off-season; the coast and rainforests remain accessible (and very rainy, which can be moody and beautiful), but Hurricane Ridge and high trails are snowed in (Hurricane Ridge road often opens for snowshoeing and skiing though).

Tips: Plan to spend at least 3 days to sample each environment – one day in the mountains, one in the rainforest valleys, one on the coast. Bring rain gear regardless of season, especially if venturing into the Hoh Rainforest (which receives inches of rain even in summer). At low tide, explore tide pools at beaches like Second Beach or Ruby Beach – you’ll find starfish, anemones, and more. Note that parts of the park aren’t connected by roads internally; you’ll be driving around the peninsula to reach different sections. This makes a loop road trip around Highway 101 a popular way to see Olympic. If you love hot springs, check out Sol Duc Hot Springs in the park. And for a unique adventure, consider the short ferry from Port Angeles (just outside the park) to Victoria, Canada, if you have a passport – a cultural side trip after your nature immersion.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

Why It’s One of the Best: Arches packs a punch with its concentration of over 2,000 natural stone arches in a relatively small area. The red sandstone arches and formations (like the famous Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch) are otherworldly, especially at sunrise or sunset when they glow fiery red-orange. The park is like a giant playground for hikers and photographers – short trails lead to many major sites, making it very accessible. In addition to arches, you’ll see balanced rocks, spires, and expansive desert vistas. Arches showcases the surreal beauty of Utah’s canyon country and is adjacent to Canyonlands National Park for those who want to extend their adventure in the region.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are ideal, offering warm days and cool nights, perfect for hiking and photography without the intense heat of midsummer. In these shoulder seasons, wildflowers bloom in spring, and fall brings crisp air and fewer people than summer. Summer (June-August) is extremely hot (often over 100°F) and the sun is intense – if you come in summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and use midday for rest or short indoor breaks (like the visitor center). Winter is cold but quiet; snow occasionally dusts the red rocks, creating a striking contrast and great photo ops, and you’ll have many trails almost to yourself (just check road conditions).

Tips: Arches now requires timed entry reservations during peak season (typically April–October) to manage crowding – be sure to reserve your entry time in advance. Once in the park, a can’t-miss is the Delicate Arch Trail (3 miles round-trip) – go at sunset for a sublime view, but bring a headlamp for the hike back in the dark. If you prefer a less strenuous option, you can see Delicate Arch from a lower viewpoint near the road. Another highlight is Devils Garden at the end of the park road, which has a network of trails to many arches (Landscape Arch is a 1.6-mile round trip on relatively flat ground). Carry plenty of water; the desert is very dry and dehydration can sneak up on you. Also, make time at night for stargazing – Arches is an International Dark Sky Park, and on a clear night the Milky Way is stunning against the silhouetted arches.

Final Tips for National Park Travelers:

No matter which national park you choose, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles – keep these treasured landscapes beautiful for everyone. Make reservations for lodging or campsites well ahead of peak seasons. If you’re planning an extended trip, consider the America the Beautiful Pass (annual national parks pass) which can save you money on entrance fees. And importantly, check the official NPS website for each park before your visit; you’ll get updates on weather, trail closures, and any permit requirements.

By planning the right season for each destination and following these tips, you’ll be on your way to an unforgettable national park adventure. Happy trails!