The United States boasts 63 national parks spanning every type of terrain – from rugged mountains and vast forests to canyons, deserts, and coastlines. These parks protect diverse ecosystems and offer unparalleled outdoor experiences. In this guide to the 10 best national parks in USA, we cover top picks that combine spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, and visitor amenities. Each section highlights what makes the park special and includes practical tips for planning your visit. Whether you’re looking for epic hikes, family-friendly activities, or unique ecosystems, this list has something for every traveler.

Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park (Utah) showcases the dramatic red-rock scenery found in many western parks. Mesa Arch (pictured) is one of the iconic viewpoints in Utah’s national parks, which rank among the best in the USA.

From the old-growth forests of the Appalachians to the geothermal wonders of the Rockies, the best national parks in the USA offer adventure year-round. We begin with the most visited park and continue across the country to include coastal gems and desert marvels. Along the way, we weave in related topics like parks on the East Coast, travel during off-season (e.g. February), and even parks near Georgia. Each park is introduced with key highlights and facts (with citations), and bullet lists outline must-see attractions or activities.

10 Best National Parks In usa List:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)

The Great Smoky Mountains NP is often ranked #1 because it is America’s most visited national park. Encompassing 522,000 acres of ancient Appalachian forest (straddling TN and NC), this park is famous for its lush ridges, wildflower displays, and rich wildlife. In 2024 it saw over 12 million visits, more than any other U.S. park. The diversity of life here is astounding; the NPS notes the Smokies are “renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life” and calls it “America’s most visited national park.”.

• Highlights: Clingmans Dome (highest point at 6,643 ft), the historic Cades Cove valley (with pioneer homesteads), and cascading waterfalls (Laurel Falls, Grotto Falls).
• Wildlife & Flora: Black bears, elk, deer, salamanders, and over 1,500 flowering plant species (up to 100 tree species on a single slope). Early summer brings vibrant wildflowers along trails.
• Activities: Hiking any of 850 miles of trails (part of the Appalachian Trail runs through the park), scenic drives (Newfound Gap Road, Cades Cove Loop), and camping. The park is family-friendly – for example, Cades Cove has an 11-mile loop road ideal for spotting wildlife from your car, and the park’s Junior Ranger program is popular with kids.

Great Smoky’s towering hardwood forests and mist-covered peaks offer something for everyone. Plan in advance: summer is peak season, so consider visiting in spring or fall for cooler weather and fall foliage. (Note: No entrance fee is charged.)

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)

As the first national park in the world (established 1872), Yellowstone is iconic. It “lives up to its title” as the “World’s First National Park,” boasting unique hydrothermal features and vast wildlife. This park spans three states and 2.2 million acres of the Rocky Mountains, earning millions of visitors each year. Its geothermal wonders are unmatched: bubbling mud pots, colorful hot springs, and the famous Old Faithful geyser draw in “millions of visitors every year”.

• Highlights: Yellowstone’s Lower, Midway, and Upper Geyser Basins (home to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring); the Yellowstone River’s Lower Falls in Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone; and the Hayden and Lamar Valleys for wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife: Grizzly and black bears, wolves, bison, elk, and herds of antelope roam freely. Visitors regularly see bison grazing near roads or elk in meadows. (The park protects some of the last herds of wild buffalo in the U.S.)
• Activities: Geothermal loop drives (watch a geyser eruption at Old Faithful, walk boardwalks over hot springs), abundant hiking (1,300+ miles of trails), boating on Yellowstone Lake, and fishing. In winter, snowshoeing or snowmobiling offer unique views of the park.

Yellowstone “amazes us” with its diversity of landscapes and animals. Try to book lodging or campsites well in advance (especially in summer). Fall and spring see fewer crowds. With 1,300 miles of trails and 4.5 million annual visitors, Yellowstone is consistently on every “best national park in the USA” list. It’s also an excellent park for kids: ranger programs and boardwalks make it accessible and educational.

Yosemite National Park (California)

Yosemite in the Sierra Nevada is frequently cited as “one of the best national parks in the USA”. It’s world-renowned for its dramatic scenery: colossal granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoias. In the words of the NPS, Yosemite is “home to one of North America’s tallest waterfalls, the towering granite faces of El Capitan and Half Dome, ancient giant sequoia trees, and an abundance of wildlife”. Established in 1890, it covers 1,190 square miles and is 95% designated wilderness.

• Highlights: Yosemite Valley (Half Dome and El Capitan rising above the valley floor); Yosemite Falls (2,425 ft, among the tallest in North America); and Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias.
• Activities: Hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls, climbing (El Capitan, Half Dome cables permit required), and scenic drives (glacier-carved Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road). In winter, enjoy snowshoeing or ice skating at Curry Village.
• Visitor Tips: In spring, waterfalls are at peak flow. Summer brings wildflowers in Tuolumne Meadows. Reservations may be needed to enter Yosemite Valley in busy months. The park’s dramatic vistas have inspired many photographers and filmmakers. For example, Tunnel View at sunset, with Half Dome in view, is often described as “the single most beautiful view in America” (Lee Abbamonte, as quoted).

Yosemite’s sheer granite cliffs and lush forests provide endless exploration. The diverse terrain – from deep valleys to alpine lakes – means there’s something for all skill levels. (Be aware: summer crowds and limited parking in Yosemite Valley.) Over 3.9 million visitors flocked here in 2023, making it the 6th most visited park. Its popularity is why it is often cited as “perhaps the best national park in USA” by travel guides.

Yosemite Valley at sunset, with Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall (center). This iconic view (seen from Tunnel View) epitomizes the majestic scenery of Yosemite National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

The Grand Canyon needs little introduction. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, it is “truly magnificent,” one of “the most visited tourist destinations in the world”. Over 277 miles long, the Canyon offers dizzying vistas of layered rock formations. Visitors experience two main rims: the popular South Rim (near Grand Canyon Village) and the quieter North Rim.

• Highlights: Stunning viewpoints such as Mather, Yavapai, and Desert View (South Rim), with panoramic canyon vistas. The North Rim offers high solitude at Bright Angel Point. (Both rims have rim-to-rim hiking options for the adventurous.)
• Activities: Hiking into the canyon (Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab), mule rides, and rafting trips on the Colorado River. Ranger-led walks and cultural sites (desert pueblos) add context. Stargazing is excellent due to dark skies.
• Wildlife and Geology: Desert bighorn sheep, condors, and elk live in the park. The canyon’s rock layers record nearly 2 billion years of Earth’s history. A fun fact: there are an estimated 1,000 caves in the canyon, though only a few (like Cave of the Domes) are open to visitors.

As Vogue notes, “One of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, the Grand Canyon is truly magnificent.” Over 5 million people visit annually (usually ranking it around #6 busiest). Spring and fall offer mild weather; summer can be very hot. Don’t miss sunrise or sunset on the rim – it paints the canyon in brilliant colors.

Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion is Utah’s first national park (est. 1919) and is famous for its reddish sandstone canyons. The red-rock cliffs and narrow gorge of Zion Canyon create an otherworldly landscape. As Vogue describes, “Sandstone cliffs splashed in sunset hues of reds and pinks preside over the unique landscape of Zion… best known for Angels Landing”. This park’s dramatic scenery and hiking make it a perennial favorite.

• Highlights: Angels Landing hike (steep 1,500 ft ascent via switchbacks and a narrow ridge – permits now required due to popularity), and The Narrows hike (walking in the Virgin River through towering 1,000-ft walls). Emerald Pools and the Court of the Patriarchs viewpoint are also iconic.
• Activities: Canyoneering in slot canyons, climbing the giant walls, and wildlife watching (wild turkey, bighorn sheep). The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive takes you along the Virgin River – a great photography route.
• Visitor Tips: Spring and fall have ideal hiking weather; summer brings monsoon rains (flash flood risk in The Narrows). The park uses a shuttle system in peak season to limit congestion. Zion’s unique topography (from 3,600 ft to over 8,000 ft) means a variety of ecosystems – from desert to high desert forests.

Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

High peaks and alpine tundra define Rocky Mountain NP. This park includes Longs Peak (14,259 ft) and dozens of other mountain summits. It features Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. (cresting at 12,183 ft). As one guide notes, Rocky Mountain NP has “lofty mountain peaks” and a scenic drive “along one of the highest roads in the USA,” making it “one of the best national parks in the United States”.

• Highlights: Driving Trail Ridge Road offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine valleys. Bear Lake and Sprague Lake are gorgeous trailheads with views of Hallett Peak. Summer wildflower meadows bloom in Glacier Gorge and Upper Beaver Meadows.
• Wildlife: Elk herds are abundant (often seen in Estes Park town or Moraine Park in summer), plus bighorn sheep, moose, and marmots. Fall brings elk rut with bugling stags.
• Activities: Hiking (over 350 miles of trails), from easy lakeshore strolls to challenging climbs (e.g. Longs Peak). In winter, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are popular (many roads close to traffic but open to winter recreation). Fishing, camping, and ranger programs are also available.

Per Earthtrekkers, Rocky Mtn NP is “one of the highest national parks in the USA” and contains “sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet”. It drew about 4.1 million visitors in 2023 (making it the 5th most visited). The alpine environment means weather can change rapidly – always carry layers and water on hikes.

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Just south of Yellowstone lies Grand Teton NP, dominated by the jagged Teton Range. The Grand Tetons – rising sharply from Jackson Hole valley – are a photographer’s dream. One writer notes that upon landing at Jackson Hole airport, “the craggy Grand Tetons…makes this landscape so special”. Highlights include Mount Moran, Mount Teewinot, and of course Grand Teton (13,775 ft).

• Highlights: The skyline of the Tetons from Jenny Lake (with a shuttle boat across the lake to Hidden Falls) and Schwabacher Landing on the Snake River. Moran’s Yellows (spruce trees in fall) and Oxbow Bend are iconic viewpoints.
• Activities: Hiking (Cascade Canyon, Amphitheater Lake, Jenny Lake Loop), scenic drives along Teton Park Road, and boat rentals on Jackson Lake. The park’s aerial tram (“Big Red” in nearby Jackson) offers an alternate view of the mountains.
• Wildlife: Moose, black bear, grizzly bear, elk, bison (in the southern park region). Swan Migration occurs in early spring on the National Elk Refuge.

The Teton peaks form some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. Fall colors (September-October) are spectacular as larches turn golden. For skiers, the nearby Jackson Hole ski resort (inside the park’s boundaries) is world-famous. Grand Teton NP is also an excellent jumping-off point for the adjacent Yellowstone (a combined trip is common).

Glacier National Park (Montana)

Dubbed “the Crown of the Continent,” Glacier NP preserves pristine northern Rockies wilderness. With over 700 lakes and dozens of glaciers, it offers backcountry solitude and alpine grandeur. The park’s centerpiece is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive winding through steep valleys and past glacial lakes (note: this road is often open late June through mid-October).

• Highlights: Going-to-the-Sun Road (views of Logan Pass, St. Mary Lake). Hidden Lake Trail from Logan Pass gives up-close mountain views. Historic lodges like Many Glacier and Lake McDonald Lodge add charm.
• Wildlife: Mountain goats and bighorn sheep on high ridges, bears (both black and grizzly) in the meadows, and pika and marmots in the talus slopes. Early fall bears frequent berry patches (carry bear spray!).
• Activities: Hiking (over 700 miles of trails). Popular hikes include Highline Trail and Iceberg Lake. Boat tours on Lake McDonald and Swiftcurrent offer alternatives to hiking. Ranger-led hikes and evening campfire programs are common in summer.

Though its glaciers are receding, the park still boasts dozens (hence the name). Fall is a quieter time for Glacier, but many facilities close by late Sept. Summer months can see crowds at popular trailheads. The park’s location on the Canadian border also means you can combine Glacier with Waterton Lakes NP in Alberta (together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park).

Acadia National Park (Maine)

Moving east, Acadia is the gem of New England’s coast. Established in 1919, it was the first national park east of the Mississippi. It protects rocky Atlantic coastline, forests, and mountain peaks on Mount Desert Island. Earthtrekkers calls it the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast”. Acadia’s 27 miles of carriage roads, granite peaks, and ocean views make it a unique seaside park.

• Highlights: Cadillac Mountain (the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast) where you can watch the first sunrise in the country. Thunder Hole (rocky inlet with crashing waves), and Jordan Pond with its classic tea-house.
• Activities: Biking the historic carriage roads, hiking trails to ocean overlooks, and tidepooling at low-tide areas like Sand Beach. Boat cruises around the islands are also popular.
• Visitor Tips: Fall foliage (late September/early October) is legendary. Summers are busy but pleasant (by November most roads close). Bar Harbor nearby offers dining and lodging.

Acadia is great for families because even short hikes lead to fantastic rewards (e.g. the easy summit of Penobscot Mountain). With 3.9 million visits in 2023 (7th busiest park), planning is key. Many park highlights can be seen by road – you can explore “with or without strenuous hiking”. For more adventurous hikes, try the Beehive or Precipice trails (which feature iron rungs and ladders, see Earthtrekkers).

Everglades National Park (Florida)

Finally, Everglades NP offers a completely different setting: subtropical wetlands in southern Florida. It is “the largest subtropical wilderness in the states” and contains the “largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere”. Its “River of Grass” sawgrass marshes support wildlife found nowhere else. An UNESCO site, the Everglades is a must for eco-adventurers and bird-watchers alike.

• Highlights: A vast network of sawgrass marshes, cypress domes, and mangrove estuaries. Spots like Shark Valley and Anhinga Trail allow close-up viewing of alligators and wading birds.
• Wildlife: American alligator, Florida panther, West Indian manatee, and over 350 bird species (herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills). The park is famous for wading bird nesting on islands of the marsh.
• Activities: Airboat tours (though limited to certain areas), kayaking or canoeing remote waterways, and hiking short trails. Fishing is popular in the coastal mangrove zones. Ranger-led canoe trips and night sky programs are also offered.

Because of its warm climate, Everglades is one of the best national parks to visit in February (winter) when northern parks are snowbound. Wear lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and bug spray. Protect the park by staying on trails and not feeding wildlife.

{scrollback on Florida – this park is especially unique among national parks and often overlooked by eastern travelers but absolutely fits the “best parks in USA” due to its singular ecosystem.} The Everglades is also noted as an invaluable habitat for endangered species (the Florida panther was mentioned as an example). It’s a world apart from the mountain and desert landscapes above, and a fitting finale to our list of top parks.

Tips and Common Questions

• Visiting in winter (Feb) or off-season: The southern parks – Everglades (FL), Big Bend (TX, not on our list), Joshua Tree (CA) – are ideal in winter. The mountain parks (Smoky, Yellowstone, Glacier) see snow and cold then. For spring visits, parks like Arches, Zion, and Yosemite bloom with wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather. In summer, higher elevations (Glacier, Rocky, Yellowstone) are pleasant escapes from heat. Fall brings crisp air and colors in Smoky, Rocky, and Acadia. Check each park’s website for seasonal road closures or fire restrictions.
• Family travel: Many parks cater to kids. Great Smoky and Acadia have easy walking trails, picnic areas, and Junior Ranger programs. Yellowstone and Yosemite offer boardwalk trails to keep little feet dry (and safe). Rocky Mountain has visitor centers and gentle lakeside paths. Always bring plenty of water and snacks, use sunscreen, and plan hikes with frequent rests.
• How to get around: Most parks have a visitor center or official website with maps. Consider using the NPS app or park shuttles (as in Zion and Grand Canyon South Rim) to reduce driving stress. For major parks (Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Smoky), book accommodations or campsites well in advance.
• Wildlife precautions: Black bears are found in Smoky, Yosemite, Grand Teton, etc. Store food properly and maintain distance. Alligators are in Everglades, so obey warning signs. Always follow park safety tips and bear/mountain lion guidelines.
• Park passes and fees: An America the Beautiful Pass (Interagency Annual Pass) covers entry to all these parks for one car ($80/year) – a great value if visiting multiple parks. Otherwise, each park has a $20–$35 entry fee per vehicle (valid for 7 days).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is the best national park in USA?
A: This is subjective, but Yosemite and Yellowstone often top expert and traveler lists. Yosemite’s towering granite cliffs and waterfalls make it an iconic choice, while Yellowstone’s unique geothermal features and wildlife draw many visitors. Ultimately, the “best” park depends on what you value – for mountain scenery, try Rocky Mountain NP; for marine life and warm climate, Everglades; for family-friendly hikes, Great Smoky. Many travel forums and visitors (including Reddit communities) frequently praise Yosemite, Zion, and Glacier among others. All 10 parks listed here have been widely recommended for their exceptional experiences.

Q: How many national parks are in the USA?
A: The USA has 63 designated national parks as of 2025. These range from the well-known (Grand Canyon, Yellowstone) to remote parks in Alaska and the tropics. Each year, around 250 million recreational visits are made across all parks. This guide covers 10 of the “best national parks in USA,” but there are many more parks worth exploring (like Shenandoah in Virginia or Olympic in Washington on your own bucket list).

Q: Which national parks are best for kids and families?
A: Great Smoky Mountains NP (TN/NC) is excellent for families – it has gentle trails and historic sites that interest all ages. Yellowstone and Grand Teton also have accessible boardwalks and visitor centers, and plenty of wildlife to spot. Acadia (ME) and Everglades (FL) offer easy walking trails with big rewards (lighthouses, beaches, swamps). Many parks have Junior Ranger programs. Always stick to short, safe trails and keep kids hydrated.

Q: What is the most visited national park in the USA?
A: Great Smoky Mountains NP holds that title. In 2024 it recorded over 12 million visitors, making it the busiest park (often due to its proximity to population centers in the East). For comparison, Yellowstone and Grand Canyon each see around 4–5 million visitors annually.

Q: Are there national parks on the East Coast?
A: Yes. Acadia NP (Maine) and Shenandoah NP (Virginia) are on the East Coast. Acadia, our #9, includes rocky Atlantic shores. Shenandoah (not in top 10) offers Blue Ridge Mountain views near Washington D.C. The Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC) is in the eastern U.S. as well, though not coastal. These parks contrast greatly with the western parks in ecosystem and climate.

Q: What is the best time to visit these parks?
A: It depends on the park’s climate. Generally, summer (June–Aug) is busiest with all areas open, but also hottest (except in Alaska/Canada-edge parks). Spring and fall are ideal for most parks for mild weather and fewer crowds. For example, Yosemite’s waterfalls peak in late spring; Glacier and Yellowstone are accessible late June–Sept. If you plan a winter trip, the warmer southern parks (Everglades, Big Bend, Death Valley) are great choices.

We hope this guide helps you discover and plan trips to the best national parks in USA. Each park on this list offers unique scenery and adventures. Which one is your favorite? Share this article and leave a comment with your top park or travel tips – let’s inspire more people to explore America’s great outdoors!

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