Best national parks to visit in the US: The United States is home to some of the world’s most stunning national parks, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and recreational activities. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates breathtaking scenery, there’s a national park in the US that’s perfect for you. In this article, we’ll explore some of the Best national parks to visit in the US, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next adventure.
Introduction
National parks are protected areas established to preserve the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of a region. They offer visitors a chance to experience nature up close and provide numerous recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Here are some of the best national parks to visit in the US.
Best National Parks to Visit in the US
Here are five of the best national parks to visit in the US:
- Yellowstone National Park
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Yosemite National Park
- Zion National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Here is a table with information about the best national parks to visit in the US, including their locations, reviews, and Google Maps links:
| National Park | Location | Reviews | Google Maps Link |
| Yellowstone National Park | Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho | 5 stars (1,916 reviews) on Tripadvisor | Yellowstone National Park |
| Grand Canyon National Park | Arizona | Highly rated, with many positive reviews | Grand Canyon National Park |
| Yosemite National Park | California | 4.5 stars (average rating) on Tripadvisor | Yosemite National Park |
| Zion National Park | Utah | 4.5 stars (average rating) on Tripadvisor | Zion National Park |
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | North Carolina and Tennessee | 4.5 stars (average rating) on Tripadvisor | Great Smoky Mountains National Park |
Let’s Dive Best National Parks to Visit in the US
1. Yellowstone National Park
Overview
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the world’s first national park. It spans across three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, covering over 2.2 million acres. The park is renowned for its geothermal features, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
Key Attractions
- Old Faithful: One of the most famous geysers in the world, Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water up to 185 feet into the air.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States, known for its vibrant colors caused by thermophilic bacteria.
- Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-elevation lake in North America, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: Terraced formations created by hot water from deep beneath the Earth’s surface.
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: A stunning canyon with beautiful waterfalls, including the Upper and Lower Falls.
Activities
- Hiking: Over 900 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Wildlife Viewing: Home to bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and more.
- Camping: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry camping options.
- Fishing: Available in Yellowstone Lake and various rivers and streams.
More Information
For more details, visit the official Yellowstone National Park website.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
Overview
Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world. The park encompasses 1.2 million acres and is known for its immense size and stunning geological features.
Key Attractions
- South Rim: The most visited part of the park, offering breathtaking views, visitor centers, and various amenities.
- North Rim: Less crowded and offers a more secluded experience with equally stunning views.
- Havasu Falls: A series of beautiful waterfalls located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, accessible via a challenging hike.
- Skywalk: A glass-bottomed bridge extending over the edge of the canyon, providing unique perspectives.
Activities
- Hiking: Trails range from easy walks along the rim to challenging backcountry hikes.
- Rafting: White-water rafting trips on the Colorado River.
- Mule Rides: Guided mule rides down into the canyon.
- Scenic Drives: Several scenic drives offer stunning viewpoints and photo opportunities.
More Information
For more details, visit the official Grand Canyon National Park website.
3. Yosemite National Park
Overview
Yosemite National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is famous for its impressive granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. The park covers over 750,000 acres and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Key Attractions
- El Capitan: A massive granite monolith popular with rock climbers.
- Half Dome: A granite dome that offers a challenging hike to its summit.
- Yosemite Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in North America, with a total drop of 2,425 feet.
- Mariposa Grove: A grove of giant sequoias, including some of the largest and oldest trees in the world.
- Glacier Point: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.
Activities
- Rock Climbing: World-class climbing routes on El Capitan and other granite formations.
- Hiking: Over 800 miles of trails, including the famous Mist Trail and John Muir Trail.
- Photography: Iconic landscapes and wildlife provide endless photo opportunities.
- Camping: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry camping options.
- Snow Sports: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
More Information
For more details, visit the official Yosemite National Park website.
4. Zion National Park
Overview
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and stunning red rock scenery. The park covers over 146,000 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Key Attractions
- Angels Landing: A challenging and popular hike with breathtaking views from the summit.
- The Narrows: A hike through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where the Virgin River flows between towering walls.
- Emerald Pools: A series of pools and waterfalls accessible via a moderate hike.
- Observation Point: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of Zion Canyon, accessible via a strenuous hike.
- Kolob Canyons: A less-visited section of the park with stunning red rock formations.
Activities
- Hiking: Trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs.
- Canyoneering: Exploring slot canyons and rappelling down cliffs.
- Rock Climbing: Numerous climbing routes on the park’s sandstone cliffs.
- Scenic Drives: The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and Kolob Canyons Road offer stunning views.
More Information
For more details, visit the official Zion National Park website.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Overview
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is the most visited national park in the US. It covers over 522,000 acres and is known for its mist-covered mountains, rich biodiversity, and historic buildings.
Key Attractions
- Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park, offering 360-degree views from an observation tower.
- Cades Cove: A scenic valley with historic buildings and abundant wildlife.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A scenic drive with views of streams, old-growth forest, and historic structures.
- Laurel Falls: A popular waterfall accessible via an easy hike.
- Newfound Gap Road: A scenic drive that crosses the park and offers numerous viewpoints.
Activities
- Hiking: Over 800 miles of trails, including portions of the Appalachian Trail.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see black bears, deer, elk, and a variety of bird species.
- Camping: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry camping options.
- Fishing: Available in many of the park’s streams and rivers.
- Historic Tours: Visiting historic buildings and learning about the cultural history of the area.
More Information
For more details, visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website.
Planning a visit to one of the spectacular national parks in the United States? To make your trip more comfortable, it’s important to choose the right accommodation. Below is a table featuring some top-rated 4-star hotels near popular national parks, complete with their ratings, amenities, distance from the park, and convenient Google Maps links to help you find your way.
| National Park | Hotel | Rating | Amenities | Distance from Park | Google Maps Link |
| Yellowstone National Park | Best Western Premier Yellowstone | 4 stars | Free breakfast, WiFi, parking, swimming pool, fitness center | 2 miles | Best Western Premier Yellowstone |
| Grand Canyon National Park | The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon | 4 stars | WiFi, parking, swimming pool, spa, fitness center | 4.8 miles | The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon |
| Yosemite National Park | Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite | 4 stars | Restaurant, gift shop, free WiFi, heated outdoor pool | 1 mile | Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite |
| Zion National Park | Zion Lodge | 4 stars | Restaurant, gift shop, free WiFi, heated outdoor pool | Inside the park | Zion Lodge |
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | LeConte Lodge | 4 stars | Restaurant, gift shop, free WiFi, heated outdoor pool | 5 miles | LeConte Lodge |
FAQs Best National Parks To Visit In The US
Here are some common questions people often ask when planning a visit to national parks, along with detailed answers to help you prepare for your trip:
- What is the best time of year to visit national parks?
- The best time to visit national parks depends on the park and the activities you plan to do. For example, summer is ideal for hiking in most parks, while fall offers beautiful foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains. Research the specific park you’re interested in to determine the best time for your visit.
- Do I need a reservation to visit a national park?
- Some national parks require reservations for entry, especially during peak seasons. It’s important to check the official website of the park for any reservation requirements, entry fees, and permits needed for specific activities.
- What should I pack for a national park visit?
- Essentials for a national park visit include comfortable hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, plenty of water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit. If you plan to camp, bring camping gear, such as a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies.
- Are pets allowed in national parks?
- Policies regarding pets vary by park. Some parks allow pets in certain areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, but they are often restricted on trails and backcountry areas. Always check the specific park’s pet policy before bringing your pet.
- Can I camp anywhere in a national park?
- No, camping is typically allowed only in designated campgrounds and backcountry sites. Some parks require permits for backcountry camping. It’s important to follow all camping regulations to protect the environment and ensure your safety.
- What wildlife can I expect to see in national parks?
- Wildlife varies by park, but common animals include deer, elk, bison, bears, and various bird species. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach animals.
- How do I stay safe while hiking in national parks?
- Stay on designated trails, carry plenty of water, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Be aware of your surroundings, check weather conditions, and inform someone of your plans. Carry a map, compass, and emergency supplies.
- What are Leave No Trace principles?
- Leave No Trace principles are guidelines for minimizing your impact on the environment while enjoying outdoor activities. They include planning ahead, disposing of waste properly, respecting wildlife, and leaving natural objects and cultural artifacts undisturbed.
Conclusion: Best National Parks To Visit In The US
Visiting Best National Parks In The US is an experience like no other. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, each park offers unique landscapes, activities, and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring the towering granite cliffs of Yosemite, the red rock canyons of Zion, or the misty mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains, these parks provide a perfect escape and a chance to make unforgettable memories.
By planning your trip carefully, choosing the right accommodation, and respecting the natural environment, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. National parks are treasures that need to be preserved for future generations, so remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and always respect wildlife and park regulations.
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the national parks of the US have something to offer everyone. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on an incredible journey through some of America’s most stunning natural wonders.
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