The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems on the planet, with its National Parks standing as testament to its natural beauty. From towering mountains and lush forests to vast deserts and coastal wonders, these parks offer something for every traveler. If you’re planning your next adventure in 2025, here’s a list of 15 U.S. National Parks you must visit. These parks showcase the best of what America’s wilderness has to offer.
1. Yosemite National Park (California)
Best For: Hiking, Waterfalls, Scenic Views
Famous For: El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls
Visitor Tip: Visit in early spring or late fall for fewer crowds.
Yosemite is an iconic destination for outdoor lovers. Known for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re a climber aiming for El Capitan or a hiker looking to explore the John Muir Trail, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring views. Don’t miss Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.
2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Best For: Hiking, Photography, River Rafting
Famous For: Grand Canyon, Colorado River
Visitor Tip: Take a sunrise or sunset tour for the most dramatic views.
One of the world’s most recognizable natural landmarks, the Grand Canyon offers one of the most immersive and diverse hiking experiences. Whether you trek along the rim or descend into the canyon on the South Kaibab Trail, the landscape will leave you speechless. For the truly adventurous, you can raft down the Colorado River, which runs through the canyon.
3. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Best For: Geothermal Features, Wildlife Viewing, Family Activities
Famous For: Old Faithful, Bison, Hot Springs
Visitor Tip: Plan to visit in the shoulder seasons (late spring or fall) to avoid summer crowds.
Yellowstone is not only the first National Park in the world but also one of the most diverse ecosystems in the U.S. Boasting geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves, it’s a must-see. Be sure to visit the iconic Old Faithful geyser and explore the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the largest hot springs on Earth.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
Best For: Hiking, Canyons, Photography
Famous For: The Narrows, Angels Landing
Visitor Tip: Zion’s shuttle service is highly recommended during peak seasons.
Zion is a hiker’s paradise. The Narrows and Angels Landing are famous for their dramatic vistas and adrenaline-pumping trails. For a more relaxed visit, take the scenic drive through Kolob Canyons. Zion is also a fantastic spot for photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset when the canyons light up in vibrant hues.
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Best For: Coastal Views, Hiking, Wildlife
Famous For: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond
Visitor Tip: Visit during fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
Located along the stunning Maine coast, Acadia offers a blend of beautiful coastlines, forested mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Cadillac Mountain offers panoramic views and is one of the first places to see the sunrise in the U.S. Don’t miss the chance to walk along Jordan Pond or drive the Park Loop Road.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Best For: Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Alpine Lakes
Famous For: Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road
Visitor Tip: High-altitude hiking can be strenuous—take time to acclimate.
Nestled in the Colorado Rockies, this park is famous for its high mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and vast meadows. You can take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in North America, or hike around Bear Lake for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Best For: Glacier Viewing, Hiking, Photography
Famous For: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Grinnell Glacier
Visitor Tip: Summer is short, so plan your visit early or late in the season.
Glacier National Park offers pristine wilderness and some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the U.S. The Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a jaw-dropping view of glaciers, mountain peaks, and deep valleys. Don’t miss a hike to Grinnell Glacier for a true backcountry experience.
8. Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Best For: Desert Landscape, Stargazing, Rock Climbing
Famous For: Joshua Trees, Hidden Valley
Visitor Tip: Bring plenty of water and visit during cooler months.
Joshua Tree is a unique desert park famous for its striking landscape, where giant boulders and iconic Joshua trees dot the terrain. It’s also one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing, with clear skies and little light pollution. Hidden Valley offers easy hiking and rock climbing opportunities for all skill levels.
9. Everglades National Park (Florida)
Best For: Wildlife Viewing, Canoeing, Eco-Tours
Famous For: Alligators, Mangroves, Wetlands
Visitor Tip: Take a guided boat tour to spot wildlife.
The Everglades is a vast subtropical wilderness home to a variety of species, including alligators, manatees, and rare birds. It’s perfect for those interested in eco-tours and water activities like kayaking and canoeing through the mangroves and wetlands.
10. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Best For: Mountaineering, Hiking, Scenic Drives
Famous For: Grand Teton Mountain Range, Jenny Lake
Visitor Tip: For stunning views, take a boat across Jenny Lake and hike up to Hidden Falls.
Located just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton is a pristine park featuring rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests. Jenny Lake offers an excellent starting point for hikes and boating. Teton Village is a great base for exploring and offers various accommodations and activities year-round.
11. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (California)
Best For: Giant Trees, Hiking, Caves
Famous For: General Sherman Tree, Crystal Cave
Visitor Tip: Visit during spring or early summer before peak season crowds.
Home to the world’s largest trees, including the famous General Sherman Tree, Sequoia & Kings Canyon offer an experience like no other. Walk beneath the towering sequoias and explore the nearby Crystal Cave. This park offers a mix of gentle walks and strenuous backcountry hikes.
12. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii)
Best For: Volcanoes, Hiking, Cultural History
Famous For: Kīlauea, Crater Rim Drive
Visitor Tip: Check volcanic activity before your visit for safety updates.
This unique park offers the chance to witness active volcanic activity, including eruptions from Kīlauea. Explore Crater Rim Drive for stunning views, or hike along trails that lead through lava tubes and steam vents. It’s a must-see for those interested in geology and the power of nature.
13. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
Best For: Scenic Views, Waterfalls, Cycling
Famous For: Brandywine Falls, Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath
Visitor Tip: Rent a bike and explore the scenic Towpath Trail.
Cuyahoga Valley is an often-overlooked gem that offers a mix of forest landscapes, waterfalls, and historic sites. Brandywine Falls is a popular waterfall, and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath is perfect for cyclists. This park is great for families or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat in Ohio.
14. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
Best For: Hiking, Fall Foliage, Scenic Views
Famous For: Skyline Drive, Old Rag Mountain
Visitor Tip: Visit in fall to witness the stunning foliage of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers over 200,000 acres of hiking trails, including the famous Old Rag Mountain. Take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive for panoramic views, or visit in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant red and orange.
15. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)
Best For: Geology, Photography, Wildlife
Famous For: Eroded Buttes, Pinnacles, Fossils
Visitor Tip: Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photos.
The Badlands is a rugged, otherworldly landscape with striking rock formations, deep canyons, and towering buttes. The park is known for its unique geological features, such as fossil beds that date back millions of years. If you’re a photographer, the lighting at sunrise and sunset creates an incredible opportunity to capture the dramatic landscape. Visitors can also spot wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep, making it a diverse and fascinating destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best U.S. national parks for families with young children?
The best national parks for families with young children include Acadia, Cuyahoga Valley, and Yosemite. These parks offer easy trails, scenic drives, and various family-friendly activities such as ranger-led programs. - What is the best time to visit the U.S. National Parks?
The ideal time to visit U.S. national parks generally depends on the location and your interests. Spring and fall are often the best times to visit for fewer crowds and pleasant weather, while summer is ideal for parks in cooler regions like the Rocky Mountains and Glacier. - Do I need a permit to hike in U.S. National Parks?
Most national parks do not require a permit for general hiking, but some popular or backcountry trails (such as Angels Landing in Zion or Half Dome in Yosemite) do require permits. It’s important to check with the specific park ahead of time for any special permit requirements. - Can I camp in the U.S. National Parks?
Yes, many U.S. national parks offer camping options, from established campgrounds to backcountry sites. Popular parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Great Smoky Mountains have a range of options, but booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons. - Are pets allowed in U.S. National Parks?
Pets are generally not allowed on trails in most national parks, but they are permitted in certain areas, including campgrounds and parking lots. Always check each park’s pet policy before you visit to make sure you know where your pet is welcome. - How do I avoid crowds in national parks?
To avoid crowds, try to visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), visit less well-known parks, or explore early in the morning or later in the evening. Some parks, like Zion and Yosemite, can get crowded, so it’s best to plan your visit outside of the peak summer months. - What should I pack for hiking in U.S. National Parks?
When hiking in national parks, pack essentials such as sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, a hat, sunscreen, a hydration system (like a water bottle or hydration pack), snacks, a map, and a first aid kit. For longer hikes, bring extra water, a flashlight, and a portable charger. - Can I drive through the U.S. National Parks?
Yes, most national parks offer scenic drives. Some of the best driving routes include Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, and Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. These roads provide breathtaking views and access to key park areas. - What are the top U.S. national parks for wildlife viewing?
The best national parks for wildlife viewing include Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Everglades, where visitors can spot animals like bison, wolves, bears, and alligators. Always remember to keep a safe distance and never approach wildlife. - Are there guided tours in U.S. National Parks?
Yes, many parks offer guided tours, ranging from scenic bus tours to ranger-led hikes. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Some parks, like Yosemite and Yellowstone, even offer nighttime stargazing tours.