Looking for an amazing trip? Want to explore nature, see wild animals, and make great memories? Then you should visit one of the best national parks in the US! America is full of beautiful parks. Some have huge mountains. Others have deep canyons or big forests. Some even have waterfalls or oceans. In this guide, we’ll show you the top parks to visit in 2025. You’ll learn what to see, when to go, and what to bring.
Why Are These the Best Parks?
Not all parks are the same. Some parks are easy to get to. Others are famous for their views. The best parks have:
- Stunning nature – big rocks, tall trees, wild rivers.
- Fun things to do – hikes, tours, and photo spots.
- Wildlife – bears, birds, deer, and more!
- Good trails and signs – so you don’t get lost.
These parks are great for all ages. Whether you travel alone or with your family, you’ll enjoy your trip.
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Yosemite National Park – California
Why visit: Yosemite is one of the most famous parks in the world. It has big cliffs, tall waterfalls, and lots of trees.
Top sights:
- El Capitan – a huge rock wall. Watch climbers go up!
- Yosemite Falls – a tall waterfall. It’s loud and amazing in spring.
- Glacier Point – a viewpoint with a wide view of the whole valley.
Tips:
- Go in May or June for the best waterfalls.
- Bring a jacket. It can be cool, even in summer.
- Try short hikes like Bridalveil Fall Trail or Mirror Lake.
Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming, Montana, Idaho
Why visit: Yellowstone is the first national park in the world. It has geysers, hot springs, and lots of animals.
Top sights:
- Old Faithful – a geyser that shoots water high in the air!
- Grand Prismatic Spring – a hot spring with bright colors.
- Lamar Valley – great for spotting bison and bears.
Tips:
- Visit in June or September to avoid big crowds.
- Stay at least 3 days. The park is huge!
- Bring binoculars for animal watching.
Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona
Why visit: The Grand Canyon is deep and wide. It looks like a painting and feels like another planet.
Top sights:
- South Rim – great views and easy trails.
- Bright Angel Trail – a path that goes down into the canyon.
- Mather Point – one of the best places to watch sunrise.
Tips:
- Visit in spring or fall. Summer is very hot.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen. The sun is strong.
- Don’t hike too far down unless you’re ready to hike back up!
Zion National Park – Utah
Why visit: Zion is full of red rocks, tall cliffs, and cool canyons. It’s like walking in a giant outdoor maze.
Top sights:
- The Narrows – a hike through a river between tall walls.
- Angels Landing – a hard hike with big views (for brave hikers).
- Canyon Overlook Trail – a short hike with a great view.
Tips:
- Use the shuttle bus in summer.
- Bring water shoes for The Narrows.
- Check for flash flood warnings before hiking.
Glacier National Park – Montana
Why visit: Glacier has snow-capped mountains, lakes, and wild animals. You may even see glaciers.
Top sights:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road – a scenic drive through the mountains.
- Lake McDonald – calm, clear, and colorful.
- Highline Trail – a favorite hike for big views.
Tips:
- Visit in July or August when roads are open.
- Bring layers. It gets cold in the morning.
- Stay in or near the park for early hikes.
Acadia National Park – Maine
Why visit: Acadia is on the East Coast. It has mountains, forests, and ocean views all in one park.
Top sights:
- Cadillac Mountain – see the sunrise from the highest point on the East Coast.
- Jordan Pond – a pretty lake with great walking paths.
- Sand Beach – a small beach with cold, clear water.
Tips:
- Visit in fall for colorful leaves.
- Try biking the carriage roads—no cars allowed!
- Bring bug spray in summer.
Olympic National Park – Washington
Why visit: This park has rainforests, beaches, and snowy mountains—all in one place.
Top sights:
- Hoh Rain Forest – mossy trees and quiet trails.
- Hurricane Ridge – mountain views and deer.
- Rialto Beach – big waves, sea stacks, and tide pools.
Tips:
- Bring both a raincoat and sunscreen. The weather changes a lot.
- Check tide charts before beach walks.
- Watch out for slugs—they’re huge here!
More Great Parks to Explore
Don’t stop with just one! These parks are also amazing:
- Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC) – foggy peaks, old cabins, and wildflowers.
- Rocky Mountain (CO) – high peaks, elk herds, and alpine lakes.
- Joshua Tree (CA) – desert scenes and star-filled skies.
- Everglades (FL) – swamps, alligators, and airboat rides.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Each park has its own best time. Here’s a quick guide:
- Spring (April–June): Waterfalls are full, flowers bloom, fewer people.
- Summer (July–August): Warm weather, long days, but more crowds.
- Fall (September–October): Cool temps, fewer people, great colors.
- Winter (November–March): Snow fun in some parks, quiet time in others.
What Should You Bring?
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Good walking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- Jacket or raincoat
- Map or trail guide
- Camera or phone
Don’t forget to check the weather before you go!
How to Help Keep Parks Clean
When you visit, be kind to nature:
- Stay on the trail.
- Don’t feed animals.
- Throw trash in the bin—or take it with you.
- Leave what you find (like rocks or flowers).
- Be quiet so others can enjoy the peace.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
The best national parks to visit in the US offer something for everyone. You can hike, take photos, learn about nature, or just relax. Whether you visit one park or many, you’ll leave with great memories and a new love for the outdoors. So, where will you go first? Pack your bag, grab your boots, and hit the trail. America’s best parks are waiting!