America’s national parks are some of the most spectacular places on Earth, and visitors flock there in record numbers. In 2024, U.S. national parks saw 331.9 million recreational visits across all 63 parks. Yellowstone National Park (established in 1872 as the world’s first national park) set the precedent, and today that 2.2-million-acre preserve still awes travelers with its geothermal wonders and wildlife.

This guide ranks the 10 best national parks in USA, from the geysers of Yellowstone to the canyons of Grand Canyon and the sequoias of Yosemite.

We’ll highlight what makes each park unique (and family-friendly), help you plan your trip, and ensure you experience the top attractions in each park. These parks are spread coast-to-coast – see the USA national parks map for locations – and are perennial picks on travel forums and award lists.

10 Best National Parks In USA

1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)

Yellowstone was designated the “World’s First National Park” in 1872. This vast park spans over 2.2 million acres across three states and contains about half of the world’s active geysers. In fact, Yellowstone alone has over 10,000 geothermal features (geysers, hot springs, mud pots). It is famous for Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but don’t miss the abundant wildlife: bison, elk, bears, wolves and more roam its valleys. According to travel experts, Yellowstone’s hydrothermal activity and wildlife are its standout features.

• Highlights: View Old Faithful geyser, hike around Grand Prismatic Spring and Norris Geyser Basin.
• Wildlife Watching: Lamar Valley (“Serengeti of the U.S.”) is renowned for bison, elk, wolves and bears.
• Other Tips: Drive the Grand Loop Road for major sights; summer wildflower blooms are spectacular. Yellowstone’s 24-hour service area is also good for RV camping and guided tours.

2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

Stretching 277 miles along the Colorado River, Grand Canyon NP protects an immense mile-deep canyon carved by erosion over eons. The North and South Rims offer unparalleled panoramas of the canyon’s layered red rock. According to the National Park Service, Grand Canyon is “one of the most spectacular examples of erosion in the world”. Park rangers and outfitters note the park’s long outdoor-activity season. You can hike or mule-trail down into the canyon, or boat/raft the Colorado River; many agree that a river trip through the inner gorge is the “trip of a lifetime”.

• Highlights: Sunrise/sunset at Mather Point (South Rim) or Cape Royal (North Rim). River rafting on the Colorado.
• Less-Visited Areas: The North Rim (open mid-May to Oct) is much less crowded and cooler in summer.
• Visitor Tips: South Rim has visitor center and Desert View Drive. Early spring and fall offer mild weather; summers can be extremely hot.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)

Great Smoky Mountains NP is consistently America’s most visited park, thanks to its accessibility and family-friendly trails. In 2024 it drew over 12.2 million visitors. Park officials note it’s “extremely family-friendly”: there are easy hikes, cascading waterfalls, and safe, shaded picnic spots. The Smokies showcase scenic mountain vistas with wildflowers in spring, vibrant fall colors, and even light winter snows.

• Hiking & Views: Moderate trails like Laurel Falls Trail or Clingmans Dome (the park’s highest point at 6,643 ft) lead to great panoramas.
• Wildlife & Nature: Drive Cades Cove loop road at dawn or dusk for elk, black bears and other wildlife. The park is also famous for synchronized firefly displays in early summer.
• Insider Tip: Fall is peak season for foliage (late Sept – Oct). Start early on weekends to beat road traffic and crowds.

4. Yosemite National Park (California)

Nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada, Yosemite NP is known for its towering granite cliffs and waterfalls. First protected in 1864, Yosemite became a national park in 1890. The park is renowned for its five highest waterfalls in the world, 1,500 plant species, and ancient giant sequoias. Iconic formations like El Capitan and Half Dome draw rock climbers and photographers.

• Highlights: Yosemite Valley (views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls). Mariposa Grove to see 500+ giant sequoias.
• Adventure: Hiking options range from the easy Mirror Lake walk to strenuous Half Dome ascent (permit required).
• Visitor Tip: Tunnel View off Highway 41 gives a postcard view of Yosemite Valley and is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. Spring (waterfall season) and early fall (mild weather) are ideal, though summer nights can be warm.

5. Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion NP in southwestern Utah is a geological masterpiece of red sandstone cliffs and slot canyons. As one guide puts it, Zion offers “spectacular mountain and desert landscapes” with endless adventure options. Canyoneering, rock-climbing, horseback riding and river trips are all possible here. The park’s diversity is stunning – lush hanging gardens and turquoise pools sit below towering red canyon walls.

• Top Trails: The Narrows (hiking up the Virgin River through a slot canyon) and Angel’s Landing (narrow ridge hike with 1,500 ft drop) are iconic.
• Scenic Drive: The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (shuttle-only in peak season) accesses the main valley; the higher Kolob Terrace offers quieter trails and a different perspective.
• Nearby Gems: Utah’s “Mighty 5” are all close by – many visitors extend their trip to include Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches NP in the region.

6. Glacier National Park (Montana)

Nicknamed the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier NP in Montana preserves a rugged wilderness of glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and crystalline lakes. With over 700 miles of trails and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier is ideal for adventurous backpackers and scenic drives. You’ll see remnants of the park’s many glaciers in ice-fields and peaks; wildlife is abundant (look for mountain goats, bears, and moose).

• Scenic Drive: Going-to-the-Sun Road (a 50-mile mountain road) crosses the park. Stop at Logan Pass (7,700 ft) for high-altitude hiking and views.
• Hiking: The Highline Trail from Logan Pass is a must-do (stunning ridge hike). Bear Lake and Avalanche Lake near Many Glacier also offer shorter but beautiful hikes.
• Wildlife Spotting: Early summer wildflowers cover the meadows; you’re likely to see bighorn sheep and mountain goats on cliff faces.

7. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton NP’s jagged peaks rise sharply from the Jackson Hole valley. These Teton Range mountains (with the Grand Teton at 13,770 ft) are dramatic symbols of the West. The park is a paradise for wildlife and scenery: glacial lakes (Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake) reflect the mountains, and moose, bears, elk and pronghorn roam freely. Many visitors come for backcountry hiking and fly-fishing in the Snake River.

• Iconic Views: Drive the 42-mile Teton Park Road loop (and scenic Highway 89) for pullouts overlooking Oxbow Bend and the Cathedral Group.
• Hiking & Lakes: Hike around Jenny Lake or take a boat shuttle across it to access Cascade and Hidden Falls.
• Wildlife: Go birding or wildlife-watching in wetlands (Moose-Wilson Road) at dawn/dusk; bison and wolves are also present. Grand Teton’s spectacular sunrises and the new International Dark Sky designation (April 2025) mean amazing stargazing.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

Rocky Mountain NP preserves a spectacular range of high-altitude terrain in northern Colorado. The park’s 415 square miles span from montane meadows to alpine tundra at over 14,000 ft. Trail Ridge Road (the highest continuous paved road in the U.S.) climbs above the tree line, offering panoramic peaks and sightings of elk and bighorn sheep. Over 300 miles of trails cater to all levels.

• Trail Ridge Road: The 48-mile drive (open mid-May to Oct) traverses the park; stops at Many Parks Curve and Tombstone Ridge offer classic views.
• Popular Hikes: Bear Lake (easy loop), Emerald Lake and Alberta Falls, or for the ambitious, Longs Peak (14er summit climb).
• Wildlife: Fall rutting elk (Sept) is spectacular, as are wildflower meadows in summer. Residents recommend visiting weekdays or off-peak to avoid Estes Park traffic.

9. Everglades National Park (Florida)

Everglades NP protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. – 1.5 million acres of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests and marine estuaries. Established in 1947 to preserve its unique biodiversity, it is a slow-moving “river of grass” that sustains many endangered species. Everglades provides key resources (drinking water, fisheries) to South Florida. Visitors come for airboat tours, birding, and to see its alligators, crocodiles, and wading birds.

• Wildlife: Take the Anhinga Trail boardwalk (near Homestead) for guaranteed views of alligators, turtles, and herons up close.
• Activities: Guided boat or kayak trips through mangroves (like at Flamingo or Shark Valley) bring you up close to nature.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring (Dec–April) offer sunny, mild weather and low mosquitoes. Summers are hot and rainy, but show the Everglades in full flood stage.

10. Acadia National Park (Maine)

Acadia, on Maine’s rugged Atlantic coast, protects craggy headlands, forests, and lakes – the highest rocky coastline in the eastern U.S.. Though small (49,000 acres), it packs in 158 miles of trails and 27 miles of carriage roads. Acadia is extremely popular: with around 4 million visits per year, it’s among the top 10 most-visited parks. Visitors come to hike Cadillac Mountain (America’s first sunrise point), bike historic carriage roads, and spot moose and seabirds.

• Cadillac Summit Road: Drive or bike to the top of Cadillac Mountain. In summer, you’ll need a timed reservation for sunrise because it’s so popular.
• Park Loop Road: A 27-mile scenic drive passes Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond, and Otter Cliff.
• Outdoor Activities: Hike up Gorham Mountain or along the Precipice Trail (for a challenge), and explore tide pools at low tide. Fall foliage and wild blueberry barrens make autumn spectacular.

Conclusion: From the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone to the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the coastal beauty of Acadia, these 10 best national parks in USA offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, rugged mountain treks, or simply the peace of nature, you’ll find it here. Plan ahead (especially for peak seasons), pack out what you pack in, and enjoy these American treasures. Which national park will you visit next? Share your plans or favorite park in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this guide, please share it on social media and help other travelers discover the best national parks in USA. For more tips on visiting national parks (maps, lodging, and seasonal advice), see the official NPS websites and travel resources. Happy exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Which is the best national park in the USA?
  A: “Best” is subjective, but Yellowstone (first national park, famed for Old Faithful) and Grand Canyon (unmatched vistas) are perennial favorites. Great Smoky Mountains is top in visitor counts. Each park shines differently: Yosemite for waterfalls, Acadia for coastal views, Zion for slot canyons, etc. Read reviews and see which landscapes appeal to you most.
• Q: When is the best time to visit these national parks?
  A: Spring and fall generally offer mild weather and fewer crowds in most parks. Summer brings heavy tourism but is ideal for high-elevation areas (June–Aug). Winter is great for southern parks (Everglades, Big Bend, parts of California and Hawaii) and for snowy scenery (Yellowstone, Smokies, Yosemite in off-season), but some roads/trails may be closed. Always check specific park conditions (e.g., road openings, fire seasons) on the NPS website.
• Q: What national parks are good for kids and families?
  A: Great Smoky Mountains is famous for family-friendly hikes and accessible nature. Yellowstone and Yosemite have many short trails, visitor centers and educational programs. Acadia and Rocky also offer many moderate hikes and ranger programs. Look for Junior Ranger activities and easy boardwalk trails (Everglades, Smokies, Rocky’s Bear Lake) if you have young children.
• Q: Are any national parks free or cheap to visit?
  A: Each national park has an entrance fee, but many offer free days annually (like National Park Week in April, or Veterans Day). Interagency passes (annual, senior, America the Beautiful) cover all federal parks. For itinerary planning, use official park apps or websites for fees and reservation requirements, which ensure the best chance of entry during busy seasons.

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