25 Best National Parks to Visit This Summer
This summer, you’re invited to discover the 25 best national parks that showcase the beauty of nature in all its forms. From the vibrant geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the breathtaking cliffs of Zion, each park offers unique landscapes and thrilling activities. Picture yourself hiking iconic trails or witnessing wildlife in their natural habitats. Curious about which parks made the list? Let’s explore these stunning destinations that promise unforgettable adventures.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
You’ll marvel at the vibrant geothermal features like Old Faithful and colorful hot springs.
As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife watching opportunities—bison, elk, and even bears roam freely.
Each moment immerses you in nature’s beauty, making Yellowstone a must-visit park this summer.
Yosemite National Park
As you step into Yosemite National Park, you’ll be greeted by towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows that create a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Explore Yosemite hiking trails, capture breathtaking Yosemite photography, and experience vibrant Yosemite wildlife.
Whether you’re rock climbing, camping under the stars, or marveling at its rich history, Yosemite’s beauty and conservation efforts leave a lasting impression.
Grand Canyon National Park
When you gaze into the vast expanse of Grand Canyon National Park, the sheer scale and intricate beauty of this natural wonder can take your breath away.
The stunning Grand Canyon geology reveals layers of ancient rock, telling Earth’s story.
As you explore, keep an eye out for diverse Grand Canyon wildlife, from soaring eagles to playful squirrels, adding life to this majestic landscape.
Zion National Park
After soaking in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, your next adventure could take you to the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park.
Explore Zion Canyon’s breathtaking hiking trails, conquer Angel’s Landing, and capture incredible photography spots.
Enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and river activities while surrounded by unique desert flora.
Don’t forget to appreciate the rich cultural history woven into this majestic landscape.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, where towering peaks and lush valleys create a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore scenic drives, hike thrilling trails, and camp by shimmering alpine lakes. Capture stunning wildlife photography, enjoy vibrant wildflower blooms, and take part in ranger programs.
Don’t forget the incredible stargazing opportunities after a day of rock climbing and adventure!
Glacier National Park
As you step into Glacier National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rugged mountains and crystal-clear lakes that beckon adventurers of all kinds.
Explore the stunning scenery with these highlights:
- Hiking trails for all skill levels
- Scenic drives showcasing breathtaking glacier formations
- Wildlife viewing opportunities, including local flora and fauna
Don’t miss the ranger programs and photography spots for unforgettable memories!
Joshua Tree National Park
Just a few hours south of Glacier National Park lies Joshua Tree National Park, where the desert landscape offers a unique blend of striking rock formations and iconic Joshua trees.
As you explore, you’ll encounter the mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow on the rocks, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Don’t miss the chance to hike, rock climb, or simply soak in the breathtaking views.
Olympic National Park
When you step into Olympic National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an incredible diversity of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines.
Explore the park with these highlights:
- Scenic hiking trails leading to breathtaking vistas.
- Unique wildlife spotting opportunities, including elk and otters.
- Stunning beaches perfect for a relaxing day.
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure!
Acadia National Park
After experiencing the lush landscapes of Olympic National Park, Acadia National Park offers a fascinating contrast with its stunning coastal scenery and rugged granite peaks.
You can explore scenic trails while Acadia hiking, spotting diverse Acadia wildlife like deer and seabirds.
Don’t forget to catch the breathtaking views from Cadillac Mountain, where the sunrise paints the sky in vibrant colors.
It’s a true summer gem!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nestled between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails that lead you through lush forests and stunning vistas.
Don’t miss these highlights:
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot black bears and elk in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy the breathtaking views along Cades Cove Loop.
- Waterfalls: Discover serene cascades, like Laurel Falls.
Experience nature’s beauty!
Arches National Park
With over 2,000 natural stone arches, Arches National Park in Utah offers a breathtaking landscape that feels straight out of a painting.
As you explore the stunning rock formations, don’t miss the chance to hike to Delicate Arch.
At night, the park transforms into a stargazer’s paradise, where you can marvel at the brilliant constellations lighting up the desert sky.
Badlands National Park
As you venture into Badlands National Park in South Dakota, you’ll be captivated by its dramatic landscapes, where towering rock formations and deep canyons converge in a tapestry of vibrant colors.
Don’t miss:
- Stunning fossil formations that tell ancient stories.
- Diverse wildlife watching opportunities, from bison to prairie dogs.
- Scenic drives offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Explore and embrace the wild beauty!
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, spanning over 200,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, offers a breathtaking escape into nature’s splendor.
You’ll love exploring its stunning hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Don’t miss the scenic viewpoints along Skyline Drive, where you can capture panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe and create lasting memories.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
After soaking in the beauty of Shenandoah National Park, you might find yourself drawn to the towering giants of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in California.
Here, you can explore:
- Scenic drives through ancient groves and historical sites.
- Hiking trails that lead to breathtaking photography spots.
- Family activities, including guided tours and star gazing.
Immerse yourself in the park’s rich flora, fauna, and local cuisine!
Haleakalā National Park
Have you ever witnessed the sunrise from the summit of a dormant volcano? At Haleakalā National Park, those breathtaking sunrise views are just the beginning.
Explore the park’s unique ecosystems, where you can find rare plants and animals that thrive in this stunning environment.
Whether you hike through the trails or simply soak in the beauty, Haleakalā promises an unforgettable experience.
Big Bend National Park
At Big Bend National Park, you’ll discover one of the most diverse landscapes in the United States, where rugged mountains, vast deserts, and winding rivers converge.
You can’t miss:
- Stunning desert landscapes, perfect for photography.
- Unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including roadrunners and deer.
- Scenic hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas.
Explore this natural wonder and immerse yourself in its beauty!
Death Valley National Park
As you venture into Death Valley National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, where dramatic landscapes unfold at every turn.
Marvel at the stunning desert landscapes, from towering sand dunes to rugged mountains.
Be prepared for extreme temperatures that can soar above 120°F, making your adventure both exhilarating and challenging.
Embrace the beauty of this unique environment!
Channel Islands National Park
After experiencing the stark beauty of Death Valley, you’ll find Channel Islands National Park a revitalizing contrast with its lush marine ecosystems and rugged coastal landscapes.
Here, you can enjoy:
- Wildlife watching, including sea lions and dolphins.
- Island hiking on scenic trails with breathtaking views.
- Kayaking in crystal-clear waters teeming with life.
Explore this hidden gem and recharge your spirit!
Denali National Park
Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Denali National Park offers an awe-inspiring escape into nature’s grandeur, where the towering peak of Denali—the highest mountain in North America—dominates the skyline.
You’ll find incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, from grizzly bears to moose, along the park’s scenic routes.
Explore its diverse hiking trails, inviting you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park, home to over 1.5 million towering saguaro cacti, invites you to explore its striking desert landscapes.
Discover:
- Scenic hikes through stunning trails rich in desert wildlife.
- Photography opportunities capturing the beauty of the iconic saguaro cactus.
- Insights into native cultures and ongoing park conservation efforts.
This park promises an unforgettable summer adventure filled with natural wonders!
Mount Rainier National Park
As you venture into Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll be greeted by the majestic sight of Washington’s tallest peak, towering at 14,411 feet.
Explore vibrant wildflower hikes that paint the meadows with color, attracting butterflies and bees.
Keep your eyes peeled for elk and black bears during wildlife viewing opportunities, making your visit an unforgettable adventure in this stunning natural paradise.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
While you explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you’ll discover a stunning blend of lush forests, rolling hills, and the winding Cuyahoga River.
Engage in unforgettable Cuyahoga Valley activities, such as:
- Hiking the scenic trails.
- Biking along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath.
- Enjoying the breathtaking waterfalls.
Don’t miss these top Cuyahoga Valley attractions for an enriching summer adventure!
Everglades National Park
If you’re seeking a unique summer escape, Everglades National Park offers an unparalleled experience with its vast wetlands and diverse ecosystems.
Explore the rich Everglades wildlife through kayaking or hiking, and capture stunning moments with Everglades photography.
Engage in Everglades activities that promote conservation while learning about its fascinating history.
Discover the delicate balance of Everglades ecosystems and their importance to our planet.
Biscayne National Park
Nestled just south of Miami, Biscayne National Park invites you to plunge into a vibrant marine paradise that’s unlike any other.
Explore the stunning biscayne ecosystems through:
- Snorkeling with colorful coral reefs.
- Kayaking over crystal-clear waters.
- Spotting diverse wildlife, including dolphins and manatees.
You’ll discover unforgettable underwater adventures that showcase the beauty of this unique park and its thriving marine life.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers a mesmerizing underground world where you can wander through stunning limestone formations and vast caverns.
As you explore, marvel at the intricate cave formations shaped over millions of years.
Don’t miss the breathtaking bat flights at dusk, when thousands of bats spiral into the evening sky.
It’s an unforgettable experience that connects you to nature’s hidden wonders.
Final Thoughts
This summer, plunge into the breathtaking beauty of these 25 national parks. From Yellowstone’s vibrant geysers to Yosemite’s majestic cliffs, each destination offers something unique for every adventurer. Whether you’re hiking through the stunning trails of Zion or exploring the lush ecosystems of the Everglades, unforgettable experiences await you. So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. Your next great adventure is just around the corner, ready to be discovered!
