Looking for the most scenic National Parks in America? These are our favorites.
These are the national parks in America that wowed us the most. We’ll continue to update the post as we visit all 400+ US National Park units.
We love a good road trip. Whenever we have free time our favorite thing to do is to explore a new National Park or new areas in our favorite ones. 10 years ago, I knew nothing about National Parks other than the fact that my parents dragged me to them when I was a kid and I didn’t appreciate them. Now, it turns out this indoorsy girl has grown to love certain aspects of the Great Outdoors. Today, we’ve compiled a list of the most scenic National Parks in America – ones that were beautiful and grand and made us feel like tiny people in big places.
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Last Updated: June 2, 2024
National Parks By Month: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
Before we get into it, we want to remind everyone to explore the parks responsibly using the 7 Leave No Trace Principles. Have a plan, stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, leave what you find, minimize campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others.
25 Most Scenic National Parks in America
25. Joshua Tree National Park, California →
6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, map
I’ll admit that Joshua Tree is not the most scenic in terms of landscape, which also doesn’t make it very exciting for hikers. It is, however, where we’ve witnessed the most incredible sunsets and stargazing. It also has world-class climbing, and we love going bouldering here.
Best Time of Year to Visit: March to May, October to November
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Stargazing, Camping, Scenic Drives, Climbing
Don’t Miss: Arch Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Halls of Horror, Skull Rock
Wildlife: Bobcat, Mountain Lion, Coyote, Gray Fox, Desert Kit Fox, Black Bear, Bighorn Sheep, Desert Cottontail
How many days do you need? 1 or 2-3 if you climb
Local Tip: The park gets busier during the cooler seasons, so book your site early if you’re hoping to camp.
See More: 11 Amazing Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
24. Acadia National Park, Maine →
25 Visitor Center Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, map
Acadia is the only major national park in the Northeast and is especially stunning in the fall. Our favorite things were hiking the Precipice trail, rock climbing with a guide, and sunset views from Cadillac Mountain.
Best Time of Year to Visit: September to October (fall foliage), May to June (spring bloom)
Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drive, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Cycling, Lobster Boat Cruise, Kayaking, Tidepooling
Don’t Miss: Cadillac Mountain, Scenic Park Loop Road, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Precipice Trail, Thunder Hole
Wildlife: Moose, Black Bears, Whitetail Deer, Beavers, Seals, Harbor Porpoises
How many days do you need? 1-3 days
Local Tip: Tickets are now required to drive up Cadillac Summit Road. There are two types of tickets that you can get at Recreation.gov.
See More: 15 Breathtaking Things to Do in Acadia National Park
23. Everglades National Park, Florida
40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, map
Everglades National Park has unique landscapes that you can’t find in other national parks earning a spot on this list of most scenic National Parks in America, including mangrove forests and tropical wetlands. You’ll also get a chance to spot rare wildlife like alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species.
Best Time of Year to Visit: December to April (dry season, fewer mosquitoes)
Best For / Top Activities: Boating, Camping, Kayaking, Bicycling, Fishing, Hiking, Tours
Don’t Miss: Shark Valley, Anhinga Trail, Eco Pond, Snake Bight, Nine Mile Pond
Wildlife: Alligators, Raccoons, Opossums, Bobcats, Gray Fox, Leopard Frogs, Roseate Spoonbill, Manatee
How many days do you need? 2-3 days
Local Tip: If you visit during the dry season, make advanced reservations for camping, lodging, and tours.
See More: Now These National Parks Need Reservations To Enter
22. Sequoia & Kings Canyon, California →
47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, CA 93271, map
It’s unreal to be walking among such giants. I’m just standing at the base of it and can’t even see where it ends. The most popular tree is General Sherman, whch is the largest tree on Earth by volume.
Plus since these two parks are right next to each other, you get to check off two from your list.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to August (best weather), May and September (fewer crowds)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Photography, Wildflowers
Don’t Miss: General Sherman, Moro Rock, Tunnel Log
Wildlife: Gray Fox, Bobcat, Black Bear, Pika, Pocket Gopher
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
21. Great Basin National Park, Nevada →
100 Great Basin, Baker, NV 89311, map
In one day, we summited the second-highest peak in Nevada, saw glaciers (yes glaciers are in Nevada!), explored the famous Lehman Caves, and stood next to the oldest trees on the planet.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to September (comfortable temperatures, all facilities open)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Stargazing
Don’t Miss: Bristlecone Trail, Lehman Caves, Wheelers Peak, Stella Lake
Wildlife: Water Shrews, Voles, Porcupines, Beavers, Ringtail Cats, Marmots, Bobcats, Mountain Lions
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
Local Tip: If you’re super into astronomy, visit in September when they have their annual Astronomy Festival.
See More: 7 Things You Can’t Miss in Great Basin National Park
20. Great Sand Dunes National park, Colorado →
11999 CO-150, Mosca, CO 81146, map
This is one of our favorite lesser-known national parks. You can hike up the dunes, go sandboarding, and it has some of our favorite and most scenic RV campsites in the country.
Best Time of Year to Visit: May to September (warm temperatures, Medano Creek flows)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Sand Boarding, Off-Roading, Stargazing, Photography
Don’t Miss: High Dune, Sand Boarding, Medano Creek, Zapata Falls
Wildlife: Mule Deer, Ord’s Kangaroo Rats, Black Bears, Abert’s Squirrels, Pronghorn, Pikas, Elk
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
See More: 9 Things You Can’t Miss at Great Sand Dunes National Park
19. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Grand View Point Rd, Moab, UT 84532, map
Canyonlands is massive most of it requires a 4WD off-roading vehicle to explore, which means it usually isn’t crowded and you can find seclusion amongst the canyons, mesas, and buttes.
Best Time of Year to Visit: April to May, September to October (mild temperatures, fewer crowds)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Sand Boarding, Off-Roading, Stargazing, Photography
Don’t Miss: High Dune, Sand Boarding, Medano Creek, Zapata Falls
Wildlife: Mule Deer, Ord’s Kangaroo Rats, Black Bears, Abert’s Squirrels, Pronghorn, Pikas, Elk
How many days do you need? 1-4 Days
See More: The Mighty 5 Utah National Parks Road Trip
18. Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado →
10346 CO-347, Montrose, CO 81401, map
Black Canyon of the Gunnison has beautifully steep and dramatic cliffs. Portions of the canyon only see 30 minutes of sunlight a day. During sunset, I love how dramatic the dark walls are against the sky.
Best Time of Year to Visit: April to October (most facilities and roads open)
Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drive, Viewpoints, Hiking, Photography
Don’t Miss: South Rim Road, Warner Point Nature Trail, East Portal Road
Wildlife: Coyotes, Elk, Eagles, Mule Deer, Bears
How many days do you need? 1-2 Days
Local Tip: You need to plan if you want to explore the park beyond overlooks and a Visitor Center. There are no maintained or marked trails into the canyon. Plus, access to the river is on the other side of the canyon.
See More: 9 Amazing Things to Do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
17. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon →
Crater Lake National Park, Rim Village, OR 97604, map
The stunningly blue water of Crater Lake surrounded by steep and rocky cliffs makes this one of the picturesque bodies of water in the world.
Best Time of Year to Visit: July to September (snow-free roads, best lake views)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers and Backpackers, Tours, Photography, Scenic Drives, Swimming
Don’t Miss: Rim Drive, Boat Tour, Visit Wizard Island
Wildlife: Black Bears, Porcupines, Elks, Coyotes, Mazama Newt
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
Local Tip: Be prepared for chilly water if you plan to swim!
See More: The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park
16. North Cascades National Park, Washington →
376 Newhalem St, Marblemount, WA 98267, map
If you love backcountry hiking, then you need to see the beautiful mountain scenery in North Cascades National Park. You’ll find jagged peaks, alpine lakes, stunning waterfalls, and lush forests.
Best Time of Year to Visit: July to September (accessible trails, wildflowers in bloom)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Fishing
Don’t Miss: Scenic Drive along North Cascades Highway, Cascade Pass, Sahale Arm, Washington Pass Overlook, Diablo Lake Vista Point, Stehekin
Wildlife: Black Bears, Gray Wolves, Elks, Beavers, Bobcats
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
Local Tip: Plan ahead since you can only access Stehekin Valley by foot, boat, or plane.
See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
15. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN / NC
2 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713, map
Most-covered mountains and lush forests and endless at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In the fall, the park explodes with color from the foliage.
Best Time of Year to Visit: April to October (wildflowers in spring, foliage in fall)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Camping, Scenic Drives, Biking, Fall Colors
Don’t Miss: Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway
Wildlife: Elk, Black Bears, Bobcat, Whitetail Deer, Coyote, Pygmy Shrew
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
Local Tip: To avoid crowds, get out of the car and go on longer hikes. You’ll still see people, but it will be much fewer than easy to get to spots.
See More: 11 Can’t Miss Things to Do in Pigeon Forge TN
14. Channel Islands National Park, California →
1901 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura, CA 93001, map
It is the Galapagos of the US. You’ll find five unique islands with pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse marine life. Explore via kayak, go scuba diving, or hike and camp on the islands.
Time of Year to Visit: All year (varies by island, mild climate)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Diving
Don’t Miss: Whale Watching, Kayaking to Sea Caves, Pelican Bay Trail, Fishing, Snorkeling / Diving
Wildlife: Whales (Blue, Humpback, Fin, Gray), Orcas, Dolphins, Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, Island Fox, Skunks
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
Local Tip: Watch out for the local foxes. They’re cute but sneaky, and they will come to steal your food.
See More: Kayaking Channel Islands National Park
13. Olympic National Park, Washington →
3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, map
Did you know there were rainforests in the continental USA? I sure didn’t until we paid a visit to Olympic National Park. This park has four distinct regions: Pacific Coast, Temperate Rainforests, Alpine Peaks and Glaciers, and Forests and Valleys.
Best Time of Year to Visit: July to September (best weather for all regions of the park)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking / Backpacking, Tidepools, Scenic Drives, White Water Rafting, Kayaking
Don’t Miss: Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach, Storm King, Sol Duc Falls, Shi Shi Beach
Wildlife: Deer, Elk, Cougars, Bears, Beaver, Mink, Salmon
Local Tip: It’s always smart to have a raincoat with you just in case.
See More: 15 Things to Do in Olympic National Park
12. Arches National Park, Utah →
38.6165892,-109.6220349, map
There are over 2,000 natural stone arches at this park, including the iconic Delicate Arch. The alien-like landscapes and beautiful rock formations make it so fun to explore.
Best Time of Year to Visit: March to May, September to November (mild temperatures)
Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drive, Hiking, Biking, Camping, Canyoneering, Photography
Don’t Miss: 9 Best Arches, Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden
Wildlife: Mule Deer, Kangaroo Rats, Desert Cottontails, Bighorn Sheep
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
Local Tip: They have a Ranger-Led Fiery Furnace Hike that fills up quickly. Be sure to sign up early!
See More: The Ultimate Guide to Arches National Park
11. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah →
UT-63, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764, map
Hoodoos of red, orange, and white make this park unique. Catch the amphitheater of hoodoos during sunrise or sunset to see how beautiful they can be.
Best Time of Year to Visit: May to September (pleasant temperatures)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking and Backpacking, Stargazing, Photography, Scenic Drives
Don’t Miss: Bryce Point, Scenic Drive, Inspiration Point, Navajo Loop Trail
Wildlife: Mule Deer, Porcupines, Utah Prairie Dog, Mountain Lions, Bobcats, Coyotes
How many days do you need? 1-2 Days
Local Tip: This is a relatively small park you can see within a day. If it’s crowded, just hit the trails to escape the people who don’t want to explore beyond the parking lot viewpoints.
See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
10. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Sunrise Park Rd, Ashford, WA 98304, map
The stunning snow-capped Mount Rainier can be hard to see based on weather, but the park still has beautiful meadows filled with wildflowers, stunning glaciers, and more.
Best Time of Year to Visit: July to September (wildflowers, most snow melted)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Mountaineering, Photography
Don’t Miss: Skyline Trail, Myrtle Falls, Comet Falls
Wildlife: Black Bears, Cougars, Coyotes, Red Foxes, Deer
See More: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle WA
9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
1000 US-36, Estes Park, CO 80517, map
Rocky Mountain National Park has one of the highest paved roads in North America, Trail Ridge Road, where you can explore the beautiful peaks, alpine lakes, and lush valleys.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to September (open roads, best hiking conditions)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Stargazing
Don’t Miss: Trail Ridge Road, Sprague Lake, Bear Lake Road, Alpine Ridge Trail, Emerald Lakes, Alberta Falls
Wildlife: Elk, Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Lions, Deer, Bears, Bobcats
Local Tip: To explore Bear Lake Road, you must obtain a permit.
8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming →
36.0306029,-113.8290033, map
We loved how peaceful Grand Teton was in contrast to Yellowstone. It’s one of the best places to spot wildlife and it doesn’t hurt to have epic views of the Teton range in the backdrop.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to September (best hiking and wildlife viewing)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Wildlife Viewing, Photography, Scenic Drive, Rafting, Fishing
Don’t Miss: Jenny Lake Trail, Snake River, Mormon Row
Wildlife: Pronghorn, Bison, Elk, Moose, Gray Wolf, Mountain Lion, Bobcat
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park
7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming →
44.4279929,-110.6243323, map
We can’t deny that this park has beautiful features, and we realize that this is a favorite park for a lot of people, but the crowds made it difficult for us to enjoy the scenery. Yes, you can go hike in the backcountry to avoid the crowds, but what’s unique about Yellowstone are the geysers and hot springs. There are so many other parks with stunning hikes without having to deal with the bear jams.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to September (open roads, full services)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives
Don’t Miss: Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring
Wildlife: Bison, Grizzly Bears, Wolves, Mule Deer, Elk, Bighorn Sheep
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
Local Tip: The park is huge (3472 square miles, larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined)! Plan your days to explore specific areas, so you don’t spend most of your time driving back and forth.
See More: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park + Essential Tips for Your Visit
6. Denali National Park, Alaska →
Park Rd, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK 99755, map
The views are stunning in Denali National Park. The only catch is that the weather can be so fickle that you have to be extremely lucky to get a glimpse of Denali (formerly Mt McKinley). Our driver was saying in all his years of driving, people only see it a third of the time. Make sure you stay multiple days to ensure you can see the highest mountain in North America.
Best Time of Year to Visit: June to September (best weather, full access)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Wildlife Viewing, Photography, Tours
Don’t Miss: Tundra Wilderness Tour, Flightseeing Tour, Canine Rangers
Wildlife: Dall Sheep, Moose, Caribou, Wolves, Grizzly Bears, Foxes
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
Local Tip: Private vehicles can only drive for the first 15 miles (except for rare circumstances like the Denali Road lottery which is very difficult to get). Beyond this point, you will have to ride the park shuttle.
See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Denali National Park
5. Zion National Park, Utah →
1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767, map
The canyons and mountains don’t feel as massive as some of the other parks, but the landscapes in Zion are unique. We often find ourselves comparing other places to Zion. Plus, it’s home to some of the most unique hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.
Best Time of Year to Visit: April to October (pleasant temperatures, less crowded in spring/fall)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Stargazing
Don’t Miss: Angels Landing, Canyon Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools, Observation Point, Riverside Walk
Wildlife: Ringtail, Mountain Lion, American Pika, Desert Cottontail, Coyote, Kit Fox, Bighorn Sheep, Elk
How many days do you need? 1-3 Days
See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Zion National Park
4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona →
36.0591278,-112.1114996, map
There’s a reason it’s called grand. It makes you realize how tiny you are in this world.
Best Time of Year to Visit: March to May, September to November (cooler temperatures, fewer crowds)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Stargazing
Don’t Miss: Trail Ridge Road, Sprague Lake, Bear Lake Road, Alpine Ridge Trail, Emerald Lakes, Alberta Falls
Wildlife: Desert Bighorn Sheep, Mule Deer, Mountain Lions, Coyotes, Gray Fox
How many days do you need? 1-3
Local Tip: Grand Canyon West is not part of Grand Canyon National Park but on Hualapai Tribal land.
See More: 17 Breathtaking Things to Do at the Grand Canyon National Park
3. Death Valley National Park, California →
36.4799715,-118.1707461, map
We love how diverse the landscapes are at Death Valley. The park is huuuuge and visiting each area sometimes makes you feel like you’re visiting different planets.
Best Time of Year to Visit: November to March (cooler temperatures)
Best For / Top Activities: Hikers, Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Photography
Don’t Miss: Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point
Wildlife: Western Pipistrelle Bat, Desert Kangaroo Rat, Desert Cottontail, Coyote, Kit Fox, Badger, Bobcat, Mountain Lion
How many days do you need? 2-4
See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
2. Glacier National Park, Montana →
Logan’s Pass Visitor Center, Browning, MT 59417, map
The mountain ranges and the pretty blue glacial lakes reminded us of Switzerland. Did you know that they used to call Glacier National Park the “Switzerland of America”?
Best Time of Year to Visit: July to September (open roads, best hiking conditions)
Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drive, Hiking / Backpacking, Kayaking, Tours, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
Don’t Miss: Going-to-the-Sun Road (requires a permit), Red Bus Tour, Lake McDonald, Goose Island (from The Shining)
Wildlife: Deer, Marmots, Mountain Goats, Big Horned Sheep, Grizzly Bears, Black Bears
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
See More: 9 Incredible Things to Do in Glacier National Park
1. Yosemite National Park, California →
9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, map
You’ve made it to the end of our list of the Most Scenic National Parks in America. Yosemite is still our all-time favorite park. Maybe it’s also because it was the first national park I’ve visited as an adult, but no matter where else we go, nothing has compared to how grand the waterfalls, the deep valleys, and the meadows are here. We finally had the chance to conquer Half Dome last year and can’t wait to do the JMT.
Best Time of Year to Visit: May to September (most areas accessible, waterfalls at their peak in spring)
Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Photography, Scenic Drives, Tours
Don’t Miss: Taft Point, Glacier Point, Half Dome, Tunnel View
Wildlife: Bears, Mule Deer, Big Horn Sheep, Great Gray Owl, Bighorn Sheep, Bobcats, Porcupines, Red Foxes
How many days do you need? 2-4 Days
Note: The experience is quite different now that tourism has blown up in Yosemite. We could enjoy the park at spots like Taft Point with no one else around, but even though it’s crowded now, I’m okay as long as I go in with the expectation of dealing with the crowds. If you want to avoid them, either hit one of the less popular trails or stay away from the Valley. It’s a big park and there’s plenty of room for everyone, it’s just that most people are concentrated in the popular areas.
See More: 17 Breathtaking Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
Map of the Most Scenic National Parks in America
Essential Tips for Visiting National Parks in America
- Explore the parks responsibly using Leave No Trace principles. Stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, etc.
- Pick up the National Park Annual Pass if you plan on visiting multiple parks within the year. It saves you a lot of money.
- It’s always a good idea to pack layers wherever you go. Some parks are warm during the day and cool at night. Pay attention to the elevation change too! Some parks will be warm on the valley floor and cold at higher elevations.
- You may need a reservation. See national parks that now require reservations here.
- Always check the park’s site and Visitors Center for the most up-to-date information on closures.
- Remember that wildlife is wild. Be familiar with how to interact with animals and how much space you should have between you and them.
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
How many of these National Parks in America have you been to? Which would you like to visit next?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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