From the towering granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone and the pristine wilderness of Rocky Mountain, each of the US national parks offers its own unique charm and natural wonders. Visiting the national parks is our favorite way to explore more of our home country.
Whether you’re exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Arches National Park, hiking through the lush forests of Olympic National Park, or marveling at the immense scale of the Grand Canyon, these protected areas showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of America’s landscapes.
With countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives, visiting the national parks allows you to reconnect with nature, appreciate the importance of conservation, and create memories in some of the most breathtaking locations on Earth.
Though we still have lots more to discover, we’ve created detailed guides for some of our favorite and most popular national parks to help you plan your trip.
Recommended National Park articles
Not sure where to start...
- Our favorite national park is Mount Rainier National Park (in Washington state)
- Olympic National Park is the most unique and interesting national park we’ve ever been to
- The hiking in Glacier National Park is incredible!
- We think that North Cascades National Park is one of the most underrated national parks
National Park Guides
14 Adventurous Things to do in Olympic National Park
With rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and mountains, Olympic National Park is one of the most unique places in the United States. This guide walks you through how to make the most of your trip by going over the best things to do in the Olympic Peninsula.
Perfect Joshua Tree Day Trip: Tips & Hidden Gems
If you just have one day, follow this Joshua Tree day trip itinerary for the perfect route that blends top hikes and hidden gems. We’ve created the ultimate guide for planning the perfect visit to Joshua Tree National Park.
25 Epic Things to Do in Glacier National Park
Rugged, remote and wild, Glacier National Park is an incredible place to experience northwestern Montana. We've rounded up the top hikes and best things to do in Glacier National Park to help you plan an unforgettable trip!
17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
Known for enormous granite monoliths and towering waterfalls, Yosemite National Park has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll break down the quintessential things to do in Yosemite and offer tips to maximize your stay in the park.
16 Exciting Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Filled with towering mountains, pristine alpine lakes, and expansive pine forests, Rocky Mountain National Park showcases Colorado at its best. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the park to make the most of your visit!
15 EPIC Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
With hundreds of thousands of acres of pristine wilderness filled with glaciers, rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and some of the best hiking in the US, North Cascades National Park in Washington state is spectacular. This guide details everything you need to know to plan your trip!
13 Cool Things to Do in Arches National Park
Perhaps the most iconic of Utah’s National Parks, Arches National Park is known for the unique arch formations in expansive stretches of desert sandstone. In this ultimate guide you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip to Arches.
13 Interesting Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
Known for sweeping canyon views of a dramatic red rock landscape, Canyonlands National Park is sure to make your jaw drop. In this ultimate guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip to Canyonlands.
13 Adventurous Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
We think Capitol Reef National Park is the most underrated national park in Utah and we want to tell you why! We’ve put together everything you need to know to plan your visit including all the best things to do, where to stay, and important info.
15 Fun Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
A magical, otherworldly place with towering red rock formations called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park is one of those places you have to see to believe. The small park packs a big punch well beyond its scenery, with plenty of unique things to do in Bryce Canyon.
17 Exciting Things to Do in Zion National Park
Easily the most visited of Utah’s Mighty Five, Zion is known for its red rock canyons flanking the scenic Virgin River. In this ultimate guide you’ll find everything from where to stay to the best things to do in Zion National Park.
USA National Park Annual Pass: Is it Worthwhile? + How to Buy
At just $80 per year, the America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass grants you free access to over 2,000 Federal recreation areas in the United States, including all 62+ National Parks. Here is everything you need to know about the pass.
17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park
Planning a trip and looking for some of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park? From can't miss attractions to day hikes, we’re covering the best of Yellowstone so you can create the ultimate itinerary.
18 Fun Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
With epic wildlife spotting opportunities and stunning mountain peaks, Grand Teton National Park makes an incredible trip. We've rounded up the top hikes and best things to do in Grand Tetons to help you plan an unforgettable trip!
10 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
The best way to take in the sights at Yosemite is lacing up your hiking boots and hitting the trail. An avid hiker rounds up some of her favorites in this handy guide to the best hikes in Yosemite National Park.
The Mighty 5: Best National Parks in Utah
Whether you’re planning a vacation with friends or a big ol’ family road trip, you'll find the best National Parks in Utah make a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors and are looking for a bit of adventure! We’re going to let you in on all our best...
Save this article on Pinterest for later!
