America's 63 national parks cover 52,455,805 acres — glaciers and volcanoes, slot canyons and swamps, coral reefs and the longest known cave system on Earth — and drew 93,892,121 visits in 2025.
Below, every park gets its own briefing: what it is known for,
the sights worth planning around, when to go, how to get there, and what it costs to get in.
Granite headlands, carriage roads and Atlantic coast sunrises
EstablishedFebruary 26, 1919
Area49,071 acres (199 km²)
Visits in 20254,079,318 #7 of 63
Acadia covers much of Mount Desert Island on the Maine coast, where rounded granite mountains drop straight into the Atlantic. Spruce forest, freshwater ponds, tidal pools and more than 45 miles of car-free carriage roads sit within a few miles of each other. The compact size makes it ideal for a long weekend of short hikes, scenic drives and cycling, with lobster-shack meals in nearby villages.
Top sights
Cadillac Summit Road — Paved drive to a 1,530-foot summit with wide views over Frenchman Bay and the islands.
Park Loop Road — Roughly 27-mile one-way circuit linking Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff.
Jordan Pond Path — Flat 3.3-mile loop around a glacial pond, with views of the twin Bubbles.
Precipice Trail — Short but very steep climb up Champlain Mountain using iron rungs and ladders.
Bass Harbor Head Light — Small lighthouse on a rocky ledge, best photographed near sunset.
Tip: Book the Cadillac Summit Road reservation well ahead for sunrise or sunset slots, and use the free Island Explorer bus for crowded Park Loop Road stops.
Did you know? Acadia was the first national park established east of the Mississippi River, and Cadillac Mountain is the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
Best time to visit
Late May to October has the fullest services, with fall color peaking in early to mid October. July and August are the busiest, so start early.
Wildlife
Visitors may see harbor seals, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, white-tailed deer and, in wetter forest areas, moose.
Where to stay
Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, Northeast Harbor
Getting there
Bangor (BGR), ~1 h; Portland (PWM), ~3.5 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $30 per motorcycle; $20 per person on foot or bike. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
A $6 per-vehicle timed reservation is required to drive Cadillac Summit Road from May 20 to Oct 25 (2026 season).
Remote South Pacific rainforest, coral reefs and Samoan village culture
EstablishedOctober 31, 1988
Area8,257 acres (33 km²)
Visits in 202543,258 #58 of 63
The National Park of American Samoa spreads across three volcanic islands, Tutuila, Ta'u and Ofu, and protects tropical rainforest, coral reef and coastal cliffs. Much of the land is owned by Samoan villages and leased to the park, so a visit involves local permission and culture as much as scenery. It suits adventurous travelers who accept long flights, limited services and slow island schedules.
Top sights
Ofu Beach — Long white-sand beach on Ofu Island with shallow coral reef ideal for snorkeling.
Mount 'Alava Trail — Ridge hike on Tutuila through rainforest to views of the northern coast.
Lower Sauma Ridge Trail — Rainforest walk on Tutuila's north side ending at a sea-cliff overlook.
Pola Island viewpoint — Sea-stack and cliff scenery near Vatia village on Tutuila's north shore.
Ta'ū Island — Remote island reached by small plane, with rainforest and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world.
Tip: Stop at the Pago Pago visitor center first (weekdays only) to ask about village permissions and current trail conditions.
Did you know? It is the southernmost national park in the United States, and most of its land is leased from Samoan villages rather than owned by the federal government.
Best time to visit
May to October is the drier season with less rain and cooler air; the wet season runs roughly November to April.
Wildlife
Visitors may see flying foxes (fruit bats), brown boobies, sea turtles, reef fish and coral.
Where to stay
Pago Pago (Tutuila), with Ta'u and Ofu reached by small plane
Getting there
Pago Pago International (PPG) on Tutuila; small inter-island flights to Ta'u and Ofu; the visitor center is in Pago Pago
More than 2,000 natural sandstone arches in Utah red-rock desert
EstablishedNovember 12, 1971
Area76,679 acres (310 km²)
Visits in 20251,511,740 #21 of 63
Arches sits just north of Moab on a high desert plateau of red and orange Entrada sandstone, where erosion has carved more than 2,000 documented natural arches, along with fins, spires and balanced rocks. The most famous views are reached by short paved roads and modest trails, making it easy to see a lot in a day. It suits photographers, families and hikers who can rise early to beat heat and crowds.
Top sights
Delicate Arch — About 3 miles round trip and 480 feet of climb to Utah's best-known freestanding arch.
The Windows Section — North and South Windows and Turret Arch are reached by short, easy trails.
Landscape Arch — One of the longest natural spans in the world, on the Devils Garden trail.
Double Arch — Two huge spans joined at one end, reached by a short flat walk.
Balanced Rock — A 128-foot boulder perched on a pedestal, visible from the main road.
Tip: Arrive before 8 a.m. or after mid-afternoon; lots at Delicate Arch and the Windows fill by mid-morning, and there is little shade or water on trails.
Did you know? The park protects more than 2,000 catalogued natural sandstone arches, among the densest concentrations in the world.
Best time to visit
April to May and September to October bring mild days. Summer highs regularly top 100 F, so hike at sunrise or sunset; winter is quiet and occasionally snowy.
Wildlife
Visitors may see mule deer, desert cottontails, collared lizards, ravens and the dark biological soil crust that covers much of the ground.
Where to stay
Moab, Utah
Getting there
Grand Junction, CO (GJT), ~2 h; Salt Lake City (SLC), ~4 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle; $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person on foot or bike.
Reservations
No advance timed-entry reservation is required in 2026; campground and some special-area reservations are handled separately.
Layered buttes, prairie and fossil beds in South Dakota
EstablishedNovember 10, 1978
Area242,756 acres (982 km²)
Visits in 20251,139,361 #26 of 63
Badlands National Park in southwestern South Dakota is a maze of striped buttes, pinnacles and gullies eroded from soft sediment, surrounded by a large protected expanse of mixed-grass prairie. The banded rock holds rich Eocene and Oligocene fossils, and bison and bighorn sheep roam the open grassland. A scenic loop road and short boardwalk trails make it a good half-day or full-day stop on a Black Hills road trip.
Top sights
Badlands Loop Road (SD 240) — About 39-mile scenic route with a dozen overlooks across the eroded formations.
Notch Trail — 1.5-mile round trip that climbs a log ladder to a window overlooking the White River Valley.
Door Trail — Short boardwalk and route among the spires, easy for families.
Fossil Exhibit Trail — Short walk with replicas of fossils found in the park.
Sage Creek Rim Road — Gravel road through prairie where bison and prairie dogs are commonly seen.
Tip: Drive the Loop Road at sunrise or sunset, when the light colors the rock bands and wildlife is most active, and carry water since shade is scarce.
Did you know? The park contains the largest known assemblage of late Eocene and Oligocene mammal fossils.
Best time to visit
May to June and September offer mild weather and active wildlife. July and August are hot with thunderstorms; winter is cold, quiet and often snowy.
Wildlife
Visitors may see bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, pronghorn and burrowing owls.
Where to stay
Wall, Interior and Rapid City, South Dakota
Getting there
Rapid City Regional (RAP), ~1 h to the Northeast Entrance area
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person on foot or bike.
Remote Chihuahuan Desert, Rio Grande canyons and the Chisos Mountains
EstablishedJune 12, 1944
Area801,163 acres (3,242 km²)
Visits in 2025568,104 #38 of 63
Big Bend fills the elbow of the Rio Grande in far West Texas with desert, river canyon and the forested Chisos Mountains, all within one large, remote park. It is among the darkest and quietest large parks in the lower 48, and services are sparse. It suits hikers, paddlers, stargazers and road-trippers willing to plan around long distances and extreme summer heat.
Top sights
Santa Elena Canyon Trail — About 1.7 miles round trip beside 1,500-foot limestone walls where the Rio Grande cuts through.
Lost Mine Trail — 4.8-mile round trip in the Chisos with wide views toward Mexico.
Window Trail — Chisos Basin trail down to a rocky notch that frames the desert sunset.
South Rim — Long loop or out-and-back through the Chisos to a cliff edge above the desert.
Boquillas Canyon — River canyon walk on the eastern side, with views into Mexico.
Tip: Fill your fuel tank and stock food before entering; distances between stops are long and Chisos Basin lodging and campgrounds book out in winter and spring.
Did you know? The park is named for the great bend of the Rio Grande, which forms its southern boundary along the U.S.–Mexico border.
Best time to visit
November to March has comfortable days and clear skies; summer highs in the lowlands are extreme. Spring is beautiful but busy around holidays.
Wildlife
Visitors may see javelinas, roadrunners, mule deer, coyotes and, with luck, a black bear or mountain lion in the Chisos.
Where to stay
Terlingua, Lajitas, Study Butte; Marathon (north)
Getting there
Midland (MAF), ~4 h; El Paso (ELP), ~5 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person.
A mostly underwater park of mangroves, coral reef and island keys
EstablishedJune 28, 1980
Area172,971 acres (700 km²)
Visits in 2025486,567 #41 of 63
Biscayne National Park lies just south of Miami, and about 95 percent of it is water. The park protects mangrove shoreline, shallow Biscayne Bay, a chain of undeveloped keys and part of the northern Florida reef tract. Access to most of it is by boat, so it suits snorkelers, paddlers, anglers and anyone who wants a quiet day on the water rather than a road-based visit.
Top sights
Boca Chita Key — Small island with a decorative lighthouse and views back toward the Miami skyline.
Elliott Key — Largest island in the park, with a boardwalk, trails and overnight camping.
Coral reef snorkeling — Shallow reef sites off the keys with colorful fish and sea fans.
Jones Lagoon — Sheltered mangrove waters popular with paddlers and for spotting juvenile fish.
Convoy Point — Mainland visitor center, jetty walk and shoreline views over the bay.
Tip: Check the weather and sea state before you go; boat tours and rentals cancel in rough conditions, so build a spare day into your plans.
Did you know? About 95 percent of Biscayne National Park is underwater, and it holds four interrelated ecosystems: mangrove forest, the bay, the keys and coral reefs.
Best time to visit
December to April has dry, mild weather and calmer seas. Summer brings heat, mosquitoes and afternoon storms, though the water is warm.
Wildlife
Visitors may see manatees, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans and reef fish such as parrotfish.
Where to stay
Homestead, Florida City, Miami
Getting there
Miami International (MIA), ~1 h to Convoy Point; Fort Lauderdale (FLL), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee.
Reservations
Most of the park is reachable only by boat; visitors without their own vessel book a concessioner boat trip or rental in advance. Camping and overnight docking carry fees.
Sheer, shadowed canyon walls cut by the Gunnison River
EstablishedOctober 21, 1999
Area30,780 acres (125 km²)
Visits in 2025250,086 #50 of 63
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a deep, narrow gorge in western Colorado, where the river has cut through hard Precambrian gneiss and schist over about two million years. Sunlight barely reaches the bottom, which gives the canyon its name. Most visitors drive the rim road and stop at overlooks, so it fits a half-day or full day, with more challenging inner-canyon routes for experienced hikers.
Top sights
Painted Wall — Colorado's tallest cliff, about 2,250 feet high, streaked with pink pegmatite bands.
South Rim Road — Seven-mile road with a series of overlooks including Chasm View and Sunset View.
Warner Point Nature Trail — 1.5-mile round trip to the end of the rim road with wide views.
Gunnison Route — Steep inner-canyon route to the river, permit required and for experts only.
East Portal Road — Steep, winding drive from the rim down to the Gunnison River.
Tip: Time the Painted Wall overlook for morning or late afternoon; the low angle brings out the color and shadows in the rock bands.
Did you know? The Painted Wall, at 2,250 feet, is the tallest cliff in Colorado, taller than the Empire State Building's roofline.
Best time to visit
June to September has full access with stable weather, while autumn adds color; winter closes some roads but is quiet for snowshoeing.
Wildlife
Visitors may see mule deer, elk, Steller's jays, peregrine falcons and yellow-bellied marmots.
Where to stay
Montrose, Colorado; Crawford
Getting there
Montrose Regional (MTJ), ~30 min; Grand Junction (GJT), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person.
Thousands of red-orange hoodoos in a high-plateau amphitheater
EstablishedFebruary 25, 1928
Area35,835 acres (145 km²)
Visits in 20251,967,367 #16 of 63
Bryce Canyon is a series of natural amphitheaters on the eastern edge of Utah's Paunsaugunt Plateau, filled with thousands of slender rock spires called hoodoos. At more than 8,000 feet, the air is cool, and freeze-thaw cycles keep sculpting the formations. Trails drop from the rim into the forest of stone, and the park's dark skies make it a favorite for stargazing and short, scenic trips.
Top sights
Sunset Point — Rim overlook above the Silent City, popular at sunrise and sunset.
Navajo Loop and Wall Street — Switchbacks descend between narrow walls and Douglas firs into the amphitheater.
Queen's Garden Trail — Moderate descent past hoodoos to a formation resembling a queen's profile.
Rainbow Point — Highest point on the scenic drive at about 9,100 feet, with long views.
Fairyland Loop — 8-mile trail with fewer crowds and close-up views of hoodoos.
Tip: Wear layers at the rim, where mornings are cold even in summer, and use the free shuttle to skip parking at Sunset Point.
Did you know? Bryce Canyon is not technically a canyon; the NPS describes it as a series of natural amphitheaters carved by erosion along a plateau edge.
Best time to visit
May to September has open roads and full services; winter brings snow and quiet trails. Summer afternoons can have thunderstorms.
Wildlife
Visitors may see mule deer, Utah prairie dogs, Steller's jays, ravens and pronghorn.
Where to stay
Bryce Canyon City, Tropic, Panguitch
Getting there
Las Vegas (LAS), ~4 h; Salt Lake City (SLC), ~4.5 h; St. George (SGU), ~2 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle; $30 per motorcycle; $20 per person on foot or bike. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
A vast maze of canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers
EstablishedSeptember 12, 1964
Area337,598 acres (1,366 km²)
Visits in 2025796,057 #29 of 63
Canyonlands spreads across southeastern Utah, where the Green and Colorado Rivers meet and divide the park into districts. The Island in the Sky mesa offers big overlooks, the Needles has spires and arches for backpackers, the Maze is a remote backcountry, and the rivers form the fourth district. Most visitors do a day at Island in the Sky near Moab, while longer trips suit hikers and four-wheel-drive travelers.
Top sights
Mesa Arch — Short half-mile loop to an arch that frames the canyon lands at sunrise.
Grand View Point — Rim overlook with views across the White Rim and the canyons below.
Upheaval Dome — Crater-like formation whose origin geologists still debate, reached by a short trail.
Chesler Park — Needles District hike through red-and-white spires to a grassy basin.
Green River Overlook — Island in the Sky viewpoint above the Green River canyon.
Tip: Pick one district per day rather than trying to see them all; Island in the Sky is closest to Moab, while the Needles is a separate long drive.
Did you know? No roads link the park's districts directly, since the Green and Colorado Rivers separate them; each requires its own drive.
Best time to visit
April to May and September to October offer pleasant days. Summer is very hot with little shade; winter is cold but quiet.
Wildlife
Visitors may see mule deer, bighorn sheep, ravens, side-blotched lizards and, at night, kangaroo rats.
Where to stay
Moab, Utah; Monticello for the Needles
Getting there
Grand Junction (GJT), ~2 h; Salt Lake City (SLC), ~4 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle; $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person on foot or bike.
The Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile wrinkle in the earth's crust
EstablishedDecember 18, 1971
Area241,905 acres (979 km²)
Visits in 20251,388,476 #22 of 63
Capitol Reef protects the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile monocline of tilted sandstone cliffs, domes and canyons in south-central Utah. The park also preserves the historic orchards of Fruita, where visitors can pick fruit in season. Because it draws fewer crowds than nearby Zion or Arches, it suits a slower trip of scenic drives, short hikes to arches and bridges, and quiet time among the cottonwoods.
Top sights
Scenic Drive — About 8 miles south from Fruita past cliffs, with spur roads into Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge.
Hickman Bridge Trail — Roughly 1.8-mile round trip to a 133-foot natural bridge.
Fruita Historic District — Orchards, a one-room schoolhouse and a farmhouse from the pioneer era.
Cassidy Arch — Steep, moderate hike to an arch named for the outlaw Butch Cassidy.
Capitol Gorge Trail — Flat walk through a narrow gorge to the Pioneer Register signatures.
Tip: Check flash-flood forecasts before driving or walking Grand Wash or Capitol Gorge, and ask about road conditions since spur roads can be washed out.
Did you know? The park is named for a white sandstone dome resembling the U.S. Capitol and for the rocky ridges that early travelers compared to a barrier reef.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October bring pleasant days; summer highs reach the 90s, and fruit-picking is best from June to October.
Wildlife
Visitors may see mule deer, marmots, ravens, golden eagles and cottonwood trees along the Fremont River.
Where to stay
Torrey, Utah; Bicknell
Getting there
Salt Lake City (SLC), ~3.5 h; Las Vegas (LAS), ~5 h; Grand Junction (GJT), ~3.5 h
Entrance fee
$20 per private vehicle; $15 per motorcycle; $10 per person on foot or bike.
Enormous limestone caves and a nightly summer bat flight
EstablishedMay 14, 1930
Area46,766 acres (189 km²)
Visits in 2025410,778 #46 of 63
Carlsbad Caverns National Park in southeastern New Mexico protects more than 100 caves beneath the Chihuahuan Desert, formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone. The main cavern holds the Big Room, one of the largest single cave chambers in North America, and visitors can walk in through the natural entrance or take an elevator. It suits families and cave lovers, plus anyone timing a visit for the summer bat flight.
Top sights
Big Room — About 1.25-mile self-guided loop through a huge chamber of stalagmites and columns.
Natural Entrance Trail — Steep 1-mile descent into the cave through the original bat entrance.
Bat Flight Program — Seasonal evening show as thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats leave the cave.
King's Palace Tour — Ranger-guided tour through decorated chambers deeper in the cave.
Walnut Canyon Desert Drive — Loop drive of about 9.5 miles through Chihuahuan Desert scenery.
Tip: Reserve guided tours early, since popular ones sell out, and bring a light jacket because the cave stays cool in summer.
Did you know? The caves are home to over 400,000 Mexican free-tailed bats and sixteen other bat species.
Best time to visit
Cave temperatures stay about 56 F year-round; the bat flight runs roughly late spring to October. Spring and fall are comfortable above ground; summer is hot.
Wildlife
Visitors may see Mexican free-tailed bats, roadrunners, ringtails, mule deer and desert plants such as agave and ocotillo.
Where to stay
Carlsbad, New Mexico; White's City
Getting there
El Paso (ELP), ~2.5 h; Midland (MAF), ~2.5 h
Entrance fee
$15 per person (entry pass bought at the visitor center).
Reservations
A $1 timed-entry reservation is required to enter Carlsbad Cavern, in addition to the entry pass; ranger-guided tours are extra and booked on recreation.gov.
Five wild Southern California islands reached only by boat or plane
EstablishedMarch 5, 1980
Area249,561 acres (1,010 km²)
Visits in 2025227,186 #51 of 63
Channel Islands National Park protects five islands off the coast of Ventura and Santa Barbara, along with the ocean around them. The islands hold unique plants and animals, including the island fox, and offer kelp forests, sea caves and rugged coastline. Visitors either take an Island Packers boat or a small plane, so the park suits hikers, kayakers, snorkelers and campers who plan carefully around weather and boat schedules.
Top sights
Anacapa Island Inspiration Point — Short walk from the landing to cliff views and a seabird rookery.
Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island — Popular landing with hiking, kayaking and a historic ranch site.
Cavern Point Loop — Easy Santa Cruz Island trail with sea views and whale-watching in season.
Ventura Harbor Visitor Center — Mainland center with exhibits and a park film, a way to see the park without a boat.
Point Bennett, San Miguel Island — Remote area where seals and sea lions gather in large numbers.
Tip: Book boat tickets well ahead and pack all food, water and layers, since the islands have almost no services and boats can be delayed by weather.
Did you know? The park is home to over 2,000 species of land plants and animals, and about 145 of them are endemic to the islands.
Best time to visit
Spring wildflowers and summer offer good hiking and snorkeling; whale-watching peaks in winter. Rough seas can cancel boats in any season.
Wildlife
Visitors may see island foxes, harbor seals, sea lions, dolphins and, in season, gray whales.
Where to stay
Ventura, Oxnard, Santa Barbara
Getting there
Santa Barbara (SBA), ~45 min to Ventura Harbor; Los Angeles (LAX), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee (boat fares to the islands are extra).
Reservations
Reaching the islands requires an Island Packers boat ticket (or a private boat); the Ventura Harbor visitor center needs none.
Old-growth floodplain forest with an elevated boardwalk
EstablishedNovember 10, 2003
Area26,693 acres (108 km²)
Visits in 2025287,833 #49 of 63
Congaree National Park protects the largest remaining tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States, on the floodplain of the Congaree River in central South Carolina. The forest floods periodically, feeding towering loblolly pines and cypress and tupelo trees. The boardwalk and flat trails make it easy, and canoeing on quiet creeks makes it especially good for a slow half-day or full day near Columbia.
Top sights
Boardwalk Loop — 2.4-mile elevated walkway through the old-growth forest, mostly level.
Weston Lake Loop — 4.6-mile trail around an oxbow lake with cypress knees and wading birds.
Cedar Creek Canoe Trail — Marked paddle trail through floodplain swamp, popular with paddlers.
Bluff Trail — Woodland path with a quieter, more remote feel along the park's edge.
Synchronous firefly display — Seasonal late-spring event when thousands of fireflies flash in unison.
Tip: Bring insect repellent from spring through fall, and check river levels before walking low trails because flooding can close them.
Did you know? Congaree holds the largest area of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the southeastern United States, with some of the tallest trees in the East.
Best time to visit
October to April brings mild weather and few insects; spring has wildflowers. Summer is hot, humid and buggy, though the firefly event is in late spring.
Wildlife
Visitors may see barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, river otters, turtles and, in summer, many mosquitoes.
Where to stay
Columbia, South Carolina; Hopkins
Getting there
Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), ~30 min; Charleston (CHS), ~2 h
The deepest lake in the U.S., in a collapsed volcano
EstablishedMay 22, 1902
Area183,224 acres (741 km²)
Visits in 2025632,242 #36 of 63
Crater Lake fills the caldera of Mount Mazama, a volcano that collapsed about 7,700 years ago, in the Cascade Range of southern Oregon. The lake is nearly 2,000 feet deep, fed only by rain and snow, and has an intense blue color. Heavy winter snow closes most roads, so the season is short. The park suits drivers and hikers who want dramatic views without a long trek.
Top sights
Rim Drive — 33-mile loop around the caldera with about 30 overlooks, generally open summer to fall.
Wizard Island — Volcanic cinder cone in the lake, reached by a boat tour and a short climb.
Cleetwood Cove Trail — 1.1-mile path, the only legal way to reach the lakeshore for swimming.
Phantom Ship — Rocky island resembling a sailing ship, visible from a rim overlook.
Watchman Peak — Short climb to a fire lookout and one of the best sunset views.
Tip: Arrive early in the day to find parking at the rim, and check road status first because snow can delay the full Rim Drive opening until July.
Did you know? At 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, fed only by precipitation.
Best time to visit
July to September has full access with the Rim Drive typically open; winter brings deep snow and closures. Mosquitoes peak in early summer.
Wildlife
Visitors may see Clark's nutcrackers, gray jays, mule deer, pikas and Kokanee salmon in the lake.
Where to stay
Klamath Falls, Prospect, Union Creek, Fort Klamath
Getting there
Medford (MFR), ~1.5 h; Klamath Falls (LMT), ~1 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle from May 22 to Oct 31; $20 per vehicle Nov 1 to May 21.
Waterfalls, canal towpath and farms between Cleveland and Akron
EstablishedOctober 11, 2000
Area32,572 acres (132 km²)
Visits in 20253,025,325 #11 of 63
Cuyahoga Valley National Park follows the Cuyahoga River through northeast Ohio between Cleveland and Akron, mixing forested ravines, waterfalls and open farmland. It preserves the Ohio and Erie Canal towpath and rural history, and offers a scenic railroad running through the valley. The park is a good fit for a day trip from the cities, with easy hiking, biking on the towpath and visits to historic farms.
Top sights
Brandywine Falls — 65-foot waterfall reached by a short boardwalk, one of the park's most visited sights.
Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail — Flat, mostly paved path along the historic canal, good for walking and biking.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad — Excursion train that runs through the valley, with a bike-aboard option.
Ledges Trail — 2.2-mile loop among mossy sandstone cliffs and boulders.
Blue Hen Falls — Short walk to a waterfall in a wooded gorge.
Tip: Weekday mornings are quiet at Brandywine Falls; pair the towpath with the scenic railroad for a one-way bike ride and train return.
Did you know? The park was established as a national recreation area in 1974 and redesignated a national park in 2000.
Best time to visit
May to October has full access and pleasant hiking, while fall color peaks in October. Winter suits snowy walks; waterfalls run best after spring rain.
Wildlife
Visitors may see white-tailed deer, great blue herons, beavers, bald eagles and spring wildflowers.
Where to stay
Peninsula, Brecksville, Akron, Cleveland
Getting there
Cleveland Hopkins (CLE), ~30 min; Akron-Canton (CAK), ~30 min
North America's lowest point and the hottest place on Earth
EstablishedOctober 31, 1994
Area3,408,396 acres (13,793 km²)
Visits in 20251,320,134 #24 of 63
Death Valley spans the California-Nevada border and is the largest national park in the lower 48 states. It holds salt flats, sand dunes, colorful badlands, mountain ranges and the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin. Extreme heat defines summer, but the cooler months reward visitors with wide views and clear skies. It suits road-trippers and photographers happy to drive long distances between sights.
Top sights
Badwater Basin — Salt flat at 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America.
Zabriskie Point — Eroded golden badlands viewed at sunrise from a short paved walk.
Dante's View — Overlook at about 5,475 feet above the basin floor, with views of Badwater.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes — Rolling dunes near Stovepipe Wells, best at sunrise or in the evening.
Artists Drive — 9-mile one-way loop past hills tinted by mineral colors.
Tip: Fill your tank in Furnace Creek or Stovepipe Wells, carry extra water, and do not rely on cell service or GPS on backcountry roads.
Did you know? Death Valley recorded 134 F in 1913, the highest air temperature ever officially measured on Earth.
Best time to visit
November to March has pleasant daytime highs and wildflowers in wet years; summer temperatures can top 120 F, so avoid hiking midday.
Wildlife
Visitors may see coyotes, desert bighorn sheep, roadrunners, kangaroo rats and creosote bush.
Where to stay
Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, Panamint Springs, Death Valley Junction
Getting there
Las Vegas (LAS), ~2 h to Furnace Creek; Los Angeles (LAX), ~5 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle; $25 per motorcycle; $15 per person on foot or bike.
North America's tallest peak and a single road into wild subarctic tundra
EstablishedFebruary 26, 1917
Area4,740,911 acres (19,186 km²)
Visits in 2025543,300 #39 of 63
Denali National Park and Preserve covers six million acres of tundra, braided rivers, boreal forest and glaciers in the Alaska Range, crowned by 20,310-foot Denali. One 92-mile Park Road threads through it, and private vehicles can drive only the first stretch, so most visitors ride a bus deeper in (for now only as far as East Fork, Mile 43, where a landslide at Pretty Rocks cut the road). The park suits travelers who want big wildlife viewing and open wilderness more than developed attractions, and who accept that the summit is often hidden in cloud.
Top sights
Denali Park Road bus trip — Narrated tour or transit bus to East Fork (Mile 43), with frequent stops for wildlife.
Savage River Loop — Easy 1.7-mile trail at the end of the public road for tundra views and Dall sheep.
Mount Healy Overlook Trail — Steep climb from the visitor center to a ridge above the Nenana River valley.
Park sled dog kennels — The only working sled dog team in the park system, with summer demonstrations near headquarters.
Horseshoe Lake Trail — Short trail near the entrance down to a beaver-dammed oxbow lake beside the Nenana River.
Tip: Book bus seats early for June to August and check current road conditions: the Pretty Rocks bridge project decides how far into the park buses can go.
Did you know? Denali has just one road, and private vehicles can drive only a short portion of it in summer, so most sightseeing is done by bus.
Best time to visit
Late May to mid-September, when the Park Road buses run and the days are long. June through August is busiest; September brings fall tundra color and fewer mosquitoes.
Wildlife
Grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves are the marquee animals, and the bus windows are the best viewing platform.
Where to stay
Healy and the Denali Park area near the entrance, plus Cantwell to the south
Getting there
Fairbanks (FAI), ~2 h; Anchorage (ANC), ~4.5–5 h
Entrance fee
$15 per person, age 16 and older (valid 7 days); age 15 and younger free.
Reservations
Bus tickets for Park Road trips are sold separately through the park's transportation concessioner and are best booked well ahead in summer; camping and backpacking need permits.
A Civil War fort and coral reefs 70 miles past Key West
EstablishedOctober 26, 1992
Area64,701 acres (262 km²)
Visits in 202589,355 #56 of 63
Seven small islands sit at the far western end of the Florida Keys, surrounded by clear water, coral and seagrass. Fort Jefferson, a huge brick fortress built in the nineteenth century, fills most of Garden Key and is the largest masonry structure in the Americas. There are no roads, shops or restaurants, and the park is reached only by ferry, seaplane or private boat. It suits snorkelers, history fans and birders willing to plan a full day trip from Key West.
Top sights
Fort Jefferson — Walk the parade ground, casemates and top-level walls of the six-sided fortress.
Moat wall snorkeling — Shallow water along the fort's outer wall holds fish, coral and sea fans.
South Coaling Docks ruins — Old pilings just offshore form an artificial reef popular with snorkelers.
Bush Key sooty tern colony — Tens of thousands of terns nest here in spring and summer, visible from Garden Key.
Loggerhead Key Lighthouse — Historic lighthouse on a nearby island, reached by private boat.
Tip: Choose an all-day ferry so you have several hours on the island, and bring snorkel gear, sunscreen and water. There is no food for sale on the island.
Did you know? Fort Jefferson is the largest masonry structure in the Americas.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) offers calm seas and peak bird activity, while summer is hot and hurricane season runs June to November. Winter cold fronts can cancel boat trips.
Wildlife
Sooty terns, frigatebirds, sea turtles, reef fish such as parrotfish and angelfish, and occasional sharks and rays.
Where to stay
Key West, where the ferry and seaplane depart
Getting there
Key West (EYW), ~10 min to the ferry dock; Miami (MIA) ~3.5–4 h drive to Key West. Access is by ferry (a few hours each way), seaplane (~40 min) or private boat only.
Entrance fee
$15 per person, age 16 and older (valid 7 days); age 15 and younger free. Ferry tickets include the entrance fee; the seaplane collects it before departure.
Reservations
Ferry and seaplane seats are booked in advance with the operators in Key West, and camping requires reservations.
Subtropical wetland of sawgrass, mangroves, alligators and manatees
EstablishedMay 30, 1934
Area1,508,939 acres (6,106 km²)
Visits in 2025778,198 #31 of 63
The Everglades is a slow-moving river of grass, ringed by mangrove coast and dotted with tree islands, at the southern tip of Florida. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and a World Heritage Site. Boardwalk trails, canoe routes and tram and boat tours put visitors close to wading birds and reptiles. The park suits wildlife watchers and paddlers, and the dry winter months make it the easy season for a first visit.
Top sights
Anhinga Trail — Short paved and boardwalk loop near Royal Palm with alligators and wading birds at close range.
Shark Valley Tram Road — 15-mile loop, walked, biked or ridden by tram, ending at an observation tower.
Flamingo — Southern end of the main park road, with Florida Bay paddling and manatee spotting.
Pa-hay-okee Overlook — Short boardwalk to a platform over open sawgrass prairie.
Ten Thousand Islands boat tours — Gulf Coast mangrove waters from Everglades City, with dolphins and manatees.
Tip: Pack insect repellent year-round and check which entrance you are heading to, since Homestead, Shark Valley and Everglades City are separate areas hours apart by road.
Did you know? The Everglades is protected as a World Heritage Site and home to 36 protected species, including the Florida panther and American crocodile.
Best time to visit
December to April is the dry season, with lower mosquito numbers, cooler temperatures and animals concentrated at remaining water. Summer is hot, wet and buggy.
Wildlife
American alligators, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, anhingas, West Indian manatees and, with luck, American crocodiles.
Where to stay
Homestead and Florida City (main entrance), Everglades City (Gulf Coast), and Miami for Shark Valley
Getting there
Miami (MIA), ~1 h to the main entrance; Fort Lauderdale (FLL), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Roadless Brooks Range wilderness north of the Arctic Circle
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area7,523,897 acres (30,448 km²)
Visits in 202514,923 #62 of 63
Gates of the Arctic protects a vast stretch of the Brooks Range in northern Alaska, with jagged peaks, wild rivers and open tundra. It has no roads, trails, visitor facilities or entrance fee, and it is home to Alaska Native communities who have relied on the land and caribou for thousands of years. Most visitors arrive by air taxi to hike, float or camp on their own. The park suits experienced backcountry travelers, or anyone booking a flightseeing trip.
Top sights
Arrigetch Peaks — Dramatic granite spires in the Aiyagomahala Valley, a classic backpacking destination.
Noatak River — Multi-day float trips through one of the largest undisturbed river basins in the country.
Gates of the Arctic — Twin peaks Frigid Crags and Boreal Mountain flanking the North Fork Koyukuk River.
Anaktuvuk Pass — Nunamiut village inside the park with a small museum of local culture.
Air taxi flightseeing — Day trips from Bettles or Coldfoot to alpine lakes and caribou country.
Tip: Stop at a park visitor center (Bettles or Coldfoot) for the backcountry orientation, and book an air taxi well ahead, since flights depend on weather.
Did you know? The park is the northernmost in the country, and Alaska Natives have relied on this land and its caribou for about 11,000 years.
Best time to visit
Late June to early September brings the warmest weather and open rivers. Mosquitoes are worst in July, and snow can return by late August.
Wildlife
Caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, moose and wolves are all present, though sightings are never guaranteed across so large an area.
Where to stay
Bettles and Coldfoot (via the Dalton Highway), both small outposts where air taxis operate
Getting there
Fairbanks (FAI); there are no roads into the park, so access is by air taxi or on foot from the Dalton Highway
A 630-foot stainless-steel arch on the Mississippi riverfront
EstablishedFebruary 22, 2018
Area193 acres (1 km²)
Visits in 20252,209,028 #15 of 63
The smallest national park is a compact, walkable site in downtown St. Louis. Its centerpiece is the 630-foot stainless-steel Gateway Arch, finished in the 1960s to mark westward expansion. Below it, an underground museum covers the arch's construction and the settlement of the West. The Old Courthouse, where the Dred Scott case was first heard, stands to the west. The park suits a half-day city stop, and families or architecture fans will get the most from it.
Top sights
Tram Ride to the Top — Small pod tram lifts riders 630 feet to windows over the river and city.
Museum at the Gateway Arch — Free underground museum on westward expansion and how the arch was built.
Old Courthouse — Site of the Dred Scott freedom suits, with free exhibits on St. Louis history.
Mississippi riverfront — Landscaped grounds and levee steps for views straight up the arch legs.
Riverboat cruise — Sightseeing boats from the levee, run by a park concessioner.
Tip: Reserve a tram time in advance and arrive early, since everyone passes through a security checkpoint. Pass holders get a $3 discount by choosing that option.
Did you know? The Old Courthouse is the original site of the Dred Scott case, and the arch is as wide at its base as it is tall.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall for mild weather and shorter tram lines. Summer is hot and humid and lines are longest on weekends.
Wildlife
Urban species only: squirrels, Canada geese and gulls along the Mississippi riverfront.
Where to stay
Downtown St. Louis
Getting there
St. Louis Lambert (STL), ~20 min
Entrance fee
No entrance fee to the grounds, Museum or Old Courthouse. Tram and movie tickets are separate (from $19 for the pre-boarding tour and tram, prices vary by date); $3 of each ticket for visitors 16 and older goes to the park.
Reservations
Tram Ride to the Top tickets are sold through a park partner and are best reserved online in advance, especially in summer.
Alpine peaks, glacial lakes and the Going-to-the-Sun Road
EstablishedMay 11, 1910
Area1,013,126 acres (4,100 km²)
Visits in 20253,136,557 #10 of 63
Glacier sits in the northern Rocky Mountains of Montana, with steep valleys carved by ice, more than a hundred lakes and a handful of shrinking glaciers. The 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass and is the park's main sightseeing route. The park suits hikers most of all, with hundreds of miles of trails, and it is best for those who can visit in July through September when high-country routes are open.
Top sights
Going-to-the-Sun Road — 50-mile mountain highway over Logan Pass; the full route is usually open late June to October.
Hidden Lake Overlook — About 2.7 miles round trip from Logan Pass, often with mountain goats along the way.
Grinnell Glacier Trail — Long day hike from Many Glacier to a glacier and turquoise lake.
Trail of the Cedars — Flat boardwalk loop through old-growth cedar and hemlock near Lake McDonald.
Lake McDonald — Largest lake in the park, known for its colorful pebbled shoreline.
Tip: Start driving Going-to-the-Sun Road early, since Logan Pass parking fills by mid-morning, and carry bear spray on any trail.
Did you know? Triple Divide Peak forms the boundary between the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Ocean watersheds.
Best time to visit
July to September, when the Going-to-the-Sun Road and high trails are usually clear of snow. Early fall has fewer people and golden larches on some trails.
Wildlife
Grizzly and black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose and hoary marmots.
Where to stay
West Glacier and Apgar (west side), St. Mary and East Glacier (east), and Whitefish or Columbia Falls
Getting there
Glacier Park International, Kalispell (FCA), ~45 min to West Glacier
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (winter rate $25, November 1 to April 30); valid 7 days. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
No vehicle reservations are required anywhere in the park in 2026; campgrounds and backcountry camping have their own permits.
Tidewater glaciers, fjords and whales in Southeast Alaska
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area3,223,383 acres (13,045 km²)
Visits in 2025740,044 #32 of 63
Glacier Bay is a maze of fjords and inlets in Southeast Alaska where tidewater glaciers still calve into the sea. The bay was packed with ice when George Vancouver saw it in 1794, and the glaciers have retreated dramatically since. There are no roads to the park. Visitors reach it by plane or boat, and most see it from a cruise ship, the day tour boat or a kayak. It suits travelers who want wildlife and glaciers from the water.
Top sights
Margerie Glacier — Tidewater glacier in Tarr Inlet, a highlight of the day boat tour and cruises.
Bartlett Cove Forest Loop Trail — Easy rainforest walk from park headquarters through moss and spruce.
Huna Tribal House — Tlingit clan house at Bartlett Cove honoring the bay as a homeland.
Beardslee Islands kayaking — Sheltered paddling routes near Bartlett Cove with otters and seabirds.
Glacier Bay day boat tour — Full-day boat trip up the bay from the lodge, often with naturalist commentary.
Tip: Book the day boat and any kayak drop-off well ahead, and dress in warm layers, because the air near the glaciers is cold even in summer.
Did you know? When George Vancouver arrived in 1794 the entire bay was covered by ice, and the glaciers have since receded dramatically.
Best time to visit
June to August offers the longest days and the most services, including lodge and tour boat. Rain is common year-round, so waterproof layers matter.
Wildlife
Humpback whales, harbor seals, sea otters, bald eagles, brown bears and mountain goats.
Where to stay
Gustavus, about 10 miles from Bartlett Cove and park headquarters
Getting there
Juneau (JNU), then a ~30 min flight to Gustavus (GST); there are no roads to the park
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee.
Reservations
Boats entering the bay in June through August need a free private boat permit, reservable up to 60 days ahead, and backcountry permits are issued at Bartlett Cove; book the day tour boat and kayaks in advance.
The Colorado River's mile-deep canyon, viewed from the rim
EstablishedFebruary 26, 1919
Area1,201,647 acres (4,863 km²)
Visits in 20254,430,653 #4 of 63
The Colorado River has cut a canyon up to a mile deep and 18 miles across through northern Arizona, exposing layer after layer of colored rock. Most visitors head to the South Rim, which is open all year and has viewpoints, shuttle buses, lodges and the busiest trails. Deeper trips descend into the inner canyon by foot, mule or raft. The park suits every kind of traveler, from a one-day rim stop to a multi-day hike.
Top sights
Mather Point — First view of the canyon for many visitors, steps from the main visitor center.
Bright Angel Trail — Well-watered switchback trail into the canyon; day hikers usually turn around at the 1.5- or 3-mile rest houses.
South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point — Short, steep walk with open views, about 1.8 miles round trip.
Hermit Road viewpoints — Rim drive west of the village, run by free shuttle much of the year, for sunset from Hopi Point.
Desert View Watchtower — Stone tower at the east end of the rim, with a view of the Colorado River.
Tip: Never try to hike to the river and back in one summer day. Carry water, start before sunrise, and remember that the climb out takes twice as long as the descent.
Did you know? Desert View Watchtower was designed by architect Mary Colter and opened in 1932.
Best time to visit
April to May and September to October are mild on the rim, but summer inner-canyon temperatures top 100°F. Winter can bring snow and dramatic views with thinner crowds.
Wildlife
Elk, mule deer, California condors, ravens and rock squirrels around the rim.
Where to stay
Tusayan (south entrance), Williams and Flagstaff
Getting there
Flagstaff (FLG), ~1.5 h; Phoenix (PHX), ~3.5 h; Las Vegas (LAS), ~4.5 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $20 per person on foot, bicycle or shuttle. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
No timed entry, but overnight backcountry trips need a permit, and rim lodging, campgrounds and mule rides book far in advance.
Jagged Teton peaks rising straight from Jackson Hole
EstablishedFebruary 26, 1929
Area310,044 acres (1,255 km²)
Visits in 20253,800,648 #8 of 63
The Teton Range rises abruptly to more than 13,000 feet from the sagebrush flats and glacial lakes of Jackson Hole, with no foothills to soften the wall of rock. Roads run along the base of the mountains past lakes, ranches and river oxbows, and trails climb into canyons above. Wildlife is easy to find. The park suits photographers, hikers and families, and pairs naturally with Yellowstone to the north.
Top sights
Jenny Lake and Hidden Falls — Boat shuttle across the lake, then a short hike to a waterfall.
Cascade Canyon Trail — Climbs beyond Inspiration Point into a U-shaped glacial canyon under the Tetons.
Mormon Row — Historic homestead barns, framed by the Tetons at sunrise.
Oxbow Bend — Quiet river bend on the Snake River for moose, otters and reflections.
Signal Mountain Summit Road — Five-mile drive to an overlook above the valley and Jackson Lake.
Tip: Take the early boat across Jenny Lake to beat the crowds, and keep 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other wildlife.
Did you know? Visitors driving through Grand Teton to or from Yellowstone must pay a separate entrance fee for each park.
Best time to visit
Late June to September for full road and trail access and warm days. Fall brings elk rut, aspen color and thinner crowds, while most park facilities close by winter.
Wildlife
Moose, elk, bison, pronghorn, black and grizzly bears, and trumpeter swans along the Snake River.
Where to stay
Jackson, Moose and Teton Village
Getting there
Jackson Hole (JAC), inside the park, ~30 min to most trailheads; Idaho Falls (IDA), ~2 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); Yellowstone requires a separate fee. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Ancient bristlecone pines, Lehman Caves and Nevada's darkest skies
EstablishedOctober 27, 1986
Area77,180 acres (312 km²)
Visits in 2025161,210 #54 of 63
Great Basin lies in a remote part of eastern Nevada, where Wheeler Peak rises above the desert. Its higher slopes hold ancient bristlecone pine groves, a small rock glacier and mountain lakes, while Lehman Caves winds beneath the foothills. Distance from city lights gives it some of the darkest night skies in the country. The park suits travelers who like quiet, stargazing and short hikes, and who do not mind a long drive to get there.
Top sights
Lehman Caves tour — Ranger-led tour of a limestone cave known for its shield formations.
Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive — 12-mile road climbing to about 10,000 feet, closed in winter.
Bristlecone Pine Trail — Walk through a grove of ancient bristlecones below Wheeler Peak, continuing on to the park’s rock glacier.
Wheeler Peak summit — Strenuous hike to 13,000 feet, best in summer, with wide basin views.
Stargazing — Ranger astronomy programs and dark skies visible from the visitor center lawn.
Tip: Reserve cave tours early and bring a warm jacket, since the cave stays cool year-round. Wheeler Peak Drive climbs near 10,000 feet, so plan for cold nights.
Did you know? Great Basin bristlecone pines can live nearly 5,000 years, making them among the oldest living things on Earth.
Best time to visit
June to September for the full scenic drive and higher trails; early fall for cool days and clear night skies. The upper road is closed by snow much of winter.
The tallest sand dunes in North America, below the Sangre de Cristos
EstablishedSeptember 24, 2004
Area107,346 acres (434 km²)
Visits in 2025432,498 #44 of 63
Great Sand Dunes sits at the edge of Colorado's San Luis Valley, where sand blown from the Rio Grande's ancient deposits piles against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Beyond the dune field the park includes grasslands, wetlands, alpine lakes and old-growth forest. Visitors climb, sled and splash in seasonal Medano Creek. The park suits families and hikers who want a physical, playful experience and a big landscape.
Top sights
Dunefield walk to High Dune — Steep sand hike from the main parking area to a ridge with wide views.
Star Dune — One of the tallest dunes in North America; about five hours round trip.
Medano Creek — Seasonal creek that surges and ripples at the dune base, mainly in spring.
Sand sledding and sandboarding — Special sand sleds and boards let visitors slide down the dune slopes.
Night sky viewing — Dark skies and evening ranger programs over the dunes.
Tip: Wear shoes on summer afternoons, when sand is hot enough to burn bare feet, and bring water: there is no shade on the dunes.
Did you know? The dunes are the tallest in North America and were formed by deposits from the ancient Rio Grande in the San Luis Valley.
Best time to visit
Late May to early June, when Medano Creek is flowing and temperatures are mild. In midsummer, sand can be scorching by afternoon, so go early or in the evening.
Wildlife
Elk, pronghorn, coyotes, kangaroo rats, and rare Great Sand Dunes tiger beetles.
Where to stay
Alamosa (about 35 miles) and Mosca
Getting there
Colorado Springs (COS), ~2.5–3 h; Albuquerque (ABQ), ~3.5 h
Misty Appalachian ridges, black bears and America's most visited park
EstablishedJune 15, 1934
Area522,427 acres (2,114 km²)
Visits in 202511,527,939 #1 of 63
Straddling the Tennessee–North Carolina line, the Smokies are a range of forested Appalachian ridges known for blue haze, wildflowers and huge biodiversity. Roads reach historic valleys like Cades Cove, while trails climb to waterfalls, balds and the Appalachian Trail. The park is free to enter and open all year. It suits families, drivers and hikers, and it is one of the busiest parks in the country, so timing matters.
Top sights
Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) — Highest point in the park at 6,643 feet; a steep paved path leads to the observation tower.
Cades Cove Loop Road — 11-mile one-way valley loop with historic cabins, churches and deer.
Alum Cave Trail — Popular trail to Alum Cave Bluffs and beyond to Mount LeConte.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail — Narrow one-way road past old homesteads and waterfalls near Gatlinburg.
Cataloochee Valley — Quiet North Carolina valley known for its elk herd and historic buildings.
Tip: Buy the parking tag online before you arrive, and start Cades Cove or Newfound Gap by 8 a.m. to avoid summer and fall traffic jams.
Did you know? The Smokies are known as the Salamander Capital of the World, with about 30 salamander species living in the park.
Best time to visit
Mid-October for fall color and April to May for wildflowers, though both are crowded. Summer is warm and busy, and roads like the one to Kuwohi close in winter.
Wildlife
Black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and salamanders, plus synchronous fireflies at Elkmont in early summer.
Where to stay
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN; Townsend, TN; Bryson City and Cherokee, NC
Getting there
Knoxville (TYS), ~1–1.5 h; Asheville (AVL), ~1.5–2 h
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee. A parking tag is required to park a vehicle for more than 15 minutes: $5 daily, $15 weekly, $40 annual.
Texas's highest peak, a fossil reef and desert canyons
EstablishedSeptember 30, 1972
Area86,367 acres (350 km²)
Visits in 2025206,423 #52 of 63
Guadalupe Mountains rises from the Chihuahuan Desert in West Texas as the exposed remnant of a giant Permian fossil reef. Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, tops the range, while McKittrick Canyon shelters bigtooth maples that color in autumn. The park is remote and quiet, with more trails than facilities. It suits hikers and geology fans, and travelers combining a trip with Carlsbad Caverns nearby.
Top sights
Guadalupe Peak Trail — About 8.4 miles round trip to the 8,751-foot summit, the highest point in Texas.
McKittrick Canyon — Desert canyon with a perennial stream and bigtooth maples, at its best in October and November.
Devil's Hall Trail — 4.2 miles round trip to a narrow rock corridor and natural staircase.
The Bowl — High-country forest of pine, fir and aspen reached by a strenuous loop hike.
Frijole Ranch and Smith Spring — Historic ranch house with a short walk to a shaded spring.
Tip: Bring more water than you think you need and plan for wind; the park has almost no services and the nearest gas is more than 30 miles away.
Did you know? The mountains are part of the Capitan Reef, a fossil reef that grew along the edge of an inland sea about 260 million years ago.
Best time to visit
October and November for fall color in McKittrick Canyon, and April to May for wildflowers. Spring winds are strong, and summer is hot at lower elevations.
Wildlife
Elk, mule deer, roadrunners, black-tailed jackrabbits, and rattlesnakes along the trails.
Where to stay
Carlsbad, New Mexico, ~55 miles; Van Horn, Texas, ~65 miles
Getting there
El Paso (ELP), ~2 h
Entrance fee
$10 per person, age 16 and older (valid 1–7 consecutive days).
A volcanic crater summit above the clouds and waterfalls on Maui
EstablishedJuly 1, 1961
Area33,489 acres (136 km²)
Visits in 2025853,711 #27 of 63
Haleakalā rises to 10,023 feet above Maui, and its summit holds a vast crater dotted with cinder cones and rare silversword plants. A winding road climbs from the coast to the summit, and many visitors arrive before dawn for the sunrise. On the wetter southeast side, the Kīpahulu District has waterfalls and pools along the Pīpīwai Trail. The park suits sunrise chasers, hikers and anyone who likes dramatic changes of climate.
Top sights
Summit sunrise — Watch dawn from the volcano's rim above the clouds; a reservation is required.
Keonehe'ehe'e (Sliding Sands) Trail — Descends into the crater's colorful cinder landscape, with a strenuous climb back.
Hosmer Grove — Short forest trail with native birds and a campground near the entrance.
Pīpīwai Trail — About 4 miles round trip through bamboo forest to 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
Leleiwi and Kalahaku Overlooks — Roadside crater viewpoints on the way to the summit.
Tip: Bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves for the pre-dawn summit, where temperatures can be near freezing, and book your sunrise reservation as soon as tickets release.
Did you know? The park protects more endangered species than any other U.S. national park.
Best time to visit
Any time of year for the summit, but mornings are clearest and cold. Kīpahulu is wettest in winter; summer offers the most reliable weather on both sides.
Wildlife
Nēnē (Hawaiian geese), silverswords, Hawaiian honeycreepers such as the ʻapapane, and nesting native seabirds.
Where to stay
Kula, Pukalani and Makawao for the summit; Hāna for Kīpahulu
Getting there
Kahului (OGG), ~1.5–2 h to the summit; ~2.5 h to Kīpahulu via the Road to Hāna
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle (valid 3 days, covering both the Summit and Kīpahulu Districts).
Reservations
Sunrise reservations ($1 per vehicle) are required to enter the summit district between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., booked on recreation.gov up to 60 days ahead.
Two of the world's most active volcanoes on the Big Island
EstablishedAugust 1, 1916
Area344,812 acres (1,395 km²)
Visits in 20251,877,854 #18 of 63
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes protects Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, and its landscapes range from steaming craters and fresh lava fields to rain forest and coastal cliffs. A rim road circles the Kīlauea summit caldera, and Chain of Craters Road drops to the sea. Conditions change with volcanic activity, so plan around current alerts. The park suits families and hikers who want to see active geology up close, with a night visit adding a glow if there is an eruption.
Top sights
Kīlauea summit overlooks — Views of the Halemaʻumaʻu crater, especially striking at dusk or after dark.
Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) — Short walk through a lava tube surrounded by fern rain forest.
Kīlauea Iki Trail — About 4-mile loop across a solidified lava lake in a crater.
Chain of Craters Road — Descends toward the sea past lava fields and craters, ending near the Hōlei Sea Arch.
Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs — Boardwalk through thousands of ancient carvings on a lava flow.
Tip: Check the park's current conditions page for volcanic gas, closures and eruption viewing before you go, and stay on marked trails.
Did you know? Ecosystems in the park range from tropical forest at sea level to barren lava beds at high elevation.
Best time to visit
Year-round; mornings and evenings are less crowded. The summit is cool and rainy, so bring layers, while dry coastal areas are hot.
Wildlife
Nēnē (Hawaiian goose), ʻapapane and other native forest birds, ʻōhiʻa lehua trees, hāpuʻu tree ferns.
Where to stay
Volcano Village, just outside the entrance; Hilo, ~45 min
Historic bathhouses beside thermal springs, right in a city
EstablishedMarch 4, 1921
Area5,554 acres (22 km²)
Visits in 20252,494,611 #14 of 63
Hot Springs is the oldest federally protected area in the National Park System, set into the edge of downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. Natural thermal water flows from the Ouachita foothills to a row of grand bathhouses built in the early twentieth century. Trails and a scenic drive climb the wooded mountains behind them. The park suits a relaxed day or two of history, soaking and easy walking, with no entrance fee.
Top sights
Bathhouse Row — Eight restored bathhouses along the Grand Promenade, some still offering traditional soaks.
Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center — Museum inside a 1915 bathhouse, with restored tubs, gym and dressing rooms.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower — 216-foot tower with a view over the city and Ouachita foothills.
Display Spring and jug fountains — Fill a bottle with hot spring water at public taps.
Gulpha Gorge — Wooded creek trail area with the park's campground.
Tip: Park in the downtown lots or garage, since street parking on Central Avenue is metered, and book any soak at the operating bathhouses ahead on busy weekends.
Did you know? Set aside as a federal reserve in 1832, Hot Springs predates Yellowstone by four decades.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) for dogwoods and redbuds, and October for fall color. Summers are hot and humid, though the bathhouses are pleasant year-round.
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, gray squirrels and woodpeckers; oak-hickory forest covers the hills.
Lake Michigan dunes, beaches, bogs and prairies within reach of Chicago
EstablishedFebruary 15, 2019
Area15,349 acres (62 km²)
Visits in 20252,629,497 #13 of 63
Indiana Dunes runs along about 15 miles of Lake Michigan's southern shore, squeezed between steel mills and towns. Sand ridges, oak savanna, tallgrass prairie, peat bogs and marshes sit within a few miles of each other, which gives the park unusual plant diversity for its size. It became a national park in 2019 after decades as a national lakeshore. The park suits day trips and long weekends built around swimming, short hikes and birdwatching, especially for visitors based in Chicago.
Top sights
Mount Baldy — A large moving dune with a steep climb and lake views over Lake Michigan.
West Beach — Wide sandy beach with lifeguards in summer, at the foot of the Dune Succession Trail.
Cowles Bog Trail — Loop through wetlands, black oak savanna and dunes, ending at a quiet Lake Michigan beach.
Dune Succession Trail — Short boardwalk and stairs showing how bare sand turns into pine and oak forest.
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm — Preserved fur trader's home and a Swedish immigrant farm, linked by easy trails.
Tip: Summer weekend parking at popular beaches fills by late morning, so arrive early or use the lesser-known beaches farther east.
Did you know? With more than 1,100 native plant species, Indiana Dunes is one of the most botanically diverse national parks.
Best time to visit
June through September suits swimming and beaches; May and September bring fewer people and good bird migration. Winter is quiet and snowy, with cross-country skiing on the trails.
Wildlife
Sandhill cranes, migrating warblers, white-tailed deer, red foxes and prickly pear cactus are regular sights.
Where to stay
Chesterton, Porter, Beverly Shores and Michigan City, Indiana
Getting there
Chicago Midway (MDW) or O'Hare (ORD), ~1 h; South Bend (SBN), ~45 min
Roadless Lake Superior island wilderness known for wolves, moose and backpacking
EstablishedApril 3, 1940
Area571,790 acres (2,314 km²)
Visits in 202529,091 #60 of 63
Isle Royale is the largest island in Lake Superior, a long ridge of forest and rock surrounded by more than 400 smaller islands. There are no roads and no cars, so every visit is on foot, by canoe or kayak, or by tour boat between the two developed areas. The park is open only in the warm season and is reached by ferry or seaplane. It suits backpackers, paddlers and anyone happy with slow, self-sufficient travel.
Top sights
Greenstone Ridge Trail — About 40 miles along the island's spine, the classic multi-day backpacking route.
Rock Harbor — Main visitor hub at the east end, with a lodge, dock, campground and trails.
Windigo — Western hub where ferries from Minnesota arrive, near moose habitat and easy day hikes.
Scoville Point Loop — Roughly four-mile loop from Rock Harbor over rocky shoreline with wide views of the archipelago.
Edisen Fishery — Restored commercial fishing homestead on Rock Harbor, reached by a short trail.
Tip: Lake Superior weather can delay ferries and float planes, so add a spare day to the trip and pack rain gear and a water filter.
Did you know? The wolf and moose study that began here in 1958 is the longest-running study of a predator and its prey anywhere in the world.
Best time to visit
The park is open from mid-April to the end of October; July and August are warmest, while late summer brings fewer biting insects. Winter closes the park entirely.
Wildlife
Moose, red foxes, beavers, loons and, with luck, wolves are the animals most often reported.
Where to stay
Houghton and Copper Harbor, Michigan; Grand Portage, Minnesota
Getting there
Access is by ferry from Houghton or Copper Harbor (MI) or Grand Portage (MN), or seaplane from Houghton; nearest airports Houghton County Memorial (CMX) or Duluth (DLH), ~2.5 h to Grand Portage
Entrance fee
$7 per person per day to enter or remain in the park (ages 15 and under exempt; April 16 to October 31).
Reservations
Ferry and seaplane seats to the island are booked in advance with the transport operators, and overnight camping requires a permit.
Where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet among boulders and Joshua trees
EstablishedOctober 31, 1994
Area795,156 acres (3,218 km²)
Visits in 20252,932,644 #12 of 63
Joshua Tree spans two deserts, and the change in elevation shows in the plants: Joshua trees and rock piles in the higher Mojave section, creosote and cholla in the lower Colorado Desert. Piles of pale monzogranite boulders make the park a major destination for rock climbing and scrambling. Paved roads link the main sights, and short trails reach most of them. It suits day trips from Palm Springs, weekend camping and clear night skies.
Top sights
Keys View — Overlook at about 5,000 feet with views over the Coachella Valley toward the Salton Sea.
Hidden Valley — One-mile loop through a boulder-ringed basin, popular with climbers and families.
Skull Rock — Roadside boulder with eroded eye sockets, next to a short nature trail.
Cholla Cactus Garden — Quarter-mile loop through a dense field of teddy-bear cholla, glowing at sunrise and sunset.
Barker Dam — Easy loop past a historic dam and pond, with petroglyph panels nearby.
Tip: Fill the gas tank and water bottles before entering; there are no fuel stations inside and cell coverage is patchy.
Did you know? The park covers parts of both the Colorado and Mojave Deserts, plus the edge of the Little San Bernardino Mountains.
Best time to visit
October through April is the comfortable season, with spring wildflowers peaking in March and April. Summer highs regularly top 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so hikes are best at dawn.
Wildlife
Desert bighorn sheep, roadrunners, jackrabbits, desert tortoises and spring wildflowers may be seen.
Where to stay
Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms and Yucca Valley, California
Getting there
Palm Springs (PSP), ~45 min; Ontario (ONT), ~1.75 h
Coastal brown bears fishing salmon at Brooks Falls, plus a volcanic valley
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area3,674,529 acres (14,870 km²)
Visits in 202534,479 #59 of 63
Katmai sits on the Alaska Peninsula and protects a volcanic landscape shaped by the 1912 Novarupta eruption, which left the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. The park is best known for brown bears, which gather along the Brooks River to catch salmon and are watched from elevated platforms. There are no roads to the park; visitors fly in by floatplane. It suits wildlife watchers and anglers willing to pay for air travel and to follow strict bear-safety rules.
Top sights
Brooks Falls — Bears stand at the lip of the falls to catch leaping salmon in July.
Brooks River viewing platforms — Boardwalks and platforms let visitors watch bears from a safe, fixed distance.
Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes — Ash-flow valley from the 1912 eruption, reached by a bus tour from Brooks Camp.
Naknek Lake — Huge lake beside Brooks Camp, used for boat trips, kayaking and fishing.
Dumpling Mountain Trail — Steady climb from Brooks Camp to sweeping views of Naknek Lake and Brooks River.
Tip: Book air taxis and any Brooks Camp stay many months ahead, and pack rain gear; the flight plan changes with weather.
Did you know? The 1912 Novarupta eruption was the largest volcanic eruption of the twentieth century, and it created the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.
Best time to visit
July is the peak for bears at Brooks Falls, and September brings bears feeding on spawning salmon with fewer crowds. Access is by air only and summer weather can delay flights.
Wildlife
Brown bears, sockeye salmon, moose, bald eagles and red foxes are the main sightings, with wolves and caribou less often.
Where to stay
King Salmon and Naknek, Alaska (Brooks Camp is reached from King Salmon by floatplane)
Getting there
Fly Anchorage (ANC) to King Salmon (AKN), ~1.5 h, then a floatplane of ~20 min to Brooks Camp
Tidewater glaciers and marine wildlife around the Harding Icefield near Seward
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area669,650 acres (2,710 km²)
Visits in 2025425,369 #45 of 63
Kenai Fjords protects the Harding Icefield and the glaciers that flow from it to the sea, cut into fjords along the Gulf of Alaska. Exit Glacier is the one place reachable by road, and most other sights require a boat or kayak from Seward. The park mixes glacier hiking with marine wildlife cruises, so it suits travelers who want big scenery in a short trip from Anchorage. Weather is often cloudy and wet.
Top sights
Exit Glacier — Short trails lead to the glacier's edge; markers show how far it has retreated.
Harding Icefield Trail — Steep round trip of roughly eight miles that climbs above treeline to an icefield overlook.
Aialik Bay — Boat tours reach Aialik Glacier, where ice calves into the water.
Northwestern Fjord — Longer boat trip to a remote fjord with glaciers and waterfalls.
Resurrection Bay — Wildlife cruise route from Seward with sea otters, Steller sea lions and puffins.
Tip: Book a boat tour early for June and July, and pick a longer cruise if you want to reach the glaciers at Aialik Bay.
Did you know? The Exit Glacier area is the only part of the park accessible by road, and the road is closed to cars from late October until mid-May.
Best time to visit
June through August has the best weather and full boat-tour schedules; the road to Exit Glacier usually closes to cars from late October to mid-May because of snow.
Wildlife
Humpback whales, orca, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins and black bears can be spotted.
Giant sequoia groves and a deep Sierra Nevada canyon
EstablishedMarch 4, 1940
Area461,901 acres (1,869 km²)
Visits in 2025779,791 #30 of 63
Kings Canyon is administered jointly with neighboring Sequoia National Park, and the two share one entrance fee. The park has giant sequoia groves at Grant Grove, a deep glacier-carved canyon along the Kings River, and a vast high-elevation backcountry. A scenic highway drops into the canyon floor, ending at Road's End with trailheads for meadow walks and waterfall hikes. It suits road trippers and backpackers, and the higher roads close in winter.
Top sights
General Grant Tree — Giant sequoia named the Nation's Christmas Tree, reached by a short paved loop.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway — Highway 180 descends about 30 miles from Grant Grove into the canyon.
Zumwalt Meadow — Easy loop past a granite-walled meadow and the Kings River near Road's End.
Mist Falls — Popular hike of about eight miles round trip to a powerful waterfall, best in early summer.
Redwood Canyon — Quieter sequoia grove with loop trails, away from the crowds at Grant Grove.
Tip: Check Highway 180 status before driving to Road's End; it closes in winter, and the drive takes about an hour from Grant Grove.
Did you know? The General Grant Tree was named the Nation's Christmas Tree in 1926, and it is also called a living national shrine.
Best time to visit
Late spring through early fall offers the best access; the canyon road usually opens in spring and closes with snow. Waterfalls run strongest in May and June.
Wildlife
Black bears, mule deer, Douglas squirrels, Steller's jays and giant sequoias are the most common sightings.
Where to stay
Three Rivers (for Sequoia) and Yokuts Valley, Dunlap and Fresno for Grant Grove
Getting there
Fresno Yosemite (FAT), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days), shared with Sequoia National Park. Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Arctic sand dunes and a half-million caribou crossing the Kobuk River
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area1,750,716 acres (7,085 km²)
Visits in 20257,786 #63 of 63
Kobuk Valley lies north of the Arctic Circle and has no roads, trails or campgrounds. Its main features are the Kobuk River and three fields of glacial sand dunes, the largest in the Arctic, which stand out in a sea of boreal forest and tundra. Each fall and spring, roughly half a million caribou cross the river and the dunes. Visitors arrive by bush plane and float the river or hike cross-country, so the park suits experienced backcountry travelers.
Top sights
Great Kobuk Sand Dunes — The largest of three dune fields, with sand hills rising far above the surrounding forest.
Little Kobuk Sand Dunes — Smaller dune field, quieter and reached by hiking overland from the river.
Hunt River Sand Dunes — Third dune field, reached on foot or by air from the Kobuk River.
Kobuk River — Float route of several days through the park, with gravel bars and open spruce forest.
Onion Portage — Historic caribou crossing site on the river, with archaeological evidence of thousands of years of use.
Tip: Talk to the visitor center in Kotzebue before flying in; there are no facilities in the park and self-rescue is essential.
Did you know? Twice a year, roughly half a million caribou migrate through the dunes and across river bluffs that expose ice-age fossils.
Best time to visit
Mid-summer offers the most reliable weather for floating and hiking, while late August and September bring the caribou crossings. Winter is extremely cold.
Wildlife
Caribou, brown bears, wolves, moose and migrating waterfowl use the valley.
Where to stay
Kotzebue and Ambler, Alaska
Getting there
Fly Anchorage (ANC) to Kotzebue (OTZ), ~1.5 h, then charter a bush plane into the park
Volcanoes, glaciers and salmon rivers reached only by small plane
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area2,619,816 acres (10,602 km²)
Visits in 202519,778 #61 of 63
Lake Clark spans three mountain ranges and several landscapes: coastal temperate rainforest, a tundra plateau, glaciers, waterfalls and four active volcanoes including Redoubt. There are no roads to it, so visitors arrive by small plane, mostly to Port Alsworth on the shore of Lake Clark or to the coast for bear watching. It suits fly-in anglers, kayakers and wildlife watchers who accept high travel costs for remote scenery.
Top sights
Lake Clark — Long turquoise lake ringed by mountains, the park's central paddling and fishing area.
Tanalian Falls and Lake — Trail of a few miles from Port Alsworth to a waterfall and mountain lake.
Twin Lakes — Two lakes in the mountains with backcountry cabins and easy float-plane access.
Silver Salmon Creek — Coastal area where brown bears graze on sedge and dig for clams.
Redoubt Volcano — Active volcano on the park's Cook Inlet side, visible from flights and boats.
Tip: Book air taxis early and allow extra days; small-plane flights depend on weather, and services in Port Alsworth are limited.
Did you know? Lake Clark National Park has four active volcanoes, including Mount Redoubt.
Best time to visit
June through September has the best access and fishing, with coastal bear watching best in July and August. Winter flights are limited.
Wildlife
Brown bears, salmon, bald eagles, moose and Dall sheep are what visitors most often see.
Where to stay
Port Alsworth and Homer, Alaska
Getting there
Fly Anchorage (ANC) to Port Alsworth by small plane, ~1 h
All four volcano types, mud pots and steaming vents in California
EstablishedAugust 9, 1916
Area106,589 acres (431 km²)
Visits in 2025504,777 #40 of 63
Lassen Peak, a lava dome volcano, dominates a park that contains all four volcano types found in the world and continuing hydrothermal activity. Bubbling mud pots, fumaroles and sulfur-scented pools are easy to visit along boardwalk trails. The park's main road, which crosses the mountain, is closed by deep snow for much of the year, so the open season is short. It suits road trippers and day hikers looking for a quieter alternative to bigger parks.
Top sights
Bumpass Hell — Three-mile round trip to the largest hydrothermal area in the park, along a boardwalk.
Lassen Peak Trail — Steep five-mile round trip that climbs about 2,000 feet to the 10,457-foot summit.
Sulphur Works — Steaming vents and mud pots beside the road, with no hiking required.
Cinder Cone — Short but steep climb up a symmetrical cinder cone, with views of painted dunes.
Manzanita Lake — Easy shoreline loop with views of Lassen Peak in the morning light.
Tip: Call or check the park road status before visiting in June; snow often keeps the road shut past the summer solstice.
Did you know? Lassen Peak last erupted in 1917, and much of the rest of the park remains hydrothermally active.
Best time to visit
July through September is best, when the main park road is fully open and trails are clear of snow. Winter brings snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but limits access.
Wildlife
Black bears, mule deer, pikas, marmots and wildflower meadows are typical sightings.
Where to stay
Mineral, Shingletown and Chester, California; Redding is the larger base
Getting there
Redding (RDD), ~1 h; Sacramento (SMF), ~3 h
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle April 16 to November 30 ($10 December 1 to April 15), valid 7 days.
The world's longest known cave system, explored by guided tour
EstablishedJuly 1, 1941
Area72,473 acres (293 km²)
Visits in 2025660,734 #34 of 63
Mammoth Cave holds the longest known cave system in the world, with hundreds of miles of surveyed passages under the hills of south-central Kentucky. Most visitors see it on a ranger-guided tour of a few of those passages, from a short walk to a full day of crawling. Above ground, the park has hiking trails, sinkholes, springs and the Green River for paddling. It suits families and anyone who wants a comfortable trip that does not depend on a long drive.
Top sights
Historic Tour — Ranger-led walk through the cave's original entrance, with narrow passages and large rooms.
Frozen Niagara Tour — Short tour with cave formations such as flowstone and stalactites.
Wild Cave Tour — Strenuous crawling and climbing tour for those who want a real caving experience.
Green River Ferry — Small cable ferry crossing the Green River, on the road to trailheads.
Cedar Sink Trail — Short hike to a large sinkhole where a stream disappears underground.
Tip: Book tour tickets ahead, bring a light jacket, and skip the Wild Cave tour if you are not used to tight spaces.
Did you know? Mammoth Cave is the world's longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles of passages explored.
Best time to visit
Tours run year round and the cave stays about 54 degrees Fahrenheit, so it suits any season. Spring and fall are cooler above ground, and summer weekends sell out fastest.
Wildlife
Bats, cave crickets, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and the northern cavefish are typical, with cave life mostly seen only on tour.
Where to stay
Cave City, Park City and Brownsville, Kentucky
Getting there
Nashville (BNA), ~1.5 h; Louisville (SDF), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
Free — entry to the park is free; cave tours have their own fee.
Reservations
Cave tour tickets are strongly recommended in advance and can sell out weeks ahead.
Cliff dwellings built by Ancestral Puebloans in the 1100s and 1200s
EstablishedJune 29, 1906
Area52,485 acres (212 km²)
Visits in 2025463,130 #43 of 63
Mesa Verde protects nearly 5,000 known archaeological sites, about 600 of them cliff dwellings, including some of the best-preserved in the United States. The Ancestral Puebloan people lived on and around these mesas for centuries, and many of their stone alcove villages remain. The park is spread across canyon-cut mesas along winding roads, so getting around takes time. It suits history-minded travelers and anyone looking for a half day or more with guided tours and scenic drives.
Top sights
Cliff Palace — Largest cliff dwelling in North America, about 150 rooms and 23 kivas, visited on a ranger tour.
Balcony House — Ranger tour with ladders and a tunnel, one of the more adventurous stops.
Long House — Second-largest cliff dwelling, on Wetherill Mesa, with a quieter setting.
Mesa Top Loop Road — Six-mile loop with overlooks and short trails to pit houses and cliff dwelling views.
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum — Exhibits and models that explain how the Ancestral Puebloans lived.
Tip: Drive time from the entrance to Chapin Mesa is about 45 minutes, so start early and budget for tours.
Did you know? Cliff Palace has about 150 rooms and 23 kivas, making it the largest cliff dwelling in North America.
Best time to visit
May through October has full tour service and cooler mountain weather than the surrounding desert. Cliff dwelling tours are not offered year round, and winter shuts many areas.
Wildlife
Mule deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, black bears and Steller's jays can be seen.
Where to stay
Cortez and Mancos, Colorado; Durango is a larger base
Getting there
Durango-La Plata County (DRO), ~1 h; Cortez (CEZ), ~15 min
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle May 1 to October 22 ($20 October 23 to April 30), valid 7 days.
Reservations
Cliff dwelling tours require an advance reservation, and are not offered year round; the park itself does not require reservations to enter.
A heavily glaciated volcano with subalpine wildflower meadows
EstablishedMarch 2, 1899
Area236,382 acres (957 km²)
Visits in 20251,635,342 #20 of 63
Mount Rainier is the tallest peak in the Cascades and an active volcano carrying more glacial ice than any other peak in the lower 48. Around it, old-growth forest gives way to subalpine meadows that bloom with wildflowers in summer. Roads reach the Paradise and Sunrise areas, both starting points for a range of day hikes, while climbers use the mountain for glacier travel. It suits day trips from Seattle, wildflower hikers and mountaineers.
Top sights
Paradise — Meadow and visitor center area with views of the summit and short loop trails.
Skyline Trail — About five-mile loop above Paradise, passing glacier views and waterfalls.
Sunrise — Highest point reachable by road, with views of Emmons Glacier.
Grove of the Patriarchs — Easy boardwalk loop among old-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar.
Reflection Lakes — Roadside lakes that mirror the mountain on calm mornings.
Tip: Check road and trail conditions before driving up; snow can stay on the higher trails into July.
Did you know? Emmons Glacier, on the mountain’s northeast side, has the largest surface area of any glacier in the contiguous United States.
Best time to visit
July through September brings snow-free trails and peak wildflowers, with the Sunrise road opening later. Winter roads to Paradise are open in part, with snowshoeing and skiing.
Wildlife
Black bears, mountain goats, marmots, elk and black-tailed deer are regularly seen.
Where to stay
Ashford, Packwood, Enumclaw and Greenwater, Washington
Deep Appalachian gorge with big whitewater and a landmark steel arch bridge
EstablishedDecember 27, 2020
Area7,021 acres (28 km²)
Visits in 20251,958,440 #17 of 63
New River Gorge is a deep, forested canyon in southern West Virginia, cut by one of the oldest rivers in North America. The park is spread across separate sections that include the famous bridge, the ghost town of Thurmond, the Grandview overlook and Sandstone Falls. Whitewater rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking are the main draws. It suits active weekend trips, and the park is free to enter.
Top sights
New River Gorge Bridge — Steel arch bridge about 876 feet above the river, seen from the Canyon Rim visitor center.
Thurmond — Former coal-boom railroad town, now a well-preserved ghost town with a historic depot.
Sandstone Falls — Boardwalks lead out to the largest waterfall on the New River, which spans the full width of the river.
Grandview — Rim overlook with views of a horseshoe bend in the river.
Endless Wall Trail — Cliff-edge walk with overlooks and sandstone crags popular with climbers.
Tip: The park's sections are far apart, so pick two or three areas for the day rather than trying to see the whole park.
Did you know? When it opened in 1977, the New River Gorge Bridge was the longest single-span steel arch bridge in the world.
Best time to visit
Spring through fall suit hiking and climbing; rafting is best from spring to early fall. Autumn foliage in October is a highlight, and Bridge Day in October is the busiest weekend.
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, salamanders and rhododendron thickets are typical sightings.
Where to stay
Fayetteville, Beckley and Oak Hill, West Virginia
Getting there
Yeager, Charleston (CRW), ~1 h; Raleigh County Memorial (BKW), ~30 min
Rugged glaciated peaks and alpine lakes in remote Washington wilderness
EstablishedOctober 2, 1968
Area504,781 acres (2,043 km²)
Visits in 202546,925 #57 of 63
North Cascades is a jagged mountain wilderness with hundreds of glaciers and steep valleys. Highway 20 crosses the range through the park's Ross Lake National Recreation Area and provides most easy viewpoints, while the higher trails lead into remote backcountry. The park suits hikers, backpackers and scenic drivers, and it is much quieter than other Washington parks. It is best visited when snow melts off the high roads.
Top sights
Cascade Pass — Steady trail of about seven miles round trip to a high pass with glacier views.
Diablo Lake Overlook — Roadside view of a turquoise, glacier-fed reservoir.
Ross Lake — Long lake reached by boat or trail, popular for paddling and camping.
Thunder Creek Trail — Forest trail along a glacier-fed creek, good for gentle day hikes.
Ladder Creek Falls — Landscaped falls at the Gorge Powerhouse near Newhalem, lit in the evening.
Tip: Highway 20 is closed through the mountains in winter, so check status before planning a cross-state drive.
Did you know? The park complex holds more than 300 glaciers, more than any other US national park outside Alaska.
Best time to visit
July through September is best, once Highway 20 and higher trails are clear of snow; the road closes in winter. Fall color arrives in late September.
Wildlife
Black bears, mountain goats, pikas, marmots and bald eagles are among the animals visitors may see.
Where to stay
Marblemount, Newhalem, Concrete and Winthrop, Washington
Getting there
Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), ~2.5 h to Newhalem
Entrance fee
Free — no fee to enter the North Cascades National Park Service Complex.
Glaciated peaks, temperate rain forest and wild Pacific coast in one park
EstablishedJune 29, 1938
Area922,649 acres (3,734 km²)
Visits in 20253,584,187 #9 of 63
Olympic packs three different worlds onto one peninsula: the glaciated Olympic Mountains, moss-draped temperate rain forests in the Hoh and Quinault valleys, and a long, rugged Pacific coastline. The areas are far apart and reached by different roads, so the park rewards a multi-day trip. It suits families, hikers and tide-pool watchers who like variety, and it is wet outside the summer months.
Top sights
Hurricane Ridge — Mountain viewpoint about 5,200 feet up, with views across the Olympic range.
Hoh Rain Forest — Short Hall of Mosses loop through spruce, hemlock and moss-draped maples.
Ruby Beach — Sea stacks, driftwood and tide pools on the Pacific coast.
Sol Duc Falls — Short walk to a triple-channel waterfall in old-growth forest.
Lake Crescent — Deep glacial lake with clear water and forest trails around its shore.
Tip: Plan a full day for each region because driving between the coast, rain forest and mountains takes hours.
Did you know? The Hoh Rain Forest is one of the wettest areas in the contiguous United States, averaging well over 100 inches of rain a year.
Best time to visit
July through September has the driest weather and full road access; spring and fall bring fewer crowds. The rain forests are green and wet year round.
Wildlife
Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, sea otters, bald eagles and tide-pool sea stars can be seen.
Where to stay
Port Angeles, Forks and Sequim, Washington
Getting there
Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), ~2.5 to 3 h; William R. Fairchild (CLM), ~15 min
Colorful Painted Desert badlands and 225-million-year-old petrified logs
EstablishedDecember 9, 1962
Area221,390 acres (896 km²)
Visits in 2025315,951 #48 of 63
Petrified Forest protects one of the world's largest collections of petrified wood, scattered across the banded hills of the Painted Desert. The logs are about 225 million years old and come from trees buried in ancient river floodplains. A single scenic road runs the length of the park, with short trails, overlooks and archaeological sites along it. It suits a half-day or full-day stop on a drive across northern Arizona, with the road roughly 28 miles long.
Top sights
Blue Mesa — Loop of about one mile through blue-gray badlands with petrified logs.
Crystal Forest — Paved loop past logs sparkling with quartz and colored minerals.
Painted Desert Inn — Historic Route 66-era adobe building with sweeping views of the badlands.
Puerco Pueblo — Ruins of an Ancestral Puebloan village with petroglyphs nearby.
Newspaper Rock — Overlook with more than 650 petroglyphs on a boulder pile below.
Tip: Taking petrified wood is illegal and monitored; bring water because summer heat is strong and shade is scarce.
Did you know? The park's petrified wood comes from the Chinle Formation and is about 225 million years old.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall have the most comfortable weather; summer is hot and can bring monsoon storms. Winter days are mild but nights are cold.
Wildlife
Pronghorn, coyotes, ravens, lizards and desert wildflowers can be seen.
Volcanic rock spires, talus caves, and wild California condors
EstablishedJanuary 10, 2013
Area26,686 acres (108 km²)
Visits in 2025343,208 #47 of 63
Pinnacles protects the weathered remains of an ancient volcano in the Gabilan Range of central California. Towering monoliths of andesite and rhyolite rise above chaparral hills, and two cave systems form where boulders wedged into narrow canyons. The park is one of the few places where endangered California condors soar overhead. It suits day hikers and rock climbers who want dramatic scenery without long drives, and it is quiet compared with other California parks.
Top sights
High Peaks Trail — Loop of roughly 5 to 9 miles with carved steps and railings along narrow ridge crests.
Bear Gulch Cave — Talus cave with a bat maternity colony; open only part of the year, so check status.
Balconies Cave — Flashlight scramble through a talus cave beneath the Machete Ridge cliffs.
Condor Gulch Trail — Steady climb with the best odds of spotting condors from the overlook.
Bear Gulch Reservoir — Easy walk to a small reservoir ringed by rock formations, reached via Moses Spring.
Tip: No road connects the east and west entrances, so pick the side that matches your hike. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the caves.
Did you know? Pinnacles was redesignated from a national monument to the 59th national park in January 2013.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) brings wildflowers and mild temperatures; fall is also pleasant. Summer days often exceed 90 degrees F, so hike early.
Wildlife
California condors, prairie falcons, gray foxes, bobcats, and spring wildflowers such as poppies and lupine.
Where to stay
Soledad and King City (west side); Hollister and Paicines (east side)
Getting there
San Jose (SJC), ~1.5 to 2 h to the east entrance; Monterey (MRY), ~1 h to the west entrance
Entrance fee
$30 per private vehicle (valid 1-7 days), covering both the East and West entrances.
Tallest trees on Earth along California's fog-wrapped north coast
EstablishedOctober 2, 1968
Area138,999 acres (563 km²)
Visits in 20251,202,480 #25 of 63
Redwood National and State Parks is a cooperative of one national park and three California state parks that together protect nearly half of the world's remaining old-growth coast redwoods. The trees grow in fog-fed forests that meet rugged beaches, prairies, and river valleys. Roosevelt elk graze in open meadows near the road. The area suits scenic drivers and short-trail hikers, and it rewards a slow itinerary spread across several days.
Top sights
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway — About 10 miles of old-growth redwoods lining a slow, quiet road through Prairie Creek.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove — Easy 1-mile loop through old-growth redwoods near Orick, with interpretive signs.
Fern Canyon — Narrow canyon with 50-foot walls draped in ferns, reached from Gold Bluffs Beach.
Enderts Beach tide pools — Low-tide pools near Crescent City hold sea stars, anemones, and hermit crabs.
Stout Grove — Flat, short walk among some of the park's largest trees in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
Tip: Fog can hide the canopy on summer mornings, so plan the big trees for midday and keep a warm layer in the car.
Did you know? The combined parks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
Best time to visit
Late spring through early fall offers the driest weather and open roads. Winter is wet but quiet, and gray whales pass the coast from December through spring.
Wildlife
Roosevelt elk, black bears, banana slugs, sea lions and gray whales along the coast, and coast redwoods.
Where to stay
Crescent City, Klamath, Orick, and Trinidad
Getting there
Arcata-Eureka (ACV), ~40 min to Orick; Crescent City (CEC), ~15 min to Crescent City
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee for the national park or its scenic drives (some state park day-use areas charge fees).
Continental Divide peaks, alpine tundra, and Trail Ridge Road
EstablishedJanuary 26, 1915
Area265,848 acres (1,076 km²)
Visits in 20254,171,431 #6 of 63
Rocky Mountain National Park spans the Continental Divide in northern Colorado, with montane meadows, subalpine forests, and a large expanse of treeless alpine tundra above 11,000 feet. Glacial valleys hold lakes reachable on short walks, while Longs Peak draws experienced climbers. Trail Ridge Road crosses the high country by car. The park suits families, wildlife watchers, and hikers, but visitors should plan for altitude and summer timed-entry rules.
Top sights
Trail Ridge Road — 48-mile paved road climbing to 12,183 feet; usually open late May through mid-October.
Bear Lake — Trailhead for Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes, with a 0.6-mile nature loop at the lake.
Longs Peak — 14,259-foot summit; the Keyhole Route is a long, exposed, summer-only climb.
Old Fall River Road — One-way gravel road, about 11 miles, climbing to the Alpine Visitor Center.
Sprague Lake — Flat loop of under a mile with mountain reflections; suits kids and wheelchairs.
Tip: Enter before 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m. to skip the standard timed-entry requirement, and start Bear Lake hikes early for parking.
Did you know? Trail Ridge Road is one of the highest continuous paved roads in the country, topping out at 12,183 feet.
Best time to visit
July through September opens the high roads and trails. Elk rut in late September and October, while winter snow closes Trail Ridge Road and suits snowshoeing.
Wildlife
Elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mule deer, marmots, and pikas near the tundra.
Where to stay
Estes Park (east side); Grand Lake (west side)
Getting there
Denver (DEN), ~1.5 to 2 h to Estes Park
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle for a 7-day pass ($30 for a 1-day pass). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
A timed-entry reservation is required from May 22 through October 12, 2026 for entry between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Bear Lake Road needs a separate Timed Entry+ reservation from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. through October 18. Book via Recreation.gov ($2 processing fee).
Forests of giant saguaro cactus beside Tucson, Arizona
EstablishedOctober 14, 1994
Area92,877 acres (376 km²)
Visits in 2025847,749 #28 of 63
Saguaro National Park consists of two separate districts on opposite sides of Tucson, one in the Tucson Mountains to the west and one in the Rincon Mountains to the east. Both protect dense stands of the tall, multi-armed saguaro cactus in the Sonoran Desert. Short loop drives, easy desert walks, and ranger programs make it a low-effort visit, while the eastern district also offers a long climb into pine forest.
Top sights
Cactus Forest Loop Drive — Paved 8-mile one-way loop through the Rincon district's densest saguaro stands.
Valley View Overlook Trail — Short trail in the Tucson Mountain District with sunset views across the cactus forest.
Signal Hill Petroglyphs — Brief walk to Hohokam rock carvings on a small hill in the west district.
Bajada Loop Drive — Unpaved 6-mile loop with trailheads and picnic areas on the west side.
Hugh Norris Trail — Long, strenuous route climbing to Wasson Peak, the highest point in the Tucson Mountains.
Tip: Visit the east and west districts on separate outings; they sit roughly an hour apart. Carry water even on short summer walks.
Did you know? A saguaro may not sprout its first arm until it is about 50 to 70 years old.
Best time to visit
October through April offers comfortable temperatures; summer highs regularly pass 100 degrees F. Saguaro bloom in late spring, with white flowers opening at night.
Wildlife
Saguaro and cholla cacti, Gambel's quail, roadrunners, javelinas, and Gila woodpeckers nesting in saguaros.
Where to stay
Tucson, Arizona
Getting there
Tucson (TUS), ~30 min
Entrance fee
$25 per private vehicle (valid 7 days, both districts).
Giant sequoias and granite peaks in California's southern Sierra
EstablishedSeptember 25, 1890
Area404,063 acres (1,635 km²)
Visits in 20251,378,337 #23 of 63
Sequoia National Park sits in the southern Sierra Nevada of California and is managed jointly with neighboring Kings Canyon. Its Giant Forest holds some of the largest trees on Earth, measured by volume, growing among granite domes, meadows, and caves. Roads climb from foothill oak woodland to high forest in a short drive. The park suits families and first-time visitors, with many sights reachable on short walks.
Top sights
General Sherman Tree — Largest tree on Earth by volume, about 275 feet tall; short paved trail.
Moro Rock — Granite dome with 350 stairs to a summit view of the Great Western Divide.
Crescent Meadow — Subalpine meadow ringed by sequoias, with the Chimney Tree and Tharp's Log nearby.
Congress Trail — Paved 2-mile loop past the Senate and House groups of giant sequoias.
Tunnel Log — Fallen sequoia with a roadway cut through it, drivable in most vehicles.
Tip: The Generals Highway from the south entrance is slow and winding. Allow about an hour from Ash Mountain to Giant Forest and avoid towing trailers.
Did you know? Mount Whitney, at 14,505 feet the highest peak in the contiguous United States, stands on the park’s eastern boundary.
Best time to visit
Late spring through fall gives full access; summer is busiest and warm in the foothills. Snow can close side roads and requires chains from late fall through spring.
Wildlife
Black bears, mule deer, Douglas squirrels, Steller's jays, and giant sequoias.
Where to stay
Three Rivers (south); Visalia and Fresno as larger bases
Getting there
Fresno (FAT), ~1.5 h to the Ash Mountain entrance
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 1-7 days, covers both Sequoia and Kings Canyon). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge hikes an hour from Washington
EstablishedDecember 26, 1935
Area200,446 acres (811 km²)
Visits in 20251,682,152 #19 of 63
Shenandoah National Park stretches along a narrow section of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, with hardwood forests, waterfalls, and long views over the Shenandoah Valley. Skyline Drive runs the length of the park and links dozens of overlooks and trailheads, and the Appalachian Trail follows the ridge. The park suits day trips from the Washington, D.C. area, leaf-peeping drives, and hikers seeking waterfalls or rocky summits.
Top sights
Skyline Drive — 105-mile ridge road with 70-plus overlooks and a 35 mph speed limit.
Old Rag Mountain — Roughly 9-mile loop with a granite boulder scramble to a 3,284-foot summit.
Dark Hollow Falls — Short 1.4-mile round trip to a 70-foot waterfall near Big Meadows.
Hawksbill Summit — Highest point in the park at 4,051 feet, with an observation platform.
Big Meadows — Open meadow with lodging, camping, and frequent deer sightings near dusk.
Tip: Fill the gas tank before entering; there are no stations on Skyline Drive itself. Fall weekends see long entrance lines, so arrive before 9 a.m.
Did you know? The Appalachian Trail runs about 100 miles through the park, roughly paralleling Skyline Drive.
Best time to visit
Mid-October usually brings peak fall color, and late spring is green with wildflowers. Summer is warm and busy; winter ice can close Skyline Drive.
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, barred owls, and mountain laurel blooms in spring.
Where to stay
Front Royal, Luray, Stanley, and Waynesboro, Virginia
Getting there
Washington Dulles (IAD), ~1.5 h to the Front Royal entrance
Painted badlands, roaming bison, and Roosevelt's Dakota ranch cabin
EstablishedNovember 10, 1978
Area70,447 acres (285 km²)
Visits in 2025729,893 #33 of 63
Theodore Roosevelt National Park protects rugged badlands along the Little Missouri River in western North Dakota. It has three units: a South Unit at Medora, a North Unit farther north, and the remote Elkhorn Ranch site. Striped buttes, prairie dog towns, and grazing herds of bison, horses, and elk line the scenic drives. The park suits wildlife watchers and history fans, with short trails and quiet backcountry.
Top sights
South Unit Scenic Drive — Main road through the South Unit, with overlooks, prairie dog towns, bison and wild horses; check which sections are open.
Maltese Cross Cabin — Roosevelt's restored 1880s ranch cabin, moved beside the Medora visitor center.
Painted Canyon Overlook — Wide view of banded badlands from a rest area just off Interstate 94.
Wind Canyon Trail — Short trail to a viewpoint above the Little Missouri River.
North Unit Scenic Drive — 14-mile road to the Oxbow Overlook, with river bends and bison in the valley.
Tip: Stay well back from bison and keep at least 25 yards away; they often stand on the road and cannot be hurried.
Did you know? Roosevelt first came to the Dakota badlands in 1883 to hunt bison and later ranched here.
Best time to visit
Late May through September has the best weather and full road access. Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk; winter is cold and some roads close.
Wildlife
American bison, wild horses, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and elk, along with bighorn sheep.
Where to stay
Medora (South Unit); Watford City (North Unit)
Getting there
Bismarck (BIS), ~2 h to Medora; Dickinson (DIK), ~35 min to Medora
U.S. Virgin Islands Hawaii & TerritoriesFree entry
Coral bays, white beaches, and plantation ruins on St. John
EstablishedAugust 2, 1956
Area15,052 acres (61 km²)
Visits in 2025471,074 #42 of 63
Virgin Islands National Park covers most of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including forested hills, mangrove shores, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Sheltered bays offer easy snorkeling and swimming, and hiking trails lead past petroglyphs and ruins of colonial sugar plantations. The park suits beach-focused trips, snorkelers, and travelers who enjoy island roads and ferries, with access by boat from St. Thomas.
Top sights
Trunk Bay Underwater Snorkel Trail — Marked route with underwater signs beside a wide white-sand beach.
Cinnamon Bay — Long beach with water-sports rentals, a campground, and a nearby plantation trail.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation — Ruins of a windmill, boiling house, and slave quarters on the north shore.
Reef Bay Trail — Downhill hike of about 2.5 miles to petroglyphs and a sugar mill ruin.
Maho Bay — Calm beach where snorkelers often see sea turtles feeding on seagrass.
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and snorkel gear; beach rentals add up, and safari taxis are the main way to reach beaches without a car.
Did you know? Most of the park’s land was donated by Laurance Rockefeller, whose gift of about 5,000 acres created it in 1956.
Best time to visit
December through April is dry with calm seas but busiest and priciest. Hurricane season runs June through November, so summer and fall trips carry weather risk.
Wildlife
Green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, feral donkeys, and mongooses.
Where to stay
Cruz Bay, St. John
Getting there
St. Thomas, Cyril E. King (STT), then a taxi to Red Hook (~20 min) and a ferry to Cruz Bay (~20 min)
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee; Trunk Bay charges a separate $5 per person (age 16 and up) amenity fee.
Water-based park of lakes, islands, and northern lights on the Canadian border
EstablishedApril 8, 1975
Area218,222 acres (883 km²)
Visits in 2025206,326 #53 of 63
Voyageurs National Park lies on Minnesota's northern border, where glacier-scraped rock, bays, and islands make up a landscape that is roughly 40 percent water. Most sights are reached by boat, canoe, kayak, or houseboat, and the shoreline holds a history of Ojibwe people, French-Canadian fur traders, and gold miners. The park suits paddlers, anglers, and boaters, and its dark skies make it a good place to watch northern lights.
Top sights
Kettle Falls — Historic hotel and dam on the Canadian border, reached only by water.
Voyageur Tour Boat — Ranger-guided boat trips from the Rainy Lake Visitor Center to islands and historic sites.
Ellsworth Rock Gardens — Terraced rock sculptures and flower beds on the north shore of Kabetogama Lake, reached by boat.
Kabetogama Lake — Large southern lake popular for houseboats, boat-in camping, and walleye fishing.
Cruiser Lake Trail — Backcountry trail through the interior to quiet lakes, for overnight hikers.
Tip: Most of the park is water, so book a tour boat or rent a boat early; without one, the mainland visitor centers see little of it.
Did you know? The park is named for the voyageurs, French-Canadian fur traders who paddled these lakes in birchbark canoes.
Best time to visit
Late May through September suits boating and fishing. Winter brings ice roads, snowmobiling, and northern lights viewing; spring and fall have fewer bugs but colder water.
Wildlife
Bald eagles, loons, white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, and gray wolves.
Where to stay
International Falls, Ranier, Kabetogama, and Crane Lake
Getting there
Range Regional Airport, Hibbing (HIB), ~1.5 h; Duluth (DLH), ~3 h; International Falls (INL), ~15 min
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee.
Reservations
Campsites and houseboat sites require reservations through Recreation.gov; check permits before heading out by boat.
World's largest gypsum dunefield in New Mexico's Tularosa Basin
EstablishedDecember 20, 2019
Area146,344 acres (592 km²)
Visits in 2025659,742 #35 of 63
White Sands National Park protects the southern part of a huge field of glaring white gypsum dunes in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico. Unlike quartz sand, the gypsum stays cool underfoot. An 8-mile drive winds into the dunes, and short trails, sledding slopes, and sunset programs make it an easy visit. The park sits inside a missile range and can close briefly during tests.
Top sights
Dunes Drive — 8-mile road that turns from pavement to packed gypsum, with pullouts throughout.
Alkali Flat Trail — Marked 5-mile round trip across open dunes to a dry lakebed.
Interdune Boardwalk — Short accessible boardwalk with signs explaining how plants and animals survive here.
Dune sledding — Saucer sleds sold at the gift shop; slide the slopes near the Dunes Drive.
Sunset stroll — Ranger-led evening walk when the dunes turn pink and orange.
Tip: Check the White Sands Missile Range closure schedule before driving out, since Highway 70 and the park can close for hours.
Did you know? The park is the southern part of the world's largest gypsum dunefield.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall bring mild days; summer noon heat is intense. Sunrise, sunset, and full moons are the best times for photos.
Wildlife
Kit foxes, bleached earless lizards, kangaroo rats, roadrunners, and yucca that keeps pace with the moving dunes.
Where to stay
Alamogordo, New Mexico; Las Cruces as a larger base
Boxwork cave formations below South Dakota prairie and bison range
EstablishedJanuary 9, 1903
Area33,971 acres (137 km²)
Visits in 2025606,258 #37 of 63
Wind Cave National Park pairs one of the world's longest caves with rolling mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The cave is known for boxwork, a honeycomb of thin calcite fins that is rare elsewhere. Above ground, bison, elk, and prairie dogs graze open hills. The park suits families and cave fans who want guided tours plus an easy scenic drive.
Top sights
Natural Entrance Tour — Guided walk with stairs through boxwork rooms near the original small opening.
Garden of Eden Tour — Shorter tour with fewer stairs, showing boxwork and popcorn formations.
Candlelight Tour — Seasonal lantern-lit tour through the cave's less-visited passages.
Wild Cave Tour — Demanding crawling trip off the walkways for adults and older teens.
Rankin Ridge Trail — Short trail with a fire tower and views over the Black Hills.
Tip: Bring a light jacket for the cave, and buy tour tickets as soon as you arrive; popular times sell out on summer days.
Did you know? Wind Cave was the first cave in the world to be designated a national park, in 1903.
Best time to visit
Summer offers the fullest tour schedule but the longest lines. Late spring and early fall are quieter; the cave stays about 53 degrees F all year.
Wildlife
Bison, elk, pronghorn, prairie dogs, black-footed ferrets, and wild turkeys.
Where to stay
Hot Springs (~12 miles) and Custer (~20 miles), South Dakota
Getting there
Rapid City (RAP), ~1.5 h
Entrance fee
Free — no entrance fee; cave tours have separate fees.
Reservations
Cave tour tickets are needed; advance reservations are available and recommended for some tours, while other tours are first-come, first-served at the visitor center.
America's largest national park, with glaciers and 18,000-foot peaks
EstablishedDecember 2, 1980
Area8,323,146 acres (33,683 km²)
Visits in 2025108,840 #55 of 63
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve covers about 13 million acres of southeastern Alaska, where four mountain ranges meet. Glaciers cover more than a quarter of the land, and Mount Saint Elias rises to 18,008 feet. Two rough gravel roads lead in, and small planes reach the interior. The park suits self-reliant travelers, hikers, and glacier walkers, and its remote size makes planning essential.
Top sights
Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark — Restored copper mill and town at the edge of Kennicott Glacier.
Root Glacier — Roughly 2-mile trail from Kennecott to the ice, popular for guided glacier hikes.
McCarthy Road — 60-mile gravel road from Chitina to the Kennicott River footbridge.
Nabesna Road — 42-mile gravel road on the north side with mountain views and trailheads.
Skookum Volcano Trail — Trail off the Nabesna Road climbing into the eroded core of an extinct volcano; Dall sheep are often seen.
Tip: Carry two spare tires for McCarthy Road and check conditions with the visitor center; rental companies often bar this route.
Did you know? Counting its preserve, Wrangell–St. Elias covers about 13.2 million acres, roughly six times the size of Yellowstone.
Best time to visit
June through August has the most services and longest days. Roads are gravel and can be rough after rain, and many businesses close by mid-September.
Wildlife
Dall sheep, moose, brown and black bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles.
Where to stay
Copper Center (headquarters), Chitina, and McCarthy/Kennecott
Getting there
Anchorage (ANC), ~6 h drive to Copper Center; small planes fly from Chitina and Gulkana to McCarthy
Geysers, hot springs, and big wildlife across a volcanic plateau
EstablishedMarch 1, 1872
Area2,219,791 acres (8,983 km²)
Visits in 20254,762,988 #3 of 63
Yellowstone, the first national park in the world, sits on a volcanic caldera across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It holds the planet's largest concentration of geysers and hot springs, along with a canyon, waterfalls, and wide valleys full of bison and elk. A figure-eight road links the major sights. The park suits road trips of several days and wildlife watching, but its size demands time.
Top sights
Old Faithful — Erupts about every 90 minutes, sending water roughly 100 to 180 feet high.
Grand Prismatic Spring — Largest hot spring in the U.S., ringed by orange and yellow bacterial mats.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone — Yellow-walled canyon with the 308-foot Lower Falls, seen from rim drives.
Hayden Valley — Broad river valley where bison and grizzly bears are often seen at dawn.
Lamar Valley — Best area in the park for watching wolves, bison, and pronghorn.
Tip: Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife; traffic jams often mean an animal is near the road.
Did you know? Yellowstone became the first national park on March 1, 1872, when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the law.
Best time to visit
Late April through October is best; July and August are busiest and roads are fully open. May and September bring thinner crowds and more active wildlife.
Wildlife
Bison, elk, grizzly bears, gray wolves, pronghorn, and moose.
Where to stay
West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cody, and Jackson
Getting there
Bozeman (BZN), ~1.5 h to Gardiner or West Yellowstone; Jackson Hole (JAC), ~1 h to the South Entrance
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and towering waterfalls in the Sierra Nevada
EstablishedOctober 1, 1890
Area761,748 acres (3,083 km²)
Visits in 20254,278,413 #5 of 63
Yosemite National Park protects a glacier-carved valley in California's Sierra Nevada, with sheer granite walls, some of North America's tallest waterfalls, and groves of giant sequoias. Yosemite Valley holds most of the famous views, while the high country along Tioga Road offers meadows, lakes, and domes. Trails range from paved walks to multi-day climbs. The park suits both short scenic visits and long hikes.
Top sights
Tunnel View — Classic roadside view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
Yosemite Falls — At 2,425 feet, one of North America's tallest waterfalls; strongest in spring.
Glacier Point — Overlook 3,200 feet above the valley floor with a direct view of Half Dome.
Mist Trail to Vernal Fall — Stone staircase beside a 317-foot waterfall; steep, wet, and rewarding in late spring.
Mariposa Grove — Giant sequoia grove in the south, with the Grizzly Giant and a shuttle.
Tip: Valley parking fills by mid-morning in summer; arrive before 8 a.m. or use the free valley shuttle from a single parking spot.
Did you know? In 1864 President Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, setting this land aside for public use eight years before Yellowstone became the first national park.
Best time to visit
May and June give peak waterfalls; Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road usually open late spring to early summer. Fall is quieter, and winter snow closes high roads.
Wildlife
Black bears, mule deer, coyotes, peregrine falcons, and giant sequoias.
Where to stay
El Portal, Mariposa, Oakhurst, Groveland, and Lee Vining
Getting there
Fresno (FAT), ~1.5 to 2 h to the south entrance or Yosemite Valley
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
No timed-entry reservation is required to enter in 2026; the park announced it would not use one this year. Half Dome and some campgrounds still require permits.
Sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and the Virgin River Narrows
EstablishedNovember 19, 1919
Area147,243 acres (596 km²)
Visits in 20254,984,525 #2 of 63
Zion National Park in southwestern Utah is a deep canyon carved by the Virgin River through red and cream sandstone cliffs. The park sits where the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert meet, giving it desert, riparian, woodland, and forest habitats. A shuttle serves the main canyon, and trails range from paved riverside walks to exposed climbs. It suits day hikers and canyon lovers.
Top sights
The Narrows — Wade upstream through the Virgin River between walls hundreds of feet high.
Angels Landing — About 5-mile round trip with a chain-assisted final ridge; permit required.
Emerald Pools Trail — Moderate walk to three pools and small waterfalls beneath the cliffs.
Canyon Overlook Trail — 1-mile round trip to a canyon view on the east side, past the tunnel.
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway — Scenic road with a 1.1-mile tunnel and switchbacks, opened in 1930.
Tip: Ride the shuttle in season, since private cars cannot use Zion Canyon Scenic Drive; arrive early or take the Springdale shuttle to avoid full parking.
Did you know? The Angels Landing permit system began as a pilot program after long lines built up on the chain section.
Best time to visit
March to May and September to November offer mild weather. Summer is hot and crowded, and flash floods in the Narrows are most likely from July to September.
Wildlife
Mule deer, bighorn sheep, California condors, canyon tree frogs, and cottonwoods along the river.
Where to stay
Springdale, Utah
Getting there
Las Vegas (LAS), ~2.5 to 3 h; St. George (SGU), ~1 h
Entrance fee
$35 per private vehicle (valid 1-7 days). Non-US residents also pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee unless they hold a Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Reservations
No reservation is needed to enter or ride the shuttle, but hiking Angels Landing requires a permit through a seasonal or day-before lottery on Recreation.gov ($6 to apply for the seasonal lottery, $3 per person in the day-before lottery).
There are 63 national parks, spread across 32 states and territories. The first was Yellowstone National Park, established on March 1, 1872; the newest is New River Gorge National Park, which became a national park on December 27, 2020. The National Park Service manages more than 400 sites in all — monuments, historic sites, seashores, battlefields — but only these 63 carry the "national park" title.
Which state has the most national parks?
California, with 9, followed by Alaska with 8. Parks that cross a state line — Death Valley, Great Smoky Mountains and Yellowstone — count toward each state they sit in.
What is the most visited national park?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee), with 11,527,939 recreation visits in 2025 — 2.3 times as many as the next-busiest park, Zion National Park. The quietest was Kobuk Valley National Park (Alaska), with 7,786.
What are the largest and smallest national parks?
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park (Alaska) is the largest at 8,323,146 acres (33,683 km²). Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri) is the smallest at 193 acres.
How much does it cost to visit the national parks?
Entrance fees are set park by park — many charge per vehicle for a seven-day visit, and a good number are free; each park’s fee is listed in its section below. If you plan to visit more than two or three fee-charging parks in a year, the America the Beautiful annual pass pays for itself: $80 for US citizens and residents, $20 a year (or $80 for life) for residents aged 62 and over, and free for current military, fourth graders and US residents with a permanent disability. Passes are sold at park entrances and on the NPS website.
Do international visitors pay more?
Since 2026, yes. Visitors who are not US residents pay a $100 per-person nonresident fee, on top of the regular entrance fee, at 12 parks: Acadia, Bryce Canyon, Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Kings Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion. The Park Service counts Sequoia and Kings Canyon as one, so its own list has eleven. A $250 Non-Resident Annual Pass covers both the entrance and nonresident fees. Free entrance days now apply to US citizens and residents only.
Do I need a reservation to enter a national park?
Most parks need no reservation to get in, but several control access in peak season with a timed-entry or vehicle reservation, and many popular hikes, cave tours, campgrounds and boat trips must be booked ahead. Each park’s section below says what it currently requires — rules change most years, so confirm on the park’s nps.gov page before you go.
Where do the visitor figures on this page come from?
They are the National Park Service’s official 2025 recreation-visit counts, and the areas are from its acreage report. Park fees and reservation rules were checked against each park’s nps.gov pages. How we source and check figures is set out in our editorial guidelines.
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