There’s nothing more amazing than the great outdoors! Lush forests, vast valleys, majestic mountain peaks, sprawling deserts, grand canyons, oceans, and lakes–the list goes on. The best part is, it’s all yours, just waiting to be discovered and explored. Take a look through our collection of the most beautiful national parks in the US. There are endless possibilities of places where you can get inspired for your next trip, and the choice is all yours.
What are the most beautiful national parks in the US?
There are many places in the United States of America to visit. And, I think you might agree with me when I say that the national park system is one of the best things that has happened in the country. There are 63 National parks in total that represent a range of pristine natural environments. Equally, these amazing places offer vastly different experiences.
The idea of exploring all the national parks in America is a near impossible task. However, it is quite achievable, providing you have the time.
To help you narrow things down, here are the most beautiful national parks in the US, that you should not miss! So, keep reading and get inspired to visit these unique natural wonders and otherworldly terrains.
Tip : If you are planning to explore some of the most beautiful national parks in the US, make sure to pick up an ‘America the Beautiful Pass’, where you’d get entry access to the national parks, for an entire year.
Best national parks in the west
The western United States is indeed, one of the most beautiful regions. Out of the 63 national parks, 40 of them are located in the west. Here are the best national parks in the west.
1. Yellowstone National Park
Located in Teton and Gallatin Counties, Wyoming
Size 2,219,791 acres
Yellowstone is one of the oldest and best national parks in the west. Popular for its amazing geothermal wonders and diverse ecosystems. There are plenty of things to see, such as Old Faithful, Upper Geyser Basin & Morning Glory pool, plus, much to do that includes hiking, riding, biking, and wildlife viewing.
2. Yosemite National Park
Located in California
Size 759,620 acres
Yosemite National Park is the jewel in the crown of the most beautiful national parks in the US. It wows with strikingly beautiful waterfalls, deep valleys, and incredible granite peaks. Filled with unique natural treasures, at Yosemite, you’ll always find the perfect activity to engage in regardless of what time of the year you visit.
3. Grand Teton National Park
Located in Teton County, Wyoming
Size 310,000 acres
This is certainly one of the most beautiful national parks in the US. You are bound to be astonished by its gorgeous views, jagged mountain peaks, lush meadows, pristine lakes, amazing wildlife more. At Grand Teton National Park, you are guaranteed an awesome time as there are lots of things to keep you entertained ,such as kayaking, boat riding, hiking, biking, or going on scenic drives
4. Glacier National Park
Located in Flathead & Glacier Counties, Montana
Size 1,013,322 acres
One of the best national parks in the west, America, Glacier National Park is brimming with natural wonders. Home to many spectacular lakes, valleys, magnificent mountain peaks, and melting glaciers, this paradise offers visitors stunning vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities.
5. Mount Rainier National park
Located in Pierce & Lewis County, Washington
Size 236,381 acres
Mount Rainier is home to amazing wildlife, where you can encounter deer, elks, deer, chipmunks, and more. That’s not all; there are also many attractions scattered throughout Mount Rainier National Park. These attractions include Paradise, Myrtle Falls, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lake. Here, you’ll find plenty to discover.
6. Bryce Canyon National Park
Located in Garfield County, Utah
Size 35,835 acres
Bryce Canyon National Park is the only place on Earth with the largest concentration of hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. Here, you’ll have plenty of attractions to see and a wide range of wildlife that includes the Green Basin Rattlesnake, Utah Prairie dog, and more! You are sure to have an excellent experience at Bryce Canyon, one of the best national parks in the west.
Best national parks in Idaho
Drenched in rich history, Idaho has a number of well-preserved parks with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Here are some of the best national parks in Idaho.
1. Nez Perce National Historical Park
Size 4,561 acres
The Nez Perce National Park, home to the Nez Perce people, spans four states; Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Montana. Surrounded by mountains, valleys, plateaus, and prairies, this place is full of historical landmarks. Here you can visit a popular attraction, the ‘Heart of the Monster’ ,which lies at the core of many hiking trails.
2. Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Size 4,351 acres
One of the best national parks in Idaho, the Hagerman Fossil Beds in Hagerman, offers visitors a chance to see a range of wildlife. This includes beavers, horses, and birds. This was also home to extinct animals such as the ground sloth and saber-toothed cat. Here, you can visit the Hagerman Valley Historical Society Museum, where you can see Pliocene-aged fossils that showcases hundreds of animal and plant species.
Next on our list of the most beautiful national parks in the US is the City of Rocks National Reserve.
3. City of Rocks National Reserve
Size 14,407 acres
Popular as one of the most popular outdoor attractions, the City of Rocks is a wonderful way to glimpse into the Old West. Named for the formation of the rocks, which looks like the tall buildings of a city. This scenic area is the ideal spot for hikers, campers, rock climbers, and hunters to get a good dose of adventure.
Best national parks in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the US. With a variety of unique plant and animal species native to the region, these parks display magnificent mountain ranges and vast wilderness that cannot be found anywhere else. Here are some of the best national parks in Tennessee!
1. Obed National Wild and Scenic River Visitor Center
Size 5,000 acres
The Obed Wild and Scenic River are one of the best national parks in Tennessee and an ideal spot for camping, fishing, and hunting (according to seasons and regulations). Plus, this is a place where visitors can enjoy a number of river activities.
2. The Great Smoky Mountains
Size 522,427 acres
One of the most beautiful national parks in the US, the Great Smoky Mountains, is the most visited national park in the country. Here, you can see various plants and wildlife, including mountain lions, black bears, hawks, and mountain lions. That’s not all, you can also enjoy many tourist attractions nearby.
Next on our list of the best national parks in Tennessee is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
3. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Size 24,000 acres
The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park covers a large area of land that expands over parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia. Here, you’ll witness a display of the Wild West. With miles of hiking trails, these mountains offer some of the best scenic views.
Now, here are some of the best national parks in South America.
The best national parks in South America
- Manu National Park, Peru
- Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
- Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
- Iguazu National Park, Argentina
- Tayrona National Park, Colombia
- Rapa Nui National Park, Chile
- Huascaran National Park, Peru
Last but not the least, let’s take a look at some of the best national parks in North America.
The best national parks in North America
- Banff National Park, Canada
- Jasper National Park, Canada
- Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
- Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska
So, there you go, our favorites of the most beautiful national parks in the US. Hope it inspires you to step out to the great outdoors and take in all its glory! If you have picked a spot to your liking, get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will assist you in creating an adventurous vacation of a lifetime!
