Favorite National Parks of 20 Travel Bloggers
Planning on visiting a United States National Park this year? Not sure how to decide? Well, this list is for you then! The USA has 60 National Parks, all of which will blow you away. Each National Park is unique in their own way and is filled with mountains, sand dunes, beaches, lakes, volcanoes, deserts, canyons, waterfalls, caves, and much more. Whatever type of outdoor experience you prefer, the United States National Parks provide experiences of all kinds. So sit back, relax, and read on to find out which National Parks are the favorites of fellow Travel Bloggers. Make sure to check out this post on essential hiking gear for your travels 😉
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Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming
I absolutely loved my week in Yellowstone, and I’ll tell you why. This National Park has massive waterfalls, mountains, vast valleys, incredible backcountry hiking (I went on Bechler River Trail), a historic lodge to tour (or stay in!), and great camping. It also has tons of accessible wildlife like bears, wolves, bison, eagles, fox, moose, antelope, beaver, and river otter… well, the list gets a bit long on animals. Plus, Yellowstone is a super volcano. So, the ecology includes steaming hot springs with a rainbow of thermophilic (heat-loving) bacteria, geysers shooting water hundreds of feet high (don’t miss Beehive Geyser!), and bubbling mud pots in a magical forest.
The park will amaze you every single day. I visited a museum there, and it described the early Euro-American explorers returning to the eastern states and entertaining high society ladies and gentlemen with stories of what they’d witnessed. They were so unbelievable (how could someone in 1800’s New York imagine acres of geysers?) that this was the origin of ‘tall tales’. I’d return for a month in a heartbeat.
By Jess, Longest Bus Rides off the beaten path travel blog
Joshua Tree National Park – California
Everyone needs to add Joshua Tree National Park to their travel list. Located in Southern California, this national park has unique landscapes – large boulders, Mojave and Colorado desert, and Joshua trees and yucca trees. The desert is beautiful with the various cacti and wildflowers scattered through the park.
There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied for a few days. Stop by one of the park’s Visitor Center to hear recommendations on things to do. Some of the popular activities include camping, rock climbing, mountain biking, and stargazing. The pitch black skies are beautiful in the evenings. Visit the Sky’s The Limit Observatory which is next to the park and observe the stars.
Hiking is the major highlight as there are over two dozen trails from easy to challenging routes. It’s best to hike early in the morning and avoid the summer’s brutal heat. Our favorite hiking trails are 49 Palms Oasis (3 miles) and the Lost Palms Oasis (7.5 miles). Both of these trails lead to an oasis of palm trees in the desert. You’ll have an awesome time visiting Joshua Tree National Park.
By Jackie Szeto & Justin Huynh, Life Of Doing
Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
Death Valley National Park – California
When I first set eyes on Death Valley National Park, I knew I’d “found my park.”
No trees to speak of, other than the few trees planted around the resorts. No permanent water features, except for a tiny pool at Badwater Basin. And yet, there’s a raw wild beauty to the landscapes at Death Valley that speaks to my restless heart.
I love the myriad colors of the mineral deposits at Artist’s Palette. I am mesmerized by the undulating waves of sand at Mesquite Flat Dunes. I am awestruck when I stand at the crest of Dante’s View, from where I can see both the highest and the lowest points in the contiguous United States. I watch in reverent silence as a rising sun paints the mountains and valleys at Zabriskie Point.
It’s a park like no other: a place like no other. If you’ve visited, you know what I mean!
My favorite hike at Death Valley? The Mosaic Canyon hike! A two-mile unpaved road at Stovepipe Wells Village leads to the mouth of the canyon. The hike is out and back, for a total of about four miles.
The trail starts out nice and easy, but gets more and more challenging as you progress. You have to be able to squeeze past boulders and crawl through narrow openings to get to the end. After a series of “narrows” — points where the canyon walls close in on the trail — you reach the dryfall that marks the end. At that point you retrace your steps to the parking lot.
You can do as much of the trail as you like, and just turn back when it gets too difficult. The natural mosaic rock formations that give the canyon its name are right at the beginning of the trail, so they can be viewed by just about all visitors. It’s a beautiful canyon to hike and I hope you try it when you visit Death Valley NP!
By Dhara, It’s Not About the Miles
Crater Lake National Park – Oregon
Crater Lake is one of the smaller national parks, but it has some of the most beautiful vistas. The beautiful lake is at the top of a volcano and has some of the bluest water you will ever see due to the purity of the water. Crater Lake isn’t known for its epic hikes like some park, but there are some peaks that can be summitted and other hikes with great views of the lake. Visiting the lake is quite limited as the rim road is under snow until late Spring each year and then again in September or October. However, the main visitor center and viewpoint stay open year round. Fun Facts: Crater lake is the deepest lake in the USA, and it was the fifth park to be designated a national park in 1902.
By Lisa, TheHotFlashPacker
Mammoth Cave National Park – Kentucky
There are many US National Parks, but Mammoth Cave is probably my favorite. Mammoth Cave National Park is located in western Kentucky, and as the name suggests, it is the home of the longest known cave system on earth.
Historically, it was believed that there were numerous different caves in the area, but through continuous exploration, connecting passages between them all have been discovered. At this time there are 412 miles of known passages in this one huge system. Obviously, this means that cave tours are the big highlight of the park. There are several tours showcasing different aspects of cave formations, so if time allows, we suggest taking more than one!
Above ground, the park may seem like any other temperate forest. However, this is an area of extensive karst topography, meaning not only are their caves below, but there are also sinkholes, bluffs, ravines, overlooks, and waterfalls.
There are 85 miles of trails in the park, including several miles near the visitor’s center that are completely accessible. There are some trails designated for horseback riding and mountain biking. All trails incorporate many of these intriguing and beautiful features. We recommend the cedar sink trail to see some interesting formations, and of course the sink. For those that prefer to do their exploring on water, the Green and Nolan Rivers course through the park, with kayak and canoe rentals available.
Mammoth Cave also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an International Protected Biosphere, one of only a handful of US parks that have those distinctions.
By Roxanna Keyes, Gypsy With a Day Job
Canyonlands National Park – Utah
Located in Southwestern Utah, Canyonlands is just over 30 minutes from the town of Moab, itself a destination for outdoor lovers. There are other beautiful National Parks in the area, like Arches, for example, but Canyonlands is special because of the sheer expanse of it. Looking out from Mesa Arch is like peering down into an area where huge creatures once roamed.
We’ve often said it’s like looking down on the footprint of some undiscovered mega-dinosaur.
It’s truly a landscape photographer’s dream. But Canyonlands is more than photography. It’s an amazing spot for mountain biking. Note though that you will likely need a permit to ride your bike on many trails. Climbers will enjoy the technical climbing that is available – no permit required. Campers will love Needles and Islands in the Sky. Each has its own campground, with Needles having the most “modern” amenities. And if you’re just into stargazing, this place is amazing. There is no light pollution here.
If you’re a true outdoors person, it’s easy to stay at Canyonlands for several days. But if you’re just interested in a day hike, there are trails at both Needles and Islands in the Sky that range from beginner to strenuous and from just a couple hours to several days. It sounds cliché, but there is truly something for everyone here.
Canyonlands makes you feel a little bit smaller – and insignificant, but in a good way that we sometimes need to be reminded of. It truly is awe-inspiring.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee and North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in Tennessee and North Carolina is the most visited National Park in the United States. It has attractions for everyone from serious hikers looking for intense climbs to visitors who’d rather walk a paved trail or catch the view from a scenic overlook. The rolling, tree-covered mountains draw you in with their beauty and even the most popular trails give you a chance to get lost in the quiet surroundings. If you’re more into history than hiking, a variety of historic buildings from farmhouses to a chapel can be found within the park, and the Cades Cove scenic loop is a great place to explore the local history.
The many waterfalls in the area are my favorite aspect of the Smokies. Cascades of water dot the landscape with varying size and intensity. Some of them can be viewed right from the side of the road, and others require more of a hike. We were referred to Grotto Falls by a park ranger and were thrilled with it. The falls themselves aren’t particularly large, but they’re beautifully nestled among the greenery and you can walk behind the water for photographs. The hike was perfect – a little less than a mile and a half each way – and not so flat as to be boring, but also not too strenuous. There were visitors of all ages at the falls, from an infant in a carrier to elderly grandparents.
Zion National Park – Utah
Zion National Park, the first of Utah’s Mighty 5, is not only impressive and stunning, but it’s also a great park to enjoy with the whole family. The aftermath of years of uplift and erosion, Zion Canyon stretches 15 miles long and 1 mile deep between red, pink, and tan sandstone cliffs. The park is world famous for its hiking, offering breathtaking trails of all difficulty levels. However, you don’t even need to leave your car to experience the beauty of Zion. There are multiple scenic drives that offer some of the best views in the park. Angel’s Landing is the most famous hike in the park, and arguably one of the most famous in the country. A trail that is only a few feet wide with 1,000-foot drop-offs on either side was not something I was ready to attempt, so instead, I opted for the alternative, Observation Point. This trail (and its views) should not be underestimated! It’s actually steeper and longer than Angel’s Landing, just not quite as terrifying! It’s 8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 2,120 feet and the views from the top are well worth the trek! If you’re feeling adventurous, give rock climbing or canyoneering a try. Or, perhaps grab a permit to hike through the Narrows, the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Just be prepared to get wet, because this hike actually requires hiking through the Virgin River!
By Caitlyn, Postcards from Cait
Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is my favorite National Park in the US. I love how it changes in the different seasons, and how gorgeous the Blue Ridge Mountains look with the sun setting behind them. I have visited this park multiple times at different parts of the year, and it is always a treat whenever I get to return. Most famous for Skyline Drive, a scenic driving route through the park with multiple overlooks to enjoy the park’s beauty, it has encompassed accessibility as part of the park’s mission from the beginning. Folks who are hiking the Appalachian Trail will find cabins here, but it also has popular trails like Old Rag Mountain. I love driving Skyline drive with friends, family, or even alone with my dog. I never tire of the beauty of the landscape, which is especially gorgeous in autumn. One of my favorite activities is to take photos of Skyline Drive, since they change so dramatically from season to season.
By Stephanie Craig, History Fangirl
Great Basin National Park – Nevada
Great Basin National Park is an alpine paradise in the middle of the arid Nevada desert. It’s quite literally in the middle of nowhere, is one of the least visited national parks in the US, and is home to some of the oldest living trees on Earth, the Bristlecone pines.
My decision to go to Great Basin for the first time was spur of the moment. It’s only six hours from where I live (which, when you live in the middle of nowhere and have to drive hours to get groceries, six hours is nothing) and made the perfect weekend trip.
As soon as we arrived, I loved it. We found the perfect campsite at the Upper Lehman Creek Campground, one of five in the park, and settled in before setting off on a hike to the alpine lakes, which was my favorite hike. We combined it with the Bristlecone trail to make it a little shorter instead of backtracking to do that next day.
At the end of the Bristlecone Trail, you can continue on to see the only glacier in Nevada. This trail combo is perfect in the afternoon. It takes a couple of hours and you can relax along the lake shores. Make sure you do a Lehman Cave tour on your visit as well. I would recommend the hour and a half tour. Great Basin is a very laid back park and it’s just so easy to relax and enjoy your visit.
By Megan, Red Around The World
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park – Hawaii
The Hawai’I Volcanoes National Park is an absolutely breath-taking place on Earth. Not only does is stretch along the size of 323,431 acres, but also does it encompass two active volcanoes: Kilauea, which has just erupted a couple of weeks ago and Mauna Loa, which is the world’s most massive shield volcano. When entering the park, you might feel as if you have just landed on the moon. Left and right on the road, you’ll find endless fields covered in lava ash which makes the entire park look surreal and unique. A visit to the park can be super diverse: Start off by visiting the information centre, where you get all information on short and long hikes, as well as on the major things to see and roads to drive. Also, the park is super easy to drive through in your own rental car.
Fun fact: Hawai’I Volcanoes National Park was designated as an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980 and a World Heritage Site in 1987. Just in 2012 the park was honored on the 14th quarter of the America the Beautiful Quarter series. Do you need more reasons to visit?
By Clemens, Travelers Archive
Point Reyes National Seashore – California
Acadia National Park – Maine
Acadia National park is a true gem of the United States and one of my favorite National Parks. There is so much natural beauty and diversity to explore. The breathtaking treasure of the north Atlantic coast, Acadia National Park is located in the state of Maine. Maine is the northeastern most U.S state and is a part of the “New England” region. Acadia is the highest rocky headlands along of the Atlantic coastline of the U.S and has a large abundance of biodiversity. Here you can explore a range of landscapes, from the rocky coastlines, to forests, ponds, marshlands, fields and mountains! A true nature lovers playground. There are many hiking opportunities at Maine, and the mountain hikes are extraordinary. However, my favorite hike was one looking out to the Atlantic – hiking from the sand beach to otter cliff is breathtaking and a great way to view the true beauty of Acadia. It is an easy hike, with the most breathing views of the Atlantic Ocean.
By Kelly Edgar, Roaming Free – Tales of Wanderlust by Kelley
Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona
Yosemite National Park – California
Bryce Canyon National Park – Utah
Big Bend National Park – Texas
Arches National Park – Utah
Arches National Park is located just a stone’s throw from Moab, the adventure capital of Utah. The national park gets its name from the natural arches (around 2000 in the region) formed by sand erosion. Visitors don’t even have to leave the main road to gaze at these amazing formations. However, the best stuff is just a short hike away.
The hike to Delicate Arch is my favorite because it features one of Utah’s best landmarks and makes for stunning scenery whether it’s day or night, rain or shine, sunrise or sunset. This is a family friendly hike that anyone can do. Even my mother completed this hike in a knee brace last month. The trail has changed a bit over the years, but the view has stayed the same. I guess that’s one of the reasons why I am already drawn to this place. In fact, the whole if southern Utah is such an enchanting place with so many unique landscapes. And to top it all off, the night sky here is beautiful and definitely worth staying awake for some midnight stargazing.
By Nathaniel Perlow, Nate Meets World
Great Sand Dunes National Park – Colorado
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is located in Colorado, approximately 3 hours from Colorado Springs. I had experienced sand dunes prior to visiting the Great Sand Dunes National Park so I was expecting more of the same experience. But, holy cow the sand dunes at GSDNP are substantially more impressive! The dunes are much more intimidating, grandiose, and surreal. The massive dunes provide a unique opportunity to sand board and/or sled around the dunes. Rentals are available at shops just outside the park. Michelle and I had a blast sand boarding and taking action photos. I will say, walking up the long, for a couple hours is quite tiring but very much worth it. While the sand dunes are the main attraction, there is plenty of hiking to do in the surrounding area. Surprisingly, the immediate area is surrounded by trees and plenty of vegetation, providing some relief from the scorching sun.
The Great Dunes National Park provides several unique experiences no other park provides. Depending on your travel preferences, the park has everything one could want from easy hiking to difficult hiking, to sand boarding / sledding, to back country camping, to mountainous forest hiking, and so much more. If you have the chance to visit the park, take the opportunity to visit the unique landscape.
By Jameson Stelly, The Wandering Queen
Would you believe that I have not been to any of them all? I’ve visited the US once and explored California. Was so close to Yosemite as my friend lives close there but I didn’t manage to go!!! Definitely bookmarking your list! Love all the photos too!
I would really love to see the parks in Utah- they look completely out of this world! I have been to three on this list (Yellowstone, Crater Lake & Yosemite) and the parks system is one of my favorite things about the US!
I know I looove all the parks in the USA! Thank you for commenting 🙂
It’s so hard to choose which are my top choices, I want to go to all of them! Been to a couple, but many more to go! Great list and beautiful pictures
Thank you! I know what you mean! It is sooooo hard!
I have been to many of these, and the rest are on my list! Of course, I would add the NP in my backyard…Saguaro National Park, to your list!
I still have not been to it, sadly! But I really hope to someday 🙂
I have made it to 7 out of the 20! Thanks for sharing the list with us. So many great national parks on there.
Thank you 🙂 I think I am now at 20!
I really enjoyed learning what other people’s favorite National Parks are. While we (my family and I) have only been to a handful of National Parks, our favorite is Zion.
How funny! After all these years of visiting national parks, my favorite one is Zion as well. I wonder if it will ever change 🙂 Thanks for commenting!
A great compilation of parks! Very impressed that Great Basin made your list – Lehman caves are amazing and much better (as are Carlsbad Caverns and Wind Cave) than what you can see at Mammoth Caves which was a surprise to me to see on the list.
parktracker.org is compiling inputs from everyone to determine the country’s favorite (not just most visited) national parks.
No Alaska parks made the list? Denali (and Katmai during the bear season) are worthy contenders.
The U.S. National Parks are great places to visit and your blog encourages more people to enjoy them!