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Visiting the national parks in the US provides breathtaking natural beauty, a variety of wildlife, and outdoor recreation. These protected areas serve to preserve unique ecosystems, geological wonders, and cultural heritage. From stunning mountains to sun-baked desserts, they showcase the country’s environmental diversity. Visitors can enjoy exploring hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. These parks play a crucial role in conservation, protecting endangered species and fragile habitats. Managed by the National Park Service, they also offer educational programs about the environment and history.
Top 10 National Parks In The US To Visit
Experience the astonishing beauty and varied landscapes of these ten national parks in the US, offering its own unique charm and appeal:
1. Yellowstone National Park
Photo: Brigitte Werner (werner22brigitte) / Wikimedia Commons
Yellowstone is among the best national parks in the US, celebrated for its remarkable geothermal features and varied wildlife. This park is home to some of the world’s most iconic geothermal attractions. Spanning the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, the park showcases geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. It also features the Yellowstone Grand Canyon, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and rugged cliffs. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe bison, elk, grizzly bears and wolves in their natural habitats. Yellowstone Lake, recognised as one of the largest high-elevation lakes, offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 5 days
Entry Fee: $35 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
2. Yosemite National Park
Photo: Thomas Wolf / Wikimedia Commons
Yosemite attracts its visitors with granite cliffs, ancient sequoias, and breathtaking waterfalls. Situated in California’s Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park is renowned for its iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, which draw climbers from across the globe. The park boasts Yosemite Falls, one of North America’s tallest waterfalls. Furthermore, tourists can explore Mariposa Grove, which features ancient giant sequoia trees. The popular Yosemite Valley provides stunning meadows, encircled by towering cliffs. Rock climbers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts flock to Yosemite due to its extensive trails and viewpoints, such as Glacier Point and Tunnel View.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 days
Entry Fee: $35 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
3. Zion National Park
Photo: Zach Betten bettenz / Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its striking red cliffs and adventurous trails, Zion is a veritable paradise for hikers. Situated in Utah, Zion National Park is famous for its massive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and unique geological formations. The Virgin River has intricately carved the Zion Canyon, which offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, canyoneering and river trekking. Among the popular trails are Angel’s Landing, famous for its steep climbs and panoramic vistas. Wildlife in Zion comprises mule deer, foxes, and peregrine falcons. The park also features a shuttle system designed to reduce traffic and preserve its environment.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: $35 / ₹2530 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
4. Acadia National Park
Photo: Maddie.d.photography / Wikimedia Commons
Acadia offers a fascinating blend of rugged coastlines, towering mountain peaks, and a rich cultural history. Situated in Maine, Acadia is a top national park in the US that offers a unique combination of rocky shorelines, lush forests, and mountainous terrain. Cadillac Mountain, notably one of the first places in the U.S. where one can witness the sunrise, stands out as a major attraction. Visitors can walk across the 27-mile Park Loop Road or hike scenic trails such as the Precipice Trail and Jordan Pond Path. Furthermore, Acadia is home to the historic Carriage Roads, which are ideal for biking.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: $30 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
5. Canyonlands National Park
Photo: m01229 / Wikimedia Commons
Canyonlands is renowned for its striking canyons and rock formations. Situated in Utah, Canyonlands National Park presents vast desert landscapes that are divided into four distinct districts. These include Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze and the Colorado River. Island in the Sky offers panoramic vistas from towering cliffs, whereas the Needles showcases spires and intricate trails. The Maze is both remote and challenging, appealing to seasoned hikers. Visitors can also enjoy rafting and kayaking along the Colorado and Green Rivers. Unique landmarks include Mesa Arch frames breathtaking desert views and the White Rim Road.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 4 days
Entry Fee: $30 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
6. Redwood National And State Parks
Photo: Chmee2 / Wikimedia Commons
Redwood National and State Parks are renowned for their towering redwoods, the tallest trees in the world. The park’s ancient forests offer a peaceful escape, with trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Tall Trees Trail. However, beyond its iconic trees, the park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including coastal cliffs, prairies, and rivers. Visitors can walk across Fern Canyon, a densely covered gorge, or enjoy wildlife sightings like Roosevelt elk. This park is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological significance.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7
7. Arches National Park
Photo: Luca Galuzzi (Lucag) / Wikimedia Commons
Arches Park exhibits distinct geological formations that have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. Noteworthy attractions consist of Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, and Landscape Arch, among the longest natural arches globally. Hiking trails range from leisurely strolls to demanding treks. Besides, the park’s striking red rock landscape is particularly breathtaking at sunrise and sunset. Visitors may also engage in rock climbing and stargazing activities. Its relatively small size facilitates exploration within a brief period, making it one of the best national parks in the US.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Entry Fee: $30 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
8. Kenai Fjords National Park
Photo: CROCKERBD / Wikimedia Commons
Kenai Fjords National Park showcases the Harding Icefield, which boasts nearly 40 glaciers radiating from it. Visitors can encounter the breathtaking spectacle of tidewater glaciers generated into the ocean. Boat tours and kayaking offer a closer examination of the fjords and marine wildlife. This includes sea otters, humpback whales, and puffins. Hiking opportunities are also present, such as the Harding Icefield Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the ice and the surrounding landscapes. The park also highlights the significance of preserving its delicate ecosystems, especially because of a changing climate.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7
9. Shenandoah National Park
Photo: Greyfiveys / Wikimedia Commons
Shenandoah National Park spans a portion of the Appalachian Mountains. Skyline Drive, a scenic route extending 105 miles, runs through the park, providing visitors with awe-inspiring vistas and access to numerous overlooks. The park boasts over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Among the favourite hikes are Old Rag Mountain and Dark Hollow Falls. Although the park is renowned for its natural splendour, it is also steeped in history, featuring remnants of early settlers and sites from the Civil War. Wildlife, such as black bears, freely inhabit this area.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: $30 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Photo: Frank Schulenburg / Wikimedia Commons
The Lassen Park serves as a remarkable exhibition of volcanic activity, with all four types of volcanoes present here. These include shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome. Among the key attractions are Bumpass Hell, a hydrothermal region characterised by bubbling mud pots and fumaroles. The Cinder Cone Trail leads to sweeping vistas of lava beds. Lassen Peak, recognised as the largest plug-dome volcano globally, presents a challenging hike for experienced adventurers. Visitors can also discover pristine lakes, lush meadows, and forests brimming with wildlife.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fee: $30 / ₹2950 per vehicle for 7 days
Timings: 24*7
National parks in the US provide unique experiences, ranging from forests to rugged canyons, as well as glacial fjords. Engaging with these natural marvels allows visitors to build a connection with nature, gain insights into conservation, and partake in unforgettable adventures. Planning your trip can be daunting, but with TripXL, you can simplify this process. With its platform, expert suggestions, and customised itineraries, TripXL guarantees that you maximise your experience.
Cover Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
