Ten Best National Parks in the USA

1. Yellowstone National Park

• Location: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
• Why Visit:
  As the first national park in the world, Yellowstone is a treasure trove of geothermal wonders, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. Marvel at Old Faithful’s clockwork eruptions, the vivid colours of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the roaring majesty of the Yellowstone River’s waterfalls. Keep an eye out for roaming bison, elk, and even grizzly bears.
• Driving Tips:
  The Grand Loop Road (142 miles) is the best way to explore the park’s highlights. Allow 2-3 days for a relaxed drive with plenty of stops. Roads may be closed during winter, so plan accordingly.
• Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

2. Grand Canyon National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Why Visit:
  The Grand Canyon’s sheer scale is breathtaking. The South Rim offers the most iconic viewpoints, including Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. Adventurous travellers can hike down to the Colorado River via the Bright Angel Trail, while others can take in the views from the Desert View Drive.
• Driving Tips:
  The South Rim is open year-round and offers easy access from Flagstaff or Phoenix. The less-visited North Rim is only open seasonally, from mid-May to October.
• Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

3. Yosemite National Park

• Location: California
• Why Visit:
  Yosemite’s granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoias are nature’s masterpiece. Iconic sights include El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. The Mariposa Grove is home to ancient sequoias, and Glacier Point offers panoramic views that will leave you speechless.
• Driving Tips:
  Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure parking. Tioga Road is a scenic route across the park but is typically closed in winter due to snow.
• Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

4. Zion National Park

• Location: Utah
• Why Visit:
  With its towering red cliffs, lush valleys, and thrilling hikes, Zion is a paradise for nature lovers. The Narrows, where you wade through a river between canyon walls, and Angels Landing, a challenging hike with unbeatable views, are bucket-list adventures.
• Driving Tips:
  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is only accessible by shuttle from spring through autumn, so plan accordingly. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway for breathtaking vistas year-round.
• Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

5. Glacier National Park

• Location: Montana
• Why Visit:
  Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier boasts dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a highlight, offering one of the most scenic drives in the USA.
• Driving Tips:
  The Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open from late June to mid-October, depending on weather. Allow plenty of time for stops along this 50-mile marvel.
• Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass (summer), $25 in winter.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Location: Tennessee and North Carolina
• Why Visit:
  The mist-covered mountains and diverse wildlife make the Smokies one of the most visited parks in the USA. Scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road and the Cades Cove Loop showcase the park’s beauty, while hiking trails lead to waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
• Driving Tips:
  The park is easily accessible from Gatlinburg or Cherokee. Parking is limited during peak foliage season (October), so plan accordingly.
• Fees: Free entry, but parking passes start at $5 per day (as of 2023).

7. Everglades National Park

• Location: Florida
• Why Visit:
  The Everglades offer a unique chance to explore a subtropical wilderness teeming with wildlife. Glide across the waters on an airboat tour or kayak through mangrove tunnels. Look out for alligators, manatees, and vibrant birdlife.
• Driving Tips:
  The park has three main entrances: Shark Valley, Ernest Coe, and Gulf Coast. Shark Valley is the best for first-time visitors and offers a scenic tram tour.
• Fees: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

8. Arches National Park

• Location: Utah
• Why Visit:
  With over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park is a photographer’s dream. Don’t miss the hike to Delicate Arch, especially at sunset, for an iconic view.
• Driving Tips:
  Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially in summer. The park is compact, and its highlights can be seen in one day.
• Fees: $15 per person or $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

9. Acadia National Park

• Location: Maine
• Why Visit:
  Acadia offers a mix of rocky coastline, pristine forests, and mountain views. Drive the Park Loop Road, hike the Beehive Trail, or watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the first place in the USA to see the sun.
• Driving Tips:
  Visit during autumn for stunning foliage, but arrive early as parking can fill up quickly.
• Fees: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.

10. Rocky Mountain National Park

• Location: Colorado
• Why Visit:
  Towering peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes make this park a must-visit. Drive the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the USA, for spectacular views.
• Driving Tips:
  Entry is via timed reservations during the peak season (May-October). Pack layers, as weather can change rapidly at higher elevations.
• Fees: $30 per vehicle for a 1-day pass or $35 for 7 days.