US National Parks List: What are the best U.S. National Parks to visit?
The best U.S. National Parks are often considered to be Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Zion, Grand Teton, Glacier, Olympic, and Death Valley. These parks usually rank highest because of their dramatic landscapes, variety of activities, wildlife, and overall visitor experience.
How many U.S. National Parks are there?
There are 63 official U.S. National Parks managed by the National Park Service. They are spread across 30 states and two U.S. territories, offering everything from glaciers in Alaska to tropical ecosystems in Florida.
Which National Park is ranked number one?
There is no single official ranking, but several experienced travelers and park experts consistently place parks like Olympic National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Yosemite National Park at or near the top because of their scenery and diversity.
Are lower ranked National Parks still worth visiting?
Yes. Rankings are subjective. Even parks that appear lower on some lists offer unique beauty and meaningful experiences. A park’s ranking often depends on personal taste, accessibility, and how much time someone had to explore it.
The United States National Park system protects some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. From deserts and canyons to mountains and rainforests, these parks showcase the natural diversity of North America.
All 63 US National Parks Ranked
Several travel experts who have visited all 63 parks have published detailed rankings, helping travelers decide where to go first. While opinions vary, clear patterns appear when comparing these lists.
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One park that frequently appears near the top is Olympic National Park. Located in Washington State, Olympic stands out because of its incredible variety. Within one park, you can explore rugged Pacific coastline, walk through temperate rainforest, and hike alpine mountain trails.
Few parks offer this level of diversity in a single visit. Travelers often praise Olympic for feeling wild and less commercial compared to some of the more crowded parks.
Another consistently high ranked destination is Grand Teton National Park. The sharp peaks of the Teton Range rise dramatically above Jackson Hole, creating one of the most photographed mountain scenes in America.
Visitors love the clear alpine lakes, scenic drives, and opportunities to see wildlife such as elk, moose, and bears. Many experienced travelers describe Grand Teton as visually perfect because the mountains seem to rise straight from the valley floor.
Yosemite National Park also ranks very high on most lists. Yosemite is famous for its towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, along with powerful waterfalls such as Yosemite Falls.
The park combines dramatic scenery with accessible infrastructure, making it easier for visitors to experience incredible views without extreme effort. For many travelers, Yosemite represents the classic American national park experience.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park holds a special place in history as the first national park in the world. Beyond its historical importance, Yellowstone offers geothermal wonders including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots.
Old Faithful remains one of the most famous natural attractions in the country. Wildlife viewing is another major highlight, with bison, wolves, and bears roaming the landscape.
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park is often described as the most iconic park in America. The scale of the canyon is difficult to understand until you see it in person. Layers of rock stretch for miles, revealing millions of years of geological history.
Whether viewed from the rim or explored on a hike below, the Grand Canyon leaves a lasting impression.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is another favorite, especially for hikers. Its red rock cliffs and narrow canyons create dramatic landscapes that feel almost unreal. Trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows attract adventure seekers from around the world.
Zion is smaller than some parks, but its scenery is concentrated and powerful.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is often called the Crown of the Continent. With its turquoise lakes, rugged peaks, and remaining glaciers, it offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in North America.
The Going to the Sun Road is considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States.
Death Valley National Park
Desert lovers frequently praise Death Valley National Park. Known as the hottest place on Earth, Death Valley surprises visitors with its beauty.
Salt flats stretch across the valley floor, sand dunes rise against mountain backdrops, and colorful rock formations create stunning views at sunrise and sunset. Its vast open spaces give a strong sense of isolation and scale.
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park
Alaska contains several parks that rank highly for those seeking true wilderness. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States.
It is bigger than many countries and offers untouched landscapes filled with glaciers and towering mountains. Because it is remote and less developed, it appeals to experienced adventurers looking for solitude.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Mid ranked parks are still impressive. Rocky Mountain National Park offers alpine lakes and high elevation drives. Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique rock spires called hoodoos.
Everglades National Park protects a rare subtropical ecosystem filled with alligators and birdlife. These parks may not always top the list, but they provide rich and memorable experiences.
Lower Ranked Parks
Some parks rank lower mainly because they are harder to access or smaller in size. Isle Royale National Park requires a boat or seaplane to reach, which limits visitor numbers.
Congaree National Park is relatively small but protects an important old growth forest ecosystem. Lower ranking does not mean less valuable. It often reflects personal preference or travel convenience.
When choosing which national park to visit, consider your interests. If you love mountains, parks like Glacier, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain may suit you best.
If you prefer deserts, Zion and Death Valley offer striking scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts often prioritize Yellowstone or Everglades. Those who want fewer crowds may consider Alaska parks or more remote destinations.
Season also matters. Some parks are best visited in summer when roads are open and weather is mild. Others, especially desert parks, are more comfortable in spring or fall. Planning ahead can greatly improve your experience.
Every U.S. National Park protects something special. The beauty of the system lies in its diversity. There is a park for every kind of traveler.
Whether you aim to visit one or all 63, each journey offers a chance to experience some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world.
US National Parks List: Resources
- US national parks list – Business Insider
- All 63 US National Parks Ranked by Experts (Best to Worst) – MJP
- All 63 US National Parks Ranked – Lee
- Tadexprof – Tourism and Travel – Category
- All 63 National Parks- Ranked — Alexyn Photo & Video
