Best U.S. National Parks for 2024
In 2024, the best U.S. National Parks offer a breathtaking mix of natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor adventures. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the unique geothermal features of Yellowstone, these parks represent some of the most stunning and varied landscapes in the country.
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Yellowstone National Park, widely regarded as America's first national park, remains a top destination with its geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. Yosemite National Park captivates visitors with its giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls. The Grand Canyon offers awe-inspiring views and challenging hikes, while Glacier National Park boasts pristine lakes and rugged mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains, straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, are famous for their biodiversity and mist-covered vistas. Meanwhile, Zion and Bryce Canyon in Utah showcase dramatic red rock formations and extensive hiking trails. Lastly, Acadia National Park in Maine combines coastal beauty with forested trails, offering a unique experience along the Atlantic Ocean. Each of these parks provides not only stunning scenery but also a chance to connect with nature and engage in a variety of recreational activities.
View AllGlacier National Park - Majestic mountains, pristine lakes, diverse wildlife, vast wilderness.
View AllGrand Canyon National Park - Vast, breathtaking canyon with diverse ecosystems and rich history.
View AllYellowstone National Park - Stunning geothermal features, diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes.
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View AllZion National Park - Majestic canyons, towering cliffs, scenic trails, rich biodiversity.
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View AllYosemite National Park - Majestic granite cliffs, giant sequoias, stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife.
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View AllGrand Teton National Park - Majestic mountains, pristine lakes, abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery.
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View AllOlympic National Park - Diverse ecosystems: mountains, forests, coastline, and wildlife.
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View AllSequoia National Park - Giant sequoia trees, mountainous terrain, stunning natural beauty.
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View AllBryce Canyon National Park - Bryce Canyon: stunning hoodoos, vibrant colors, unique rock formations.
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View AllArches National Park - Stunning rock formations with over 2,000 natural stone arches.
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View AllMount Rainier National Park - Stunning alpine landscapes with glaciers, forests, and wildflowers.
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View AllRocky Mountain National Park - Stunning mountains, diverse wildlife, hiking trails, alpine lakes.
Best U.S. National Parks for 2024
1.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, located in the U.S. state of Montana, is a stunning wilderness area in the Rocky Mountains, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Encompassing over a million acres, the park features rugged mountains, pristine forests, and an array of glacial-carved valleys. Visitors can explore over 700 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers panoramic views of the park's majestic scenery. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and wolverines. With over 130 named lakes, numerous waterfalls, and glaciers, Glacier National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility in an unspoiled natural setting.
Hotels
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Lake McDonald Lodge
- Glacier Park Lodge
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Rising Sun Motor Inn
- Village Inn at Apgar
- Apgar Village Lodge
Dining
- Russell's Fireside Dining Room
- Eddie's Cafe & Gifts
- Jammer Joe's Grill and Pizzeria
- Ptarmigan Dining Room
- Two Dog Flats Grill
2.
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its immense size and intricate, colorful landscape. Spanning 277 miles of the Colorado River, the canyon reveals millions of years of geological history through its layered rock formations. Visitors are captivated by its vast vistas, dramatic cliffs, and the interplay of light and shadow that changes throughout the day. Popular activities include hiking along the rim and into the canyon, river rafting, and enjoying scenic viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. The park also offers diverse wildlife and rich cultural history, including sites significant to Native American tribes. Grand Canyon National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Hotels
- El Tovar Hotel
- Bright Angel Lodge
- Yavapai Lodge
- Maswik Lodge
- Thunderbird Lodge
- Kachina Lodge
Dining
- El Tovar Dining Room
- Bright Angel Restaurant
- Yavapai Tavern
- Maswik Food Court
- Canyon Coffee House
3.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is renowned as the first national park in the world. Spanning approximately 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it boasts a diverse array of natural wonders. Visitors are captivated by its geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful geyser and the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring. The park is also home to an array of wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. With its dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, and expansive grasslands, Yellowstone offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. Its unique geothermal landscape and rich biodiversity make it a global treasure and a must-see destination.
Hotels
- Old Faithful Inn
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins
- Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins
- Canyon Lodge & Cabins
- Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins
Dining
- Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
- Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room
- Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room
- Canyon Lodge M66 Grill
- Grant Village Dining Room
4.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a breathtaking expanse renowned for its stunning red rock formations, towering sandstone cliffs, and diverse ecosystems. Encompassing over 146,000 acres, the park features dramatic landscapes such as the iconic Zion Canyon, carved by the Virgin River, which plunges 2,000 feet deep. Visitors can explore a variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes like the famous Angels Landing and The Narrows. Rich in both natural beauty and wildlife, Zion is home to a wide array of plants and animals, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The park's unique geology, vibrant colors, and serene beauty offer an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Hotels
- Zion Lodge
- Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale
- Cable Mountain Lodge
- Bumbleberry Inn
- Majestic View Lodge
- Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park
- Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
Dining
- Switchback Grille
- Spotted Dog Cafe
- Oscar's Cafe
- Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon
- Zion Canyon Brew Pub
- Red Rock Grill
- King's Landing Bistro
5.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Covering over 1,100 square miles, the park boasts dramatic granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, breathtaking waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Iconic landmarks include El Capitan, Half Dome, and the towering Yosemite Falls. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting. The park's lush meadows, clear streams, and pristine wilderness offer a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Yosemite's rich history and conservation legacy, championed by naturalist John Muir, make it a treasured destination for millions of visitors each year.
Hotels
- The Ahwahnee Hotel
- Yosemite Valley Lodge
- Wawona Hotel
- Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
- Rush Creek Lodge
- Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
- Yosemite View Lodge
- Curry Village
Dining
- The Ahwahnee Dining Room
- Base Camp Eatery
- Yosemite Valley Lodge Mountain Room Restaurant
- Curry Village Pizza Deck
- Degnan's Kitchen
6.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, is a stunning natural wonder that captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. Dominated by the rugged peaks of the Teton Range, the park offers a striking contrast of jagged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush valleys. The iconic Grand Teton, rising to 13,775 feet, serves as a centerpiece for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is a haven for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife viewing, featuring over 200 miles of trails and abundant opportunities to spot elk, moose, and bears. Scenic drives, such as the Teton Park Road, provide breathtaking vistas, while historical sites like the Mormon Row offer a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Hotels
- Jackson Lake Lodge
- Signal Mountain Lodge
- Jenny Lake Lodge
- Colter Bay Village
- Dornan's Spur Ranch Cabins
Dining
- The Mural Room
- Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room
- Signal Mountain Lodge's Trapper Grill
- Dornan's Chuckwagon
- Jackson Lake Lodge's Pioneer Grill
- Leek's Marina & Pizzeria
- The Blue Heron Lounge
7.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located in Washington State, is a diverse and stunning natural wonder renowned for its ecological variety and breathtaking landscapes. Spanning nearly a million acres, the park encompasses lush temperate rainforests, rugged coastline, and glacier-capped mountains. Visitors can explore the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the finest examples of temperate rainforest in the United States, or marvel at the panoramic views from Hurricane Ridge. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Unique ecosystems provide habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its pristine beauty and ecological significance.
Hotels
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Kalaloch Lodge
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
- Olympic Lodge
- Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor
Dining
- Lake Crescent Lodge Restaurant
- Granny's Cafe
- Springs Restaurant at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
- Kokopelli Grill
- Next Door Gastropub
- The Tides Seafood & Bar
8.
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park, located in California's southern Sierra Nevada mountains, is renowned for its giant sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on earth by volume. Established in 1890, the park spans over 400,000 acres of diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine peaks. Visitors can explore the extensive network of hiking trails, such as the High Sierra Trail, which offers breathtaking vistas and access to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. The park also features deep canyons, tranquil meadows, and roaring rivers, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities like camping, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. Sequoia National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and a testament to the grandeur of America's natural heritage.
Hotels
- Wuksachi Lodge
- John Muir Lodge
- Montecito Sequoia Lodge & Summer Family Camp
- The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
- Stony Creek Lodge
- Cedar Grove Lodge
Dining
- The Peaks Restaurant
- Wuksachi Lodge Dining Room
- Grant Grove Restaurant
- The River Restaurant & Lounge
- Totem Market and Gifts
9.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is renowned for its stunning and unique geological formations. The park's most distinctive features are its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that protrude from the canyon floor, shaped by millions of years of erosion. The vibrant colors of the rock formations, ranging from red to orange to white, create a mesmerizing landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bryce Canyon offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, allowing visitors to explore its breathtaking amphitheaters and vistas. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional location for stargazing. With its otherworldly scenery and diverse outdoor activities, Bryce Canyon is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Hotels
- Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
- Bryce Canyon Lodge
- Ruby's Inn
- Bryce Canyon Pines
- Bryce View Lodge
Dining
- Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant
- Stone Hearth Grille
- The Lodge at Bryce Canyon Restaurant
- Cowboy Ranch House
- Ebenezer's Barn & Grill
10.
Arches National Park
Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah, is a mesmerizing landscape renowned for its over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Spanning 76,679 acres, the park features an array of geological formations such as balanced rocks, towering pinnacles, and expansive fins, all sculpted by millennia of erosion. The vibrant red and orange hues of the rock contrast strikingly with the deep blue sky, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing, as the park is also a designated International Dark Sky Park. With its unique and dramatic scenery, Arches National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Hotels
- Red Cliffs Lodge
- Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa
- Moab Springs Ranch
- The Gonzo Inn
- Sunflower Hill Inn
- Aarchway Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab
Dining
- The Broken Oar
- Desert Bistro
- Moab Brewery
- The Spoke on Center
- Miguel's Baja Grill
11.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington State, is a natural gem featuring the majestic Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano standing at 14,410 feet. The park encompasses over 236,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, including lush old-growth forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and rugged alpine terrain. Visitors can explore more than 260 miles of maintained trails, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife such as elk, black bears, and marmots. Popular activities include hiking, mountaineering, camping, and photography. The park is also home to the Paradise and Sunrise visitor centers, which provide educational exhibits and panoramic vistas. Open year-round, Mount Rainier National Park offers a serene escape into nature's splendor.
Hotels
- Paradise Inn
- National Park Inn
- Alexander's Lodge
- Nisqually Lodge
- Gateway Inn & Cabins
Dining
- Copper Creek Inn
- Paradise Inn Dining Room
- Wildberry Restaurant
- Summit House Restaurant
- Rainier BaseCamp Bar & Grill
12.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, located in northern Colorado, is a breathtaking expanse of rugged mountainous terrain, lush forests, and pristine alpine lakes. Covering over 415 square miles, the park is home to some of the highest peaks in the Rockies, including Longs Peak, which towers at 14,259 feet. Visitors are captivated by its diverse ecosystems, from montane woodlands to alpine tundra. The park offers over 355 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives like Trail Ridge Road, and abundant wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears. Popular activities include hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and photography. Whether blanketed in snow or bursting with wildflowers, Rocky Mountain National Park is a year-round destination that showcases the grandeur of America's natural beauty.
Hotels
- The Stanley Hotel
- YMCA of the Rockies
- Estes Park Resort
- Murphy's River Lodge
- The Ridgeline Hotel
- Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
- Silver Moon Inn
Dining
- The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
- Bird & Jim
- Twin Owls Steakhouse
- Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Brew
- Dunraven at The Estes Park Resort
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