When it comes to the best national parks in the USA, the options are as diverse as the landscapes themselves.
From towering mountains to vast deserts, the top US national parks showcase the country’s natural beauty in all its forms. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a family with kids that appreciates stunning scenery, these national parks in the USA offer something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the top national parks in the US. We’ll have the US national parks ranked from #1 to #10, and answer some key questions along the way.
What is the Most Beautiful Park in the US?
1. Yellowstone National Park
What is the top national park in the US? For many people, Yellowstone National Park is often regarded as the crown jewel. Established in 1872, it was the first national park in the country.
Yellowstone is known for its geothermal wonders, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. As one of the best national parks in the USA, it’s also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, and reintroduced gray wolves.
2. Yosemite National Park
What is the most beautiful park in the US? Yosemite National Park might take the prize for many. Synonymous with towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and giant sequoias, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful national parks in the US and draws millions of visitors each year.
The park’s most iconic features include El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, each offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes. As one of the best US national parks, Yosemite’s diverse landscapes make it a must-visit for nature lovers.
3. Grand Canyon National Park
No list of the top national parks in the US would be complete without the Grand Canyon. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is a testament to the power of nature. Its immense size—277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep—makes it one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the world.
Visitors to the Grand Canyon can explore its many viewpoints, hike the challenging Bright Angel Trail, or even take a mule ride down into the canyon. The Grand Canyon’s dramatic vistas have made it one of the most beautiful national parks in the US.
4. Glacier National Park
Located in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is a haven for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. As one of the most beautiful national parks in the US, it offers over 700 miles of trails, stunning alpine scenery, and crystal-clear lakes. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and even wolves.
5. Denali National Park
What is America’s biggest national park? The answer to that would be Denali National Park, which is synonymous with wilderness and wildlife. Dominated by the highest peak in North America, this park offers a truly rugged experience.
Denali’s vast landscapes and diverse wildlife make it one of the best national parks in the USA. For those looking to experience the wild side of the national parks in the USA, Denali is a must-see.
6. Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Utah is known for its dramatic canyons and towering sandstone cliffs. As one of the most beautiful national parks in the US, Zion offers a unique blend of desert terrain and lush greenery, especially along the Virgin River.
Popular hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows provide adrenaline-pumping experiences, while the quieter trails offer serene views of the park’s stunning landscapes. Zion’s accessibility and variety of trails make it one of the best US national parks for all types of adventurers.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s renowned for its mist-covered mountains and rich biodiversity.
As one of the most visited US national parks, it offers a wide range of activities, from scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway to exploring its numerous hiking trails. The park’s diverse flora and fauna, particularly in the fall when the foliage is blazing with color, make it one of the top national parks in the US.
8. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington is a showcase of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. This park features diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and alpine peaks.
The park’s remote wilderness areas and stunning landscapes earn it a place among the most beautiful national parks in the US. Whether you’re hiking through the Hoh Rainforest or watching the waves crash along the coast, Olympic National Park offers an unparalleled experience.
9. Grand Teton National Park
Located just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park is one of the best US national parks for mountaineers, hikers, and photographers. The jagged peaks of the Teton Range rise dramatically from the valley floor to create one of the most iconic mountain landscapes in the country.
The park’s pristine lakes and abundant wildlife add to its appeal. They make it one of the best national parks in the USA for those seeking both adventure and serenity.
10. Acadia National Park
On the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a stunning mix of ocean views, granite peaks, and lush forests. It’s one of the best national parks in the USA thanks to its accessibility.
Acadia provides a variety of activities, from hiking Cadillac Mountain to exploring the picturesque seaside towns. But it’s the park’s combination of coastal and mountain scenery that makes it one of the top national parks in the US.
Protecting the Diversity of the Best US National Parks
From the alpine peaks of Glacier to the red rock formations of Arches, the best national parks in the USA offer a stunning array of landscapes. These parks are not only beautiful, but they also serve as vital habitats for all kinds of wildlife.
Here at Fahlo, we’ve made it our mission to protect the wildlife of these US national parks and beyond. To accomplish that, we partner with nonprofit organizations to create bracelets that come with a real animal to track.
Since 2018, our hope has been to educate and inspire you about conservation through a tangible bracelet and interactive tracking experience. Discover the wilderness through our eyes and make a difference by joining us on the journey.