7 Must-See National Parks in the United States
In 2020, we packed up in an RV on an ultimate road trip to visit some of the quintessential US National Parks. We covered the States between Florida and Washington and everywhere in between, visiting the most iconic views that the United States has to offer.
Out of all of the incredible views and adventures, here are 7 US National Parks that you can’t miss.
7 US National Parks to Add to Your Bucket List
Whether you’re planning a trip to visit one of these parks or heading out on a road trip to hit them all, the most crucial part of the trip is the planning.
PREPARING FOR THE PARKS
Best Times to Visit
Peak seasons for visiting National Parks are during mid-spring (late March - early May) and during the summer months (June - early September). With schools being out for spring and summer vacation and the weather being its best, the tourism at National Parks is at its peak.
Opt to visit more popular parks in early fall when the temperatures are still comfortable and the crowds have faded.
Plan for Pets
Pets are not allowed in National Parks. If you’re planning on camping, be sure that the temperatures are appropriate to leave your pup inside of you RV or van while you’re visiting the park. Look for a Rover or other local doggy daycares might be a better option for taking care of Fido while you’re out.
While pets aren’t allowed inside of the parks, there are always National Forests and outside trails that offer great views that are dog friendly.
Embrace the Mornings
The best way to beat the crowds is by getting there before the buses arrive and the lots fill up. Grab a coffee and make it to the park to catch sunrise. While everyone else is fighting for a selfie with Old Faithful, you’ll have already been there and done that.
Not an early bird? With less light pollution, National Parks are a great place to go to admire the stars. While everyone is fighting yo
Reliable Transportation
Surprise! Many National Parks do not have a commercial airport near them. Plan transportation ahead by opting for a road trip or by renting a car to be able to visit the parks.
There are also bus options as well, but this leaves you with less flexibility.
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to plan where you’re going!
Top 7 Must-See US National Parks
The Grand Canyon National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Arches National Park
The Grand Tetons National Park
Sequoia National Park
Yosemite National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
1. Grand Canyon
WHAT TO DO
The Grand Canyon is a HUGE park to cover. You could spend weeks there and barely scratch the surface. With 4 different rims of the canyon to visit, it’s safe to say you’ll get a good view.
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway
For an overview of the park, hop on the 2-hour railway that will take you 65 miles around the Grand Canyon. While it is a bit of a tourist trap with performers coming out in Western garb, it is a great way to get a lay of the land before adventuring on your own.
Raft the Colorado River
Instead of viewing the canyon from above, check it out from below! Ride the rapids of the Colorado River on a rafting excursion. They offer a variety of different levels and lengths of excursions for you to pick from.
Visit the Skywalk
Fear of heights? Beware. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is 21 meters above the rim and with a clear glass floor, you won’t miss a single view.
TOP HIKES
The Grand Canyon can be explored easily by car with multiple paved routes that takes you around the park to different scenic points. If you’re up for the challenge, though, there are incredible trails around the park waiting to be hiked.
Bright Angel Trail on the South Rim
Cape Royal Trail on the North Rim
Horseshoe Bend Trail on the East Rim
Highpoint Hike to Guano Point on the West Rim
There is a variety of difficulty levels when hiking in the Grand Canyon. To check if a certain hike is the right fit for you, ask a park ranger or look on AllTrails for advice and maps.
Engage with Park Rangers
Not only are park rangers making sure the parks stay pristine and healthy, they are also looking out for you.
Asking park rangers where their favorite sites and trails are is a great way to explore the parks.
2. Yellowstone
WHAT TO DO
Yellowstone is an incredibly diverse park with anything from canyons to hot springs. Check a few of these “must-do’s” off your list.
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone National Park has many iconic spots that are must-sees while visiting. The Grand Prismatic Spring, while it is a tourist hotspot, is unlike anything you’ve seen before being the largest hot spring in the US. While going early may save you from the crowds, the colors are their best and brightest during mid-day.
Mammoth Hot Springs
The Mammoth Hot Springs are a great place to explore. Parking is limited, so head off on foot to visit this part of the park. The Terraces are a great place to view the hot springs, but we also recommend walking the boardwalk to be able to see it all.
Yellowstone Loop Road
This road is a can’t-miss as it’s the main road that takes you through the park. Yellowstone can get very hot in the summer and a few short hikes may be all you can manage in the heat. Cool off in the AC and take a drive through the park. You’ll see plenty of wildlife and will be able to stop along the road at many sites.
SECRET SITES
Upper Geyser Basin
Old Faithful is not the only geyser in Yellowstone. In fact, we recommend seeing Old Faithful erupt from a distance and sneaking off to the Upper Great Basin where there is a fraction of the people, yet still plenty of active geysers and colorful hot springs.
Yellowstone Lake
At 7,000ft of elevation, Yellowstone Lake is worth the visit. You can rent kayaks or a boat to enjoy the water. This is a great way to spend the day away from the crowds before or after visiting the tourist hot spots.
How wild!
The wildlife of Yellowstone is one of the top reasons people visit the park.
3. Arches
WHAT TO DO
The Delicate Arch
The hike to the delicate arch is the most popular hike in Arches, yet is still a must-do. There’s enough terrain that the highly congested parts are mainly at the beginning and end, still giving you time to enjoy the scenery. The line for photos at the arch can be long, but there are plenty of other view points around the arch to enjoy.
Sand Dune Arch
Can you see why the park is named Arches? Sand Dune Arch is a great way to find some shade during the intense Utah summers. The arches and sandstone walls of Sand Dune Arch make a natural maze for you wander through. Have kiddos? This is a great place to make a sandcastle.
Devils Garden
Devils Garden is the perfect hike to be able to hit multiple sites on one trail. It’s a “make your own adventure” trail, meaning you’re able to choose which route and sites you’d like to take and see. If you have limited time in the park, this is definitely a must-do to be sure to see the main spots.
OUTSIDE OF THE PARK
Visit Moab
If staying near the park, chances are you’ll be in Moab. Moab has a great restaurant scene, including a permanent food truck park. Enjoy breweries and great burgers while in a canyon of red rocks.
Colorado Riverway Bike Trail
This bike trail runs right along the Colorado River and is right outside the entrance to Arches. You’ll see lots of people floating and kayaking down the river. There are many places to sit and enjoy the views along the trail or to stop and have a picnic. Keep an eye out for natural fresh water springs along the route to fill up your water bottles!
Dead Horse State Park
Only about 30 miles from Arches National Park, Dead Horse State Park is a great place to camp, bike, and explore. This park is a great place to enjoy a sunset or just another view of the scenery. Best part? Dogs are welcome here!
4. Grand Tetons
WHAT TO DO
Canoeing and Kayaking on Jenny Lake
For an incredible panorama of the Grand Tetons, take a paddle around Jenny Lake. Grab an early morning rental and you may be the only one on the lake! After time on the lake, hop off for a hike, bike, or drive around Jenny Lake Scenic Drive. Keep an eye out for cars and wildlife, though.
Schwabacher Landing
The view from this short trail includes a reflection of the mountains off of The Snake River. The trail is extremely accessible incredible and doesn’t need a park pass to be visited.
Taggart and Bradley Lakes Trail
This 5.5 mile hike is a great way to get a great view of the peaks a bit closer up. This hike is great for all levels, ages, and abilities. Being a popular hike in the Tetons, arriving early is always the best way to get the most of our hike. Be on the lookout for the moose that tend to also be big fans of this trail!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Staying in Wyoming
The cities of Jackson and Teton Village are an entire trip in and of itself! There are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs to fit all of your needs. Enjoy town and nightlife of Jackson while still being immersed in the gorgeous scenery.
Stay in Idaho
While Jackson Hole is a great city to visit and enjoy, it can be pricey to stay in. Nearby towns in Idaho such as Victor and Driggs offer cheaper accommodation options while still being within 30 minutes of the National Park.
5. Sequoia
WHAT TO DO
General Sherman Tree
The largest tree by volume can be found in the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park. The trail is short but the trees sure are not! Take this trail that is less than one mile long and be surrounded by some of the largest trees in the world.
Grizzly Falls
Surrounded by Redwoods is Grizzly Falls, a 75ft waterfall, can be visited for photos or for a resting place after a long day of hiking. The best time to visit is in the spring, when the falls are at their mightiest, but is a beautiful place to visit regardless of the season.
Tunnel Log
A fallen Redwood tree turned tunnel, this is a must-see when visiting Sequoia! You can drive or walk through Tunnel Log. If choosing to drive, make sure your vehicle is less than 8ft high to be able to fit through! Unfortunately the iconic Tunnel Tree, a standing Redwood with a tunnel in the base large enough to drive through, fell during a snowstorm in 2017.
HOW TO GET THERE
Rent an RV or Van
Sequoia is located in California and is near many other National Parks. Unfortunately, it is quite a few hours from many airports if you’re looking to fly in to visit. Our recommendation is to rent an RV or sleeper van to be able to tour at your own pace, have a place to sleep, and be able to drive through the park and off to other parks if you wish!
Traveling by van is getting more and more popular as a flexible way to travel around. Many are equipped with kitchens, bathrooms, and ample sleeping space. You can park them at campsites for the night or can even park in the parking lots of popular chains like Walmart and Cracker Barrel for a night for free.
WHAT TO BRING
If you’re choosing to rent an RV or van, it is important to stay organized while staying in a smaller space. Our favorite way to stay organized during roadtrips is by using compression cubes to save space and also to stay organized!
The National Parks Set
Tripped Travel Gear 6-Piece Carry-On Compression Cubes in our favorite National Parks print.
6. Yosemite
WHAT TO DO
Half Dome
This iconic peak has been attempted by many climbers and now required you to enter a lottery to be able to climb it. If you’re not interested in a climb, it is still a noteworthy site to visit and admire it’s sheer height.
Mirror Lake
A great spot to view Half Dome from is Mirror Lake. This lake offers you two views of Half Dome as it’s reflection of the dome is almost just as beautiful as the mountain itself!
Glacier Point
An incredible panoramic viewpoint, Glacier Point gives views over several of the “can’t miss” landmarks of Yosemite. While not near to it, you still can view El Capitan and Half Dome from this point. Hike to it or drive to it, just don’t miss it.
WHERE TO CAMP
Camp 4
This campground is one of the most famous in the country. It’s located right outside of the village so offers plenty of amenities. While it may not be quite as much of “rustic camping” it’s a great way to stay close to the park and comfortable!
Wawona
Situated right next to river, fall asleep under the stars with the sounds of the nearby river. Campsites here book up quickly so be sure to have a reservation far in advance.
Hodgdon
This campground is much more of a rustic experience. It’s located at a higher elevation and much more removed from the towns. Be sure to pack in all you need for your stay, but more importantly pack out everything you brought to keep the park clean and healthy.
7. Rocky Mountain
WHAT TO DO
Hike to Emerald Lake
This popular trail is well-known for a reason. It’s a moderate hike, relatively accessible, and is home to 3 beautiful alpine lakes along the trail. Be sure to hike in the summer or fall when the snow has melted and the lakes are not covered.
Look for Elk
The elk population in Rocky Mountain National Park is incredible. A popular time for people to visit is during elk rutting season in the fall when you can hear their unique mating calls. Ask a park ranger for the best spots to view the elk when you visit.
Hike to Sky Pond
The “it” hike of the Rockies, this hike is not for the faint of heart, but is well worth the sweat. There are multiple view points along the way, and with a high elevation, you’re able to look out over most of the park. It is not easily accessible so keep that in mind when planning your trek.
CAN’T MISS VIEWS
Storm Pass
This is a must-visit during the fall when Aspen trees are in their full yellow glory. Take in the views or take a hike around. This is a great spot for photos!
Forest Canyon Overlook
Take Trail Ridge Road to this incredible overlook to be able to see some of the mightiest peaks in the park. You’ll be able to get an idea of just how sprawling Rocky Mountain National Park is. Arrive at sunset or sunrise for smaller crowds and beautiful colors.
Just the Start
The United States boasts an impressive list of National Parks for you to visit. While these our top 7 National Parks in the United States, there are more to be explored!
Enjoy this list as a stepping stone into visiting the United States National Parks
