My Favorite National Parks
From sea-level marvels to high-altitude mountain viewpoints, there is an abundance of landscapes and activities across the United states’ 61 National Parks.
While we patiently wait on pause while Coronavirus limits our travel options, I’m happy to plan a few trips to satiate my eagerness to get back out there. In fact, scientific research has found that planning a trip is nearly, if not more so, enjoyable than the trip itself. I may have to argue against that as I’d much rather feel the warmth of Grecian sand under my bum than merely see it in my mind’s eye, but who am I to argue with science? Plus, I don’t know about you, but I could really use a leg-up to get my happy juices firing on all cylinders again.
For those in the U.S., National Parks are a great option - if done safely - for summer adventures. Of the sixteen parks I’ve visited, below are my top five favorites to inspire your next journey - or just to plan it from afar for the time being.
Notes on Quick Facts: Annual visitors based on 2019 data, courtesy of NPS; Best time to visit is recommended based on seasonality and annual visitors, with prime times tending to be on either end of the busiest month(s), but when the weather is still ideal; Park sizes courtesy of NPS.
01. Grand teton, wyoming
Annual Visitors
5,947,411
best Time to visit
June, Aug-Sep
park size
310,044 acres
established
1929; 18th park
Best for
Water sports, hiking, camping
While this is one of the most popular parks, it is not without good reason. Its varying landscapes, moderate weather, rich history, and array of activities makes it a one-size-fits-all destination. Families love it. Friends on road trips love it. The young and the old love it. The towering mountains and wildlife doesn’t hurt its reputation either.
May I present a non-exhaustive list of things to do: bike, mountain climb, hike, fish, camp, backpack, enjoy a casual (or not so casual) horse ride, kayak, photograph wildlife. In winter you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, and take the good ol’ snowmobile for a joy ride. If all else fails, you can explore nearby Jackson Hole. Trust me, there is plenty to keep you busy.
While there are several (read: a great, great many) hikes, my favorites are Delta Lake for its more rigorous terrain and in-your-face view of Grand Teton itself, and Jenny Lake Loop for an equally stunning view that is far kinder on the knees.
For a more robust road trip, throw in a few days at nearby Yellowstone National Park as well.
Photo by Disa Wold (@disa)
02. Bryce Canyon, utah
Annual Visitors
2,594,904
best Time to visit
April-May
park size
35,835 acres
established
1928; 17th park
Best for
hikinG, geology enthusiasts
Bryce encompasses all the classic elements of Southwestern rawness, but in an accessible and uniquely compelling package, making it a great introductory course for those new to the desert. Here, the subtle scent of sage brush lingers in the air as the heat peels from the dusty orange terrain and settles softly on the skin.
Unique to Bryce are its “hoodoos.” which is undoubtedly one of the greatest words for a slice of nature’s architecture. Walking among this formidable, yet delicate, maze of geological formations offers travelers a sense of rugged exploration. To beat the heat, you can drive along the scenic loop and stop at various overlooks, and at night there are blissfully clear skies for stargazing.
Just outside the park are other areas to adventure as well, such as Red Canyon, and you can even stay in a tipi. Bryce is also very close to Zion National Park, so if you have the time to dedicate to both, you can pack them into a single trip!
| Read More: A Weekend in Bryce Canyon
03. North Cascades
Annual Visitors
38,208
best Time to visit
June-Sep
park size
504,654 acres
established
1968; 33rd park
Best for
hiking, mountain lovers
This glaciated wonderland is perhaps the most underrated national park of them all. Outside of Alaska, it has the most glaciers in the U.S. and more mountain peaks than you know what to do with
The North Cascades mainly attracts mountain climbers and hiking enthusiasts but is accessible to all physical abilities. From parking lot overlooks to standing atop a mountain summit, there is certainly something for everyone. If standing at the 10,000 feet isn’t your thing, perhaps a gentle hike to ultra blue Diablo Lake is more your jam. You can even drive through the park’s Cascade Byway and make stops along the way if that’s more your speed.
The window to visit the main sites is pretty small with winter snow dominating most of the year. To see it at its peak, visit from June to early October. My favorite hiking spots are Blue Lake and Cascade Arm and Sahale Arm (backcountry permit required), and Diablo Lake Overlook is also not to be missed.
| Read More: A Day in the North Cascades
04. kenai fjords, alaska
Annual Visitors
356,601
best Time to visit
April-May
park size
669,650 acres
established
1980; 45th park
Best For
wildlife, water sports
If you are searching for a mild-temperature summer escape, Kenai Fjords checks all the boxes. Accessed via Seward, a small fishing town in Southcentral Alaska, Kenai offers activities on the water, in the forest, and even among glaciers.
The best way to spy marine life and classic Alaskan scenery is by taking a small day cruise. Some trips travel farther off the beaten track, such as to the Northwestern Fjords, while others visit the "“must-see” sights, like Holgate Glacier. In Resurrection Bay, there are kayak opportunities a-plenty, even overnight tours to picturesque Fox Island if it so tickles your fancy.
By land, there is a gentle hike to Exit Glacier and a not-so-gentle hike to Harding Ice Field, with more areas to explore just outside of the park. If you need more options, there are fishing tours, scenic flights by seaplane, and wildlife refuges to visit. Even getting to and from Kenai via the Seward Highway is a lovely time with gorgeous scenery throughout.
| Read More: Summer in Alaska
05. canyonlands, utah
Annual visitors
733,996
BEst time to visit
April-June
Park Size
337,597
established
1964; 31st park
BEst For
Backcountry camping
Of Utah’s five National Parks, Canyonlands is not only the largest, but also the least visited. This combination of titles makes its already sprawling landscape feel wildly intimate. From the buttes along the Colorado River to its endless desert canyons, there is no shortage of wilderness to explore. If you’re big on nature and less enthused by people, this is the park for you.
Due to its size, Canyonlands is divided into three distinct districts: Island in the Sky, Needles, and the Maze. While each area is unique, they all offer hiking, backpacking, camping, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Island in the Sky, in the north, is the most accessible of the bunch. Here, you can enjoy scenic drives, expansive views, and moderate hikes. The Maze, to the southeast, is its stark opposite; you’ll find yourself in the rugged backcountry where your wilderness skills will be put to the test and self-reliance is paramount. The Needles, to the southeast, is the happy medium of the two, offering a backcountry experience that is more accessible though not without its challenges. Its namesake “needles” are unique sandstone pillars that are a sight for sore eyes as well.
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