25 Most Beautiful National Parks in the USA to Treat the Nature Lover in You

The United States of America is comprised of 50 unique states encompassing a gigantic landscape, with Alaska in the northwest and the far-flung islands of Hawaii, extending their presence into the Pacific Ocean. At 3.8 million sq. miles, the United States stands at number 3 position in terms of the total area in the world. The more surprising thing is the number of national parks the country boasts. The US is home to 62 stunning national parks and protected areas; in this article, we cover 25 most beautiful national parks that will treat the nature lover in you.

Most Beautiful National Parks in the USA – Top 25 Names

Out of fifty states, twenty-nine states have national parks. California tops the list with nine gorgeous parks.

In 2017, more than 84 million visitors make their way to the national parks in the USA, which also set a further record the next year (with a 0.1% increase).

With over 11.3 million visitors, Great Smokey Mountains National Park topped the list of the most visited national park in the country in 2017.

Read on to find the top twenty-five national parks in the United States of America (not in rank or popularity).

1. Great Smokey Mountains National Park: Encompassing 522,419 acres of area, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not only one of the largest protected areas in eastern America but also the most visited national park in the country. Dramatic landscapes, smoky mountain cliffs, dense forests, and a myriad of hiking opportunities keep travelers coming to this beautiful paradise.
2. Grand Canyon National Park: Lipan Point is a major highlight offering spellbinding sunrise and sunset and wide views of the canyon and Colorado River. The national park covers a massive 1.2 million acres of area in the northern region of Arizona.
3. Yosemite National Park: One of the most popular national parks in America, Yosemite National Park is well-known for its ancient sequoia trees, an abundance of waterfalls, and granite cliffs. Outdoor lovers will love to try adventure activities including hiking and climbing.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park: Filled with charming lakes, forests, snow-clad mountains, and alpine tundra, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado has all the ingredients to be listed in your bucket-list.
5. Zion National Park: One of the highlights of Zion National Park is the stunning Zion Canyon. Amongst other topnotch landmarks that Zion National Park boasts include the Three Patriarchs, Twin Brothers Peaks, Horse Ranch Mountain, and Kolob Canyons.
6. Yellowstone National Park: With nearly 3,500 square miles wilderness recreation area, Yellowstone National Park’s attractions and features allure modern travelers to explore its rich flora and fauna. It is the first national park in the country established in 1872. The topmost attractions are gushing geysers, hot springs, alpine rivers, dramatic canyons, lush forests, and hundreds of animal species.
7. Olympic National Park: Diversity is the hallmark of this gorgeous Olympic National Park. Located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest, the Olympic National Park prides itself on several distinct ecosystems such as old-growth temperate rain forests, glacier-capped mountains, wild coastline, and dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains. It further has four different regions such as the western temperate rainforest, the epic Pacific coastline, the drier eastern forests, and the alpine regions.
8. Acadia National Park: A beautiful national park in Maine, Acadia National Park is marked by woodland, glacier-scoured granite peaks, and rocky beaches. It is a 47,000-acre Atlantic coast area majestically perched on Mount Desert Island.
9. Grand Teton National Park: Covering a gigantic mass of 310,000 acres and boasting a plethora of features including the Rock Mountains, the Grand Teton National Park is an important place for hikers and climbers. The Tetons are mountains of the imagination.
10. Glacier National Park: Straddles the border of Canada and the United States, Glacier National Park enjoys some of the awe-striking landscapes in the country with super-stunning glacier-carved peaks and gorgeous valleys running to the Canadian border. It covers a 1,583-square-mile wilderness area in the Rocky Mountains and offers more than 700 miles of hiking trails for hikers of all levels. Families would love camping, cycling, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.
11. Joshua Tree National Park: Designated in 1994, the Joshua Tree National Park features grasslands, rocky barren regions, dunes, scrubs, and a huge range of outdoor activities. Hiking is the most sought-after activity followed by bird watching, climbing, and more.
12. Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Families looking to spend the day with nature, partaking in various activities would find Cuyahoga Valley National Park a perfect place. The Cuyahoga River runs through the park, transforming the area into a fairyland flourished with verdant forests.
13. Bryce Canyon National Park: Conjure up pictures of traveling through spire-shaped rock formations in one of the world’s most spectacular national parks. This is Bryce Canyon National Park recognized for its outstanding crimson-colored hoodoos. The sprawling reserve is also famous for its iconic Sunset Point, Bryce Point, and Inspiration Point.
14. Hawai?i Volcanoes National Park: Mauna Loa is one of the largest shield volcanoes in the world, while Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes. Both of these active volcanoes adorn the heart of Hawai?i Volcanoes National Park. Located on Hawaii Island (the Big Island), the national park draws hundreds of people to witness its mesmerizing landscapes.
15. Arches National Park: If you have to visit the most gorgeous desert landscapes in the country, there wouldn’t be a better place than the Arches National Park. The national park is believed to have derived its name from the natural sandstone arches. It is home to 2,000 natural sandstone arches, which make it ideal for hiking and rock climbing.
16. Hot Springs National Park: Located in the heart of Garland County, Hot Springs National Park, in Arkansas attracts visitors with its water – soothing thermal water. Locals call it the “The American Spa”. It sees both rich and poor coming for the bath. People can walk around and explore the lovely surroundings.
17. Shenandoah National Park: Stretching along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park should find its name in your bucket-list. The park features rocky peaks, waterfalls, and wetlands and is home to the elusive black bear, bird species, and more. Looking for some Instagram-worthy landscape pictures? Make your way to Shenandoah National Park. Like every other park, it is well-known for excellent hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
18. Mount Rainier National Park: The tallest mountain in Washington, Mount Rainier National Park makes one of the spectacular attractions in the United States. Wonderland Trail is the prime highlight of the park flaunting a 93-mile-long hiking trail. If you are a hiking aficionado, you will need as many as 14 days to complete the trail.
19. Death Valley National Park: Hottest, driest, and lowest national park - Death Valley National Park will inspire your awe for sure. Located in the westernmost region of California, the park partially stretches into neighboring Nevada. The natural environment of the park has been shaped by its geology. Scattered with rocks (some of them are 1.7 billion years old), the park charms visitors with many unique species of plants and animals.
20. Haleakal? National Park: Another national park in Hawaii located on the island of Maui, Haleakal? National Park is popular for its breathtaking scenery. Deserts, dry mountains, and endless horizons comprise the main ingredients of the park.
21. Sequoia National Park: Visit the Sequoia National Park and make yourself feel small. The park has striking rock formations, streams, and the Giant Forest. The huge sequoia trees are the star attractions of the park. The park was established in 1890 to protect 404,064 acres of forested mountainous terrain.
22. Capitol Reef National Park: Won’t you just love it driving between massive red-hued rock formations and taking in the breathtaking views? Such is the fascination of the Capitol Reef National Park. Amongst other great features are the canyons, golden sandstones, the Chimney Rock pillar, Capitol Reef, and the Hickman Bridge arch.
23. Badlands National Park: Peppered with dramatic landscapes spanning towering spires, layered rock formations, and steep canyons, Badlands National Park has all the ingredients to be named on the list of the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
24. Everglades National Park: How can we not include this preserve and protected area in this list of America’s most intriguing national parks? The Everglades is known for its amazing wildlife scene and flora and fauna. Rent a kayak and explore the swamps.
25. Saguaro National Park: Comprised two distinct areas – the Rincon Mountain District and the Tuscon Mountain District – the Saguaro National Park is known for the legendary Saguaro cactus. It is all over the park.

National Park Outdoor Activities