The Best National Parks to Visit in the U.S.: Nature’s Greatest Treasures Uncovered

Introduction

In this article, we blend an essay narrative with an expert interview to explore the best national parks to visit in the U.S. We’ll hear from Laura Jensen, a seasoned environmental scientist and nature photographer who has visited every single U.S. national park. Her insights help reveal not just the beauty, but also the deeper stories behind these iconic locations.

From towering granite cliffs and alpine lakes to arid deserts teeming with cacti, the United States is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the planet. These wonders are preserved in the form of national parks—each one a distinct treasure offering unique ecosystems, geology, and opportunities for adventure. But with over 60 national parks spread across the country, which ones should you prioritize?

The Majesty of the U.S. National Park System

Established in 1872 with the creation of Yellowstone National Park, the U.S. National Park System is a testament to America’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. These parks protect landscapes that are home to endangered wildlife, ancient geological formations, and ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.

Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, a family on vacation, or a solo traveler in search of solitude, the national parks offer something transformative.

Interview with Laura Jensen

Environmental Scientist, Author of “Wilderness Within”

Q1: Laura, you’ve been to every U.S. national park. What makes them so special?

Laura Jensen:
Each park is a portal into a different world. One week, you could be watching geysers erupt in Yellowstone, and the next, stargazing in the quiet deserts of Big Bend. They’re sacred spaces where time slows down and nature is the only language spoken. You learn humility, and more importantly, you remember that you’re part of something much bigger.

Top National Parks to Visit in the U.S.

1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

The First and the Fiercest

Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of its most dramatic. Home to geysers like Old Faithful, boiling mud pots, and massive bison herds, this park is a geological wonderland.

Laura adds:
“If you want the full spectrum of natural phenomena—volcanoes, wildlife, forests, and waterfalls—Yellowstone is your park.”

2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

Earth’s History Carved in Stone

Nothing prepares you for your first view of the Grand Canyon. Its scale, colors, and depth leave visitors breathless. Hike down into the canyon for an unforgettable journey through millions of years of Earth’s history.

Laura says:
“The Grand Canyon reminds you how fleeting we are. It’s not just a view, it’s a spiritual confrontation.”

3. Yosemite National Park (California)

Cathedrals of Granite and Sky

With its towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and lush valleys, Yosemite is a masterpiece. Half Dome and El Capitan are iconic climbs, while Glacier Point offers panoramic views that feel almost unreal.

Laura notes:
“Photographing Yosemite is like trying to capture a dream. No matter what angle you shoot from, it’s always epic.”

4. Zion National Park (Utah)

Desert Beauty and Canyons that Glow

Zion’s red rock cliffs and emerald pools create surreal beauty. The hike through The Narrows—where you walk in the Virgin River between narrow canyon walls—is unlike anything else.

Laura:
“Zion teaches you about contrast—how water carves stone, and how resilience shapes beauty.”

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)

Misty Hills and Biodiversity Heaven

One of the most visited parks in the country, the Smokies are beloved for their fog-draped ridges and rich biodiversity. In spring, wildflowers blanket the forest floor in brilliant color.

Laura comments:
“The Smokies are an orchestra of sounds—birdsong, flowing water, rustling leaves. They’re alive in a way few places are.”

6. Acadia National Park (Maine)

Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Located along the rocky coastline of Maine, Acadia offers the rare combination of mountain hiking and ocean views. Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is a bucket-list experience.

Laura:
“Acadia is the quiet beauty of the East Coast—a perfect mix of ocean air and granite trails.”

7. Glacier National Park (Montana)

Wild and Untamed

With its alpine lakes, towering peaks, and grizzly bear territory, Glacier is a testament to untamed wilderness. Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road or hike to hidden backcountry gems.

Laura shares:
“Glacier is where you go when you want to feel small and wild. It’s nature at its most raw.”

8. Olympic National Park (Washington)

Three Ecosystems in One Park

Olympic boasts beaches, temperate rainforests, and snow-capped mountains—all within a few hours of each other. It’s one of the most diverse and magical parks in the country.

Laura reflects:
“Olympic feels like multiple lifetimes in one place—from mossy forests to coastal tide pools to alpine meadows.”

Tips for Visiting U.S. National Parks

• Plan Ahead: Some parks require timed-entry permits (like Yosemite and Glacier).
• Leave No Trace: Respect nature. Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints.
• Visit Off-Season: For fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing, try visiting in shoulder seasons like May or October.
• Stay Hydrated and Informed: Many parks are in remote areas. Always bring water, maps, and check weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. national parks are more than destinations—they’re national treasures that feed the soul and awaken a sense of wonder. In an age of fast-paced technology and constant distraction, they offer a rare chance to reconnect with the Earth and with ourselves.

Laura Jensen’s Final Words:
“If you ever feel lost in life, go find yourself in a national park. Nature doesn’t judge. It just shows you who you really are.”