From Coast to Coast: The Top 46 National Parks to Visit in America is a comprehensive guide to some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in the United States. With 62 designated national parks spread across the country, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. That’s why we have narrowed down the list to the top 46 must-see national parks, from the rugged coastlines of California to the towering peaks of Alaska.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine: Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can hike up Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the East Coast, or explore the historic carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr.

2. Arches National Park, Utah: Known for its iconic red rock arches, this park in Utah is a photographer’s paradise. Visitors can hike to the famous Delicate Arch or explore the many other unique rock formations throughout the park.

3. Badlands National Park, South Dakota: The otherworldly landscape of Badlands National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. The park is home to a vast expanse of eroded buttes, spires, and pinnacles, as well as abundant wildlife such as bison and bighorn sheep.

4. Big Bend National Park, Texas: Located on the border of Texas and Mexico, Big Bend National Park offers stunning views of the Chihuahuan Desert and the Rio Grande River. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, or floating down the river on a raft.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah: This park is famous for its unique hoodoos, tall spires of rock that look like something out of a fantasy novel. Visitors can hike through the canyon and take in the breathtaking views of these natural rock formations.

6. Canyonlands National Park, Utah: This park is divided into four districts, each with its own unique landscape and activities. Visitors can hike through the Needles district, go mountain biking in the Island in the Sky district, or take a scenic drive through the Maze district.

7. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah: Located in the heart of Utah’s red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park offers stunning views of towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and the famous Waterpocket Fold. Visitors can hike through the park’s many trails or drive the scenic Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

8. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico: This park is home to one of the largest cave systems in the world, with over 119 caves to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike through the caves on their own.

9. Channel Islands National Park, California: Located off the coast of Southern California, the Channel Islands are a group of five islands that offer a unique opportunity to explore untouched wilderness. Visitors can take a boat ride to the islands and hike, kayak, or camp in this remote paradise.

10. Congaree National Park, South Carolina: This park is home to one of the largest and oldest intact bottomland hardwood forests in the United States. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, canoeing, or kayaking through the Congaree River.

11. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon: This park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, formed by a collapsed volcano. Visitors can hike around the rim of the lake, take a boat tour, or even swim in the crystal-clear waters.

12. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada: With its extreme temperatures and vast desert landscape, Death Valley National Park is not for the faint of heart. However, visitors who brave the elements will be rewarded with stunning views of sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful rock formations.

13. Denali National Park, Alaska: Home to the highest peak in North America, Denali National Park offers breathtaking views of the Alaska Range and abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and caribou. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, or taking a bus tour.

14. Everglades National Park, Florida: This park is home to one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, with a vast expanse of wetlands and mangroves. Visitors can take a guided boat tour, hike through the park, or even go on a swamp walk to see the diverse wildlife.

15. Glacier National Park, Montana: Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, or taking a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

16. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: One of the most famous national parks in the United States, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views of the massive canyon carved by the Colorado River. Visitors can hike, camp, or take a helicopter tour to see the canyon from different perspectives.

From Coast to Coast: The Top 46 National Parks to Visit in America

17. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming: Located just south of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton offers stunning views of the Teton Range and the Snake River. Visitors can hike, camp, or take a scenic boat ride on Jenny Lake.

18. Great Basin National Park, Nevada: This park offers a unique landscape of ancient bristlecone pine forests, deep caves, and glacier-carved valleys. Visitors can hike to the summit of Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada, or explore the underground world of the Lehman Caves.

19. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee: This park is known for its stunning fall foliage, diverse wildlife, and historic cabins. Visitors can hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, or explore the historic Cades Cove loop road.

20. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas: This park is home to the highest peak in Texas and offers stunning views of the rugged desert landscape. Visitors can hike to the summit of Guadalupe Peak, explore the park’s extensive cave system, or camp under the starry desert sky.

21. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii: Located on the island of Maui, this park is home to one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Visitors can watch the sunrise from the top of Haleakalā, explore the park’s many hiking trails, or even go on a guided horseback ride.

22. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii: This park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. Visitors can hike through the park to see lava flows, explore lava tubes, and even see the glow of molten lava at night.

23. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas: This park is famous for its natural hot springs, which have been used for healing and relaxation for centuries. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs, explore the historic bathhouses, or hike through the park’s many trails.

24. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan: Located in the middle of Lake Superior, Isle Royale offers a remote and untouched wilderness experience. Visitors can explore the island by hiking, camping, or kayaking through the crystal-clear waters.

25. Joshua Tree National Park, California: This park is named after the iconic Joshua trees that dot the landscape and offers stunning views of the desert landscape. Visitors can hike through the park, go rock climbing, or stargaze at night in this dark sky preserve.

26. Katmai National Park, Alaska: This park is home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, and visitors can witness these majestic animals fishing for salmon in the rivers. The park also offers stunning views of volcanoes, glaciers, and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.

27. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska: This park is a popular destination for glacier and wildlife viewing, with the Harding Icefield, a massive expanse of ice, as the main attraction. Visitors can take a boat tour to see glaciers up close or hike through the park to see abundant wildlife, including whales and sea lions.

28. Kings Canyon National Park, California: This park is home to the deepest canyon in North America and offers stunning views of towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike through the park, camp under the stars, or even go on a guided mule ride.

29. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska: One of the most remote and least visited national parks, Kobuk Valley offers a truly wild and untouched experience. Visitors can hike through the park’s vast sand dunes, camp along the Kobuk River, or even go dog sledding in the winter months.

30. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska: This park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Alaska, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and active volcanoes. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, or taking a scenic flight over the park.

31. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California: This park offers stunning views of volcanic features such as hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. Visitors can hike to the summit of Lassen Peak, explore the park’s many trails, or even go on a guided boat tour of the park’s lakes.

32. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky: Home to the longest known cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave offers a unique underground experience. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, explore the park’s many trails, or even go on a canoe trip down the Green River.

33. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado: This park is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the United States, built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dwellings, hike through the park, or even camp in the backcountry.

34. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington: This

The United States is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in the world, and one of the best ways to experience them is by visiting the country’s national parks. From towering mountains to expansive deserts, and from lush forests to crystal clear lakes, America’s 46 most visited national parks offer something for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these national parks should definitely be on your bucket list. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the ultimate bucket list for visiting America’s 46 most visited national parks, including some must-see attractions and tips for making the most of your visit.

Before we dive into the details, let’s first understand why national parks should be a priority on your travel list. National parks are protected areas that preserve the natural and cultural heritage of a country. In the United States, they are managed by the National Park Service, an agency of the federal government. These parks not only offer stunning landscapes, but they also provide opportunities for education, recreation, and conservation. By visiting these parks, you are not only experiencing the beauty of nature, but you are also supporting the efforts to preserve it for future generations.

Now, let’s get to the main attraction – the 46 most visited national parks in America. These parks are ranked based on the number of visitors they receive each year, and they range from popular and well-known parks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. To make it easier for you to plan your ultimate national park adventure, we have divided these 46 parks into five regions – West, Southwest, Midwest, East, and Alaska. So, let’s begin our journey!

West Region:

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho:

Yellowstone National Park is the first and oldest national park in the United States, established in 1872. It is also one of the most visited national parks, attracting over 4 million visitors each year. The park is famous for its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, including bison, wolves, and bears. Some must-see attractions in Yellowstone include the Old Faithful geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

2. Yosemite National Park, California:

Yosemite National Park is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. It is a paradise for hikers and climbers, with over 800 miles of trails and granite walls that attract rock climbers from all over the world. The park also offers stunning views of iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona:

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic destinations in the world. Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Visitors can explore the canyon by hiking, rafting, or taking a helicopter tour. The park also offers stunning sunsets and stargazing opportunities.

4. Zion National Park, Utah:

With its towering red cliffs, deep canyons, and emerald pools, Zion National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Some must-see attractions in the park include the Zion Narrows, Angels Landing, and the Emerald Pools. The park also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, canyoneering, and horseback riding.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado:

Rocky Mountain National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 355 miles of hiking trails, the park offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, alpine lakes, and wildlife such as moose, elk, and bighorn sheep. The Trail Ridge Road, which reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet, is a must-do for scenic drives.

Southwest Region:

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting over 12 million visitors each year. The park is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, abundant wildlife, and historic buildings. Some must-see attractions include Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

7. Arches National Park, Utah:

Arches National Park is famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. The park also features canyons, rock formations, and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Utah desert landscape. Be sure to catch a colorful sunset at the park for an unforgettable experience.

8. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah:

Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the world’s largest collection of hoodoos – tall, thin spires of rock. The park offers stunning views of these unique rock formations, along with hiking and horseback riding trails. The most popular hike in the park is the Rim Trail, which takes visitors along the edge of the canyon and offers stunning views of the hoodoos.

9. Canyonlands National Park, Utah:

Canyonlands National Park is a vast, rugged landscape carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The park is divided into four districts, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Some must-see attractions include the Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Maze. The park also offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and scenic drives.

10. Saguaro National Park, Arizona:

Saguaro National Park is home to the iconic saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American West. The park offers stunning views of these towering cacti, along with hiking and biking trails. For a unique experience, visit the park during the evening for a chance to see the saguaro cactus bloom under the starry sky.

Midwest Region:

The Ultimate Bucket List: Visiting America's 46 Most Visited National Parks

11. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota:

Voyageurs National Park is a water-based park, with over 500 islands and more than 655 miles of shoreline. The park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the park’s interconnected waterways through guided canoe trips or by renting a houseboat.

12. Badlands National Park, South Dakota:

Badlands National Park is a unique landscape of rugged rock formations, canyons, and buttes. The park also features a variety of wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. The 31-mile Badlands Loop Road is a must-do for scenic drives, offering stunning views of the park’s unique geology.

13. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana:

Indiana Dunes National Park is home to 15,000 acres of dunes, forests, and wetlands along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The park offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic sites, including the Chellberg Farm and Bailly Homestead.

14. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a peaceful escape from the nearby urban areas of Cleveland and Akron. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic sites, including the Brandywine Falls and the Hale Farm and Village.

15. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan:

Isle Royale National Park is a remote island in Lake Superior, accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the island’s historic sites, including lighthouses and abandoned copper mines.

East Region:

16. Acadia National Park, Maine:

Acadia National Park is the only national park in the Northeast region of the United States. The park offers stunning views of the Atlantic coast, rocky beaches, and mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, or take a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road.

17. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia:

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic escape with over 500 miles of trails and the famous Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds through the park’s mountains. The park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the historic sites, including the Skyland Resort and the Rapidan Camp.

18. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado:

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of over 750 feet. The park also features a diverse landscape of wetlands, forests, and alpine tundra. Visitors can hike, sandboard, or even sled down the dunes for a unique experience.

19. Congaree National Park, South Carolina:

Congaree National Park is home to one of the largest intact expanses of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The park offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the park’s boardwalks, which offer a unique perspective of the forest.

20. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky:

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passages. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave or explore the park’s above-ground attractions, including hiking trails, scenic drives, and historic sites.

Alaska Region:

21. Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska:

Denali National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest peak in North America, Mount Denali, and offers stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep. Visitors can take a bus tour or hike through the park to experience its beauty.

22. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska:

Kenai Fj

Blog Post:

The United States is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in the world, and one of the best ways to experience these natural wonders is by visiting the 46 most popular national parks. From the rugged mountains of Glacier National Park to the picturesque beaches of the Dry Tortugas, each park has its own unique charm and beauty that draws in millions of visitors each year. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through these 46 national parks, highlighting their key features and must-see attractions.

1. Acadia National Park
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park is known for its stunning coastline, rocky beaches, and granite peaks. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and the iconic Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the East Coast.

2. American Samoa National Park
This remote park, located on the islands of American Samoa in the South Pacific, is a paradise for nature lovers. The park is home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

3. Arches National Park
Famous for its more than 2,000 natural stone arches, this park in Utah is a photographer’s dream. Visitors can also explore the park’s towering sandstone formations and take in the stunning views from the Delicate Arch.

4. Badlands National Park
As the name suggests, this park in South Dakota is known for its rugged and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can hike through the Badlands Loop Road, spot bison and prairie dogs, and take in the stunning sunsets over the colorful rock formations.

5. Big Bend National Park
Located in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 150 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the park’s mountains, canyons, and desert landscapes.

6. Biscayne National Park
This national park in Florida is a popular spot for water activities such as boating, kayaking, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the park’s diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs.

7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Known for its steep cliffs and narrow canyon walls, this park in Colorado is a must-visit for adventure seekers. Visitors can hike, raft, and climb through the park’s rugged terrain and take in the breathtaking views.

8. Bryce Canyon National Park
Famous for its unique geological structures called hoodoos, this park in Utah is a sight to behold. Visitors can hike through the park’s stunning trails and take in the stunning views of the Bryce Amphitheater.

9. Canyonlands National Park
Located in Utah, Canyonlands National Park is a vast landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes. Visitors can explore the park’s four districts, each offering its own unique experiences and breathtaking views.

10. Capitol Reef National Park
This park in Utah is known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, domes, and canyons. Visitors can take in the stunning views from the scenic drive, hike through the park’s trails, and explore the historic orchards.

11. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Located in New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to one of the world’s largest cave systems. Visitors can explore the underground wonderland and witness the stunning formations such as the Big Room and the King’s Palace.

12. Channel Islands National Park
This park, located off the coast of California, is made up of five islands with diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the islands’ beaches, hike through the trails, and spot seals, dolphins, and whales.

13. Congaree National Park
Known for its old-growth hardwood forest, this park in South Carolina is a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, spot wildlife, and take in the stunning views from the boardwalk.

14. Crater Lake National Park
This park in Oregon is home to the deepest lake in the United States, known for its crystal clear blue water. Visitors can take a scenic drive around the rim, hike through the trails, and witness the stunning Wizard Island.

15. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Located in Ohio, this park offers a mix of natural beauty and historic landmarks. Visitors can hike through the forests, take a scenic train ride, and explore the park’s historic villages and waterfalls.

16. Death Valley National Park
As the hottest and driest place in North America, this park in California is a unique and otherworldly experience. Visitors can hike through the Badwater Basin, take in the stunning views of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and explore the park’s colorful canyons.

A Journey Through the 46 Most Popular National Parks in the US

17. Denali National Park
Home to the tallest peak in North America, Denali National Park in Alaska is a paradise for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can take in the stunning views of Mount Denali, spot grizzly bears and moose, and explore the park’s vast wilderness.

18. Dry Tortugas National Park
Located off the coast of Florida, this park is a remote and secluded paradise. Visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to the park and explore the pristine beaches, historic fort, and vibrant coral reefs.

19. Everglades National Park
This park in Florida is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, spot alligators and other wildlife, and take a scenic boat tour through the mangroves.

20. Gates of the Arctic National Park
As one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the United States, Gates of the Arctic in Alaska offers a true wilderness experience. Visitors can hike through the park’s rugged terrain and witness the stunning views of the Brooks Range.

21. Glacier Bay National Park
This park in Alaska is a stunning combination of glaciers, mountains, and marine life. Visitors can explore the park’s fjords, witness calving glaciers, and spot whales, sea lions, and other wildlife.

22. Glacier National Park
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, Glacier National Park in Montana is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, take a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and witness the stunning views of the iconic Grinnell Glacier.

23. Grand Canyon National Park
One of the most iconic national parks in the United States, the Grand Canyon in Arizona is a true wonder of the world. Visitors can hike to the bottom of the canyon, ride the mules, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of this breathtaking natural wonder.

24. Grand Teton National Park
With its towering mountains and crystal clear lakes, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, take a scenic drive through the Teton Range, and witness the stunning views of the Grand Teton peak.

25. Great Basin National Park
Located in Nevada, Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem with its ancient bristlecone pine trees and Lehman Caves. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, take a cave tour, and stargaze at the park’s designated International Dark Sky Park.

26. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Famous for its towering sand dunes, this park in Colorado offers a unique and otherworldly experience. Visitors can hike through the dunes, sled or sandboard down the slopes, and witness the stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

27. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As the most visited national park in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, hike to waterfalls, and learn about the Appalachian mountain culture.

28. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Home to the highest peak in Texas, this park offers stunning views of rugged mountains, canyons, and desert landscapes. Visitors can hike to the summit of Guadalupe Peak, explore the park’s canyons, and witness the stunning views of the El Capitan peak.

29. Haleakalā National Park
Located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, this park is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano. Visitors can drive to the summit, hike through the crater, and witness the stunning views of the colorful cinder cones.

30. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This park on the Big Island of Hawaii is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park’s lava tubes, witness the volcanic activity, and learn about the Hawaiian culture and history.

31. Hot Springs National Park
Located in Arkansas, this park is known for its 47 thermal springs and historic bathhouses. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs, explore the park’s hiking trails, and learn about the park’s rich history.

32. Isle Royale National Park
Located in Lake Superior, this remote park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it a true wilderness experience. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, spot wolves and moose, and take in the stunning views of the pristine lake.

33. Joshua Tree National Park
This park in California is known for its otherworldly landscape of twisted Joshua trees and boulder formations. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, rock climb, and stargaze at the designated International Dark Sky Park.

34. Katmai National Park
Home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, this park in Alaska offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can witness the bears fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls, explore the park’s vast wilderness, and take a scenic flight over the park’s volcanoes and glaciers.

35. Kenai Fjords National Park
Located in Alaska, this park offers stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and