The Best West Coast National Parks

National Parks are wonderful places to experience the outdoors and get close to nature – on a budget! There are some incredible National Parks on the West Coast of the United States, so I brought together the best tips and recommendations from my fellow travel bloggers for how to visit the very best National Parks in West Coast USA, as well as some of the most beautiful National Parks a little further East. 

Tips for Visiting National Parks 

Buy the “America The Beautiful” Pass

If you plan on visiting several of these incredible West Coast National Parks or any others in the US, then buying a pass is definitely worth it. America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is an $80.00 Annual Pass that provides access to more than 2,000 recreation areas managed by five Federal agencies. 

It is honored at sites managed by the Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and Army Corps of Engineers so will cover all of the places mentioned in this article. 

Each pass allows free entrance for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas or up to 4 adults at sites that charge per person. Kids 15 & under get in free so there is no need to buy any additional passes for them.

The pass is valid for 1 year from the month of purchase and covers park admission only. It does not cover Expanded Amenity or Concessionaire fees such as parking, RV hookups, camping, shuttles, boat launches and guided interpretive tours

National Parks Money Saving Tip

If you plan to visit several parks in a year, don't forget to buy your National Parks Pass, which can save you a lot of money and gives you access to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands in the USA. 

Check Which Sites Require Permits

Some National Parks in the Western US may require you to register in advance of your visit, to ensure visitor numbers are controlled. Over the past few years with more people than ever visiting National Parks, it is important to manage how many people access the parks in order to preserve and protect these special places.

Others may require you to book transport in advance or get camping permits if you want to stay overnight in the park. The bottom line is to do your research to make the most of your visit!

When to Visit the National Parks on the West Coast

There is no bad time to plan your national parks trip. Whether you visit in Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Some of the parks in the north may get snow if you plan to visit the National Parks in winter, so trails may be closed but the parks are likely to be much quieter!

If you visit any of these National Parks in spring you can enjoy nature as it starts to wake up after winter, with spring flowers blooming. It may still be chilly on the northern West Coast, but the National Parks in the deserts of Utah would be great to visit in Spring.

Summer is the most popular time of the year to visit any of the National Parks in the US, so trails will be busier and you will need to reserve any permits well in advance to guarantee a place.

Fall is the best time to visit the National Parks in the forest areas of the northern West Coast, thanks to the stunning fall foliage. It will be busy, but worth it for those gorgeous fall colors!

Plan a West Coast National Parks Road Trip

If you’d like to visit several of the National Parks on the East Coast, a road trip is a great way to see more of the US along the way, and some of the best West Coast road trips pass through these incredible parks.  The below map can help to plan your route!

West Coast National Parks Map

Click the below image to open up the West Coast National Parks map in a new window. Each map item has more information about the parks, or scroll down to learn more about each of the National Parks on the West Coast of the US. 

I’ve split the map into two sections, one for National Parks on the West Coast, and one for National Parks in the Western US which is really the Mountain Region.

National Parks on the West Coast

Channel Islands National Park, California

The Channel Islands lie off the coast of southern California. Five of the eight islands form the Channel Islands National Park. Though not one of the most visited national parks, it’s one of the most interesting. The windswept islands, surrounded by the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean, are incredibly beautiful and a great place to get away from it all.

There are a few ways to get to the islands. The easiest and most popular is to take a day cruise from Ventura Harbor (to any of the five islands) or Oxnard Harbor (to Anacapa).

Popular activities include kayaking along the rocky shoreline and into sea caves, snorkeling, picnicking, and hiking.

The islands’ waters are home to some of the world’s greatest giant kelp forests. If you SCUBA dive, this is one of the most unique diving experiences you can have, swimming through forests of golden fronds and seeing bright orange Garibaldi fish and curious sea lions. Dive trips leave from Ventura and San Pedro Harbors.

It’s also possible to camp overnight on some of the islands. This gives you more time to enjoy the solitude and do some additional hiking. There is one campground on each island, but you must bring all your supplies and water, except on Santa Cruz Island and Santa Rosa Island.

For somewhere cheap to stay in Ventura, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Ventura Harbor is a good option. Accommodations are clean and comfortable, and the harborside location is super convenient for Channel Island departures.

By James Ian, Parks Collecting

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Nestled in the southernmost part of Oregon’s Cascade Range is Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States.

The lake was formed around 7,000 years ago when a volcano known as Mount Mazama erupted and then collapsed in on itself. Today, Crater Lake is known for its clear blue waters and stunning scenery. The lake is also incredibly clear because the only water that enters the lake comes from rain and snowfall.

To see the most of this natural wonder, take a scenic drive along Rim Road. This 33-mile route circles the lake, offering unobstructed views of its brilliant blue waters. Along the way, there are numerous pull-offs and lookout points where you can stop to snap photographs or simply soak up the scenery. Visitors can also do one of many hikes for stunning views of the lake or take a boat tour to see Wizard Island.

The best way to experience Crater Lake National Park is by camping. There are two developed campgrounds, Mazama Campground and Lost Creek Campground. These campgrounds are only open during the summer when you can enjoy the best of what Crater Lake offers.

No matter how you choose to experience it, Crater Lake will leave you mesmerized.

By Debbie Fettback, World Adventurists

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Located in California, this park is known for its beautiful scenery and its interesting history. The park was established in 1994 and covers an area of 3,373 square miles.

It’s known as the hottest place on Earth and one of the driest places in the world. Despite these conditions, the park is full of life. It is home to a variety of different plants and animals and a number of different geological features.

Some of the most popular attractions in the park include the Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in North America, and Zabriskie Point, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Although the park is huge, spending one day in Death Valley is enough to get a taste of what it offers. However, if you have the time, there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy for longer.

There are a number of different places to stay in Death Valley National Park. The most popular option is to camp; plenty of campgrounds are located throughout the park. Alternatively, there are also a number of hotels and lodges in the area such as Panamint Springs Motel and Tents, or various options around Pahrump.

Death Valley National Park is a great place to visit if you are looking for a unique and beautiful place to explore. There is something for everyone in this park, and it will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

By Krisztina Harsanyi, She Wanders Abroad

Denali National Park

Denali National Park covers an area of over 6 million acres and is a must for any Alaska itinerary. It’s the largest national park in the United States and is known for its spectacular scenery, awesome hikes, and incredible wildlife watching opportunities. 

One of the main things to remember when visiting Denali is that cars aren’t allowed past Mile 15. That’s why taking a bus tour along Denali Park Road is one of the most popular activities within the park.

During your time in Denali, you’ll also want to leave some time for hiking. There are many incredible hikes here, but some of the most popular trails include the Horseshoe Lake Trail, the Savage Alpine Trail, and the Thorofare Ridge Trail. 

However, this place’s highlight must be the chance to spot some of Alaska’s iconic wildlife. There are endless things to do in the park, so it’s best to spend at least 3-4 days in Denali if you can! 

Regarding accommodation, there are various budget-friendly options nearby, including Cantwell Lodge, Denali RV Park & Motel, and Aurora Denali Lodge.

If you don’t mind roughing it a little, you can even stay in one of the many campgrounds within the park. Riley Creek Campground is the largest and is located right by the park entrance. However, if you’re planning on hiking (which is definitely recommended), you’ll also find several campgrounds further into the park.

By Paula, Paula Pins the Planet 

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most impressive natural wonders of the world. The park’s centerpiece is its massive tidewater glaciers, some of the longest and most impressive in the world. The glaciers are constantly calving or shedding icebergs into the sea, which creates an ever-changing landscape. In addition, the park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bears, whales, seals, bears, and eagles. 

Visitors to the park can enjoy various activities, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The boat cruise operated by Glacier Bay National Park rangers is a must-do activity, as it allows visitors to get close to the glaciers and spot killer whales and other wildlife.

During your visit to Glacier Bay National Park, the best place to stay is Glacier Bay Lodge at Barlett Cove. The Glacier Bay Visitor Center is located on the lodge’s second floor, making it easy to access information and buy tickets for tours and activities.

If you are looking for cheaper accommodation, you can consider staying at Annie Mae Lodge, Bear Track Inn, or Glacier Bay Country Inn in Gustavus. However, keep in mind that the cost of transportation can add up as there is only one taxi company, and they charge per seat per trip.

By Anh Le, Luxury Under Budget 

Joshua Tree National Park

One of the most unique desert landscapes is in Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. It has three distinct ecosystems with their own wildlife and plant life. Luckily, it’s relatively small, so you can see a lot of Joshua Tree National Park in only one day.

In addition to the nature that makes Joshua Tree National Park so special, the cultural history is also rich. The park used to be home to Puebloans, so you’ll spot petroglyphs dating back to 1300 A.D. Later, it was also home to Old West settlers, so remnants of their mining culture are evident.

To discover the best of nature and history, be sure to hike the Barker Dam trail, a short 1-mile loop where you’ll see petroglyphs, great rock formations, and lots of Joshua trees. Another recommended hike is the Lost Horse Mine Trail, a 4-mile out-and-back trail showcasing the mining artefacts.

Don’t skip Cholla Cactus Garden. This is a short 0.25-mile loop on flat terrain. It’s a special part of the park because it’s where those three ecosystems meet! You can’t see these plants anywhere else in the world!

For places to stay, Joshua Tree has a fun short-term stay culture with unique properties like Hicksville Trailer Palace, which has themed RVs and only allows guests 21 years or older. Alternatively, check out glamping or a dome home, both plentiful in the Joshua Tree desert.

by Alanna Koritzke, Periodic Adventures 

Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park is one of the best and most incredible places for bear viewing in Alaska.

The park was established in 1918 to protect the volcanic region of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. It also encompasses thousands of years of human history and is an essential habitat for salmon and thousands of brown bears. Katmai National Park is home to one of the largest protected brown bear populations, estimated at about 2,000 animals.

But getting to Katmai is not easy. Located about 260 miles southwest of Anchorage, the park is a true wilderness destination. You can only get there by plane or water cab. The easiest way to get there is via King Salmon, which can be reached by commercial airline from Anchorage, followed by a 30-mile floatplane flight to Brooks Camp in the park.

The park has designated hiking trails that lead to Brooks Falls viewing platforms. At these falls, you can admire bears fishing for salmon. Thanks to an incredible sockeye salmon migration, a dozen bears may be fishing in the area at the same time. Other activities in the park are kayaking, hiking, fishing, and rafting.

Brooks Camp has a lodge and a campground (read reviews here). The campground is the cheapest lodging nearby, surrounded by beautiful nature and within walking distance of the bear viewing platforms. But it is worth booking in advance, as the place is very popular.

By Agnes, The Van Escape 

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is an awe-inspiring destination on the Alaska Coast. The park covers land, water, and ice and is home to nearly 40 glaciers. While the park is 600,000 acres in size, only one small area is accessible by road. Visit soon! The effects of climate change are clearly visible here; the glaciers are shrinking on a human timescale.

One of the best ways to see Kenai Fjords is from the water. You can experience the park’s glaciers, rock formations, and wildlife by sightseeing cruise or a kayaking excursion leaving from Resurrection Bay. It’s common to spot puffins and whales.

From land, the most popular hiking trails in the park take you to Exit Glacier and Harding Icefield. Exit Glacier is a 2.2-mile trail that is rated easy and allows you to get somewhat close to the glacier. Signs along the roadway and trail show how quickly it is shrinking.

When visiting Kenai Fjords, stay in the ocean bay town of Seward. The Seward Waterfront Park offers several campground options with waterfront views within walking distance of the town of Seward. The Nauti Otter Inn offers hostel rooms, vintage campers, and yurts near the town.

Kenai Fjords is one of the best things to do in Seward and worth a stop on any Alaska road trip.

By Lydia Weigel, Lost With Lydia 

Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park is one of the natural treasures on the West Coast of the USA. Though this park’s neighbor, Yosemite National Park, hogs all the limelight, Kings Canyon is a hidden natural wonder in California. This park joins Sequoia national park on one side and is home to giant redwoods.

Stop at this park’s Giant Forest full of towering sequoias, and visit General Sherman, the world’s largest tree by volume. The General Grant tree is another giant redwood worth stopping at. Moro Rock trail is an amazing hike that shows off the beauty of the park from the top of the granite dome. Boyden cave is a marble cave open in summer. Don’t forget to wet your feet at Zumwalt meadow and Roaring River Falls. Kings Canyon is also an excellent place for stargazing.

There are a few lodges and campgrounds inside the park, but some are only open seasonally. There are good places to stay in the towns of Three Rivers or Visalia, both are about an hour away. La Quinta Inn and Travelodge are some budget-friendly options in Fresno City, which is a couple of hours away from Kings Canyon National Park. Inside the park, Wuksachi Lodge is good for staying and serves food to day visitors.

Check the road conditions before traveling because there may be road closures to clear hazardous tree falls, snow, etc. Visiting in summer is the best way to avoid driving in the snow on winding roads in the park.

By Priya, Glorious Sunrise 

Mount Rainier National Park

If you’re looking for the best west coast national parks, then Mount Rainier National Park in Washington absolutely needs to be on your radar! This stunning national park is the shining star of the Pacific Northwest. You can even see Mt Rainier from downtown Seattle on a clear day.

It is just an hour and a half from Seattle, making it a great day trip to see the highlights, or you could spend a week – or more – hiking all 5 regions of the park. One of the park’s main attractions is the Paradise area. It’s home to some of the best hiking trails, including Skyline Loop Trail, which has many variations and is a must-see regardless of the length of your trip.

You’ll also want to check out Reflection Lakes, one of the best things to do in Mt Rainier. Chase roadside waterfalls like Christine Falls and Narada Falls, or try hiking to Comet Falls or the Silver Falls Loop.

Because of its massive size, there are not many places to stay close to the park. Find boutique hotels or vacation rentals in the nearby small towns. Try the Crest Trail Lodge in Packwood or the Mountain Meadows Inn located in Ashford.

By Nikki Rue, Inspired Routes 

North Cascades National Park

For some of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States, stop by the seriously underrated North Cascades National Park in northern Washington state for soaring snow-capped mountains, impossibly colored lakes, and abundant wildlife.

With its world-class hiking, no stop to the North Cascades is complete without exploring some of its incredible trails, like the Heather Maple Pass Loop. This fantastic hike will lead you past jewel-colored lakes and up to a mountain ridge, where you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding Cascades.

Alternatively, there’s nothing better than renting a kayak or paddleboard during the summertime and spending a day on the water here, like at the turquoise Diablo Lake.

For a home base during your time in the park, consider the charming town of Winthrop, an 1800s gold rush town that retains most of its Wild Western facades and wooden boardwalks. The Hotel Rio Vista is the perfect place to cozy up after a long day of exploring the park, mixing the old Western kitschiness of Winthrop with the best modern amenities, like a riverside hot tub to relax your aching muscles. 

By Jessica Schmit, Uprooted Traveler 

Redwood National Park

Some of the world’s tallest trees live in Redwood National Park in Northern California. Because the park is enormous, getting to Redwood National Park normally requires a car to get around.

Redwood National Park is a truly magical place to visit as you take in the immensity of the majestic redwoods, some over 300 feet high! Start with a hike through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, one of the underappreciated stars in Star Wars.

The Boy Scout trail is one of the most popular hikes because of the old-growth redwoods along the trail and the iconic drive to the trailhead. You’ll drive on Howland Hill Road to get to the trailhead, a narrow, unpaved road embraced by towering redwoods on either side.

Some of the other best spots to visit are Fern Canyon, Klamath River Overlook (an excellent place to spot gray whales), and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.

You can camp in one of the park’s four developed campgrounds, but make sure to reserve in advance! Elk Prairie Campground is the best option to catch sight of Roosevelt elk and deer. For a less remote—but still affordable—lodging option, consider Bayview Inn in Crescent City.

By Mary King, Wanderu 

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is one of California’s national parks located near the town of Three Rivers. This stunning national park is popular among visitors who want to get blown away. From driving through giant Sequoia trees to observing the wildlife, there are many things to do in Sequoia National Park.

Known as the home of some of the biggest sequoia trees in the world, Sequoia National Park is particularly known for hosting the largest tree by volume in the world: the General Sherman Tree. In the park, the Giant Forest also features 8,000 trees, including five of the ten biggest trees in the world.

This is truly one of the most beautiful parks in the USA and a perfect destination for travel couples wanting to connect or travellers fond of road trips! The highlights of Sequoia National Park can be seen in one day. However, spending several days exploring the park will allow you to really immerse yourself in its beauty, especially if you enjoy hiking or swimming in natural pools!

Sequoia National Park is close to Fresno Yosemite International airport and Visalia Municipal Airport, making it easily accessible for travellers. A shuttle from Visalia is available if you don’t have a car.

The best time to visit for good weather would be summer. The park is also open in the winter, but you will most likely need snow chains. The Lazy J Ranch Motel is one of the most affordable hotels in the park and the closest to the main highlights!

By Mary, Be Right Back  

Wrangell – St Elias National Park

Wrangell St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the USA, yet one of the least visited because of its remoteness in Alaska. This national park offers breathtaking mountain adventures, a national historic landmark at the Kennicott Mine, and amazing hiking, glacier, and backcountry adventures.

Tourists are the only thing lacking in the Wrangell, Elias, Chugach, or Alaska mountain ranges, which converge in this national park!

You’re all but guaranteed to see some bald eagles, moose, or bear on a drive down the McCarthy highway, the 60-mile gravel road that is the only road access to the majority of this park. History buffs will want to book a Kennicott Mill Town Tour or hike to one of the abandoned copper mines. This is a good thing to do when you first arrive before setting off on an Alaskan adventure into the park.

You can book a tour with a backcountry pilot and guide to take you deep into the wilderness or stay on the trails near McCarthy and hike to Root Glacier. St. Elias Guides are the best way to explore safely if you’re going on the glacier or into the backcountry. Plus, they know where all the ice caves and glacier pools are!

Your accommodations are limited in this remote national park since most people camp in McCarthy, Alaska. Camping under Alaska’s midnight sun is a great way to experience Wrangell St Elias.

You’ll only be able to access this park in the summer months when the McCarthy Road is cleared, and there are only a few dozen residents who spend the winter here! Book a few nights at Kennicott River Lodge (read reviews here) to recover from whatever outdoor adventure you chose in Wrangell St. Elias National Park.

By Mike Still, Live Travel Teach 

National Parks In the Mountain Region

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the west with good reason! It boasts an incredible number of over 2,000 arches and is the perfect destination for any adventurer.

There are many fun things to do in Arches National Park. Some of these include multiple scenic drives, camping, horseback riding, canyoneering, rock climbing, star gazing, and hiking. There are a ton of incredible hiking trails in Arches National Park! Delicate Arch is probably the most famous arch in Utah and one of the park’s most popular hikes. If you only have time for one hike, consider this iconic hike.

You could easily spend multiple days at Arches National Park, but if you only have one day, you will still be able to see most of the main highlights.

When visiting Arches National Park, the best town to stay in is Moab, Utah, just down the road from the park entrance. The Fairfield Inn & Suites is a great option if you’re looking for a hotel. If you are looking for an RV park, Spanish Trail RV Park is a friendly and affordable option (check reviews here).

Arches National Park will become a favorite for almost anyone who visits!

By Janae, Adventures With TuckNae 

Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is about a five-hour drive south of Denver but makes you feel like you are in another world! The Black Canyon sits in the southern Rockies’ majestic San Juan Mountain Range.

Once you reach the Black Canyon, the best way to see most of the park is by driving along the South Rim Road, a 7-mile long road with 12 scenic overlooks along the way. Most of the overlooks offer short out-and-back trails, and the drive takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Every turn on this drive gives you a new glimpse into the huge canyon!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison was so named because parts of the gorge only receive 33 minutes of sunlight daily. The most photographed spot is the Painted Wall, the highest vertical cliff in the state of Colorado and 800 feet higher than Chicago’s Willis Tower (former Sears Tower).

Since Black Canyon is a lesser-known park, it is not crowded even in the busy season. The best place to stay when visiting this park is about an hour away in the small box canyon town of Ouray.

The Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs in Ouray offer basic lodging, but the perk is definitely the natural hot springs. Four redwood mineral hot tubs are heated naturally by the local hot springs, offering a spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.

By Erin Moreland, A Super Simple Salty Life 

Bryce Canyon National Park

Easily one of the best national parks on the west coast of the USA, Bryce Canyon National Park sits in southern Utah and is known for mesmerizing hoodoos and one-of-a-kind rock formations. In fact, it covers an astounding 35,835 acres of land and is home to one of the largest collections of hoodoos in the world.

So, hit the Sunrise to Sunset Point hike for an easy climb that will give you astounding views of the Bryce Amphitheaters below. You can also try the Rim Trail and start from either the Fairyland Point or Bryce Point trailheads. Either way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the park before visiting Bryce Point for sunset.

It sits at an elevation of 8,300 feet and offers sweeping panoramas of the hoodoo-filled red rock amphitheater, making it one of the best Bryce Canyon photo spots of them all.

If you can, try to spend at least two days here. This way, you can enjoy all of the park’s main attractions while still being able to venture off the beaten path.

Also, time your visit between May and September. This way, you’ll enjoy great weather and can use various park services, shuttles, and ranger-led programs.

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay, try booking a room at the swanky Lodge at Bryce Canyon in Bryce Canyon City or at the nearby Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn.

By Jamie, Photo Jeepers 

Capitol Reef National Park

As Utah’s least visited National Park, Capitol Reef often gets overlooked for the more popular Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands. However, we feel this lesser-visited park deserves a spot on any Utah National Parks road trip.

Capitol Reef’s defining feature is the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long “wrinkle” in the earth’s crust, revealing beautiful layers of colorful rock. The park gets its name from its numerous dome-shaped rock formations resembling a capitol building and the reef-like barrier formed by Waterpocket Fold.

Capitol Reef is home to a wide selection of incredible hikes of varying difficulty levels, featuring sandstone arches, layers of stratified rock, unique domes, and beautiful canyons. A few of our favorites include Hickman Bridge, Cassidy Arch, Chimney Rock, Lower Spring Canyon, and Navajo Knobs.

After a busy day of hiking, grab a fresh apple pie from the Gifford Homestead, baked using apples grown in orchards right here in the Fruita Valley.

Our favorite place to stay in Capitol Reef is the Fruita Campground, located in the heart of the park next to the Gifford Homestead and within minutes of many of the best hikes (read reviews here).

Alternatively, you can stay in the nearby small town of Torrey, Utah, which offers numerous hotel and lodging options. Take a trip back in time and sleep in a Conestoga Wagon at the Capitol Reef Resort for a unique stay.

By Sarah & Matt, Two Outliers  

Canyonlands National Park

One of the best west coast national parks is Canyonlands in Moab, Utah. While the nearby Arches National Park tends to be more commonly visited, Canyonlands should not be overlooked. This breathtaking National Park is full of awe-inspiring views, unique hikes, incredible landscapes, and spectacular canyons ideal for any hiker or photographer.  

While Canyonlands is over 300,000 acres, you can certainly take advantage of several hikes in a day or two. Canyonlands is home to countless canyons, fins, arches, spires, and buttes that have been carved out over thousands of years. And it is sectioned into four areas, separated by rivers: The Maze, Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Horshoe Canyon District. But most of the easier hikes and more popular sites are in the Island in the Sky District.  

When visiting Canyonlands, you can stop at many lookouts for breathtaking views. But hiking is the main thing to do in Canyonlands to access this park’s most unique options. Some of the best hikes in Canyonlands National Park include Mesa Arch to see the early morning sun or sunrise; Whales Rock for a spectacular view; and the Grand View Point Trail for the panoramic views.  

For the more adventurous hikers, check out Cave Springs. It’s only .6 miles long but does require climbing two ladders. But, it leads to prehistoric rock peckings and paintings and the historic cowboy camp. There are longer and more advanced hikes, but keep in mind that staying with shorter hikes will allow you to see more of the park if your time is limited.  

Canyonlands is hot, especially in the summer, and dusty. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes and bring extra water, food, and snacks, as there are no places to buy food in the park. Also, remember a camera with a wide view lens. Don’t forget to stop by the visitors center on your way out, as the Visitors Overlook has one of the park’s best views!

For accommodation, most visitors stay in Moab to the east of the park, or Monticello to the south-east.  Browse all hotels around Canyonlands here.

By Keri Baugh, Bon Voyage With Kids 

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, located in northern Montana, is one of the crown jewels of the National Park System. Established in 1910, Glacier protects nearly 1,600 square miles of glacier-carved peaks in the Rocky Mountains.

In 1932 the park was combined with Canada’s Waterton Lakes to form the world’s first international peace park.

The park protects miles of beautiful trails, several permanent glaciers within its borders, and a large variety of flora and fauna. The wildlife visitors can see within the park include grizzly bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and the adorable pika.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel that showcases breathtaking vistas and anxiety-inducing curves as it carves through the mountains. World-class hiking is among the premier activities in the park, with such notable hikes as the Highline Hike, Ptarmigan Tunnel, and Iceberg Lake.

The park has several lodges and campsites within its borders. The Swiss-inspired Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel are stunning options if available. Camping is available at several sites within the park, including Avalanche Creek, Apgar Village, Many Glaciers, and Two Medicine. Accommodations within the park do fill up fast in the summer, so booking early is imperative.

Getting to Glacier National Park is easy via car, train, or plane, with the closest airport in Kalispell and the main Amtrak station in East Glacier Park.

By Anwar, Beyond My Door 

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most well-known National Parks, it’s even one of the seven natural wonders of the world. And it’s impressive for sure! The Grand Canyon is not only steep and deep, but with a length of 277 miles, it’s also a very long canyon.

Millions of visitors a year find their way to the rim to check out this wonderful landscape. The best place to visit the park for the first time is the South Rim. Here you’ll find many lodges, restaurants and the best thing: dozens of amazing viewpoints.

There are shuttle busses that can take you to most of the viewpoints, so you don’t have to walk much. If you do like to walk, make sure to check some of the hiking trails. You can hike the relatively easy rim trail to see the amazing view. But if you’re up for it, it’s an incredible experience to hike into the canyon via either the Bright Angel Trail or the Kaibab Trail. 

The cheapest place to stay in the park is the Mather Campground. If you don’t like camping, check out Bright Angel Lodge, it’s the cheapest hotel in the park, with rooms starting from $136. 

By Jacoba, Travel With Co 

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is located in the beautiful state of Wyoming and boasts amazing alpine lakes and towering jagged mountains. A trip to Grand Teton is perfect for any kind of adventure – from skiing in the winter to epic hiking in the summer!

Located near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, you’re also close enough to a quaint mountain town that has its own unique appeal with shopping, dining, and craft breweries! Grab a room at the affordable Teton Hostel Hideaway B&B or Hatchet Resort, and get ready for an amazing time exploring Grand Teton National Park.

Jenny Lake is a must-see while in the park. Hike around the lake or take the boat shuttle over to Inspiration Point for some incredible views. If you’re up for a much harder hike, adventure to Delta Lake, an unmarked trail to a beautiful alpine lake off of Lupine Meadows (ask any ranger, and they can direct you!).

For our history buffs, head over to Mormon Row to see the communities built by the Church of the Latter-Day Saints before the park’s founding. And you can’t miss a drive down Moose-Wilson Road at dawn or dusk for the chance to see some incredible wildlife.

After all this adventuring, take some time for a leisurely stroll or picnic along the pathway to just take in the surrounding beauty. You can see a full guide to planning a trip to Grand Teton National Park here.

By Ashley Rice, Ashley On the Move 

Great Basin National Park

Tucked in the corner of eastern Nevada near the border of Utah, Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem among the more well-known West Coast National Parks. The 77,180-acre park offers solitude from the crowds of the famous parks and features a diverse landscape with limestone caves, ancient bristlecone pines, and the striking 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak.

The Lehman Caves are one of the top attractions in Great Basin National Park, and on a ranger-guided tour, you can explore these limestone caves and the cool stalagmite and stalactite formations inside.

You can also check out some of the many hiking trails in Great Basin, including the Bristlecone/Glacier Trail, which showcases the stunning landscape of the park. Definitely don’t miss wandering among the bristlecone pines, which are slow-growth trees that naturally form into unique, twisted shapes.

You can access the Wheeler Peak Grove of bristlecones on a short 3-mile round trip hike from Wheeler Peak Campground. Wheeler Peak Campground is one of five campgrounds in the park that make great home bases to spend the night when visiting Great Basin National Park.

By Allison, She Dreams of Alpine 

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is a world heritage site that protects a beautiful natural area and also preserves cultural heritage. While exploring the park, you’ll learn about the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in pit houses, pueblos, and cliff dwellings for approximately 700 years.

Mesa Verde protects over 4,500 archeological sites, but it is most well-known for its cliff dwellings, which were inhabited for about 100 years before being abandoned. Most cliff dwellings can only be visited on a guided tour to protect the sites.

Some are easy to access and good for all ages, like the popular Cliff Palace Tour. Other tours are more difficult and include tall ladders and narrow spaces. Check out the best of Mesa Verde with kids for more about visiting as a family.

Make sure to plan ahead to book tours of the cliff dwellings, especially in the busy summer months, as tickets sell out fast. Tickets are released on a rolling basis, 14 days before each tour date.

Mesa Verde prides itself on its cultural offerings, including events most Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays in the summer. These range from drum groups to dance performances, be sure to check out what they offer.

It’s best to stay inside the park if you can to avoid long drives at the beginning and end of each day. Mesa Verde has only one lodge – the Far View Lodge, and one campground near the entrance to the park.

The nearest town with lodging outside the park is Cortez, Colorado. You’ll find more affordable options here, but you’ll need to drive daily 45-60 minutes into the park.

By Cynthia Matthews von Berg, Sharing the Wander 

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park, unique due to the petrified logs, is located in Northeast Arizona. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world with the fossils, petroglyphs, and the Painted desert.

The Painted desert has ever-changing colors and is something you can gaze at for hours. The petrified logs were fossilized 211 to 218 million years ago. There are so many logs grouped together that they call it a forest.

The area has been inhabited for 13.000 years. There are over 600 archaeological sites in Petrified Forest National Park, among them pueblos. Drive the 28-mile-long main road through the park and stop at all the viewpoints, especially at Newspaper Rock – a rock with over 650 petroglyphs on it.

Further go on all of the seven walking trails, varying from 0.3 miles to 2 miles. The viewpoints and the walking trails will give you a good overview of everything the park offers.

The Best Western Arizonian Inn and the Historic Wigwam Motel are great places to stay.

By Cosette, KarsTravels 

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Rocky Mountain National Park (also known as RMNP) is an amazingly scenic destination located by the town of Estes Park in northern Colorado, about 70 miles from Denver.

There are lots of amazing things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. For starters, you can drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the United States.

Next, experience the many hiking trails in RMNP, including the beautiful Sky Pond and the Gem Lake Colorado hike. Oftentimes you can spot wildlife in this park, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and occasionally black bears (remember to keep a safe distance).

There are a number of National Park System campgrounds where you can stay inside Rocky Mountain National Park (namely Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, and Moraine Park), and the town of Estes Park also has a KOA Holiday and a bunch of other camping options.

Aside from campgrounds, Rocky Mountain NP doesn’t have any lodging inside the park, though there are many hotel options in Estes Park. Two nearby hotel options are Wildwood Inn and the Rams Horn Resort. Both of these recommendations are located near the town and the national park!

By David & Intan, The World Travel Guy 

Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is one of the best west coast National Parks. It contains humongous cacti and is conveniently located in the middle of Tucson, Arizona. It is divided into two regions, and you can see all of the main highlights in a day. 

In Saguaro West (Tucson Mountain District), opt to hike the Desert Discovery Trail, the Bajada Scenic Loop, the Valley View Overlook Trail, and the Signal Hill Trail. Each of them is very short, and you get to see a variety of Saguaro Cacti and views of the park. 

Saguaro East (Rincon Mountain District) has longer trails and a scenic drive. Start out by driving the 8-mile Cactus Forest Loop Drive. There are several places you can stop along the drive. First, take the Mica View Loop/Cactus Forest Trail. This will take you through a bunch of Saguaro Cacti. Then, take the super short Desert Ecology Trail. 

If you have time, also opt to visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, right on the edge of Saguaro West. Wear a hat and sunscreen as this National Park can get hot all year round. 

If looking for a cheap place to stay near the National Park, the Hampton Inn Tucson Airport is affordable and comes with breakfast.

By Francesca Makana, Homeroom Travel 

White Sands National Park

The world’s largest white gypsum dune field sits in the Tularosa Basin of Southern New Mexico. Only becoming an American National Park in 2019, White Sands may be relatively small but dazzles visitors with its uniqueness and impressive landscapes. 

The dramatic sand dunes of White Sands National Park are not made of sand but white gypsum. The gypsum gathers in the basin to form dunes, constantly shifting as the wind sculpts them into fascinating shapes.  The dunes appear only when you reach the park, beyond the visitor center.

White Sands National Park offers a small exhibit, daily sunset strolls, and sleds to slide down the dunes.  There are also several hiking trails in White Sands National Park to explore, from a short boardwalk to a 3 hour trail hike.

Drive the entire Dunes Drive, the park loop that showcases the White Sands ecosystem of unique plant life. There is no one best spot to see the glistening white sand dunes. Traverse over several hills to find untouched landscapes free of human footprints. White Sands National Park is a photographer’s dream come true.

Enjoy the colorful beauty of the changing colors from golden to pink to blue as the sun sets before hiking back to civilization.

The nearest town to stay in is Almorogoro, a 15-minute drive away from White Sands National Park. Camp at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA Journey, or for lodging, book a stay at White Sands Motel or Holiday Inn Almorogoro.

By Catherine Xu, Nomadicated 

Yellowstone National Park

One of the best west coast national parks is Yellowstone. Yellowstone was the first established national park in the United States, and for a good reason. It is such a diverse national park filled with geysers, geothermal features, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Most of Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming, but it does cross the border into Montana and Idaho. The closest international airport is Salt Lake City, Utah.

There are lots of fun things to do in Yellowstone. One of the must-sees in the park is the Old Faithful Geyser. The geyser erupts about every 74 minutes, but you should check the schedule when arriving at the geyser. If you have to wait for the eruption, you can visit the Old Faithful Inn and tour the Upper Geyser Basin.

Another highlight of the park is the Grand Prismatic Spring. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and covers about 1.32 acres. The blue and orange colors are very beautiful. One of the best places to see the Grand Prismatic is from the Grand Prismatic Overlook. There is a short hike to get to the overlook.

Accommodations inside the park are expensive and need to be made about a year in advance. If you are looking for more affordable housing, you can look in West Yellowstone. Many great campgrounds, hotels, and short-term rentals are outside the park.

By Candice, CS Ginger 

Zion National Park

Zion National Park has some of the most stunning scenery and exciting hikes in the country. One very popular and adventurous hike is Angel’s Landing, where the final ascent takes you along a very narrow, steep neck of land – there are chains to hold onto for safety as you climb! At the top, you’re rewarded with 360 views over the valley. (Note that due to the popularity of this hike, as of April 2022, you will need a permit to hike Angel’s Landing) 

Another popular hike is The Narrows, a hike in a river through a canyon that narrows the farther you go, eventually becoming a much tighter slot canyon. Tall, red walls rise up around you as you hike through the water, making this a bucket list experience. To avoid crowds and have the canyon to yourself, consider hiking the Narrows in winter!

Finally, the Canyon Overlook Trail is an awesome but less popular hike. This trail is shorter and easier but still offers some really fun and unique terrain as you hike to the overlook. The views from the summit are really spectacular, and there are lots of fun rocks at the top to explore and climb on. 

If you fancy camping in Zion, there are two campgrounds in the park: Watchman Campground and South Campground. Otherwise, the city of Springdale is right outside the main park entrance. The Holiday Inn Express and the Cable Mountain Lodge are two good, affordable hotels in Springdale.

By Stephanie Rytting, The Unknown Enthusiast