Top 6 Most Visited National Parks in the US (+Insider Tips!)

Are you ready to explore the wonders of the most visited national parks in the US? With breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and countless outdoor activities, these parks attract millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just curious about America’s natural treasures, this insider’s guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the top national parks in the country.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

LOCATION: Tennessee

VISITORS: 13.3 million annually

If you’re planning a trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’re in for a treat. This park is a favorite, drawing over 13 million visitors each year. The mix of rich forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic drives makes it a must-see.

Best Times to Visit

Timing is crucial when visiting the Smokies. The best times are in the spring and fall. Spring brings wildflowers in full bloom, and fall offers spectacular foliage. Summers can be very crowded, and winters can be tricky with snow causing road closures.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Wildflowers, mild weather	Crowds during spring break
Summer	Full park access, warm weather	High visitor numbers, hot
Fall	Fall colors, cooler temperatures	Crowds, especially in October
Winter	Snowy landscapes, quiet	Road closures, cold weather

Popular Spots to Visit

Clingmans Dome:

• The highest point in the park, offering incredible panoramic views. The hike to the observation tower is short but steep.
• It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get a parking spot.

Cades Cove:

• An 11-mile loop road through a beautiful valley, perfect for wildlife spotting. You might see deer, black bears, and turkeys.
• It can get very busy, so weekdays or early mornings are the best times to visit.

Top Hiking Trails

Alum Cave Trail:

• A popular 5-mile round trip hike that showcases forests, streams, and the Alum Cave Bluffs. Continue to Mount LeConte if you’re up for a longer hike. Alum Cave Trail is my favorite!
• This trail can get crowded, so starting early helps you beat the rush.

Charlies Bunion:

• A more strenuous 8-mile round trip hike with stunning views. It’s less crowded than some of the other popular trails.

Scenic Drives

Newfound Gap Road:

• This road runs through the park from Gatlinburg, TN, to Cherokee, NC. It’s a beautiful drive with plenty of pullouts for photo ops.
• Be sure to stop at Newfound Gap itself for a great view and a chance to stand on the state line.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail:

• A one-way loop road that offers a quieter experience. It’s less crowded and provides access to short hikes and historical structures.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and elk. Always keep a safe distance, and never feed the animals.
• Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife spotting.

Safety Tips:

• Stay on marked trails, especially around water and cliffs.
• Always carry water and snacks, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. The park’s weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• The park has several campgrounds, with Elkmont and Cades Cove being popular choices. These sites can book up months in advance, so make reservations early.
• Backcountry camping requires a permit and offers a more secluded experience.

Lodging:

• If camping isn’t your thing, nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a range of hotels, cabins, and bed-and-breakfast options.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially for popular trails and viewpoints.
• Use the park’s shuttle service if available, especially in busier areas like Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove.
• Bring a detailed map since cell service can be spotty. The National Park Service provides free maps, but a good guidebook can be really helpful, especially for hiking.

2. Zion National Park

LOCATION: Utah

VISITORS: 5+ million annually

Zion is our all-time favorite national park because it feels really quaint, thanks to the bus route from Springdale and various types and levels of hiking. In our opinion, it has some of the best hiking in the country, including sandstone cliffs that tower over you and narrow slot canyons you hike through and feel like a kid all over again.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Zion are in spring and fall. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers cooler weather and beautiful autumn colors. Summers can be extremely hot and crowded, and winters can be cold, with potential ice on trails.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Wildflowers, comfortable temperatures	Flash flood risk, busy during spring break
Summer	Long days, all trails open	Extreme heat, very crowded
Fall	Autumn colors, cooler temperatures	Crowds in early fall
Winter	Solitude, potential snow views	Cold temperatures, some trail closures

Popular Spots to Visit

The Narrows:

• An iconic hike through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Wade through the Virgin River surrounded by towering canyon walls.
• Check water levels and weather forecasts before attempting, as flash floods can be dangerous.

Angels Landing:

• A strenuous hike offering breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. The final section involves chains and steep drop-offs.
• Permits are required for the chain section. Start early to avoid crowds and heat.

Top Hiking Trails

Emerald Pools Trail:

• This family-friendly trail leads to a series of pools and waterfalls. It has three sections: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools.
• The lower trail is paved and accessible, while the upper trails become more challenging.

The Subway:

• A strenuous 9-mile round trip hike through a uniquely shaped canyon. Requires route finding and swimming in cold water.
• A permit is required, and proper preparation is essential.

Scenic Drives

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway:

• A 25-mile scenic drive connecting the east and south entrances of the park. Features switchbacks and the historic 1.1-mile Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.
• Stop at Canyon Overlook for a spectacular view of Zion Canyon.

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive:

• Accessible only by shuttle bus during peak season. This 6-mile drive takes you through the heart of Zion Canyon.
• The shuttle stops at major trailheads and viewpoints, making it easy to explore the park.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• Keep an eye out for mule deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species. Dawn and dusk are the best times for wildlife viewing.
• Never feed or approach wildlife, and use binoculars for a closer look.

Safety Tips:

• Always check weather forecasts and be aware of flash flood risks, especially in narrow canyons.
• Carry plenty of water, especially in summer, and protect yourself from the sun.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• Zion has three campgrounds: South, Watchman, and Lava Point. Watchman and South campgrounds are near the south entrance and fill up quickly.
• Backcountry camping requires a permit and offers a more secluded experience.

Lodging:

• Zion Lodge, located inside the park, offers rooms and cabins. The nearby town of Springdale has numerous hotels and vacation rentals.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Use the park shuttle system during peak season to avoid parking hassles.
• Make reservations well in advance for popular hikes like Angels Landing.
• Consider visiting less-known areas of the park, such as Kolob Canyons, for a quieter experience.

3. Yellowstone National Park

LOCATION: Wyoming

VISITORS: 4.5 million annually

Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is like visiting another planet. With its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, it truly is breathtaking. Its unique blend of geysers, hot springs, and scenic beauty draws millions of visitors each year. Due to its extreme popularity, it has become one of our least favorite parks to visit.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit Yellowstone are late spring and early fall. Summer offers full access but is extremely crowded (like visiting Disney World). Winter provides a unique, serene experience but with limited access.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Wildlife activity, fewer crowds	Unpredictable weather, some facilities closed
Summer	All facilities open, warm weather	Very crowded, potential wildfires
Fall	Fall colors, wildlife	Colder weather, facilities begin closing
Winter	Snow-covered landscapes, wildlife	Limited access, very cold

Popular Spots to Visit

Old Faithful:

• The park’s most famous geyser, erupting approximately every 90 minutes.
• Best viewed early morning or late evening to avoid the largest crowds.

Grand Prismatic Spring:

• The largest hot spring in the US, known for its vibrant colors.
• Visit midday for the best lighting to see the vivid colors.

Top Hiking Trails

Mount Washburn Trail:

• A 6.2-mile round trip hike offering panoramic views of the park.
• Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Fairy Falls Trail:

• A 5-mile round trip hike leading to a 200-foot waterfall.
• Offers an elevated view of Grand Prismatic Spring.

Scenic Drives

Grand Loop Road:

• A figure-eight road system covering 142 miles, connecting most major park features.
• Can be very busy; consider exploring one section per day.

Lamar Valley:

• Often called America’s Serengeti due to abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Best visited at dawn or dusk for optimal wildlife sightings.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• Home to bison, elk, bears, wolves, and more. Always maintain a safe distance.
• Lamar and Hayden Valleys are prime wildlife viewing areas.

Safety Tips:

• Stay on boardwalks and marked trails, especially in geothermal areas.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it when hiking in bear country.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites. Reservations are recommended for summer visits.
• Backcountry camping requires a permit.

Lodging:

• Nine lodges within the park, ranging from rustic cabins to hotel-style accommodations.
• Book well in advance, especially for summer stays.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Plan your visit well in advance, especially for summer trips.
• Use the park shuttle in busy areas to avoid parking issues.
• Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.

4. Grand Canyon National Park

LOCATION: Arizona

VISITORS: 4.5 million annually

The Grand Canyon, a mile-deep chasm carved by the Colorado River, is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Its vast scale and colorful rock layers attract millions of visitors seeking awe-inspiring views and outdoor adventures.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit are spring and fall, offering mild temperatures and smaller crowds. Summer is the busiest season, while winter offers a unique, less crowded experience.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Mild weather, wildflowers	Can be windy, some facilities may still be closed
Summer	Long days, all facilities open	Very hot at the bottom, extremely crowded
Fall	Pleasant temperatures, fall colors	Crowds until mid-October
Winter	Snow-dusted canyon, few crowds	Cold temperatures, some road closures

Popular Spots to Visit

South Rim:

• The most visited area, offering iconic views and numerous facilities.
• Mather Point and Yavapai Point are popular viewpoints.

North Rim:

• Less crowded, higher elevation with different perspectives.
• Open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October.

Top Hiking Trails

Bright Angel Trail:

• A steep trail descending into the canyon. Day hikers should turn around at 1.5 Mile or 3 Mile Resthouse.
• Start early and bring plenty of water, especially in summer.

Rim Trail:

• An easy, mostly paved trail along the South Rim with stunning views.
• Accessible and suitable for all skill levels.

Scenic Drives

Desert View Drive:

• A 25-mile road along the South Rim with numerous viewpoints.
• Don’t miss Desert View Watchtower at the eastern end.

Cape Royal Road (North Rim):

• A 23-mile scenic drive ending at Cape Royal, offering expansive canyon views.
• Several pullouts and short walks to viewpoints along the way.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• Look for mule deer, elk, and various bird species. California condors can sometimes be spotted.
• Never feed wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

Safety Tips:

• Stay on designated trails and behind railings at viewpoints.
• Hiking into the canyon requires careful planning and preparation, especially in summer heat.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• Several campgrounds on both rims. Reservations are essential, especially for summer.
• Backcountry camping requires a permit.

Lodging:

• Multiple lodges on the South Rim and one on the North Rim.
• Book far in advance, especially for rim-view rooms and summer stays.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Use the free shuttle bus on the South Rim to avoid parking issues.
• Consider a guided tour or ranger program to enhance your visit.
• Don’t try to see everything in one day; plan multiple days if possible.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park

LOCATION: Colorado

VISITORS: 4.3 million annually

Rocky Mountain National Park showcases the majestic beauty of the Colorado Rockies, with its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. The park’s high-altitude landscapes and abundant wildlife draw millions of visitors seeking mountain adventures.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit are late spring to early fall. Summer offers full access but is crowded. Winter provides a serene snowy landscape but with limited access.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Wildflowers, wildlife activity	Unpredictable weather, some snow-closed roads
Summer	All areas accessible, warm days	Very crowded, afternoon thunderstorms
Fall	Fall colors, elk rutting season	Cold nights, early snow possible
Winter	Snow activities, fewer crowds	Limited access, very cold

Popular Spots to Visit

Trail Ridge Road:

• The highest continuous paved road in the U.S., offering spectacular alpine views.
• Open seasonally, usually from late May to mid-October.

Bear Lake:

• A popular area with easy trails and stunning mountain views.
• Parking fills up early; use the park shuttle in summer.

Top Hiking Trails

Emerald Lake Trail:

• A 3.6-mile round trip hike passing several alpine lakes.
• Start early to secure parking and avoid afternoon storms.

Longs Peak:

• A challenging 14,259-foot summit, recommended only for experienced hikers.
• Requires an early start and proper preparation.

Scenic Drives

Trail Ridge Road:

• A 48-mile scenic drive crossing the Continental Divide.
• Numerous pullouts offer breathtaking views and wildlife-watching opportunities.

Old Fall River Road:

• A one-way dirt road offering a more rustic mountain driving experience.
• Open seasonally, usually July to September.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• Home to elk, bighorn sheep, marmots, and more. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times.
• Maintain a safe distance, especially from elk during fall rutting season.

Safety Tips:

• Be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially at higher elevations.
• Stay on trails and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• Five campgrounds within the park. Reservations are strongly recommended.
• Backcountry camping requires a permit.

Lodging:

• No lodges within the park. Nearby towns like Estes Park and Grand Lake offer various accommodations.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Use the park shuttle system during peak season to avoid parking issues.
• Obtain a timed entry permit if visiting during peak season (late May to mid-October).
• Acclimate to the altitude before attempting strenuous activities.

6. Yosemite National Park

LOCATION: California

VISITORS: 3.5 million annually

Yosemite National Park is renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, and diverse ecosystems. Its iconic landscapes have inspired visitors and artists for generations, making it one of America’s most beloved national parks.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit are late spring and fall. Summer offers full access but is extremely crowded. Winter provides a serene snowy landscape but with some area closures.

Season	Highlights	Considerations
Spring	Waterfalls at peak flow, wildflowers	Some snow at higher elevations
Summer	All areas accessible, warm weather	Very crowded, limited parking
Fall	Fall colors, fewer crowds	Waterfalls may be dry, potential wildfires
Winter	Snow activities, solitude	Limited access, chains may be required

Popular Spots to Visit

Yosemite Valley:

• The heart of the park, featuring iconic views of Half Dome and El Capitan.
• Can be very crowded; consider using shuttle buses.

Glacier Point:

• Offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and High Sierra.
• Accessible by car in summer, or via strenuous hike year-round.

Top Hiking Trails

Mist Trail:

• A popular 3-mile round trip to Vernal Fall, or 7 miles to Nevada Fall.
• Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat.

Half Dome:

• A strenuous 14-16 mile round trip hike to Yosemite’s most recognizable landmark.
• Requires a permit for the cable section.

Scenic Drives

Tioga Road:

• A 39-mile scenic drive through Yosemite’s high country.
• Open seasonally, usually from late May or June through November.

Tunnel View to Glacier Point:

• A beautiful drive offering classic Yosemite Valley views.
• Glacier Point Road typically open late May to November.

Wildlife and Safety Tips

Wildlife Watching:

• Home to black bears, mule deer, and over 250 bird species.
• Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Safety Tips:

• Be bear-aware and use food storage lockers.
• Stay on marked trails and be cautious around water, especially near waterfalls.

Accommodations and Amenities

Camping:

• 13 campgrounds throughout the park. Reservations are essential in peak season.
• Backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit.

Lodging:

• Several lodges and hotels within the park, from rustic to luxurious.
• Book well in advance, especially for summer stays.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Use the free shuttle system in Yosemite Valley to avoid traffic and parking issues.
• Consider visiting in shoulder seasons for a less crowded experience.
• Make reservations well in advance for accommodations and popular activities.

Final Thoughts on the Most Visited National Parks in the US

Exploring the most visited national parks in the US offers a chance to connect with nature and experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, these parks have something for everyone. Ready to embark on your next adventure? Plan your visit today and create memories that will last a lifetime!