Guide: 10 National Parks in the U.S. You Don't Want to Skip✨⛰️ Did you know there are 63 official national parks in the United States? Everyone knows about Yosemite and Zion, but there are many less well-known national parks you may not be aware of. Here are 10 not to miss—from Alaska to Maine to Texas—find out what to see and do at these national parks! AuthorsSteller
DestinationsUnited StatesItinerary

1. Olympic National Park, WA

Mount Storm King
If you're up for an adventure, the views from this point overlooking Crescent Lake are even more incredible than what you get at Hurricane Ridge. Be aware that this trail is for experienced hikers as it has 2,000 feet of elevation gain, is very steep, and has many switchbacks.
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Hurricane Ridge
Head up the Hurricane Ridge Road for accessible and easy access to this famous, mountainous area. You'll be treated to incredible views, wildlife sightings, trails, and picnic areas to enjoy. Go early in the morning as the road is only open to a limited number of vehicles—it opens at 7 a.m., so be there before that!
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Hoh Rain Forest
The Hoh Rainforest Trail is considered one of the best (and most popular) hikes in Olympic National Park. Stop by the Visitors Center to learn more about the unique biodiversity here. Be on the lookout for the Roosevelt elk who live in the rainforest.
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Sol Duc Falls
Hike a 1.8-mile out-and-back trail weaving through an old-growth rain forest to these cascading falls in Olympic National Park. This is extra beautiful early in the morning!
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Ruby Beach
Sunset at Ruby Beach is not to be missed.
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Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Spend your afternoons and evenings soaking in the hot springs after days of hiking in this stunning national park. You can stay in these rustic cabins that are inside Olympic National Park or reserve a spot in the campground right along the river.
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Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour
This small group tour of the park is led by a local naturalist!
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2. Badlands National Park, SD

Big Badlands Overlook
One of the most beautiful lookout points in the whole park, this is a MUST visit! Get here early, around sunrise, to avoid the large crowds as the day gets later.
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Pinnacles Overlook
On the other side of the park, a short boardwalk-style platform leads you to the rocky, mineral pinnacles of Badlands National Park. Another trail that you will want to arrive early to in order to beat the crowds.
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Window Trail
This very short and easy boardwalk trail leads you to the viewpoint of the famous "Wall" of pinnacles and spires— what makes the Badlands so special.
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Ben Reifel Visitor Center
The Annual Badlands Astronomy Festival is held every summer. In 2025, it will be July 18-20. Experience the magic of the dark sky with nightly telescope viewings during the festival!
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Badlands Frontier Cabins
You can choose from one of the 33 custom-built log cabins here and stay just six miles from Badlands National Park. You'll also be within driving distance of several other iconic locations, including Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.
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Prairie Homestead
Catch a glimpse of the adorable prairie dogs that live in the area at this spot right outside the park!
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Private Tour of the Badlands with Local Experts
Drive and hike the trails of the Badlands, spotting wildlife, heading to the underrated and less-visited Sheep Mountain Table area, and the iconic Wall Drug—all with local guides.
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3. Crater Lake National Park, OR

Sinnott Memorial Observation Station
Want to get that classic view of Crater Lake? This is a popular spot for obvious reasons, so go early. Get that sunrise shot! Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. it is very busy.
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Watchman Peak Trailhead, Crater Lake
This is one of the best spots for views of Crater Lake's stunningly blue water. It's about a 1.6-mil hike round-trip. The trail will lead you to a fire lookout with panoramic views!
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Cleetwood Cove Trail
This steep hike drops 700 feet within a single mile—it is not for the faint of heart—but is well-maintained. This 2.1-mile trail will lead you to the only boat dock in the park where you will be rewarded with stunning views of Crater Lake. You'll even have an opportunity to take a dip! Tip: Go before August 2025 as it will be closed for rehabilitation after that into 2026.
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Vidae Falls
An accessible waterfall and viewpoint, these 100-foot falls lie above East Rim Drive. Stop, admire the cascading waters, and snap a few photos before moving through the rest of the park.
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Crater Lake Lodge
You don't have to stay at this lodge to enjoy all it has to offer. Enjoy a glass of Oregon wine from the lodge patio!
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Crystal Creek Mountain Lodge
Stay along the sparkling shores of Crystal Creek, at this outdoor-adventure oriented lodge. It is a short drive to the national park entrance, home to beautiful mountainous views, and even better sunsets!
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A good way to grab photos at all the best spots!
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4. Redwoods National Park, CA

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
The Stout Memorial Grove Trail (.6 miles), the Simpson-Reed Trail (.9 miles), the Grove of Titans (a 1.7-mile loop), and the Boy Scout Tree Trail (5.3 miles) are all great options for exploring the unique, towering Redwood trees. These trails vary in length and difficulty, giving you options for exploring! Fun fact: "Return of the Jedi" was filmed here.
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Jedediah Smith Campground
Camp here inside Redwoods National Park year-round, or opt to stay in one of the cabins! There are only four ways to stay in the Redwoods National Park, and they are all campgrounds.
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Fern Canyon
You'll feel like you've stepped into a different world as you hike this easy 1-mile trail through a 50-foot-deep vertical walled canyon filled with lush ferns and Redwoods—it is one of the most popular hikes in the park!
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Tall Trees Grove
This popular 3.6-mile loop located in the southern part of the park used to feature the tallest tree in the world until 1994.
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Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Camp along the Pacific coastline near Fern Canyon!
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Elk Prairie Campground
This campground is further inside the park; you may be able to see Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer here!
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The Lighthouse Inn
If you're not up for roughing it, the Lighthouse Inn is very close to the Jedediah Smith section of the park in Crescent City.
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Avenue of the Giants
In the very southern end of the park, you'll find Avenue of the Giants. This is a must-do scenic 31-mile drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. You can stop at any number of hikikng trails along the way.
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Private Avenue of the Giants Redwoods Day Trip from San Francisco
To see everything, take advantage of a local tour guide's experience!
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5. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, AZ

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Home to 33,000 acres of land, this National Monument protects the northernmost natural habitat of the Organ Pipe Cactus, as well as is the home of over 2,000 species of plants.
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Ajo Mountain Drive
This scenic 21-mile loop is one of the most popular attractions at Organ Pipe Cactus National Park. Note: The dirt road is one-way, so you must finish the loop once you've started. Fuel up before you begin! Trailers, buses, and RVs over 25 feet are prohibited on this drive.
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Arch Canyon Trail
A 2.9-mile trail with 1,253 feet of elevation gain, this challenging hike is difficult, but worth it for the stunning panoramic views at the top.
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Sonoran Desert Inn and Conference Center
This Southwest-style hotel is a quiet place to rest before exploring the wonders of the Sonoran Desert and trails of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
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Sonoran Desert- Wild Foods and Traditional Skills
A fun and hands-on way to learn more about surviving in the desert!
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6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO

Painted Wall
This short trail leads you to a magnificent viewpoint of the deepest canyon in Colorado! Commonly called "the black," this area is popular for hiking, climbing, and walking amidst the rockfaces and cliffs.
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South Rim Road
This scenic paved road follows the canyon rim for 7 miles from Tomichi Point to High Point! There are 12 overlooks and viewpoints through the canyon that are perfect for exploring this park. The South Rim road is far less visited.
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Sunset View Overlook
Sunset View Overlook (South Rim) is a popular location for stargazing. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park. Other South Rim overlooks that are great for stargazing, include Chasm View and Dragon Point.
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Kneeling Camel View
If you're looking for a great stargazing location on the North Rim of the park, Kneeling Camel Overlook or Chasm View Nature Trail are both incredible options!
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The Rathbone Hotel & Parlor Bar
A modern, upscale stay in downtown Montrose that has quick access to the national park, as well as to restaurants in town.
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4 Hours Durango Colorado - Jeep Tour
Not technically in the park, but right in the heart of the San Juan mountains this tour explores less-traveled roads and mountain trails with incredible views.
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7. Congaree National Park, SC

Kingsnake Trailhead
Known as the heart of the park, this 7.6 mile trail winds through the landscapes of the forest. Wind through a cypress-tupelo slough and spot wildlife such as deer, raccoons, opossums, and more.
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Boardwalk Loop Trail
This easy and accessible 2.6-mile trail on a boardwalk winds through the wilderness of Congaree! Tip: Check before you go. This area can flood and be closed after heavy rains.
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Harry Hampton Visitor Center
Want to see fireflies? This is a good spot! The season is only about 2 weeks long (from mid-May to mid-June), and the best time is between 9 and 10 p.m.
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South Cedar Creek Canoe Landing
Kayak or canoe through the park and under the cypress trees.
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Wise Lake
This charming little lake is surrounded by old-growth cypress trees. Be on the lookout for gators!
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Hotel Trundle
Stay just outside of the park in downtown Columbia at this modern, boutique hotel with access to the park, as well as restaurants and nightlife. Get a taste of all SC has to offer!
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Not technically in the national park, but this boat tour is the perfect way to wind down at sunset. The wind in your hair, the beautiful sunset over the water, and wildlife spotting make this a standout experience here.
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8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, AK

Caribou Creek Trail
This 7.1-mile out-and-back trail has 800 feet of elevation gain and is best visited in the spring and summer. The wildflowers are amazing along the trail! You can also make reservations ahead of time at the Caribou Creek Cabin to stay for a night.
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Root Glacier Trail
This 4.4-mile trail takes hikers through a rugged landscape of ice, rock, and streams to a viewpoint of the stunning Root Glacier. It typically takes 3-5 hours to complete.
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Boreal Forest Loop and Valdez Trail Trailhead
Take these short loop trails for stunning viewpoints of the Wrangell Mountains andthe Copper River.
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McCarthy Road
Ready for an adventure? Drive the 59-mile unpaved road that connects Chitina with McCarthy. There's a lot to see along the way. The road starts with Railroad Cut, a narrow section between two rock walls. And at mile 17, the Kuskulana River Canyon Bridge will take your breath away (do not stop on the bridge!). Note: Make sure you have spare tires, as this road has a lot of potholes and old railroad spikes. You will need pre-approval from your rental car company to take this drive.
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Kennicott Glacier Lodge
With mountainous views, cozy rooms, and a super convenient location, a stay here is perfect during your visit to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park! The breakfast buffet included in the stay is a total hit, too.
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Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark
Explore the actual buildings of an old copper mind from the early 1900s. To do this you will need to join a tour as the landmark is undergoing renovations. It will take you about a half of a day to see it all!
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Kennecott Mill Town Tour
Located amidst the rugged mountains of Kennecott, this tour explores the history of this small Alaskan town. Within just two hours, you'll hear stories and learn more about this region's history!
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9. Big Bend National Park, TX

Santa Elena Canyon
The Santa Elena Canyon Trail is about 1.6 miles, with nearly 100 feet of gain, and takes just about one hour to explore. This is one of the narrowest places in the 7-mile-long canyon, with jaw-dropping views of the canyon and winding river.
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Boquillas Canyon
Another short, but totally worth it hike, the Boquillas Canyon Trail is about 1.5 miles long with 150 feet of elevation gain. The trail leads you to a limestone gorge viewpoint splitting the Sierra del Carmen Mountains.
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Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
This drive is a must-do, especially for photographers. It's about 30 miles and is packed with
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South Rim Trail
Combine the South Rim Trail with the Emory Peak Loop for an incredible day of hiking. This is more for experienced hikers—combined the hikes will total over 15 miles. Begin at Pinnacles Trail if you are including Emory Peak.
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Emory Peak
This is the highest point in Big Bend National Park—you can see all the way into Mexico!
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Chisos Mountains Lodge
This beautiful lodge is nestled right into the heart of Big Bend National Park with access to trails and rafting excursions, and, of course, it has incredible views. There is also a restaurant on site—this is the only place to stay (and eat) in the national park!
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Float the Canyons of the Rio Grande
Float down the famous Rio Grande canyons on this guided tour where you will learn more about the Chihuahuan Desert landscape, geology, plants, and history. Make sure to bring lunch with you.
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10. Acadia National Park, ME

Bass Harbor Head Light Station
This is the famous spot where you can see some of the first rays of sun coming over the horizon in the U.S.! Be prepared for large crowds as this is a popular sunrise and sunset spot.
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Cadillac Mountain
Hike up to the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard, and in all of Maine, on the North Ridge Trail. The 4.4-mile round trip, family-friendly trail has a gradual climb on exposed granite with scenic views of the bay at the top!
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Park Loop Road
This stunning 27-mile drive winds through Acadia National Park. There are many scenic overlooks and trailheads to explore along the way. Fall is a popular time to drive this road as the fall foliage is spectacular.
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Wonderland Trail
Near Bass Harbor hike this short trail and make a stop at the Somesville Bridge for charming views.
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Beehive Trail
This is a moderate-to-difficult hike in Acadia, which is known for its iron-rung trails. Because of the rocky nature of the landscape, many trails include iron-rung ladders to get you up to the top. Park near Sand Beach and then head out on this 1.4-mile hike/climb.
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Sand Beach
The perfect place for a picnic, Sand Beach is next to the Beehive Trail. After your hike, spend some time relaxing here.
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Thunder Hole
Next to Sand Beach, there is an inlet where the ocean crashes and makes a thunderous noise! Of course, the conditions must be just right for this phenomenon. Tip: Try going 1-2 hours before high tide (or just after a storm has passed).
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Jordan Pond
Acadia's most iconic lake—this pristine "pond" was carved by glaciers. Grab a popover from Jordan Pond House before taking one of the nearby trailheads.
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Jordan Pond House Restaurant
Getting a popover at Jordan Pond House is a must-do on any visit to Acadia National Park.
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The Claremont Hotel
A cabin-style hotel right on the sparkling shores of Southwest Harbor, this stay will make you feel right at home during any season in Maine. The views are plentiful and the woodstoves are super cozy!
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Acadia Full Day Private Tour & Hike
A guide will take you to all the best spots in the park, including Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond, and Cadillac Mountain.
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