Okay, who’s ready to ditch the city and get some serious nature vibes? US national parks are basically the ultimate adventure playground, with everything from epic mountain hikes to stunning coastal trails to hidden waterfalls just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a total newbie, there’s a park out there with your name on it. These national parks for hiking are the best for your adventure travel plans!

Hiker’s Paradise: Best National Parks for Hiking

These parks are where hiking dreams are made. We’re talking jaw-dropping views, challenging trails, and those “I can’t believe I’m actually here” moments. These are the best national parks for hiking, offering the top hiking destinations.

• Zion National Park, Utah, USA: Zion is famous for The Narrows (hiking through a river in a slot canyon!) and Angels Landing (a thrilling hike with insane views – but not for the faint of heart!).
• Trails: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Observation Point (via East Mesa Trail), Pa’rus Trail (beginner-friendly)

• Yosemite National Park, California, USA: Yosemite Valley is iconic for a reason. Think giant granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.
• Trails: Half Dome (permit required!), Yosemite Falls Trail, Mist Trail, Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (beginner-friendly)

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA: The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and hiking into it is an experience you won’t forget. Just remember, it’s way harder hiking back up!
• Trails: Rim Trail (easy, great views), Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail

• Glacier National Park, Montana, USA: Glacier is all about pristine mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and, you guessed it, glaciers!
• Trails: Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, Avalanche Lake Trail

• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA: This park has it all: towering peaks, alpine lakes, and tons of wildlife.
• Trails: Longs Peak (for experienced hikers only!), Emerald Lake Trail, Bear Lake Nature Trail (easy)

• Acadia National Park, Maine, USA: Acadia offers a unique blend of mountains and coastline, with granite peaks, rocky beaches, and stunning ocean views.
• Trails: Beehive Trail (short but challenging!), Ocean Path (easy, coastal views), Cadillac Mountain Summit Loop (easy)

• Olympic National Park, Washington, USA: This park is incredibly diverse, with rainforests, mountains, and a rugged coastline. You can explore three distinct ecosystems in one park!
• Trails: Hoh River Trail (rainforest), Hurricane Hill (mountain views), Rialto Beach (coastal hike)

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina/Tennessee, USA: Lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views of the rolling mountains
• Trails: There’s a trail for every taste!

Beyond the Trail: Best Parks for Wildlife Watching

These national parks offer the top adventure travel experiences.

• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho, USA: Yellowstone is like a real-life nature documentary. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see bison and elk, and you might even spot wolves, bears, or pronghorn.
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA: Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton is another great place for wildlife viewing. Look for moose, elk, bears, and pronghorn.
• Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA: Denali is home to the “Big Five” of Alaskan wildlife: bears, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and wolves.
• Everglades National Park, Florida, USA: This subtropical wilderness is home to alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and a huge variety of birds.
• Glacier National Park, Montana, USA: (Mentioned above, so reinforcing).

Secret Trails: Hidden Gems Inside Popular Parks

Want to escape the crowds and find your own little slice of paradise? Here are some ways to discover hidden gems inside the best national parks for hiking.

• Talk to Park Rangers: They’re the experts! Ask them for recommendations for less-crowded trails or hidden spots.
• Research Online: Look for hiking blogs and forums where people share their experiences and tips.
• Explore Less-Traveled Areas: Check the park map and look for areas that are further away from the main visitor centers and popular trails.

Step by Step: Best Trails for Beginners

Just starting out? No worries! These trails are perfect for easing into the hiking life, offering great experiences in national parks for hiking and the best hiking destinations.

Yosemite National Park

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail: A paved, 1-mile loop with stunning views of Yosemite Falls.
• Mist Trail (lower portion): You can hike a portion of the Mist Trail to the Vernal Fall footbridge without doing the entire (strenuous) hike.

Zion National Park

• Pa’rus Trail: A paved, mostly flat trail that follows the Virgin River.
• Riverside Walk: A paved, mostly flat trail that leads to the beginning of The Narrows.

Grand Canyon National Park

• Rim Trail: You can walk sections of the paved Rim Trail for incredible views without having to hike down into the canyon.

Acadia National Park

• Ocean Path: A mostly flat, paved path that follows the coastline, with stunning ocean views.

Challenge Accepted: Most Challenging Hiking Routes

Ready to push your limits? These hikes are not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are epic. They are some of the best national parks for hiking and exploring the best of adventure travel.

Yosemite National Park

• Half Dome: This iconic hike requires a permit (it’s that popular) and involves climbing the last section using cables. It’s a strenuous, all-day adventure.
• Four Mile Trail: This steep trail climbs from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point, offering incredible views.

Zion National Park

• Angels Landing: This thrilling hike involves steep drop-offs and chains bolted into the rock. It’s not for those with a fear of heights! (Permit required)
• Observation Point (via East Mesa Trail): A longer, less crowded alternative to Angels Landing, with equally stunning views.

Grand Canyon National Park

• Bright Angel Trail to the river and back: A challenging hike down into the canyon and back up. It’s best to do this as an overnight trip.
• South Kaibab Trail to the river and back: Another challenging hike down into the canyon, with steeper grades than the Bright Angel Trail.

Glacier National Park

• Highline Trail: A long day hike with stunning views of the mountains and glaciers.

Pack It Right: What to Pack for a National Park Trip

Being prepared is key to having a safe and enjoyable national park adventure. Here’s your packing list:

• Hiking Boots: Make sure they’re broken in before your trip!
• Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack that’s the right size for your hike.
• Layers of Clothing: Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be prepared for anything.
• Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are essential, even if the forecast looks good.
• Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir: Staying hydrated is super important, especially at higher elevations.
• Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun.
• First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.
• Map and Compass/GPS: Don’t rely solely on your phone – cell service can be spotty in national parks.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Even if you’re not planning on hiking in the dark, it’s always a good idea to have a light source.
• Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruit.
• Insect Repellent: Bugs can be annoying, especially in the summer.
• Bear Spray: If you’re hiking in bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Camp Vibes: Best Camping Spots in National Parks

Camping in a national park is an amazing experience. Waking up to the sounds of nature, sleeping under the stars… it’s pure magic. But remember, it’s best to make reservations for national parks campgrounds.

• Yosemite Valley: Camping in Yosemite Valley is like winning the lottery – reservations are super competitive. But if you can snag a spot, it’s an unforgettable experience.
• Grand Canyon: The Grand Canyon offers both North Rim and South Rim campgrounds. The North Rim is higher elevation and more remote.
• Zion: Zion has two main campgrounds: Watchman Campground and South Campground. Both are located near the Virgin River.
• Acadia: Acadia offers several campgrounds, including Blackwoods Campground (closest to Bar Harbor) and Seawall Campground (more remote).

Conclusion

US national parks offer some of the most incredible hiking and adventure opportunities in the world. These hiking destinations make for unforgettable adventure travel experiences.

FAQ

Which national park has the best hiking?

It depends on your preferences! Zion, Yosemite, Glacier, and Grand Canyon are all top contenders.

What is the #1 national park in the US?

It’s subjective, but Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Zion are often ranked among the most popular.

Which national park has the most difficult hikes?

Parks like Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Denali have some extremely challenging trails.

How do I plan a national park hike?

Research!