National parks are the crown jewels of the US. The National Park System stretches across all 50 states and includes more than 430 park sites. These protected spaces are home to America’s most iconic landscapes, from towering cliffs to mighty rivers.
Are you ready for an extraordinary national park experience? Check out the best national parks for first-timers below (and find out which to avoid during peak season)!
Yellowstone National Park
America’s first national park is unlike any other. Yellowstone National Park is home to countless hiking trails, amazing views, powerful geysers, colorful hot springs, and iconic wildlife.
As one of America’s most popular national parks, Yellowstone tends to be busy no matter when you choose to visit. Early and late season may be the best time for first-timers to visit as July and August are the busiest months. Late May to early June are a great time to spot wildlife babies and fresh, floral blooms. Early September through October, visitors can witness the Yellowstone elk rut which features bull bugling and battles.
Where is the best place to access Yellowstone? Cody, Wyoming! This authentic western town is just an hour from Yellowstone National Park and the perfect place to begin your visit. Request your free print and downloadable Cody-Yellowstone Adventure Vacation Guide today!
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Wyoming and Montana share Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. While not technically a national park, this impressive national recreation area offers more than 120,000 acres of recreational opportunities.
If you are looking for a relaxing, outdoor experience, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is the place for you! A tranquil and peaceful area, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is home to a diverse landscape including forests, mountains, upland prairies, deep canyons, broad valleys, high deserts, lakes, and wetlands.
Access Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area via the Sweet 16, aptly named for its low grade and gentle curves. For a truly western experience, plan your visit to Bighorn Mountain Country during the Ten Sleep 4th of July Rodeo, an authentic small-town family-friendly rodeo.
Are you ready to plan your big outdoor adventure? Order your free print and downloadable Bighorn Mountain Country Travel Guide today!
Olympic National Park
Where can you experience three distinct ecosystems? Olympic National Park!
Olympic National Park is the ideal first-time experience for any and all nature lovers. The park spans nearly one million acres and includes snow-capped peaks, over 70 miles of rugged Pacific Ocean coastline, and lush, temperate rainforests.
Similar to other national parks, July and August are the busiest months. For fewer crowds, plan a visit during the fall. While every season in the park is magical, fall is special because of its quiet trails and bursts of color as leaves turn lovely shades of amber, gold, red, and orange. Autumn is also a great time to observe the 1,400 species of mushrooms that call the park home. Just remember to pack your rain coat!
What are you waiting for? Order your free print and downloadable Olympic Peninsula Travel Guide today!
Zion National Park
Pinks, reds, oranges, and creams paint the landscape of Zion National Park. The park is known for its intense colors, striking sandstone cliffs, and the Virgin River.
Zion National Park has trails for all ages and abilities. Notable paved trails include Pa’rus Trail and Riverside Walk and advanced paths include the infamous Angel’s Landing as well as the Narrows and Observation Point. No matter the trail, visitors will be rewarded with stunning views and terrain unlike any other.
Located in southern Utah, Greater Zion is known for its 300+ days of sunshine per year. While the area can be visited year-round, peak season is from May to October. As one of the most visited national parks in the country, it is best to plan ahead for a truly enjoyable park experience. For more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the late fall. With mild temperatures and clear skies, fall is a great time for hiking and stargazing.
Greater Zion isn’t just a gateway to Zion National Park. The region also offers access to four state parks, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. It is one of the most rewarding regions for first-time visitors and dedicated returning visitors.
What do you need for a great trip to Zion National Park and Greater Zion? Sunglasses, sunscreen, a sense of wonder, and, of course, your free print and downloadable Greater Zion Official Visitor Guide.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country. The Smokies, as the mountains are affectionately called, are known for the morning fog that paints the wondrous mountain range. The area is also known for the diverse plant and animal life that calls the region home and its resilient Appalachian mountain culture.
This park is a great option for first-time visitors. Its popularity does mean that its peak season runs longer than most of the other parks, from June through August, and in October as well.
Visitors to the park will find no shortage of activities including fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The area also has 80 historic buildings, welcoming local towns, and ample accommodations.
For a truly tranquil experience, we recommend staying in Townsend, Tennessee—the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Townsend provides respite from larger crowds with easy access to the Smokies.
Are you ready to travel to the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Start planning your getaway with your free print and downloadable Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide!
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a destination you will want to return to again and again. The park includes nearly a million acres of land and 25 active glaciers.
It is a favorite destination for hikers, with ample backcountry trails covering more than 700 miles of rugged terrain, forests, and alpine meadows. Hikers of all ability levels are rewarded when venturing out thanks to the park’s abundant wildlife, impressive peaks, flower-filled meadows, cascading waterfalls, and snow-fed lakes and rivers.
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a popular and scenic 50-mile, two-lane highway in Glacier National Park. The route offers some of the most breathtaking views of Montana. The route can also be crowded and may require a reservation.
Be sure to explore beyond the park during your visit. Northwest Montana is a charming and lively area, home to over 75 communities in eight counties. Montana’s Glacier Country promises an unforgettable experience. Start planning your Montana experience today with your free print and downloadable Glacier Country Official Travel Guide.
Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River
New York State isn’t technically home to any national parks. However, it is home to 24 magnificent destinations managed by the National Park Service. These recreation areas, monuments, sites, and parks are great options for those wanting a national park experience while exploring the state.
Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River is one of New York’s many picturesque recreational areas. It includes 73.4 miles of protected, undammed river, and provides some of the best fishing in the country. It is also a popular destination for rafting, canoeing, and kayaking.
The Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River serves as a scenic backdrop for the rolling hills and riverfront villages that make up the beautiful rural countryside that spans both Pennsylvania and New York.
The river and its many recreational opportunities can be enjoyed during a visit to Delaware County, New York as well as Orange County, New York. Enjoy the river and more of New York State by requesting your free print and downloadable Orange County Travel Guide and Delaware County Travel Guide.
Explore America’s National Parks
A trip to a national park is a trip of a lifetime. No matter where you travel, you are sure to have an extraordinary experience. From rugged terrain to colorful deserts, every park promises to leave a lasting impression.
Are you ready to plan your first national park experience? Check out all of our free print and downloadable travel guides!
