Top 10 Best National Parks in the United States in 2024

National parks around the world have made a remarkable contribution to the protection and preservation of wildlife. In recent years, many animal species have been threatened or completely extinct. To prevent this from happening, various national parks have come into existence and in this article, we will discuss the top 10 national parks in the United States of America (USA) in 2024.

List of America’s National Parks 2024: Complete List by State

Rank	National park	Location	Description
1	Glacier National Park	Montana	Mountain landscapes, lakes, hiking trails, UNESCO World Heritage Site
2	Yellowstone National Park	Wyoming, Montana, Idaho	Large park with diverse landscapes, geothermal features, wildlife
3	Yosemite National Park	California	Waterfalls, granite cliffs, camping, hiking
4	Grand Canyon National Park	Arizona	Deep canyon carved by the Colorado River, panoramic viewpoints, rafting
5	Grand Teton National Park	Wyoming	Mountain landscapes, lakes, hiking trails
6	Zion National Park	Utah	Canyons, mesas, adventurous hiking trails
7	Denali National Park and Preserve	Alaska	Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, wild nature
8	Kenai Fjords National Park	Alaska	Glaciers, fjords, kayaking, boating
9	Bryce Canyon National Park	Utah	Unique hoodoo rock formations, scenic viewpoints
10	Redwood National and State Parks	California	Coastal redwoods, stargazing, scenic drives

1. Glacier National Park:

This national park is undoubtedly one of the best national parks in the United States of America, if not the entire world. It is nestled between two mountains and is known to be home to over 700 lakes. Not only does it offer you a variety of flora and fauna, but both the mountains offer you adventurous hiking trails. The park is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Overall, this park will enchant you with its beauty and entertain you with various activities.

2. Yellowstone National Park:

This national park is one of the first in the world. It covers more than 800,000 hectares, which allows it to cross three states. The natural attractions and landscapes of this park are among the most extravagant in the world. You can sit by one of the lakes and enjoy the calm of the environment or catch a glimpse of the many animals. Here, the choice is yours. For the best experience, try to visit the park in April or October.

3. Yosemite National Park:

I’m sure we’ve all heard of this national park. Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most majestic waterfalls, namely Bridalveil Falls and Vernal Falls. Camping and hiking in this area are so popular that campsites sell out in a blink of an eye. While you’re there, you absolutely can’t miss the Tunnel View Lookout. This will give you one of the most enjoyable views of the valley. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags now!

4. Grand Canyon National Park:

We already know the famous Grand Canyon. It is a true wonder of nature, to say the least. The Grand Canyon National Park will amaze you just as much. No photo can do justice to the views you can admire there. You can go rafting on the Colorado River or go on an adventurous hike on one of the many trails. If you want to have an overview of the place, helicopter tours are also available, which will leave you with an unforgettable memory.

5. Grand Teton National Park:

This beautiful park is located in Wyoming and is a feast for the eyes. It offers you an experience that many national parks can offer. It sits between two ice-capped mountains and hikers can find trails that stretch for 250 miles. Visit the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. They have all kinds of maps and a small documentary to give you more information about this majestic park.

6. Zion National Park:

If you are a thrill seeker, Zion National Park in Utah is the place for you. It has some of the most adventurous hiking trails, making it a hiker’s paradise on earth. The more adventurous can try the Angels Landing hike, while beginner hikers will have a blast hiking The Narrows. But if you are like me and don’t want to hike at all, take a Zion Canyon Scenic Drive bus tour.

7. Denali National Park and Preserve:

This park is not like any other because it does not exist in the tropical region. When you visit it, you will see snow-covered mountains everywhere. The reason is that this park is located in Alaska and is spread over 6,000,000 acres of untouched and undeveloped land. There are not many trails thanks to the snow, but explorers from all over the world come here because of its splendor. Some scenic spots like Wonder Lake and Savage River will blow your mind.

8. Kenai Fjords National Park:

This park is quite similar to Denali National Park, but the views are different but beautiful. Also located in Alaska, it is home to some of the largest glaciers. It covers an area of about 700 square miles, making it easy for tourists to travel. Some of the must-do activities include hiking the Glacier Overlook Trail and the Glacier View Loop Trail. If you want to do something more relaxing, boating and kayaking services are also available. This park is truly a winter wonderland!

9. Bryce Canyon National Park:

This park has one of the most unique topographies in all of America. It is home to a unique collection of pillars called Hoodoos, created by erosion. They are made entirely of red sandstone, which will leave you speechless. People usually prefer to go there in the summer, but when winter comes and the pillars are lightly covered in snow, it is a sight not to be missed!

10. Redwood National and State Park:

As the name suggests, this national and state park is famous for its iconic and majestic redwood trees that can grow up to 300 feet tall! Yes, you read that right. Enter the forested area at night and you’ll see the moon and stars at their brightest. But if that’s something you don’t want to do, there are plenty of scenic road trails like Enderts Beach Road and Howland Hill Road.

I’m so ready to pack my bags and go on vacation to one of these parks, and I’m sure you are too!