My Top 5 National Parks

Throughout the last few years I’ve been able to visit several national parks while road tripping within the United States. Although I’ve only been to 13 National Parks so far, I wanted to share my top 5 favorite parks as of now. Of course this may change as I explore and visit more parks, so this is based only on the parks I’ve already been to. Be sure to check out my detailed guides on the parks mentioned if you’re planning a trip anytime soon!

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

It was challenging picking my top national park so far but I chose Grand Teton because of the park’s stunning views, accessibility, proximity to a town, and the overall feeling I experienced while visiting. Grand Teton was unlike any other park I’ve been to (so far!), it’s extremely close to Jackson Hole which was a rare perk that offered plenty of restaurants and shopping spots.

Biggest tip: Watch every sunrise in the Tetons during your visit

Favorite experience: Hiking parts of the Cascade Canyon trail

Must do/see: Visit Mormon row and Schwabacher landing for sunrise or sunset

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier national park is hands down one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. It’s often called the crown jewel of the continent and is well known for the vast mountain views seen along the ‘Going to the Sun’ Road. Although Glacier is stunning, I gave it number two due to the crowds we experienced while visiting and because of it’s remote location.

Biggest tip: Get to trail heads early to beat crowds!

Favorite experience: Hiking parts of the high line trail

Must do/see: Drive along the Going to the Sun Road

Hiking in the clouds along the High Line trail

Hiking parts of the Grinnel glacier trail

3. Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado

The Rocky Mountains national park will always hold a special place in my heart. It was one of the first national parks I’ve ever visited and my first experience there was magical. I love where the park is located, right outside the charming mountain town, Estes Park, and the incredible views and wildlife the park offers.

Biggest tip: Drive along the Trail Ridge Road

Favorite experience: Hiking parts of Mount Ida.

Must do/see: Hike the bear lake trails!

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion national park truly feels like you’re on a different planet. The mountainous views, desert like feel, and the collection of red and orange rock colors made an impression on me. Zion definitely succeeded all of my expectations. It’s one of those parks that’s always talked about and it did not disappoint!

Biggest tip: If visiting during the summer, find accommodations with A/C! Zion is so hot in the summer, it was not realistic (for us) to camp.

Favorite experience: Watching the sunrise at Canyon Overlook

Must do/see: The Narrows hike!

5. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon national park is an underrated park in my opinion! It’s on the smaller side with less major hikes and activities to do but the landscape is so incredibly unique, it had to be included on my top 5 list. We only spent one day while visiting Bryce but we were able to see the main highlights.

Biggest tip: Watch the sunrise in the park to see the hoodoos light up!

Favorite experience: Exploring and hiking the Navajo loop trail

Must do/see: Visiting inspiration point to view the hoodoos from above