Aventura Guide - Top 15 US National Parks
by Aventura on April 17, 2023
Yosemite National Park, California
At America's most-visited national parks, you may face long lines, need advanced reservations, encounter full parking lots, and crowded hikes. Nevertheless, the rewards are immense. You'll witness stunning beauty, create unforgettable memories, and appreciate the cultural, historical, and geological significance of these remarkable federally-protected spaces. It's no surprise that these 15 parks received chart-topping visitation figures nearly on par with pre-pandemic levels in 2022. Out of the 64 national parks in the US, these top 15 accounted for more than two-thirds of all recreational visits last year according to new figures released by the park service. Despite the crowds, these big-name parks remain incredibly appealing for good reason. Check out Aventura’s take on the top 15 National Parks in the US.
15 Most Visited US National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Zion National Park, Utah · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Acadia National Park, Maine - Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Yosemite National Park, California · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Joshua Tree National Park, California · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Glacier National Park, Montana · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Olympic National Park, Washington · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah · Trails · Campsites · Experiences
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee - 12.94 million visitors
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands out as the most popular national park, with almost 13 million recreational visits in a year, accounting for nearly 15% of all visits to 64 national parks. Visitors from all over are drawn to the vast and diverse forests, largely untouched by human activity, for activities ranging from relaxation to adventure. The park, which spans across Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina, features the rolling and often misty Great Smoky Mountains, also known as the "Smokies," an extension of the ancient Appalachian Range. Hikers of all skill levels are enticed by the endless ridgeline viewpoints, offering colorful panoramas, while ground-level explorers can take in the aroma of wildflowers and tour the many historic buildings scattered throughout the park.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona - 4.73 million visitors
Grand Canyon National Park
Many consider the Grand Canyon to be the ultimate bucket-list experience, whether you're content with simply witnessing its grandeur or eager to trek all the way down to the Colorado River. Millions of people have confirmed that this journey is still worth making. The longest and one of the deepest canyons in the United States, it spans across parts of Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, and stands as one of the most recognizable examples of the mighty power of erosion. Its breathtaking vistas entice one's gaze to scan endlessly, unsure of where to settle or how to take in the remarkable beauty in its entirety. The canyon is full of majestic views from its many amazing hiking trails and campsites throughout the park. For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, venture to the West Rim and test your nerve on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a transparent bridge that offers a visceral undertaking.
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3. Zion National Park, Utah - 4.69 million visitors
Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Southern Utah is a tourist magnet, featuring tantalizing slot canyons, striking sandstone cliffs, and a dense forest of coniferous trees that set an awe-inspiring stage for visitors. Whether you prefer low-intensity strolls or high-octane exploration, Zion offers a range of options to suit your preference. Climbing, rappelling, hiking, and cannonballing are all fun ways to discover the naturally-carved nooks and crannies of America's third-most-visited national park. However, the most coveted experience is the short but breathtaking scramble up Angel's Landing, a knife-edge ridge that resembles a shark fin chiseled out of thousand-foot-high rock. Anchored chains are available to help adventurous visitors safely obtain views of the 270-million-year-old Zion Canyon. Due to high demand, a lottery system now exists for obtaining the necessary hiking permit.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado - 4.30 million visitors
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park in North-Central Colorado perfectly showcases the grandiose range of the same name. Established in 1915, this immensely popular park is also one of the oldest in the country. Visitors come to marvel at the bulky peaks of the "Rockies," which are complemented by lush alpine meadows, crystalline glacial lakes, and perhaps even a little John Denver playing through the car speakers. There are over 350 miles of hiking trails to help adventurous individuals get acquainted with the 265,807-acre environment. Whether deep in the wilderness or driving along the side of the road with cameras at the ready, you may spot a plethora of mountain mammals, such as elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, moose, marmots, and more.
5. Acadia National Park, Maine - 3.97 million visitors
Acadia National Park
To complete the top five, head to the Eastern Seaboard and discover the diverse portions of Maine's jewel on the Atlantic Ocean. Acadia National Park spans across 47,000 acres, including Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, Isle au Haut, and other small islands. The park's nearly 4 million annual visitors have a range of options to explore the ever-changing seasonal scenery of this peaceful landscape. With 60 miles of coastline, 33 miles of paved roads, 45 miles of carriage roads (open only to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse-drawn carriages), and over 150 miles of hiking trails, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. Rustic beaches and unique rock formations attract tourists from all over. The park is also home to over 300 species of birds, including the world's fastest-winged creature, the peregrine falcon, keeping birdwatchers engaged and their binoculars at the ready.
6. Yosemite National Park - 3.67 million visitors
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park in California is a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts of all kinds, from families to thrill-seekers. Established in 1890, the park boasts one of the most awe-inspiring valleys and iconic landscapes in the world. Visitors can immediately recognize famous features such as El Capitan, a towering granite face that lures the world's best rock climbers, and Half Dome, another impressive wall for climbers and hikers. One of the tallest waterfalls in the country, Yosemite Falls (2,425 feet/739 meters), cascades down these imposing cliffs, and visitors can feel the mist from the lower portion by walking the one-mile loop.
7. Yellowstone National Park - 3.29 million visitors
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, established on March 1st, 1872, is not only the country's first national park but also a symbol of pride and wonder, beckoning adventurers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. This 2.2 million-acre park stretches across parts of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, preserving priceless wilderness, diverse wildlife, and unique geological features for future generations. Yellowstone's thermal features are undoubtedly a top attraction, boasting over 500 geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, and surreal hot springs, such as the massive Grand Prismatic Spring, which dazzles visitors with its rainbow-like colors. As a cornerstone of the National Park Service, Yellowstone symbolizes the commitment to protect our nation's natural and cultural treasures.
8. Joshua Tree National Park - 3.06 million visitors
The striking landscape of Joshua Tree National Park beckons to the adventurous and free-spirited, as well as to rock climbers, backpackers, and aspiring photographers. Located in southeastern California, the park seamlessly merges the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, creating a unique and surprisingly rich ecosystem that attracted over 3 million visitors last year. The park's iconic Joshua Trees, members of the Agave family, not only serve as attractions but also play a crucial role as indicator species that signify the park's health. A variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects depend on these trees for food and shelter, making the park a biodiverse wonderland.
9. Cuyahoga Valley National Park - 2.91 million visitors
Not too long ago, Cuyahoga Valley National Park may have gone unnoticed by many Americans seeking a nature retreat. However, in 2022, Ohioans discovered their hidden treasure in droves. Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, this reclaimed rural landscape boasts modest infrastructure that showcases its beauty. Although it may not compete with the coastal, mountain, or canyon parks on this list in terms of dramatic features, it compensates with its wholesome charm, lush surroundings, and abundance of activities. There are hundreds of miles of biking paths and well-kept hiking trails to traverse, meandering past remarkable rock formations and stopping at various cliffside viewpoints. For a more leisurely exploration of the park, visitors can take a scenic railroad ride through the forests and farmlands, stroll along the Beaver Marsh boardwalk, or snap photos of the numerous waterfalls.
10. Glacier National Park - 2.91 million visitors
Glacier National Park in Northwestern Montana, a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, is neck and neck with Cuyahoga Valley National Park in terms of annual visitors. Since its establishment in 1910, Glacier has seen a surge in popularity. The park's main attraction is the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, which slices through the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views of the area, with several pit stops at impressive trailheads, tunnels, waterfalls, and overlooks. The climax of the scenic highway is Logan Pass, standing tall at 6,646 feet (2,025 meters) above sea level. An exquisite boardwalk takes visitors on a gentle stroll through the alpine meadow (nestled between Reynolds and Clements Mountains), while some moderate intensity hikes (Hidden Lake Trail and Highline Trail) branch off from here. However, caution is advised as bears may be spotted in the area.
11. Indiana Dunes National Park - 2.83 million visitors
Indiana Dunes National Park
The Indiana Dunes National Park is a 15-mile stretch of 15,000 acres along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, briefly dipping into Northwestern Indiana. Its impressive beaches and towering sand dunes attract many seeking a place to relax in the summer sun. However, those seeking a bit more adventure can explore the diverse ecosystems within the park. Scaling the tallest dunes, which can reach up to 250 feet, offers stunning panoramic views. The park also boasts 50 miles of trails and boardwalks that wind through wetlands, prairies, and old-growth forests, showcasing over 1,100 native plant species, which is the seventh-highest in the NPS.
12. Grand Teton National Park - 2.81 million visitors
Grand Teton National Park
Located just 10 miles south of Yellowstone National Park in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park is a must-see destination for millions of visitors each year. The iconic Teton Range, with its distinctive peaks, was the driving force behind the creation of the park in 1929. However, the park's appeal extends far beyond the jagged mountains, with attractions like the glacially formed Jenny Lake and the winding Snake River. With over 200 miles of trails winding through 310,000 acres of diverse landscapes, Grand Teton National Park offers an unforgettable experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.
13. Hot Springs National Park - 2.65 million visitors
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park, nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of Central Arkansas, has been a popular destination for centuries, with visitors drawn to the mineral-rich hot springs for their therapeutic benefits. Attendance figures from recent years attest to the enduring appeal of soaking in these ancient thermal pools. Bathhouses emerged in the 1800s and soon became the center of the resort city that grew around them, with Hot Springs National Park encompassing 5,500 acres of scenic terrain. Bathhouse Row, with its eight historic bathhouses, is the highlight of downtown, but the park's 26 miles of hiking trails and scenic roads also offer stunning mountain views.
14. Olympic National Park - 2.43 million visitors
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Northwestern Washington is distinguished by the prominent Mount Olympus. This site is not only a World Heritage Site but also an International Biosphere Reserve. The park boasts a diverse collection of landscapes, including alpine meadows, snow-capped and glacier-strewn peaks, old-growth, temperate rainforests, and almost 70 miles of unspoiled coastline. Spanning nearly one million acres, this area experiences a wide range of elevation, from sea level to the summit of Mount Olympus at 7,956 feet (2,425 meters). A rich variety of wildlife calls this park home, from the endangered northern spotted owl and large runs of Pacific salmon to whales, dolphins, cougars, elk, bears, and much more.
15. Bryce Canyon National Park - 2.35 million visitors
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah boasts the world's largest collection of hoodoos, the iconic tall, thin rock formations that look like towering figures. The breathtaking Bryce Amphitheatre was slowly carved out of the Grand Staircase Plateau and sits at an elevation between 8,000 to 9,000 feet. The best way to fully experience the stunning landscape is to hike the Rim-to-Rim trail, which covers a maximum of 11 miles and offers bench viewpoints all along the way. Another great feature of Bryce Canyon National Park is its proximity to Zion National Park, located around 80 miles to the northeast, providing visitors with an easy opportunity to tour two national parks in a single state. No wonder this region attracts large crowds of visitors.
