The days are getting longer, the evenings sultrier and the nights starry. In other words, it’s time for summer. And even more than summer means ice cream (specifically the SpongeBob ice cream pops from the ice cream truck), it means it’s national parks time, especially in the post-COVID world (in 2024, US national parks welcomed more guests than in any year in history).
That got me thinking…what actually is my seventeenth favorite park? Or my third favorite. Why should you pick one park over another? Which park involves preparation for bears? All that and more coming up in my ranking of the US National Parks (that I’ve been to).
For each park, I’ll provide a short summary of my thoughts followed by what the park is best for, what the park is worst for and the park’s ranking out of a possible 40 points.
Click here to open the table of contents: great for not scrolling, not great for spoilers!
Ranking Criteria
As much as I’d like to rank parks on vibes, we’ll use some “science” here and rank on four criteria:
🌄 1. Scenery & Natural Beauty (10 points)
How stunning is the park? Is the landscape unique?
- 10: Unforgettable, unique and jaw dropping scenery throughout the park.
- 8–9: Postcard-worthy surroundings in most of the park with some more ordinary areas.
- 6–7: A pretty park with a handful of standout portions.
- 4–5: Nice but nothing mind-blowing; perhaps repetitive or one-note.
- 1–3: Limited beauty (for a national park).
🥾 2. Things to Do (10 points)
So what can you actually do in the park? Just hike? Or run the full gauntlet of activities?
- 10: Endless options for adventure and cultural sites to keep you busy for days.
- 8–9: A variety of recreation opportunities, but not quite everything.
- 6–7: A handful of exceptional activities which can be covered in a couple of days.
- 4–5: One or two key spots to visit, but not much else.
- 1–3: Limited outdoor activities.
🚗 3. Accessibility & Crowds (10 points)
This category is less about getting there and more about logistics upon arrival.
- 10: Easy access, limited (or well spread) crowds with options for those of all adventure levels.
- 8–9: Some effort involved, a few crowded areas with options for those of most adventure levels.
- 6–7 : A busy park with significant crowds in some parts with some options for all adventure levels.
- 4–5: Very busy, may require permits to enjoy certain activities or limited variety of adventure difficulty.
- 1–3: Requires significant planning due to heavy crowds, limited access or very limited variety of activity.
✨ 4. Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes (10 points)
Does the park have that “it” feeling? (one time my friend said je ne sais quoi and I thought “how ~fancy~”)
- 10: Soul-moving, awe-inspiring, larger than life (cue the Backstreet Boys).
- 8–9: A special atmosphere easily remembered.
- 6–7: A pleasant park but nothing transcendant.
- 4–5: Somewhat generic or flat; lacking some character.
- 1–3: Questioning why this is even a national park.
#31: Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
Summary: The Gateway Arch is very cool and absolutely a worthwhile stop in St. Louis (or in the middle of a 20 hour car ride from Atlanta to Denver, but I digress). You can ride an elevator to the top, learn about expansion to the west or find that perfect angle to capture the arch and the sky. It really does feel like an entrance to the west and the area is significant for its proximity to the Old Courthouse, where Dred Scott and his wife sued for their freedom. But to call it a National Park feels almost…disingenuous? A National Monument feels more fitting to honor the history of the area.
Best For: Seeing a big ‘ole metal arch.
Worst For: Being in an actual park.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 3
Things to Do: 4
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 4
Total: 18/40
#30: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Summary: The greater Cleveland area can claim something few cities can: it’s home to a National Park. In addition to some cool rock formations (The Ledges) and waterfalls, the park has some interesting history if you like canals and towpaths (who doesn’t like canals and towpaths?). Other than that, it’s a nice park in the woods. There’s nothing particularly noteworthy or special, but it’s a nice area to spend a half-day hiking if you find yourself in Cleveland Believeland. And you can treat yourself with some Mitchell’s Ice Cream after your hike, too!
Best For: A pleasant half-day of hiking with stellar local ice cream.
Worst For: Getting away from it all.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 3
Things to Do: 4
Accessibility and Crowds: 9
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 3
Total: 19/40
#29: Everglades National Park, Florida
Summary: I don’t remember too much about this park other than it was really hot and we sat on a mildly uncomfortable and loud airboat for awhile and saw some alligators. The scenery is certainly unique–especially the mangroves–although I’d take a mountain or beach over wetland any day. And as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized you can also see alligators in…most places in Florida, not just the Everglades.
Best For: Gator spotting.
Worst For: Hair prone to issues with humidity.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 4
Things to Do: 4
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 4
Total: 20/40
#28: Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Summary: The NPS page for Petrified Forest reads as an advertisement as no other page does. “Attention I-40 travelers! Take a break at Petrified Forest National Park!” “Pets are welcome here at PETrified Forest!” When I visited, I was in fact an I-40 traveler looking for a break between Phoenix and Albuquerque. And Petrified Forest was…well…petrifyingly fine. There’s a good amount to do for a few hours: walk along the rim of the Painted Desert, see some petrified fossils (“petrified forest” refers to trees which were quickly buried amongst sediment, stopping decay and creating essentially mineralized fossils over millions of years), look for petroglyphs at Puerco Pueblo or just sit in the car and enjoy something a heck of a lot better than a rest stop. It’s a nice stop on the highway, but nothing I’d go back to the area for.
Best For: A break from I-40.
Worst For: Planning a trip around the park.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 4
Things to Do: 3.5
Accessibility and Crowds: 10
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 3.5
Total: 21/40
#27: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai’i
Summary: This is perhaps the most unique national park in that it offers visitors a chance to walk amidst an active volcano or straight through one of the craters formed by Kīlauea. This is the kind of stuff that dreams from my geology class in college were made from. If you get the chance to see an active lava flow, it’s a must visit park. When that’s not occuring, it’s still fascinating on paper, but I had to keep reminding myself of that as we made our way across the crater under a blazing hot sun. Beyond the impressive crater hike, must-see stops are limited here (the lava tube and crater overlooks are your next best bets). It’s certainly a unique spot worth visiting if you’re on the Big Island, but unless there’s an active eruption, you’re looking at geology in action, not a jaw-dropper.
Best For: Volcano lovers.
Worst For: Volcano haters.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 5
Things to Do: 4.5
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 5
Total: 21.5/40
#26: Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Summary: Split into four distinct districts (Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves), Canyonlands is a wonderland of varied experiences from flatwater river trips to backcountry hiking to technical four wheel driving to learning about the Ancestral Puebloans. Each district operates like a park within a park, which is great in theory but less so when they’re hours from each other by car. The Maze requires hours of technical (and potentially dangerous) driving, rendering it off limits to most of the public. Island in the Sky, the most popular district, features miles of sandstone cliffs towering atop canyons and rivers. Hikes in this portion of the park are mostly short and easy, making it an excellent choice for those with limited mobility or younger children. I wasn’t particularly blown away by anything in Canyonlands; the canyons didn’t have the grandeur of the Grand Canyon and arches didn’t have the…archi-ness as those in Arches. I’d like to come back to visit The Needles or spend some time on the river.
Best For: Experienced 4×4 drivers who want a challenge.
Worst For: Those wanting one big “oh wow!” moment.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 5.5
Things to Do: 9
Accessibility and Crowds: 5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 4
Total: 23.5/40
#25: White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Summary: White Sands is perhaps a misnomer, as it’s actually the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. Yep, that’s right! There isn’t actually sand in White Sands! I guess White Gypsum National Park just doesn’t have the same ring as White Sands, but I digress. The cool part about White Sands is how…literally cool it is. The gypsum doesn’t retain heat, so the dunes are cool to the touch seem to roll on forever. Accessing your inner child by sledding on the dunes is encouraged and is perhaps the most unique activity in a national park. Once you’ve finished sledding, hiking through the dunes is a serene and different experience. Sitting atop a tall dune gazing out at miles and miles of untouched heaps of sand gypsum puts into perspective how small we all are. The 5 mile hike on Alkali Flat Trail felt about 3 miles too long, though; once you’ve seen the dunes, you’ve seen the dunes. We fortunately stuck around for sunset, which provides an ethereal glow as the white dunes provide a unique backdrop frontdrop…scene as the sun dips behind the horizon. White Sands is a worthy addition if you’re already in the area (visiting Guadalupe Mountains), otherwise we just didn’t think the scenery justified the trip out.
Best For: Gypsum lovers.
Worst For: Getting sand gypsum stuck in all of your clothing and car.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 5
Things to Do: 5
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 6
Total: 24/40
#24: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Summary: First thing’s first: Bryce Canyon is not a canyon. A true canyon is carved by a flowing river, while Bryce was formed by frost wedging: water freezing and expanding between rock. Geologic processes aside, what’s more important is that it’s not a practical place to lose livestock. The park’s namesake, Ebeneezer Bryce, noted that the park’s “a hell of a place to lose a cow”, and while he’s absolutely right, it’s also a feast for the eyes. The ampitheater’s home to the highest concentration of hoodoos on Earth, and they make up some of the most unique landscape in any national park. Hiking among these spires in the sky is easily attainable on the Queen’s Garden Trail, and the park features a scenic drive which will treat you to arches, valleys, and sweeping views of the highest portion of the Grand Staircase. A word to the wise: visit in the winter; it’s cooler and you’ll avoid having to use the shuttle bus.
Best For: Hoodoo aficionados.
Worst For: Losing a cow.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7.5
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 6
Total: 24.5/40
#23: Arches National Park, Utah
Summary: One of five national parks in Utah, Arches is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in the National Park system: Delicate Arch. If you’ve seen Utah’s license plate, you’ve seen (“seen”) Delicate Arch, although the actual thing is far more impressive, especially at sunset as the sun makes the sandstone look nearly ablaze. The park is actually home to over 2,000 arches plus windows, balancing rocks and other cool rock-related formations you never knew existed. Arches falls a bit down the list as it’s a bit one-note: a lot of arches, a lot of hiking, some driving and…more arches.
Best For: Those who want a relatively easy hike with a truly dramatic payoff point (Delicate Arch).
Worst For: People who do not like arches.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7.5
Things to Do: 5
Accessibility and Crowds: 5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7
Total: 24.5/40
#22: Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Summary: The only park named after a plant, Saguaro is of course home to the Saguaro Cactus. These towering cacti are only found in the Sonoran Desert of the American Southwest and often weigh several tons and can live past 200 years. They’re ~the~ symbol of the region, so it’s a surreal experience to exist amongst these giants, especially as day turns to night (or vice versa). The park itself is split into two districts: the Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. The former has a greater density of cacti and better scenery overall, but visiting both in one day is easily doable. There’s nice hiking in both sections–Mica View in the East and Valley View in the west–in addition to great spots for photography–especially during sunrise and sunset–and peaceful scenic drives. It’s also within a half hour of Tucson, a worthwhile visit for a long weekend in the winter.
Best For: Getting up close with the Saguaro Cactus.
Worst For: Getting too close to the Saguaro Cactus and getting pricked.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 5.5
Things to Do: 4
Accessibility and Crowds: 9
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 6
Total: 24.5/40
#21: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Summary: Crater Lake is what it says it is: a big ole’ crater (formed when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed upon itself) which has become filled with water to create a deep and brilliant blue lake. The park offers hikes around the lake’s rim and around the rugged terrain, boat rides within the lake, swimming access and scenic drives. Laying eyes on the lake for the first time, especially from the top of The Watchman Peak Trail, is spectacular and slipping into the chilly water on a blazing hot day is a great pre-reward for hiking Cleetwood Cove Trail back to the car, where you’ll pick up 600 feet of elevation in a mile. Aside from the lake, the rest of the park is pretty but nothing noteworthy, making this a great park to include as a stop on a drive up the west coast.
Best For: Believers in Park Ranger Kelly’s slogan: “It’s a terrible hike, but you’re going to have a great time.”
Worst For: Non-believers in Park Ranger Kelly’s slogan. Or someone with a healthy fear of water.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 6
Things to Do: 5
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 6
Total: 25/40
#20: Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Summary: Traditionally viewed as the outcast of Utah’s Mighty Five, Capitol Reef was the one which surprised me the most. Of course it’s not the capital of anything (settlers thought it looked like the US Capitol) nor a reef (a term pioneers used for any rocky barrier that blocked their wagons). Rather, it features a 100-mile long monocline–aka a geologic wrinkle. As the least visited park in Utah, it’s consequently easy to access and enjoy hiking, scenic drives and even a u-pick orchard and adjacent pie shop. We enjoyed the 3.5 mile Cassidy Arch Trail, where we had the arch all to ourselves–a rarity for a major attraction at any national park. And that’s exactly why Capitol Reef should be on your list: it’s not the prettiest or the most activity-laden, but the solitude and beauty make for a remarkable combination.
Best For: A slice of solitude in a busy part of the world.
Worst For: Expecting a capitol. Or a reef.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 6.5
Things to Do: 5
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7
Total: 26.5/40
#19: Sequoia National Park, California
Summary: Five of the ten largest trees on the entire planet Earth call Sequoia home (including the largest–General Sherman Tree). That’s 50% of the top 10 trees living in an area that’s 0.0000032% of Earth’s surface. If that isn’t a wild enough fact for you, the highest point in the lower 48–Mount Whitney–is also found in Sequoia. The sheer size of the sequoia trees is indescribable, and the park has some other highlights like Moro Rock: a one mile walk up 300 stairs carved into the granite leading to a simply wild, 360-degree view of the peaks and valleys of the park. We also hiked to Tokopah Falls, an intimidating waterfall cascading 1,200 feet down to earth–while enjoyable, we thought Mist Falls in Kings Canyon was significantly better. The Generals Scenic Highway is also worth a drive; it features plenty of turnouts for Instagram-worthy shots of tall mountains, curving rivers and miles of uninterrupted deciduous forest. While we enjoyed our time in Sequoia, it left us wanting for a bit more of that je ne sais quoi, which we (mostly) found in Kings Canyon.
Best For: Tree lovers.
Worst For: Car sickness on Generals Highway.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7.5
Things to Do: 6.5
Accessibility and Crowds: 6
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7
Total: 27/40
#18: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Summary: Nearly 15,000,000 visitors per year make the Smokies America’s most visited national park. It’s also one of the few free parks in the system, a stipulation Tennessee essentially mandated to encourage interstate travel when they donated the land. and within a day’s drive of half of the country’s population. Great Smoky Mountains is a hiker’s paradise, with 850 miles of trails in the park, including 72 miles of the Appalachian Trail and noteworthy treks like Mt. LeConte and Charlies Bunion. There are scenic drives, places to fly fish, plenty of spots to stop to better understand the area’s history and even synchronized fireflies. If you’ve been to the Appalachian Mountains, the scenery is exactly what you’d think: hardwood forests covering rolling, rocky mountains; it’s nothing dramatic, but it’s beautiful nonetheless. It’s expansiveness makes it serene and a great weekend getaway for those living in the southeast. Or, you can skip it and go to Dollywood.
Best For: Existing amongst miles and miles of mountains.
Worst For: Families with kids who would rather go to Pigeon Forge (it’s so close!).
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7
Things to Do: 7
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7
Total: 28/40
#17: Joshua Tree National Park, California
Summary: Joshua Tree is where I learned my favorite National Park fact: it’s where two deserts meet: the Mojave and the Colorado. The Mojave is higher, cooler and home to the famed Joshua Trees (which, of course, are not actually trees, they’re yucca) while the Colorado is lower, hotter and home to completely different flora and fauna like the cholla cactus. The meeting of the deserts inside the park makes for a fascinating drive; you can literally watch the landscape drastically change in a matter of minutes. Most of the action, though, takes place in the Mojave, where you can hike amongst Joshua Trees, schlep to the top of Ryan Mountain or boulder through piles of monzogranite boulders. It’s a popular spot in the winter, so you won’t get too much space to yourself near the popular attractions, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great long weekend to soak up the winter sun. It’s also a great spot to pair with Palm Springs, giving you a balance of the rugged and the posh.
Best For: A long weekend trip in the winter.
Worst For: Not being aware of the risk of extreme dehydration in a desert.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7.25
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 28.25/40
#16: Acadia National Park, Maine
Summary: Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia is home to the tallest mountain on the Atlantic coast in addition to quiet woodlands, serene lakes, rugged forests and intertidal habitats teeming with life. Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is legendary as is the Beehive Trail, which climbs high atop the park and features sweeping views of the coast. There’s hiking for all ages and experiences, bird watching, stargazing, kayaking and oodles more. While Acadia can get quite busy over the summer, the beautiful weather and varied nature makes it a perfect long weekend stop.
Best For: A long weekend in the summer.
Worst For: Potential of falling off of a ladder attached to the mountain.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7
Things to Do: 8
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7
Total: 29/40
#15: Kings Canyon National Park, California
Summary: As we drove into the canyon, I kept saying “dang, we keep going down…how much farther down could it be?” And the answer is a staggering 8,200 feet, even deeper than the Grand Canyon! In addition to the canyon itself, the park features Redwood Mountain Grove, the largest sequoia grove in the world, and a very dense population of black bears. Mist Falls is a standout hike; the 9-mile roundtrip hike meanders along the South Fork of the Kings River, beginning in a bucolic meadow before entering a thickly shaded forest and finally ending with a steep ascent to Mist Falls. You’ll likely see some wildlife–in addition to snakes and chipmunks, we also saw a bear just off the trail. There are spectacular views of the canyon as you ascend with plenty of room to enjoy lunch or stretch out the ole legs. The only road in and out of this section of the park is Highway 180, a truly spectacular scenic drive offering constant views of the epic and vast canyon. The park is also significantly quieter than Sequoia, making it our clear favorite between the two. One note: many of the park’s hikes are long and challenging, so unless you’re planning on embarking on one, a day or two in the park is sufficient.
Best For: Majestic canyon views and solitude.
Worst For: Wildlife haters.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8.5
Things to Do: 5
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7.5
Total: 29/40
#14: Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Summary: I visited Badlands twice on the same trip and the more time I spent there, the more I enjoyed it. It’s a collection of buttes (steep and isolated hills) and soft sedimentary rock that’s eroding a full inch per year (so enjoy it while it lasts!). The hikes aren’t anything spectacular and the scenery isn’t the most dramatic—but the variety of ecosystems, relaxing drives, and peaceful sunset spots more than make up for it. Among the unique flora and fauna are prarie dogs, bison, bighorn sheep and an enormous fossil record including dinosaurs and mammals.
Best For: A relaxing day or two filled with short hikes and scenic drives.
Worst For: Getting the plague (active in the prarie dog population).
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 7
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 29/40
#13: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Summary: With 200,000 acres of boasting 500 miles of hiking, 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, 75 scenic overlooks, 12 waterfalls and 10 ice cream shops (just kidding about the ice cream shops, though that would be a treat!), Shenandoah is a slice of heaven just an hour outside of Washington, DC. A park known for its spectacular foliage, Shenandoah is a worthwhile stop any time of year thanks to its mild climate and easy access. The park’s scenic overlooks are located along Skyline Drive, a 105 mile journey across the Blue Ridge Mountains and is also the park’s only public road. Hikes along the drive are aplenty with favorites including the Hawksbill Summit Trail and Stony Man via the AT. The crown jewel of the park’s hiking trails, Old Rag Mountain, technically begins outside the park before venturing in, climbing 2,600 feet in 4 miles and providing a spectacular 360-degree view of Shenandoah’s peaks and the rolling foothills of western Virginia. For most of the year, Old Rag requires an entry permit, so grab one before you enjoy a crisp fall day in the park paired with a day or two in our nation’s capital.
Best For: Fall foliage.
Worst For: Ambling around (watch out for ticks, snakes and bears!).
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 7.5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 7.75
Total: 29.25/40
#12: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Summary: The grand fricking canyon. Perhaps the best-known park? A place that seems far bigger than its already-vast self? And for good reason; the big hole in the ground goes on for what seems like forever, so all you see as you stand above it is miles and miles of carved earth painted in reds and browns with dots of greens. We spent just one late afternoon in the park in December but were treated to a quiet, scenic drive down Hermit Road. We stopped at overlook after overlook, soaking in the scenery as the sun dipped below the horizon. And while it was a sunset I won’t soon forget, we didn’t come close to having time for the legendary hikes into the canyon nor the opportunity to paddle the Colorado. If you’re not an avid adventurer, this is a park easily done in a day. If you are, you could spend months and not run out of new excursions to have. It’s an amazing place but perhaps a smidge overrated for those only going for a day (it feels like it’s nearly impossible to live up to its name).
Best For: True adventurers looking for a unique experience.
Worst For: People who are prone to sweating.
Overrated or Underrated: Overrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8.5
Things to Do: 7
Accessibility and Crowds: 6
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 29.5/40
#11: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Summary: The snowiest place on earth and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous US, Mount Rainier also boasts the third greatest prominence (base to summit) in the world. Summer brings dazzling wildflower displays, turning green scopes pink, white and red. Consequently, it’s nearly impossible to believe that Rainier is one of the most dangerous stratovolcanoes on the planet because of its proximity to a major city: Seattle. It also features incredible hiking, mountaineering, stargazing, snowshoeing and scenic driving. The highlight of the park is Skyline Trail; in just 5.5 miles, you’re treated to up close and personal views of gargantuan glaciers, fields of wildflowers, sweeping views of Mount Rainier, the sound of cascading falls and lush forests that look straight out of a picture book. It’s one of the best moderate hikes in the country. If there’s one downside to the park, it’s the traffic, especially in the popular Paradise unit.
Best For: Seeing a variety of landscapes in a short time.
Worst For: Traveling in the shoulder or off season (Rainier has a very short summer).
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8.5
Things to Do: 7
Accessibility and Crowds: 6
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 29.5/40
#10: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Summary: RMNP was where it all started for me. In 2018, I visited a friend in Colorado and hiked the five-mile Cub Lake Trail. I remember being proud of a) seeing a moose wading in the water, and b) not passing out from the high elevation and c) not getting sick from driving on the curvy roads. That short hike encapsulates so much of what makes this park great: huge diversity of wildlife, three different ecosystems (Montane at lower elevations, Subalpine in the middle, and Alpine Tundra up top), and amazing scenic drives, especially on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America. The abundance of hiking is the park’s unquestionable star; you can do everything from bagging a fourteener to trekking to an alpine lake to taking in the grandeur of the park from one of its many manageable mountain peak hikes. Its proximity to Denver makes it perhaps the worst-kept secret of the NPS system, so if you can visit on an off-peak day of week or month, it’ll make the time much more enjoyable.
Best For: Hiking a massive variety of trails.
Worst For: Suffering from altitude sickness.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8.5
Things to Do: 8
Accessibility and Crowds: 5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 30.5/40
#9: Death Valley National Park, California
Summary: This was perhaps the park I was most surprised by. I expected a flat desert but was instead greeted with towering mountains, sand dunes and yes, a big honkin’ desert. We enjoyed walking amidst the white, eroding sedimentary rock near Zabriske Point and took in a spectacular sunset at Dante’s View, a 3,000 foot peak towering over Badwater Basin. Walking at 200 feet below sea level in the hottest place on earth felt both wrong and exhilarating (any day with a temperature above ~80 degrees can be dangerous in the park–fortunately, we visited when daytime highs were in the upper 60s) and the drive cements that you are truly in the middle of nowhere. While the hiking is somewhat limited compared to bigger parks, the drives, overlooks and distinctive landscape pack a good bit of variety. It’s a park I’d like to return to if for nothing else than to take in that sunset once more.
Best For: Visiting a truly unique landscape.
Worst For: Those who forgot to apply sunscreen.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 30/40
#8: Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Summary: If you want to feel like you’re on a technicolor martian landscape, Haleakalā is your spot. The top of the park features a crater depression erosional valley that can comfortably house the entire island of Manhattan. Inside is a feast for the eyes: reds and oranges from iron oxidation, sulfury yellows and deep blacks of basalt. Catching sunrise or sunset is an ethereal experience; on our trip, the sun set not on the horizon, but below the clouds at 8,000 feet. It’s one of the most dramatic sea-to-sky spots in the world; at 2 miles high and 10 miles from the coast, it’s a reminder that Maui is far more than high-end resorts and golden sandy beaches; it’s an island of extremes. In addition to the erosoional valley, Haleakalā features tropical rainforests speckled with waterfalls, subalpine shrubland home to the only place on earth to find the Silversword plant and Nēnē.
Best For: Living in your astronaut era.
Worst For: Gas mileage. You’ll drive up 10,000 feet in 38 miles.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 7
Accessibility and Crowds: 7.5
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 30.5/40
#7: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Summary: Theodore Roosevelt National Park (TRNP) is the only park in the system to be named after a person; Roosevelt lived within the park’s boundaries and was even quoted as saying “I would not have been President had it not been for my experience in North Dakota.” What I found in his part of North Dakota was nothing short of remarkable: bison lounging adjacent to the road, wild horses galloping in the distance, and a landscape that reminds you of the Badlands but perhaps more rugged and…silent. You’ll feel the remoteness here; Minneapolis, the nearest major city, is an eight-hour drive. The park is split into the especially remote North Unit and the more visited South Unit. Both offer something unique, but I preferred the green rolling hills and meandering rivers of the North Unit over the painted canyons and easier access of the South. The Caprock Coulee trail is a moderate 5-mile hike featuring incredible views of cavernous badlands, rolling mountains and a beautiful oxbow bend of the Little Missouri River. It’s a spot where you can have miles of trail to yourself, but I would suggest hiking with a friend, as weather can change quickly and animal encounters are not rare on the trail, though bison are not known to be terribly aggressive (give them a very wide berth). I only had a day to spend at TRNP but easily could have spent another couple of days exploring. It’s a serene yet awe-inspiring place and one that I highly recommend.
Best For: Rugged seclusion.
Worst For: Being near services (gas/lodging/food).
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 9
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 31/40
#6: Olympic National Park, Washington
Summary: Olympic’s earns its high ranking on the list because of its staggering diversity: evergreen-lined mountains, brilliant turquoise lakes, sandy beaches and serene rainforests are all packed within the park’s nearly one million acres. If there was a drawback from this embarrassment of riches, it’s that this park takes planning. Hours-long drives between attractions are common, so you’ll want to optimize the time you have on the peninsula. On our short visit, we only had time for the Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent areas, two of the more popular sections of the park. The clear highlight is Mount Storm King, a challenging 4 mile hike covering 2,100 feet of elevation in a mere two miles. The hike isn’t for the faint-hearted; you’ll climb up ropes and across rock to reach the summit where the views are nothing short of breathtaking. Olympic tops my list of parks to return to; our next trip will certainly include the Hoh Rain Forest and Pacific coastline.
Best For: Those whose favorite color is green.
Worst For: Car haters (it’s a decent drive from Seattle and the park is huge!)
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 8
Accessibility and Crowds: 8
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 32/40
#5: Channel Islands National Park, California
Summary: Visiting Channel Island was a very “what the heck–why not?” spur of the moment decision for me. Composed of five of the eight Channel Islands, this National Park can only be reached by ferry and is home to a rich number of cultural and natural sights. If you are a day visitor (like I was), the day begins bright and early with a 1.5 hour boat ride to Scorpion Cove on Santa Cruz Island. As we neared the park, hundreds of dolphins followed our boat, leaping and diving in our wake, a truly magnificent experience. Once on the islands, you’ve got two primary options: hike or kayak. I opted for an 8 mile hike which took me along the brilliant blue coast and through lush green rolling hills; for such a small island, the diversity of flora and fauna is stunning. In fact, more than 2,000 species call the island home, including the endemic (and very cute) island fox. It’s a serene and at times surreal experience, and the relaxation of being surrounded by only a few hundred other hikers is unparalleled in much of the lower 48. A true hidden gem of the parks system.
Best For: Peaceful relaxation amongst nearly untouched nature.
Worst For: Those who suffer from seasickness.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8
Things to Do: 6
Accessibility and Crowds: 9
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 9
Total: 32/40
#4: Zion National Park, Utah
Summary: “Place of peace and refuge” is a loose translation of “Zion”, and it’s a bit of a paradox: Zion is certainly a place for peace and refuge yet it’s also a thrill seeker’s paradise, offering the ability to climb up cliffs, wade through a river (The Narrows) or canyoneer through legendary crevices in the Navajo Sandstone. And everything just feels huge in Zion; the canyon walls, the scope of the viewpoints and the cornucopia of contrasting colors, especially in winter as white snow blankets the deep orange rock. Angel’s Landing, one of the premier hikes in the country, challenges hundreds of hikers a day through a grueling uphill climb with multiple chains to assist with majestic views of the canyon at the top. When we visited in 2019, we had time for the Canyon Overlook Trail and the Watchman Trail; the former is a 1 mile out and back to a truly jaw-dropping view of the canyon while the latter’s an enjoyable four mile trek meandering to a nice viewpoint. It’s a truly incredible park with so much to do you could easily fill a week up and still not see everything. Consequently, it’s on the top of my list for a return visit.
Best For: Everyone.
Worst For: Control lovers; you’ll need to plan in advance and ride the shuttle due to the park’s popularity.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 10
Things to Do: 10
Accessibility and Crowds: 4
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 9
Total: 33/40
#3: Big Bend National Park, Texas
Summary: Big drive. Big mountains. Big deal if your car breaks down. And because of its size, you could spend days here and not run out of sights to see. The Lost Mine Trail is the most popular hike in the park, and for good reason; it’s a nice length and effort level and rewards you with a near-360-degree view of the mountains and desert. Plenty of longer and shorter hikes are plentiful, you can take a trip on the river or even walk into Mexico; Big Bend features its own US Customs and Border Patrol checkpooint for those making the trip to the border town of Boquillas del Carmen in Mexico. Stargazing is legendary with the largest nearby city (Midland/Odessa) being over four hours away by car. It’s a high-effort high-reward type of place, perfect for a winter getaway to find somewhere warm.
Best For: Getting completely away from it all. Literally.
Worst For: Those who don’t like to drive.
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 8.5
Things to Do: 8
Accessibility and Crowds: 9
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 8
Total: 33.5/40
#2: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Summary: Every bit as grand as the Grand Canyon, Grand Teton is the one that surprised me the most. Perhaps it’s because the mountains seemingly rise straight up from the ground (there are no foothills) or because the interplay between water and mountain makes for a truly dramatic landscape. The park is world-renowned for its rock climbing and features a legendary list of wildlife to spot; among a cornucopia of other species, grizzly bears, moose, elk and bison call Grand Teton home. Cowboy culture is also alive and well in the park, with grazing allowed and nearby Jackson featuring a blend of cowboy charm and ski culture with a dash of opulence. On the hiking front, Cascade Canyon (#2 on my top 10 day hikes in the US list) is an unforgettable journey starting with a boat ride across Jenny Lake and ending in a vast canyon with the sight of running water slipping in and out of a brilliant green forest with towering mountains to each side. John D. Rockefeller (who donated much of the land) had it about right by saying the Tetons are “the grandest and most spectacular mountains I have ever seen”.
Best For: Soaking in the American West.
Worst For: Fans of affordable hotels (Jackson is ex-pen-sive).
Overrated or Underrated: Underrated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 10
Things to Do: 7
Accessibility and Crowds: 7
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 10
Total: 34/40
#1: Glacier National Park, Montana
Summary: I will not bury the lede: everybody who goes to Glacier immediately puts it at the top of their national park list, and I could not agree more. Jaw-dropping scenery exists from end to end: turquoise lakes, evergreen forests, sky-high mountains, steep valleys, meandering rivers–Glacier has it all and then some. Going to the Sun Road, a 50 mile drive straight through the park, is perhaps one of the most scenic drives in the country. Grinnell Glacier Trail is my all-time favorite; in addition to the aforementioned scenery, you’ll also encounter wildlife from chipmunks to grizzly bears (yes–a grizzly was !!on the trail!! during our visit) to mountain goats to bighorn sheep. Glacier almost feels like stepping into an entirely different planet, one where the landscapes are nearly comical in size and grandeur. This one is worth every ounce of effort it takes to get there, including a timed entry reservation in the summer.
Best For: Larger than life landscapes.
Worst For: Not applicable.
Overrated or Underrated: Properly rated.
Ranking
Scenery and Natural Beauty: 10
Things to Do: 9
Accessibility and Crowds: 6
Je Ne Sais Quoi/Vibes: 10
Total: 35/40
Conclusion
To have access to the NPS system without leaving the country is truly incredible; the hard work of its administrators and rangers is the driving force behind what makes these parks such a joy to visit. I’ll be updating this list as I visit more parks, but in the meantime, tell me about your favorite park (or what I got right or wrong) in the comments below. See ya out there!
Leave a Reply