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Top U.S. National Parks Attractions
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the U.S. with our diverse range of national park tours. Each expedition promises rich experiences, from awe-inspiring natural wonders to immersive cultural encounters, ensuring the adventure of a lifetime for every traveler.
- Standing on the rim of Arizona's Grand Canyon, gazing into the vast width and depth of multi-hued rock carved over millions of years by the Colorado River
- Hiking among the world's tallest trees in California's Redwood National Park or the world's biggest trees in California's Sequoia National Park
- Riding an airboat over the surface of the Florida Everglades, checking out the crocodiles sunning themselves on the nearest land banks
- Following the boardwalks leading past steaming mud pots and geysers in Yellowstone National Park as bison wander freely in the distance
- Driving the winding Skyline Drive (speed limit: 35 mph) through Virginia's mountainous Shenandoah National Park during fall foliage season
- Climbing as far as you dare up Half Dome, Yosemite's most iconic granite formation and symbol
- Touring Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, the world's longest complex of underground caverns
- Sailing Alaska's Glacier Bay on a small ship cruise in search of whales, orcas, seals, and other sea mammals
- Marveling at the sometimes weird, always fascinating rock formations in Utah's Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Zion national parks
- Stopping for fresh popovers after hiking the rugged Maine coast on a sunny day in Acadia National Park
- Discovering the diversity of life and attractions in California's great desert parks, Death Valley and Joshua Tree
- Viewing the sunrise and then biking down Haleakala volcano on Hawaii's island of Maui – the world's longest downhill bike ride
U.S. National Parks Tours & Travel Guide
U.S. National Parks Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Yellowstone, the first national park in the U.S. — and the world — was established in 1872. Since then, America's National Park System has grown to encompass more than 400 areas in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and various U.S. overseas territories.
The majority are national recreation areas, monuments, designated scenic trails, and historic places overseen by the National Park Service.
History and Evolution of U.S. National Park System
The establishment of national parks in the U.S. was a uniquely American idea inspired by the work of George Catlin, a noted American author, painter, traveler, and the first to document and depict Native Americans in the western United States.
The impact of the settlement of the west on the Native American populations and the buffalo they were dependent upon troubled Catlin. On an expedition to the Dakotas in 1831, he suggested that a "nation's park" be set aside and protected.
However, it wasn't until 1864 that President Abraham Lincoln established a grant to protect the wilderness areas of Yosemite. These lands remained under state control; however, Scottish Naturalist John Muir felt that this situation was causing exploitation.
Muir convinced Congress to place the state-managed lands in Yosemite under federal control. With that, the momentum to establish national parks accelerated, and in 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant declared Yellowstone a national park, the first in the world.
Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt (who believed that experiencing nature was instrumental in building the American character) contributed significantly to establishing a national park system.
In 1906, Roosevelt signed the Antiquities Act, which gave the president the authority to create national monuments from federal lands. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established the National Park Service, a new federal bureau under the Department of the Interior. By then, there were 14 national parks and 21 national monuments.
Subsequent expansion of not only national parks and monuments but also, military parks, memorials, capital parks, and cemeteries followed.
However, the absence of any central guidance caused problems, including poor management and exploitation.
Finally, in 1933, President Franklin D Roosevelt consolidated all parks, monuments, memorials, and cemeteries into a single National Park System. It had been over a century since George Catlin called for a "nation's park," an idea that evolved over the decades to become "America's best idea."
Thanks to Catlin's vision, there are now 60 U.S. National Parks, which millions enjoy each year.
Yellowstone: The World's First National Park
Yellowstone remains one of the jewels of the system, with its vast swath of volcanic land stretching across parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
The park is best known for its geysers and wildlife. It is now part of a diverse and highly selected group of 58 forests, deserts, canyons, mountains, bodies of water and wetlands, battlegrounds, and other areas of natural scenic beauty and historical significance that warrant full national park status.
Most-Visited National Parks in the U.S.
The Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park, receiving more than nine million visitors per year. It's accessed via a highway that cuts through the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, leading to hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and fall color scenery.
The second most visited park, the Grand Canyon, receives about half the visitors, though the 277-mile-long, 6,000-foot-deep canyon is probably the most famous U.S. national park.
California's Yosemite National Park — a natural wonderland of valleys, meadows, waterfalls, and granite rock formations — is the third most visited national park, followed by Yellowstone.
Top National Parks in the U.S.
National park tours are one of the best ways to discover the natural wonders of the United States. From towering mountains to majestic canyons and volcanic landscapes, each park offers a unique adventure waiting to be explored. Following are some popular national parks in different parts of the country.
Pacific Coast Parks
Explore the rugged beauty of the Pacific coastline and ancient forests in these national parks:
Washington State's Olympic National Park: Explore the diverse landscapes of Olympic, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines. Hike through ancient forests, marvel at glacier-capped peaks, and relax on pristine beaches. Take the opportunity to witness the unique biodiversity, including Roosevelt elk and Pacific salmon.
Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Redwood National Parks: Stand in awe of the world's largest trees in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, home to towering sequoias and dramatic mountain scenery. Experience the tranquility of ancient redwood forests in Redwood National Park, where towering trees reach for the sky.
California's Yosemite National Park: Stand in awe of towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves in Yosemite. Hike to the base of Yosemite Falls, marvel at the sheer granite walls of El Capitan, and explore the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove.
Rocky Mountain Parks
Immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, where towering peaks and alpine meadows await.
Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park: Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains, home to stunning alpine scenery and abundant wildlife. Embark on scenic drives, challenging hikes, and wildlife-viewing expeditions. Be awed by the panoramic vistas from Trail Ridge Road, and keep an eye out for elk, bighorn sheep, and mule deer.
Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park: Encounter jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and verdant valleys in the shadow of the iconic Grand Teton. Explore the park's network of hiking trails, go wildlife spotting along the Snake River, and enjoy scenic boat cruises on Jackson Lake. Capture the perfect postcard-worthy shot of the rugged Teton Range reflected in the crystal-clear waters.
Montana's Glacier National Park: Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Glacier, with rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Hike the iconic trails of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, cruise on the crystal-clear waters of Lake McDonald, and marvel at the park's namesake glaciers.
Southwestern Parks
Discover the stark beauty of the desert Southwest, with its iconic rock formations and vibrant ecosystems.
Utah's Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Arches National Parks: Witness the surreal beauty of Bryce Canyon's hoodoos, hike among towering sandstone cliffs in Zion, and marvel at the iconic arches in Arches National Park. Experience the unique landscapes of Utah's Mighty Five, each offering its own distinct natural wonders and outdoor adventures.
Arizona's Petrified Forest and Saguaro National Parks: Step back in time at Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient trees have turned to stone over millions of years. Discover colorful petrified wood, fossilized remains, and stunning painted desert landscapes. In Saguaro National Park, encounter towering saguaro cacti, iconic symbols of the American Southwest, and explore the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks: Journey through the stark desert landscapes of Southern California, where twisted Joshua trees dot the horizon in Joshua Tree National Park. Experience the extreme heat and vast salt flats of Death Valley, the hottest and driest place in North America, and be mesmerized by its otherworldly beauty.
Eastern Parks
Journey through the diverse landscapes of the Eastern United States, from rugged coastlines to rolling mountains.
- Maine's Acadia National Park: Experience the rugged beauty of Maine's coastline, with rocky shores, forested trails, and panoramic ocean views. Hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for stunning sunrise vistas, explore historic carriage roads by bike, and relax on the picturesque shores of Sand Beach.
- Virginia's Shenandoah National Park: Embark on scenic drives along the Skyline Drive, winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Admire breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and verdant forests, hike to stunning waterfalls, and spot wildlife ranging from black bears to deer. Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Shenandoah, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Discover the beauty of Ohio's only national park, which features scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Bike along the Towpath Trail, ride the scenic railroad through the Cuyahoga Valley, and hike to stunning overlooks that offer panoramic views.
- Kentucky's Mammoth Cave National Park: Descend into the depths of Mammoth Cave, the world's longest-known cave system, with nearly 400 miles of underground passages waiting to be explored. Marvel at towering stalactites and stalagmites, navigate labyrinthine passages and learn about the cave's fascinating geology and history on guided tours.
- South Dakota's Badlands National Park: Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Badlands, where eroded rock formations create a surreal landscape of colorful canyons and rugged buttes. Hike among fossil-rich layers, spot bison and bighorn sheep, and gaze out over sweeping vistas from panoramic overlooks.
Alaskan Parks
Experience the raw wilderness of Alaska, where glaciers, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife await.
Alaska's Glacier Bay and Denali National Parks: Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska's pristine wilderness. Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park, the crown of the continent, where towering glaciers calve into icy waters and marine life thrives in the nutrient-rich fjords. In Denali National Park, behold the majesty of North America's highest peak, Denali, and explore vast tundra landscapes teeming with wildlife.
Midwestern Parks
Explore the tranquil lakes and forests of the American Midwest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park: Discover the remote beauty of Voyageurs, a watery wonderland of interconnected lakes, rivers, and forests in northern Minnesota. Paddle through pristine waterways, fish for walleye and northern pike, and camp beneath star-studded skies. In winter, explore snow-covered trails by snowshoe or cross-country ski and experience the tranquility of this winter wonderland.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Nestled within the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, it symbolizes American history and ingenuity. Carved into the granite face of the mountain are the larger-than-life sculptures of four iconic U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This iconic monument serves as a testament to the ideals of freedom, democracy, and the pioneering spirit of the American people. You can also visit Crazy Horse Memorial during the same trip since they're nearby.
Hawaiian Parks
Delve into the tropical paradise of Hawaii, where volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests beckon.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Witness the raw power of volcanic activity at Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Explore lava tubes, steam vents, and volcanic craters, and witness the ever-changing landscape shaped by ongoing eruptions.
Hawaii's Haleakala National Park: Ascend to the summit of Haleakala, where panoramic views stretch across Maui's stunning landscapes. Experience the ethereal beauty of the sunrise from the summit, hike through otherworldly landscapes, and discover unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
Southern Parks
Escape to the warmth of the Southern United States, where wetlands, hot springs, and historic sites await exploration.
Arkansas' Hot Springs National Park: Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of Hot Springs, where thermal springs have drawn visitors for centuries. Explore historic bathhouses, hike scenic trails through the Ouachita Mountains, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique national park.
Florida's Everglades National Park: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, where sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and freshwater sloughs support a diverse array of wildlife. Glide through the waterways on an airboat tour, spotting alligators, wading birds, and elusive panthers. Experience the tranquility of this subtropical wilderness, where nature thrives in the heart of urban Florida.
Top Activities in the U.S. National Parks tours
An unforgettable adventure and exciting activities await you on your trip to various national parks in the U.S. From thrilling hikes and scenic drives to wildlife spotting and stargazing, these parks offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Culture and History
The U.S. National Park Service is one of the government's leading agencies for preserving culture and history. More than half of the areas in the National Park system were established to protect places and memorialize people, events, and activities that helped shape American history.
On a cultural national park tour to historic Jamestown in Virginia, for example, you'll see and learn about the first permanent settlement in North America and New Orleans, Louisiana, the birthplace of jazz.
Scenic parks have prehistoric and historic sites that archaeologists and anthropologists work tirelessly to preserve. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, protects over 5,000 known archaeological sites. The Ancestral Puebloans made this their home for 700 years, from 600 to 1300 CE.
Geographical and Scientific Learning
U.S. National Park geography has extraordinary stories to tell, like the mile-high walls of the Grand Canyon. There, you'll see a mostly undisturbed two billion-year-old cross-section of the Earth's crust.
National parks serve as living laboratories for scientific studies in geography, anthropology, archaeology, climatology, botany, and biology. Astronomy enthusiasts can access over a dozen International Dark Sky-certified parks on personalized national park tours.
Hiking
The natural landscapes in U.S. National Parks are magnificent and unparalleled. While much can be seen from the roadways around and within the parks, the view from the canyon floor of Yosemite National Park can't compare to the view from the top of the valley or the views you'll find in the high country.
Top hiking and walking national park tours include trails like the Emerald Mile in California's Redwood National Park, the Wonderland Trail in Washington's Mt. Rainier National Park, and the Zion Narrows, affectionately called "Wall Street" in Utah's Zion National Park.
Camping
If you're up for camping, you'll have the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the experience offered by national park tours. How immersive you want it depends on you.
These days, camping comes in many forms, from high country huts, RV camping, or glamping to more primitive and isolated camping. Tour companies offer different camping tent styles.
Photography
Photographers from around the world join U.S. national park photography tours driven by the desire to immortalize the breathtaking vistas these landscapes offer. Photographs have been an important tool to capture park history, vividly showing why these pristine havens merit preservation.
From the ethereal hues of sunrise and sunset, every moment is a canvas waiting to be painted with light. Get up close to wildlife habitats, capturing the kaleidoscope of species that call these parks home. Each frame echoes the need to safeguard their diversity for future generations.
Wildlife
The wildlife habitats in U.S. National Parks are second to none. Seeing an animal in a natural setting unspoiled by human development can't compare to seeing one in a zoo or even your local neighborhood.
For example, in Yellowstone National Park, you can spot American bison, the largest terrestrial mammal in North America. In Alaska, you're likely to see a grizzly bear, a type of massive brown bear (a male grizzly can weigh up to 1,700 pounds). In the Kodiak Archipelago south of the mainland, it's also known as a Kodiak bear.
Your tour guides are excellent naturalists, and they'll be sure to share their knowledge about the wildlife of the area, their behavior, and how to encounter them safely.
Why Join a Guided U.S. National Parks Tour?
Of all the national parks in the country, which ones should you choose for your vacation? Don't know where to start? Travelstride can help you navigate the U.S. National Park System and decide which national parks to visit first.
Since there are so many parks and you cannot visit all destinations on a single trip, it's best to maximize your budget and vacation time by choosing a fully guided national park tour with destinations of your choice. Here are a few reasons you should opt for a vacation package instead of planning a national park trip yourself.
- A guided tour takes the stress out of planning so you can enjoy a seamless excursion without any hiccups.
- Tour companies can access lodging that the public might not have, particularly during the high season.
- National park itineraries through tour operators are time-tested, thanks to their experience in the park. This ensures an optimized vacation based on the period of time you are traveling.
- There are millions of acres in U.S. national parks. Each park has its own history, geography, flora, and fauna, which you'll learn about from the tour guide, who is often an expert in their field.
- Tour operators know the best way to navigate the vast geography, whether by car or foot. Depending on the type of tour, they'll be able to show you the "best of" sites as well as some off-the-beaten-path experiences.
U.S. National Parks Reviews & Ratings
This is an amazing trip.
This is an amazing trip. There is a lot of traveling but it is very much worth it, to get the opportunity to see the very best of Alaska. The scenery is spectacular,...
Alaska was an amazing experience and was one of the loveliest places we have seen
Alaska was an amazing experience and was one of the loveliest places we have seen so far. It was made all the better by our fellow travellers and our guide. Travelli...
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Anne
Aug 2024
Written on
Outdoor Alaska
If you love the outdoors, stunning scenery and diversity then this trip is for you. There is a lot of travelling, as in the trip notes, but this passes quickly with...
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Andrew and Jessica
Jul 2024
Written on
Outdoor Alaska
Our tour guide Matt Johnson went above and beyond to make this trip successful. Looking for wildlife he spotted black bear and moose, absolutely amazing. In his fr...
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Gail
Jul 2023
Written on
Outdoor Alaska
Seeing the wonderful scenery of Alaska, particularly the Wrangell and St Elias National Park.
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