The United States is home to some of the most spectacular national parks in the world. 

These parks are a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. With summer being the prime season to explore these natural wonders, we've compiled a list of the top national parks to visit. 

Whether you're looking for geothermal marvels, towering waterfalls, or rugged mountain landscapes, these parks provide unforgettable experiences for every traveller.

YELLOWSTONE | Wyoming, Montana, Idaho

As America's first national park, Yellowstone stands as a testament to the country's dedication to preserving natural beauty. Spanning three states, it is renowned for its geothermal features, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warm, and most park facilities are open.

Highlights:

Old Faithful: Witnessing the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupt is an unforgettable experience. Located in the Upper Geyser Basin, Old Faithful predictably shoots boiling water up to 185 feet in the air approximately every 90 minutes. Its reliable eruption schedule makes it a must-do for any visitor to Yellowstone. 

Address: Upper Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190.

Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States, Grand Prismatic Spring has vivid colours and steaming waters, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, the spring's brilliant blue center is surrounded by rings of green, yellow, and orange, making it a photographer's paradise. 

Address: Midway Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190.

Lamar Valley: Known as the "Serengeti of North America," Lamar Valley is the premier destination for wildlife watching in Yellowstone. This expansive valley is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears. Early morning and late evening are the best times to visit for optimal wildlife viewing. 

Address: Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK | California 

Yosemite's awe-inspiring granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias make it one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S. Its diverse ecosystems offer a unique blend of natural beauty. The best time to visit is from June to September when the park is fully accessible, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Highlights:

Yosemite Valley: Yosemite Valley is the heart of the park and home to some of its most famous landmarks, including El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. This iconic valley offers stunning views and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination within Yosemite. 

Address: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389.

Half Dome: Half Dome presents a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This iconic granite peak is a symbol of Yosemite and offers a strenuous yet unforgettable experience for those who make the trek. The hike typically requires a permit, so be sure to plan. 

Address: Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389.

Glacier Point: Glacier Point has one of the best viewpoints in Yosemite National Park. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. Accessible by car during the summer months, Glacier Point is a perfect spot for photography and taking in the park's natural beauty. 

Address: Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389.

GRAND CANYON PARK | Arizona

Known for its immense size and intricate, colourful landscape, the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors each year. The best time to visit the South Rim is from June to August, while the North Rim offers cooler temperatures during these months.

Highlights:

South Rim Viewpoints: The South Rim of the Grand Canyon features several iconic viewpoints that offer stunning perspectives of the canyon's vastness. Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station are among the most popular spots, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramas that showcase the intricate layers and immense scale of the Grand Canyon. 

Address: South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86023.

North Rim: For a different perspective of the Grand Canyon, visit the North Rim. Less crowded and more remote, the North Rim offers cooler temperatures and lush vegetation, creating a serene and peaceful environment. It's an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the canyon's natural beauty. 

Address: North Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86052.

Colorado River Rafting: For the adventurous, rafting trips through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River provide a unique and thrilling way to experience the canyon's grandeur. These rafting expeditions offer an up-close look at the canyon's stunning rock formations and provide an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an adrenaline rush. 

Address: Colorado River, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86023.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK | Montana

Glacier National Park, celebrated for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and remnants of ancient glaciers, offers a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. From June to September, visitors can enjoy the park to its fullest, with the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road open and accessible.

Highlights:

Going-to-the-Sun Road: This scenic mountain road traverses Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. This 50-mile-long road is an engineering marvel, providing visitors with stunning vistas and numerous pullouts to stop and soak in the park's beauty. 

Address: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, MT 59936.

Lake McDonald: Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park, renowned for its clear waters and the vibrant coloured rocks that line its shore. This picturesque lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and photography, offering a tranquil and scenic retreat within the park. 

Address: Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park, MT 59936.

Grinnell Glacier: The hike to Grinnell Glacier is challenging but immensely rewarding. It leads adventurers to stunning views of one of the park’s remaining glaciers. This trail takes you through beautiful landscapes, including alpine meadows and pristine lakes, culminating in an awe-inspiring view of the glacier. 

Address: Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier National Park, MT 59936.

Visiting national parks during the summer is a perfect way to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities. These parks offer stunning landscapes and memorable experiences for every type of traveller. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the majestic cliffs of Yosemite, the immense vistas of the Grand Canyon, and the rugged beauty of Glacier, these national parks provide a glimpse into the natural splendour of the United States. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set out to explore these incredible destinations this summer.