Alright, let’s be real—picking the “best” national parks in the U.S. is like choosing your favorite pizza topping. Nearly impossible. There’s literally 63 of these wild playgrounds, and everyone’s got a hot take. But hey, I’m here to make your life easier. This is the no-B.S., scroll-stopping list of national parks you gotta see in 2025 if you’re even remotely into epic views, weird wildlife, and adventures that’ll blow up your Instagram and your calves.
And yeah, everyone’s talking about these spots on X (ugh, I still call it Twitter) and Pinterest, so you know they’re not just for hardcore hikers or crunchy granola folks. If you need gear, I’ll even slip in some shopping tips because nobody wants to hike in Crocs, right?
Why National Parks in 2025?
Look, everyone and their grandma is getting outside these days. Parks had 300 million+ visitors in 2024. Nuts, right? Blame burnout, TikTok, or just the fact that nature is the ultimate flex. Yellowstone and Zion are basically trending like they dropped a new album. But listen, these parks are worth the hype—just make sure you book ahead so you’re not left camping in your car with a bag of Cheetos.
Let’s get into it. Here’s the real-deal list.
- Yellowstone (Wyoming)
The OG. The GOAT. Yellowstone’s got more geysers than your group chat has unread messages. Bison everywhere, and if you’re lucky, maybe a wolf sighting. Don’t be a tourist—go in May or October so you’re not elbow-to-elbow at Old Faithful.
Gear up at: REI. Seriously, don’t cheap out on boots. - Yosemite (California)
Half Dome. El Cap. Waterfalls for days. Feels like you’re walking around inside a Bob Ross painting, minus the happy little accidents. Spring’s your best bet for waterfalls, unless you’re into snowshoeing in winter (you do you).
Get your climbing gear at: Backcountry. - Grand Teton (Wyoming)
Those mountains? Absolutely rude how pretty they are. Snake River, Jenny Lake, moose just casually vibing. Summer’s the move for hiking, but in winter, it’s a wildlife wonderland.
Eco-friendly jackets: Patagonia. Save the planet, look good doing it. - Glacier (Montana)
Glacier’s got lakes so clear you can see your future in them (spoiler: you’re still broke, but happy). “Going-to-the-Sun Road” is a must. Go July-Sept, otherwise you’re just looking at snowdrifts.
Amazon’s got the tents. Don’t overthink it. - Zion (Utah)
Angels Landing is a flex, The Narrows is pure vibes. Red rocks everywhere, and the kind of views that make you believe in higher powers (or at least good lighting). Spring and fall = chef’s kiss weather.
Hiking poles: REI. Your knees will thank you. - Bryce Canyon (Utah)
Those hoodoos? Trippy as hell. It’s like Mars, but you can breathe. Navajo Loop at sunrise will mess you up (in a good way). Fall’s perfect, not too hot, not too cold.
Grab an insulated jacket at Moosejaw. You’ll need it. - Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina)
12 million people can’t be wrong. Misty mountains, fireflies that sync up like a Taylor Swift concert, and black bears just doing bear things. Fall colors are insane, wildflowers in spring are a vibe.
Best hiking threads: L.L.Bean. Classic. - Olympic (Washington)
Rainforests, beaches, snow-capped stuff—pick your poison. You can literally go from tide pools to mountain peaks in a day. Summer for less mud, winter for peace and quiet.
Rain gear: Columbia. It’s Washington. Don’t be dumb. - Acadia (Maine)
Rugged coast, Cadillac Mountain sunrises, and enough trails to tire out your dog (or your kids). Fall foliage is criminally underrated here.
Backpack? EMS is your friend. - Grand Canyon (Arizona)
Honestly, words don’t do it justice. It’s grand, it’s a canyon, and you’ll stand there thinking, “Whoa.” Hike Bright Angel Trail if you’re feeling brave, or just chill at the rim.
Hydration pack: pretty much anywhere, just don’t forget it.
So there you go. Pack your bags, charge your phone, and don’t forget to actually look up from it once you’re there. Nature’s wild, man.