10 must-visit national parks in the western United States

The Western United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, this region is a treasure trove of natural wonders. National parks are a great way to experience the beauty of the West, and there are so many to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, there is a national park that is sure to impress.

In this post, I’ll take a look at 10 must-visit national parks in the Western United States. From Yellowstone to Yosemite, we’ll explore each park’s unique features and what makes them worth a visit. So, grab your hiking boots and camera, and get ready to explore some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world!

1. Introduction to the beauty of national parks in the Western US

The Western United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring national parks in the world. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from towering mountains and sprawling deserts to verdant forests and shimmering coastlines, the region is an absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Each national park in the Western US offers a unique and unforgettable experience, where visitors can marvel at the marvels of the natural world, explore the great outdoors, and connect with the earth in a profound and meaningful way.

From the iconic Grand Canyon to the majestic Yellowstone National Park, the Western US is truly a treasure trove of natural wonders just waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who loves to admire the beauty of nature, the national parks in the Western US are a must-visit destination that you won’t forget anytime soon.

2. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite covers almost 1,200 square miles and offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

One of the most iconic attractions is Yosemite Valley, which is surrounded by towering granite cliffs, including the famous El Capitan and Half Dome. Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, is also a must-see.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Yosemite offers numerous hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and opportunities for fishing and horseback riding. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions.

Visitors can stay in one of the many campgrounds or lodges within the park, or choose from a variety of nearby accommodations. Yosemite is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique attractions and activities.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or just looking to relax and take in the stunning scenery, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination in the western United States.

3. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States and is located in Arizona. This park is known for its magnificent canyon that has been created by the Colorado River over millions of years. The canyon is 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, making it an incredible sight to behold. The park offers visitors a range of activities to explore the canyon, from hiking trails to river rafting. For those who want to take in the views from above, there are helicopter tours available.

The park also has several campgrounds for visitors who want to stay overnight and experience the beauty of the canyon at sunrise and sunset. If you are planning a trip to the western United States, a visit to Grand Canyon National Park should be on your list of must-visit national parks.

4. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is undoubtedly one of the most recognized national parks in the United States. It is the first national park in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is located in Wyoming and spans over 2.2 million acres of land. Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful geyser, which erupts every 90 minutes. The park also has more than 300 active geysers, boiling mud pots, and hot springs, making it a geological wonderland.
Yellowstone is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Visitors can go hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching in the park. The park has over 900 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes. The Yellowstone River, which runs through the park, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Yellowstone National Park is open year-round, although some areas of the park are only accessible in the summer months. Visitors can stay at one of the park’s many campgrounds or lodges, or in the nearby towns of West Yellowstone, Gardiner, or Jackson Hole. With its stunning landscapes, unique geology, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

5. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most stunning natural destinations in the United States. Located in southwest Utah, the park encompasses over 229 square miles of canyons, mesas, and unique rock formations.
One of the park’s most popular hikes is the Angels Landing Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from its 1,500-foot summit. Another popular activity is hiking The Narrows, a hike through a narrow canyon carved out by the Virgin River that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
For those looking for a more relaxed visit, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers stunning views of the park’s towering cliffs and unique geology. The park also offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes and campfire talks.

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast. With its unique geology and stunning landscapes, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave visitors in awe and longing to return.

6. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the western United States, and for good reason. The park offers some of the most stunning mountain views in the country, with peaks rising up to over 14,000 feet above sea level. Visitors can explore over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. One of the most popular hikes is the trail to Alberta Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by wildflowers and towering pine trees.

Wildlife sightings are also common in the park, with elk, moose, and bighorn sheep often seen grazing in the meadows. The park is also home to several alpine lakes, including the stunning Bear Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.

In the winter months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing available for visitors. With so much to see and do, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast visiting the western United States.

7. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is an awe-inspiring destination located in southwestern Utah. This park features unique rock formations called hoodoos that have been carved over time by weathering and erosion. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and overlooks to take in the stunning views of the hoodoos and the surrounding landscape.

One of the most popular hikes in Bryce Canyon is the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes you through a series of switchbacks and tunnels to the canyon floor. From there, you can admire the hoodoos up close and even hike among them. The park also offers plenty of other hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, so there’s something for everyone.

One of the best times to visit Bryce Canyon is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky. This creates a beautiful golden light that illuminates the hoodoos and makes them even more stunning. Additionally, Bryce Canyon is a designated dark sky park, so visitors can admire the stars and the Milky Way in all their glory.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery, Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination in the western United States.

8. Olympic National Park

Located in the state of Washington, Olympic National Park is a true gem of the western United States. With its diverse landscape, Olympic National Park offers a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

The park is home to glacier-capped mountains, stunning alpine meadows, and temperate rainforests that are home to some of the tallest trees on earth. The park also boasts over 70 miles of rugged coastline that is dotted with tide pools, sea stacks, and other natural wonders.

One of the most popular attractions in the park is Hurricane Ridge, which provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also explore the Hoh Rainforest, which receives over 140 inches of rain each year and is home to a number of rare plant and animal species.
The park is also home to a number of unique wildlife species, including Roosevelt elk, mountain goats, and black bears. Visitors can take guided tours or simply explore the park’s many hiking trails on their own.

Overall, Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the beauty of the western United States. Whether you’re looking for a rugged adventure or a peaceful escape, Olympic National Park has something for everyone.

9. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California and is known for its iconic Joshua trees, which are named after the biblical figure, Joshua. These trees are a unique sight to behold and can only be found in this area, making Joshua Tree National Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and wildlife watching. There are over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes through challenging terrain. The park is also home to over 250 species of birds, including the golden eagle, the roadrunner, and the western bluebird.

Visitors to the park can also explore the iconic rock formations that dot the landscape. These rocks provide a challenge for rock climbers of all skill levels and are a popular attraction for visitors to the park.

In addition to its natural beauty, Joshua Tree National Park is also home to a rich cultural history. The park is filled with historic homesteads, mines, and ranches that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited the area.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery, Joshua Tree National Park is a destination that should not be missed. The park’s unique landscape, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the western United States.

10. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking national park located in the state of Montana, in the western United States. It is known for its stunning mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains, and its crystal-clear lakes and streams. The park is also home to more than 700 miles of hiking trails, making it a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

One of the most popular activities in Glacier National Park is hiking the park’s famous Highline Trail. This trail offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a must-do for any visitor to the park. Other popular hiking trails include the Iceberg Lake Trail and the Hidden Lake Trail, both of which offer stunning views of glaciers and alpine lakes.

In addition to hiking, Glacier National Park also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and camping. The park has numerous campgrounds, ranging from primitive sites to RV sites with full hookups.

For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, Glacier National Park also offers scenic drives that take visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of the park. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is perhaps the most famous of these drives and offers stunning views of the park’s mountains, glaciers, and valleys.

Overall, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the western United States. Its stunning landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities make it a true gem of the national park system.

11. Conclusion and tips for planning your trip to national parks.

In conclusion, visiting national parks in the western United States is an experience like no other. From the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon to the stunning landscapes of Yosemite, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore.

To make the most of your trip, it’s important to plan ahead. Research the parks in advance to determine which ones you want to visit and what activities you want to do. Consider the time of year and weather conditions, as well as the availability of accommodations and camping sites.

It’s also important to be prepared for outdoor activities and to respect the natural environment. Bring appropriate clothing, gear, and supplies, and be sure to follow park rules and regulations, including proper disposal of waste and respecting wildlife.

Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera or sketchbook to capture the memories of your trip. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains or gazing at the stars, a visit to a national park in the western United States is an experience you’ll never forget.

I hope you enjoyed our guide to 10 must-visit national parks in the western United States. The beauty and majesty of these parks are truly unparalleled, and we encourage everyone to add them to their travel bucket list. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just enjoy taking in breathtaking scenery, these parks offer something for everyone. I hope that our recommendations inspire you to plan your next adventure and make unforgettable memories. Happy travels!