Best National Parks to Visit This Summer
- Stacie Zaan
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
Summer is the peak season for experiencing America’s most stunning national parks—long days, open trails, and vibrant landscapes await. Below are top picks for unforgettable summer adventures:
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why go: Named the “Crown of the Continent”—summer finally opens the famed Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road and over 700 miles of wildflower-lined trails.
Don’t miss: Highline and Grinnell Glacier Trails, stunning valleys, turquoise lakes, and possible wildlife sightings.
Tip: Visit in July when everything is accessible, and book lodging early.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
Why go: Granite cliffs, full waterfalls, and towering sequoias shine in the summer.
Don’t miss: Mist Trail (Vernal/Nevada Falls), Tunnel View, Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Road.
Tip: June brings peak waterfall flow; early entry recommended to avoid crowds.
3. Yellowstone National Park (WY/MT/ID)
Why go: Worldwide famous for geysers (Old Faithful), thermal pools, and rich wildlife—bison, elk, bears, and wolves abound.
Don’t miss: Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Grand Prismatic Spring, wildlife safari in Lamar Valley.
Tip: Ideal for both families and seasoned hikers; blend scenic drives with hikes and park ranger programs.
4. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Why go: Dramatic peaks, serene alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife (moose, elk, eagles) adjacent to Yellowstone.
Don’t miss: Jenny Lake boat trips, Schwabacher Landing vistas, Teton Crest and Inspiration Point trails.
Tip: Combine with Yellowstone for a balanced wilderness experience.
5. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why go: A perfect summer blend of coastal charm, rocky beaches, and forest trails—Cadillac Mountain offers the first U.S. sunrise.
Don’t miss: Park Loop Road, Jordan Pond, Sand Beach — plus biking, kayaking, tide-pooling.
Tip: Visit in July–August for ideal weather, and consider biking on historic carriage roads.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN/NC)
Why go: America’s most-visited park—lush summer forests, vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife abound.
Don’t miss: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Roaring Fork auto loop, and dawn wildlife watching.
Tip: Consider staying in nearby gateway towns for varied lodging options.
7. Denali National Park, Alaska
Why go: Home to North America's tallest peak, Denali; summer brings long daylight, mild weather, wild tundra and wildlife .
Don’t miss: Bus tours into backcountry, flightseeing rides, ranger programs, and spotting moose, caribou, bears.
Tip: The park road past Mile 12 is shuttle-only—book early; summer's extended daylight is a bonus.
8. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Why go: Coastal glacial wonderland—boat tours, kayaking among fjords, tidewater glaciers, and marine wildlife.
Don’t miss: Harding Icefield Trail, Exit Glacier, passage through Resurrection Bay.
Tip: Seward is a great base; summer boat tours and backcountry camping offer real Alaskan immersion.
Planning Your Summer Trip
Tip | Why It Matters |
Book early | Glacier, Yosemite, and Acadia fill up fast in summer—reserve lodging and park entry well in advance. |
Start hikes early | Beat the heat and crowds, especially in canyon and desert parks. |
Layer up | Even summer nights in Montana and Alaska can be chilly—pack for variation! |
Call ranger stations | To check for trail openings, wildlife alerts, and weather changes. Try to catch ranger-led programs—they’re educational and fun. |
Mix popular & underrated | Great Smoky & Yellowstone balance with quieter gems like Kenai Fjords and Grand Teton for a well-rounded journey. |
Why Summer Is the Time to Go
Longer days let you start before sunrise and stay out past sundown.
Full trail access—snow melt opens alpine passes and high-elevation hikes.
Peak wildlife activity as animals forage and rear young.
Family-friendly timing—aligns with school holidays, creating perfect opportunities for group trips.
Final Travel Tips from Your Advisor
Entry & permit systems: Yosemite, Glacier, and Great Smoky may require timed entry—check current season policies.
Gear: Wicking clothes, sturdy boots, layers, bear spray (for grizzly regions), and plenty of snacks and water.
Respect wildlife: Keep distance, pack out what you packed in, and follow park rules.
Wrap‑up: Whether you're seeking alpine grandeur, dramatic coastlines, lush forests, or bubbling hot springs, summer is the prime season to experience the highlights of America's national parks. With careful planning and early bookings, your summer adventure will be scenic, smooth, and truly unforgettable.
What’s next on your must‑visit list? Let’s chat about itinerary ideas or packing lists!
Happy travels!
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