I visit parks every year and I learn something new each trip. Here is what I see this year. In 2024 the National Park Service recorded a historic 331.9 million recreation visits. That is 2 percent more than 2023 and the highest on record. That rise changes the way you travel. You need to plan earlier, expect fuller facilities, and pick your hours carefully.
That number also matters for parks themselves. Will Shafroth of the National Park Foundation said partnerships and philanthropy help parks respond to rising demand. I agree. I watched volunteers and local groups step in to fix trails and protect fragile areas during my visits. That collaboration keeps parks open to you and me.
At the same time, advocacy groups warn that parks face staffing and resource challenges. The National Parks Conservation Association notes record visitation amid staffing cuts. In my experience, that often means visitor centers have shorter hours and you must be more self-sufficient. Plan accordingly. Save on flights and hotels with Skyscanner or compare Trip.com deals.
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My top 10 parks for 2025 — what you will get and how to plan
I choose parks based on scenery, access, and how easy they are to enjoy with smart planning. Below I list why each park stands out and a practical tip from my own visits.
1. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee / North Carolina
Why go: Easy hikes, misty ridgelines, and abundant fall color. I find mornings here especially peaceful.
Tip: Drive early for scenic overlooks. Weekdays reduce crowd stress.
2. Zion National Park, Utah
Why go: Slot canyons and steep sandstone walls. Angels Landing and The Narrows are bucket-list hikes. I recommend light boots and steady pace.
Tip: Enter the Angels Landing lottery or get a permit in advance.
3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Why go: The rim offers dramatic views with minimal hiking. On my last sunrise there, the colors changed every minute.
Tip: Wake before dawn for the best light and easiest parking.
4. Yellowstone, Wyoming / Montana / Idaho
Why go: Geysers and wildlife are hard to beat. I once waited quietly by a boardwalk and watched bison move across a valley. Patience rewards you here.
Tip: Book lodging early and expect longer drives between sites. Book your stays easily with Booking.com
5. Yosemite, California
Why go: Waterfalls in spring. Granite faces year-round. I still get a small jolt seeing Half Dome up close.
Tip: Check Yosemite’s reservation and timed-entry rules before you travel. Reservations affected access in recent seasons. Also check my San Francisco travel blog if you plan to pair Yosemite with a city trip.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Why go: Alpine lakes and high passes. I recommend a slow approach to altitude.
Tip: Timed-entry reservations run in the busy season. Arrive early if you do not book.
7. Glacier, Montana
Why go: Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of America’s most scenic drives. I have driven it twice and both times left thinking I should have planned more time.
Tip: Vehicle reservations are required on the west side during peak periods in 2025. Book on Recreation.gov.
8. Acadia, Maine
Why go: Rocky coast and short, satisfying hikes. I love combining a sunrise at Cadillac Mountain with a walk along the carriage roads.
Tip: Use the park shuttle or arrive very early to avoid limited parking.
9. Grand Teton, Wyoming
Why go: Mountains and reflective lakes that reward early light. My photos from Jackson Lake remain some of my favorites.
Tip: Drive the loop at dawn to spot wildlife.
10. Olympic, Washington
Why go: Coastline, rainforest, and peaks in one park. Weather changes fast, and that is part of the appeal.
Tip: Wear layers and carry rain protection at all times.
How I plan a smarter park trip — practical steps that work
1) Book the right things first
I always check Recreation.gov and the park’s official pages for timed-entry or vehicle reservations. Many parks added or reintroduced reservations in 2025 for busy corridors. If you want Going-to-the-Sun Road or some Yosemite windows, book those slots early. Compare flights with Kiwi.com or Trip.com.
2) Pack for self-reliance
Expect shorter visitor center hours in some parks. Bring water, snacks, layers, and a basic first aid kit. When I camp, I use bear-proof storage and carry extra food and batteries. Stay connected with Airalo eSIM or Global YO.
3) Time your days, not just your parks
I aim for early mornings. On the busiest weekends, the hours before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m. feel calmer. That simple habit made my favorite moments possible at Zion and Acadia.
4) Support gateway towns
I always buy gas, food, and gear in local towns. Those businesses keep trails and services operating. If a coffee tastes better after a long drive, that is part of the trip.
Safety and park etiquette you should follow
Stay on marked trails. Do not feed or approach wildlife. Pack out what you bring in. Rangers close areas for safety and recovery. When I find a closed trail, I use a different route and make notes for a future trip. Respecting rules keeps parks open to you and me.
If you can, donate time or money to local friends groups or the National Park Foundation. Partnerships help parks keep trails maintained and staff supported.
FAQs
Do I need reservations to enter parks?
When are parks least crowded?
How much does a national park pass cost?
Are parks safe for solo travelers?
Can I bring my dog?
My quick planning checklist
- Confirm timed-entry or vehicle reservations on Recreation.gov.
- Download maps and print critical permits.
- Pack water, layered clothing, and a first aid kit.
- Support a local business near the park.
External links for official info and reservations:
- National Park Service visitor stats and data.
- Glacier National Park vehicle reservations and Going-to-the-Sun Road rules.
- Yosemite reservation and timed-entry info.
Final note from my trips
I prefer parks where I can take a slow hike and find a quiet spot. This year, plan early and pick your hours. Expect some areas to feel busier than they did five years ago.
If you respect park rules and support gateway communities, your visit helps keep these places healthy for the next visitor. Book smart, pack light, and bring curiosity. You will leave with better stories and clearer headspace.