Visiting a U.S. national park for the first time is a bucket-list experience. From epic mountain ranges to breathtaking canyons and coastal escapes, these parks showcase America’s natural wonders in unforgettable ways. If you’re planning your first trip in 2025, these 10 parks are the perfect starting point.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
As America’s first national park, Yellowstone sets the gold standard. Famous for Old Faithful geyser, colorful hot springs, and roaming bison, the park offers something for everyone. Hiking trails, waterfalls, and geothermal features make it an ideal introduction to the National Park System.
According to the National Park Service, Yellowstone welcomes millions of visitors annually, making it one of the most iconic natural destinations in the world.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Few sights rival the Grand Canyon’s jaw-dropping scale. First-time visitors can start at the South Rim for panoramic views and accessible trails. Whether you hike partway down or gaze at the layered cliffs, the canyon delivers a perspective-altering experience.
For more inspiration on breathtaking landscapes, see The Most Photogenic Cities in the World.
Yosemite National Park, California
Granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoias define Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes. New visitors often begin with Yosemite Valley, home to iconic landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. In 2025, timed entry helps reduce crowds, so plan for a smoother visit.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s red-rock canyons are legendary. First-timers shouldn’t miss The Narrows, a river hike through towering sandstone walls, or the easier Canyon Overlook Trail for big views without the strenuous climb. Shuttle buses make it easy to explore without a car.
If road trips are your style, check out The Best Road Trip Routes in the U.S. for 2025 for ideas that combine iconic drives with natural wonders.
Acadia National Park, Maine
On the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia offers ocean views, granite peaks, and charming small towns. First-timers can drive the Park Loop Road, hike Cadillac Mountain, and enjoy a classic New England lobster roll in nearby Bar Harbor.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
For alpine scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park is unbeatable. The Trail Ridge Road offers breathtaking views above 12,000 feet, while easy hikes like Bear Lake showcase reflective waters surrounded by towering peaks. Wildlife sightings often include elk and marmots.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
America’s most-visited national park is accessible, lush, and free to enter. First-time visitors can enjoy scenic drives like Cades Cove, hike to waterfalls, or take in the endless blue ridges from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Nicknamed the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier dazzles with turquoise lakes, jagged peaks, and wildlife like mountain goats. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a highlight, while easy trails, such as the Trail of the Cedars, welcome beginners.
Arches National Park, Utah
Known for its natural rock formations, Arches has over 2,000 sandstone arches to explore. The Delicate Arch hike is a must for first-timers, while the Windows Section offers easy access to stunning views. The landscapes feel otherworldly and unforgettable.
Everglades National Park, Florida
For a completely different kind of park experience, the Everglades offers subtropical wetlands, mangroves, and an incredible array of wildlife. First-time visitors can take an airboat ride, spot alligators, or paddle through peaceful waterways. It’s a one-of-a-kind ecosystem within the U.S.
The Takeaway
The National Park System offers incredible variety—from desert hikes to alpine vistas to coastal escapes. For first-time visitors in 2025, these 10 parks provide the perfect mix of accessibility, beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Whichever one you choose, you’ll see why national parks are called “America’s best idea.”
