Additional Coverage:
- I’ve been to all 63 major US national parks. There are 6 I’d recommend to first-time travelers. (businessinsider.com)
Hitting the Trails: The Best US National Parks for Beginners
Seasoned park-hopper Emily Hart, who has visited all 63 major US National Parks, shares her top picks for first-time visitors. While every park offers something unique, Hart emphasizes that some parks are better suited for beginners due to accessibility, infrastructure, and proximity to major cities. Here are her recommendations:
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: Just a short drive from Denver, this park offers stunning lakes and waterfalls easily accessible via moderate trails. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road, reaching altitudes of over 12,000 feet. Remember to book timed-entry reservations during peak season.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: A perennial favorite, this park boasts scenic overlooks like Newfound Gap and Kuwohi, easily reachable by car. Beginner-friendly hikes to waterfalls and historic cabins also abound, making it perfect for newcomers.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho: A classic for a reason, Yellowstone offers a unique blend of geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Iconic landmarks like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring are easily accessible, with opportunities for roadside wildlife viewing.
Arches National Park, Utah: Located near Moab and a few hours from Salt Lake City, Arches National Park offers breathtaking sandstone formations and otherworldly rock formations. Many arches are visible from the road or after short, easy hikes.
Death Valley National Park, California: A surprisingly accessible desert landscape, Death Valley offers iconic spots like Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point, viewable with minimal hiking. It’s a great option for winter and early spring visits.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: An iconic and easily accessible park, the Grand Canyon’s South Rim offers stunning views. While hiking into the canyon is an option, the Rim Trail provides equally breathtaking vistas with various overlooks and sunrise viewing points. The park offers numerous amenities, making it ideal for a first-time park experience.