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- I’ve been to all 63 major US national parks. There are 6 I always tell people to visit in the spring. (businessinsider.com)
Spring into Nature: Journalist Shares Top National Park Picks for the Season
As longer days, blooming flowers, and rising temperatures beckon, many travelers are looking for the perfect spring escape. For one seasoned journalist, who has explored all 63 major U.S. national parks, spring offers a unique window to experience some of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
Between the months of March and June, specific parks truly shine, whether it’s due to lighter crowds, ideal weather, or particular natural features that come alive with the season. Here are six national parks highly recommended for a spring visit:
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: A quintessential bucket-list destination, the Grand Canyon draws millions of visitors annually. While summer months see peak crowds, spring offers a sweet spot with warming temperatures (50-70°F) and fewer people, allowing for a more serene appreciation of its dramatic landscapes.
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah: While all of Utah’s “Mighty Five” are worth a visit, Capitol Reef is highlighted as an excellent starting point for spring. Beyond its majestic rock formations and scenic drives, spring is the perfect time to witness the historic Fruita Orchards in full bloom before the summer harvest.
Yosemite National Park, California: Yosemite is a spectacle in any season, but spring elevates the experience, particularly for its legendary waterfalls. May and June, fueled by snowmelt, transform the park into a symphony of rushing cascades, many easily visible from the valley floor. Mild temperatures (57-71°F) further enhance the visit.
Death Valley National Park, California: Known for its extreme summer heat, Death Valley is best explored in cooler seasons. Spring, in particular, offers the rare chance to witness a “superbloom” of wildflowers, an event already underway this year and expected to continue at higher elevations. While visitation increases due to milder temperatures (82-100°F), the park’s vast 3.4 million acres help distribute crowds.
Everglades National Park, Florida: This vast subtropical wilderness is a must-see, and spring, which aligns with the dry season (November to May), is the optimal time to visit. Milder weather and fewer mosquitoes are significant perks, but the real highlight is the increased activity of the park’s diverse wildlife, including over 40 mammal species and 350 bird species.
Olympic National Park, Washington: Boasting an incredible array of diverse landscapes from lakes and rainforests to Pacific coastline, Olympic National Park is a perennial favorite. Spring offers a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, abundant flowing waterfalls, and exceptionally lush, green foliage, especially in the renowned Hoh Rainforest.