With over 60 National Parks in the USA to explore, it can be hard to know which ones are the best National Parks in Western America. Whether you want deep canyons, glaciers, lakes or mountains, there’s a park for all adventure tastes.
You can find a park by each state here, or check out the very best with our handy guide.
Best National Parks in Western AmericaHow do these rankings work?
1. Yosemite National Park – California
Home to Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls, and some of the world’s biggest and oldest trees, this iconic national park is a must-see. There’s plenty of hiking trails and climbing routes to explore.
2. Badlands National Park – South Dakota
Its dramatic landscapes feature rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires. Drive the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) to cruise past scenic lookouts.
3. The Grand Canyon – Arizona
Does this need any explanation? It’s easily Arizona’s most best known landmark—a natural wonder you must see to believe. This will always be considered one of the best National Parks in America.
4. Mount Rainier – Washington
This National Park is famous for its yearly Superbloom. Mount Rainer’s famous wildflowers bloom for a limited amount of time every year, around July. The beautiful flowers blanket the mountain in every colour of the rainbow.
5. Canyonlands National Park – Utah
A dramatic rocky landscape that merges with the desert. When the sun is at its brightest there’s some wonderful photo opportunities. This is a great spot for hiking. You’ll soon agree it’s one of the best national parks in America.
6. Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming
You’ll find the Morning Glory pool here: a hot spring in the Yellowstone Upper Geyser Basin of the United States that’s a kaleidoscope of colours. It looks different every time you see it – so pretty.
7. Glacier National Park – Montana
The magnificent Glacier Park is where you’ll find the beautiful Wild Goose island rising from the middle of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s easily one of the best National Parks in Western America.