Where to Find True Wilderness: Inside America’s Busiest National Parks

The great outdoors calls, and America’s national parks are the perfect answer. From the iconic views of the Grand Canyon to the peaceful trails of the Great Smoky Mountains, these parks offer more than just scenic beauty—they promise unforgettable adventures for all kinds of travelers.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (13.29 million visitors)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park embraces Appalachian culture and natural beauty by crossing the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. In 2023, the park remained the most visited in the U.S., drawing over 13 million visitors with its misty peaks, diverse ecosystems, and accessible hiking trails.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. With over 800 miles of trails, visitors can explore lush forests, discover cascading waterfalls, and observe a wide array of wildlife.

The park’s historical significance is highlighted through preserved structures such as log cabins, barns, and churches, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. The mystical quality of the smoky fog that gives the mountains their name creates an ethereal backdrop for hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the serene landscapes.

Be sure to check trail conditions, as heavy rain and maintenance closures in 2023 have impacted some popular routes.

2. Grand Canyon National Park (4.73 million visitors)

The Grand Canyon, a vast natural wonder, stretches 277 miles across the arid landscapes of northern Arizona. In 2023, Grand Canyon saw nearly 4.73 million visitors, with the North Rim attracting a growing number of travelers looking to escape the busier South Rim.

Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon’s layers tell the story of Earth’s geological history. The park is divided into the South Rim, known for its easily accessible viewpoints and services, and the North Rim, which offers a more secluded experience. Visitors can engage in various activities, from scenic drives and educational programs to backcountry hiking and river rafting.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk, on the West Rim, provides a unique perspective with its glass walkway extending over the canyon. Whether standing at the edge of the rim, watching the play of light at sunrise or sunset, or exploring the depths of the inner canyon, the Grand Canyon National Park offers an unparalleled experience of nature’s grandeur.

3. Zion National Park (4.62 million visitors)

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a sanctuary of massive sandstone cliffs soaring into the clear blue sky. With over 4.6 million visitors in 2023, Zion’s iconic trails, like Angel’s Landing, continue to captivate adventurers. However, the ongoing permit system for Angel’s Landing helped manage crowds.

The park’s unique geography has created a variety of habitats, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. Hiking trails range from easy walks along the Virgin River to challenging climbs up sheer cliffs. Iconic hikes such as The Narrows, where visitors wade through the river between towering canyon walls, and Angel’s Landing, with its breathtaking views, are must-dos. Beyond hiking, Zion offers canyoneering, rock climbing, and bird-watching opportunities.

The park’s human history is equally fascinating, with ancient petroglyphs and pioneer cabins dotting the landscape. Zion’s natural beauty and cultural significance provide a profound sense of awe and a deep connection to the natural world.

Be sure to plan ahead as permits are required for popular hikes like Angel’s Landing, which is still a major draw.

4. Yellowstone National Park (4.50 million visitors)

Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, is a vast wilderness area known for its geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Yellowstone remained a top destination in 2023, drawing 4.5 million visitors. The park’s wildlife encounters continue to be a highlight, though new guidelines have been implemented to ensure visitor and wildlife safety.

The park spans Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, featuring dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, and expansive lakes. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, allowing them to see bison, elk, wolves, and bears in their natural habitat. Yellowstone’s volcanic activity creates a constantly changing landscape, with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and over 10,000 hot springs.

The park’s 2.2 million acres are a testament to the power and beauty of nature, inviting exploration and offering endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Be sure to follow the updated wildlife safety protocols, as 2023 saw an increase in human-wildlife interactions.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park (4.11 million visitors)

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado showcases the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. In 2023, Rocky Mountain National Park remained a favorite for visitors, with over 4 million exploring its alpine lakes and high-elevation roads.

The park offers a diverse ecosystem with elevations ranging from 7,860 to 14,259 feet, including montane, subalpine, and alpine environments. Visitors can explore over 300 miles of hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, serene alpine lakes, and vibrant wildflower meadows. The park’s diverse wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, adds to the richness of the visitor experience.

The Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Rocky Mountain National Park’s rugged beauty and diverse landscapes make it a premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Trail Ridge Road, a highlight for visitors, remains a popular scenic drive, though 2023 saw several weather-related closures—be sure to check before your visit.

6. Yosemite National Park (3.89 million visitors)

Yosemite National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is famed for its towering granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, and powerful waterfalls. Yosemite drew nearly 3.9 million visitors in 2023, with the park continuing its reservation system for certain areas like Glacier Point due to high demand. 2023 also saw increased interest in less crowded areas like Hetch Hetchy, perfect for those seeking solitude beyond Yosemite Valley.

The park’s iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome and El Capitan, are known worldwide and offer challenging adventures and breathtaking views. Yosemite Valley, the heart of the park, is home to diverse wildlife and offers easy access to its most famous sights. Beyond the valley, the park’s vast wilderness areas provide opportunities for solitude and exploration.

Yosemite’s extensive trail system includes paths through serene meadows, alongside rushing streams, and to the tops of towering waterfalls. The park’s commitment to conservation and its role in developing the national park idea make it a cornerstone of American natural heritage.

7. Acadia National Park (3.87 million visitors)

Acadia National Park, located on the rugged coast of Maine, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Acadia saw 3.87 million visitors in 2023, with its diverse hiking trails and stunning coastal views continuing to attract nature lovers.

Woodland, rocky beaches, and glacier-scoured granite peaks, such as Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, mark the park’s landscape. Visitors can explore over 120 miles of hiking trails, enjoy scenic drives like the Park Loop Road, or cycle the historic carriage roads.

The park’s diverse habitats support a wide variety of wildlife, from marine mammals to bird species. Acadia’s rich history is reflected in its landmarks, including lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and the stories of the Wabanaki people, the area’s original inhabitants. The park’s combination of natural beauty and accessible adventures makes it a cherished destination for visitors seeking to experience the splendor of the Atlantic coast.

For a quieter experience, try exploring Schoodic Peninsula, which saw a rise in popularity in 2023 as visitors sought less-crowded spots.

8. Grand Teton National Park (3.41 million visitors)

Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. In 2023, Grand Teton welcomed over 3.4 million visitors. Due to increased human-bear encounters, new safety programs were introduced to educate visitors.

The Teton Range, with its jagged peaks rising dramatically from the valley floor, dominates the park’s skyline. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Snake River winds through the park, providing rafting and fly fishing opportunities. Historic ranches and homesteads scattered throughout the park offer a glimpse into the area’s past.

The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a vital area for conservation and study. Grand Teton National Park’s breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Be sure to carry bear spray, as this remains essential for any Grand Teton backcountry adventures in 2023.

9. Joshua Tree National Park (3.27 million visitors)

Joshua Tree National Park, located in southeastern California, is characterized by its stark desert landscapes, fascinating geologic formations, and the distinctive Joshua trees that give the park its name. Joshua Tree saw over 3.27 million visitors in 2023, with a continued emphasis on Leave No Trace principles to protect the park’s fragile ecosystems.

The park encompasses two distinct desert ecosystems: the Mojave and the Colorado, each supporting a variety of plants and animals adapted to their unique environments. Rock climbers and hikers are drawn to the park’s rugged terrain, while stargazers take advantage of the dark night skies.

The park’s cultural history is rich, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years, including petroglyphs and historic mining sites. Joshua Tree’s otherworldly landscapes inspire creativity and provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Be sure to visit in the cooler months, as Joshua Tree’s summer heat exceeded 100°F in 2023, making it less favorable for outdoor activities.

10. Olympic National Park (2.94 million visitors)

Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompasses nearly a million acres of diverse and untouched wilderness. Despite wildfires in mid-2023 that damaged Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park remains a top destination, with over 2.9 million visitors exploring its temperate rainforests and remote beaches.

From the rugged Pacific coastline to the temperate rainforests and the majestic peaks of the Olympic Mountains, the park offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes to explore. The Hoh Rain Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., offers lush, green canopies and a network of trails that invite visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil beauty.

The park’s remote beaches, such as Ruby Beach, offer dramatic sea stacks and tide pools teeming with marine life. Olympic’s alpine regions, accessible via Hurricane Ridge, provide stunning vistas and opportunities for hiking amidst wildflowers and wildlife.

Check for updates on Hurricane Ridge restoration efforts as they continue into 2024.

The Bottom Line

From the misty peaks of the Smokies to the dramatic depths of the Grand Canyon, America’s national parks offer more than just a view—they offer an experience. Whether you’re hiking, photographing, or simply breathing in the beauty, there’s no better place to reconnect with nature. Ready for your next great adventure?

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sundry Photography.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.

The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.

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