Best National Parks to Visit in the Summer

Road Scholar is all about helping you experience national parks in a way that’s both exciting and safe. From the rugged charm of coastal destinations like Acadia to the towering mountain peaks of Yosemite and the bubbling geothermal marvels of Yellowstone, getting your national parks trip planning underway for these warmer months now promises an unforgettable journey that will ignite your spirit for outdoor exploration. 

Acadia National Park

If you're seeking a refreshing escape from the summer heat, Acadia National Park, nestled along Maine's rugged coast, is a true gem and easily one of the best national parks to visit in summer. Its unique blend of mountains, woodlands and ocean shoreline creates an idyllic backdrop for exploration. Imagine yourself hiking scenic trails that wind through fragrant spruce and fir forests, leading you to panoramic vistas of the vast Atlantic. Enjoy leisurely bike rides or stroll along the park's historic carriage roads or even witness a truly spectacular sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. East Coast. It’s worth noting that peak season may require a reservation, so plan accordingly.

Summer in Acadia unlocks even more possibilities, like gliding through the water on a sea kayaking adventure among the granite islands or embarking on an exhilarating whale-watching tour in the rich coastal waters. The milder summer temperatures here make for incredibly comfortable days exploring the outdoors. 

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, found in California, with its monumental granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias and mesmerizing cascading waterfalls, is, without a doubt, one of the best national parks summer outdoor adventurists should visit. While it certainly draws a crowd, the sheer grandeur of Yosemite Valley, the towering presence of El Capitan and the iconic Half Dome are sights that will simply take your breath away. Summer is the sweet spot when all the park's roads and trails typically open up, giving you full access to its many wonders.

For those outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore nature on foot, hiking national parks doesn't get much better than Yosemite. You'll find everything from easy strolls along the Merced River to challenging ascents like the famous Mist Trail, leading to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. Don't miss the scenic drive to Glacier Point for truly unparalleled views of the valley and the High Sierra. If you're hoping for a quieter moment, venture up to Tuolumne Meadows, a vast subalpine expanse that's perfect for hiking, fishing and simply gazing at the stars. Yes, Yosemite can get busy in summer, especially in July and August, but with an early start and a willingness to explore some of the less-traveled paths, you can still find those cherished moments of solitude.

Grand Teton National Park

Just a stone's throw from Yellowstone, Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park offers a distinct yet equally stunning summer experience. 

With the incredible Teton Range towering over it, this park is a dream for hikers, climbers and anyone who loves seeing wildlife up close.

Many of the best national park summertime experiences include the opportunity to view incredible wildlife, and Grand Teton is no exception! You might just catch a glimpse of bison, elk, moose or even bears roaming freely.

Summer in Grand Teton means clear skies, vibrant wildflowers painting the landscape and full access to an extensive network of trails. You can embark on incredibly scenic drives, enjoy serene boat tours on Jenny Lake or tackle challenging hikes to high alpine gems like Delta Lake. The tranquility and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure make Grand Teton a strong contender for the best national park to visit in August, especially if you're yearning for magnificent scenery and abundant wildlife without the overwhelming hustle of some of the larger, more frequented parks.

Yellowstone National Park 

As the world's very first national park, Yellowstone, spanning Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, is undeniably a bucket-list destination. Its awesome allure is particularly apparent during the warmer months. As one of the best national parks to visit in summer, Yellowstone reigns supreme for its incredible geothermal features, like the iconic Old Faithful, the mesmerizing Grand Prismatic Spring and countless other geysers and hot springs.

The park abounds with amazing wildlife. You’ll see bison and elk casually wandering through the fields, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a rare glimpse of wolves or a grizzly bear. There’s always something wild happening, no matter where you are in the park.

During the summer months, all of Yellowstone's roads are typically open, inviting you to explore its vast and varied landscapes. You can drive the famous Grand Loop Road, stop frequently to marvel at the geothermal marvels from boardwalks or embark on a hike to a scenic overlook or witness the power of its many waterfalls. For prime wildlife spotting, head to Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley. While summer does bring crowds, particularly in July, the sheer scale of Yellowstone and its truly unique natural phenomena ensure an unforgettable experience that's worth every bit of the bustle.

Best National Park to Visit in August

If you're trying to pinpoint the absolute best national park to visit in August, allow Road Scholar to suggest Glacier National Park in Montana. By August, most of the stubborn snow has finally melted away, granting full access to the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road and its many enticing trailheads.

The park’s glacial valleys, sparkling lakes and wildlife make it feel like you’re right in the middle of nature’s playground.

Hiking national parks in Glacier in August offers you the chance to traverse trails such as the dramatic Highline Trail, with its stunning mountain vistas, or the rewarding Grinnell Glacier Trail, leading you to a magnificent glacier. The weather is generally more stable, and you'll often find wildflowers still bursting with color at higher elevations. Just remember, Glacier is incredibly popular, so securing accommodations and even park entry in advance might be necessary.

Top Pick National Parks to Visit in June

For those eager to kick off their summer adventures a bit earlier, we’ve highlighted a sampling of the many breathtaking national parks to visit in June, each with their own unique offerings. While some higher-elevation parks might still be shedding their winter coats, these gems are truly hitting their stride.

• Zion National Park: June in Utah’s Zion National Park brings warmer temperatures but also full access to thrilling hikes like Angels Landing (if you've secured a permit) and The Narrows (depending on water levels). The Virgin River provides a wonderfully refreshing respite from the heat, and the park's dramatic sandstone cliffs are simply spectacular. A key national park tip for Zion in June: start your hikes early to beat both the midday sun and the crowds.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina): As America's most visited national park, found in both Tennessee and North Carolina, the Smokies in June are a vision of lush green forests, abundant wildflowers and wonderfully pleasant temperatures, especially at higher elevations. You can enjoy incredibly scenic drives, explore countless hiking trails and even discover historic structures. And if you're lucky enough to be there in early June, the fireflies often put on a truly magical light show (do check for specific dates and any lottery systems for viewing!).
• Olympic National Park: This remarkably diverse park in the state of Washington is home to a mystical temperate rainforest, a rugged wild coastline and majestic glaciated mountains. In June, you can often experience all three unique ecosystems. Wander through the ethereal Hoh Rainforest, take a refreshing stroll along the Pacific beaches or venture into the higher elevations for alpine hiking as the last of the snow melts.

Tips for National Parks Trip Planning in Summer

National parks trip planning for your summer adventure can feel like a big undertaking. However, armed with a few essential national park tips, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable and unforgettable journey.

• Plan Ahead, Way Ahead: This is probably the most crucial piece of advice, especially for the most popular national parks. Accommodations both inside and just outside the parks are booked many months in advance. The same goes for popular activities, tours and even the timed entry permits that some parks have started using. Dive deep into your chosen park's official website well in advance to understand its specific requirements.
• Check the Weather and Pack Smart: Conditions in national parks can be incredibly fickle, changing rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. Be ready for anything: varying temperatures, sudden rain showers or even unexpected snow. Your best bet is to dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring sturdy hiking boots that can handle any terrain. Don't forget those absolute essentials like a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Know Your Limits: As you prepare for your national park excursion, it's really important to be honest with yourself about your current physical ability. Choose hikes that genuinely match your fitness level, and if you have any health concerns, always consult your doctor beforehand to make sure the activities you choose are safe.
• Stay Hydrated and Fueled: This is a non-negotiable for hiking safety. Always carry enough food and water to last an extra day — this is especially true if you're exploring national parks in hot or dry environments. A hydration pack with a water reservoir can make carrying large volumes of water surprisingly comfortable. And don't forget to pack light, high-carb protein snacks like trail mix and energy bars.
• Carry Navigation Equipment: It’s best not to rely solely on your phone. Signals can be incredibly unreliable, and battery life is limited. Instead, always pack a physical map of the park, a compass and a GPS device with downloadable maps.
• Pack Essential Supplies: An important hiking safety tip is to pack an emergency blanket and extra clothing. This way, you'll be ready for sudden changes in weather conditions. Consider familiarizing yourself with the "10 essentials for unexpected emergencies: navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid supplies, a fire starter, a repair kit (including a multi-tool), nutrition, emergency shelter and hydration.
• Stay on Marked Trails: It's incredibly easy to get lost if you venture off-trail, especially in vast backcountry areas. Always stick to marked paths to prevent getting lost and to protect the delicate environment.
• Respect Wildlife: This is paramount for national park safety. Never approach or touch wildlife. A good rule of thumb is to maintain at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other animals. Remember, wild animals are unpredictable and can lead to dangerous encounters if provoked.
• Practice "Leave No Trace" Principles: Our national parks offer us an incredible connection with nature, so it's our responsibility to do our part in protecting them. Always pack up all your trash, avoid picking plants and leave natural and cultural features within the park undisturbed.
• Share Your Itinerary: No matter where you're traveling, it's always smart to share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Your plan should include your lodging details, hiking routes with estimated return times and any other important trip information.
• Consider a Guided Tour: For a truly enriching and worry-free experience, we highly recommend exploring national park tours with an organization like Road Scholar.

Keep these tips in mind when making your national park checklist, and you’ll be all set for an unforgettable summer in America’s national parks! Let Road Scholar help you refine your summer travel plans and make them a reality.