Best National Parks to Visit in the USA This Summer
Summer is the perfect time to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of America's national parks. Whether you're drawn to towering mountains, desert canyons, lush forests, or coastal trails, the USA offers something for every kind of traveller. This guide highlights the best national parks to visit in the summer months — places where the weather is ideal, the scenery is spectacular, and the adventure is nonstop.
I’ll keep updating this guide with new parks as I visit them.
Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the United States, with vast views that stretch for miles. The South Rim is the most accessible and open year-round, about a 4-hour drive from Phoenix or 2 hours from Flagstaff. In summer, the North Rim is also open, offering a more remote and less crowded experience — though it's only reachable by longer mountain roads. The park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and ranger-led programmes for all ages. Popular hikes include the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail, but they can be intense in summer heat, so early starts are essential. Expect high temperatures, particularly inside the canyon, and plan accordingly with plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks. Free shuttle buses run along the South Rim to help reduce congestion, and lodging fills up fast during peak season, so book well in advance.
Yosemite National Park
Located in central California, Yosemite National Park is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. It's about a 4-hour drive from San Francisco or 5 hours from Los Angeles, making it a popular stop on a California road trip. In summer, Yosemite is fully open, including access to high-elevation areas like Glacier Point and Tioga Pass. Expect crowds in Yosemite Valley, especially at popular spots like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. To make the most of your visit, arrive early or explore quieter areas like Tuolumne Meadows and Hetch Hetchy. Summer is ideal for hiking, climbing, and scenic drives, with temperatures ranging from warm in the valley to cool in the high country. Be sure to book accommodation and entry permits in advance, especially if you plan to stay overnight or hike Half Dome.
Monument Valley National Park
Monument Valley sits on the Arizona–Utah border and offers one of the most iconic desert landscapes in the United States. While it’s technically part of the Navajo Nation rather than the National Park Service, it’s often featured alongside national parks for its dramatic red rock formations and cultural importance. The valley is best explored by car, with the closest airports in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Farmington, New Mexico — each about a 3–4 hour drive away. Summer brings striking desert colours and long daylight hours, ideal for photography and scenic drives. Visitors can take a self-guided route through the 17-mile Valley Drive or book a Navajo-led tour to access restricted areas and hear the stories behind the land. Expect dry heat, limited shade, and wide-open views — so bring water, sun protection, and plan for early morning or evening visits to avoid the worst of the midday sun.
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