Why 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days Are the Perfect Time to Visit
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days offer a unique chance to explore some of America’s most stunning national parks without paying the usual entrance fees. These special days are a great opportunity to visit these beautiful landscapes and experience the best they have to offer—absolutely free. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to visit, 2025 is the year to do it. Below, we highlight the best parks to visit on these days, along with specific hikes and sights you can’t miss. Let’s dive in!
2025 National Park Free Entrance Days Table of Contents
January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days begin on January 20, celebrating the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. This day is a perfect opportunity to explore parks that are known for their unique landscapes and wildlife.
- Everglades National Park, Florida
January is a great time to visit Everglades National Park, as the cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities. Explore the Anhinga Trail, a boardwalk that offers excellent views of the wetlands, or hike the Gumbo Limbo Trail, a self-guided trail through the Everglades’ tropical hardwood hammock, showcasing unique plants and wildlife. - Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
January brings milder temperatures to Death Valley, making it a great time to visit this desert park. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, or head to Artist’s Palette, where vibrant, multicolored rock formations create a stunning display. - Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park is perfect for January visits when the weather is cooler. Take the Desert Discovery Trail to learn more about the park’s fascinating desert ecosystem or drive the Bajada Loop Drive for an unforgettable view of the iconic saguaro cacti.
April 19 – First Day of National Park Week
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days continue with National Park Week, starting on April 19. This week is a great time to celebrate the parks and enjoy some outdoor adventures.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
April is an ideal time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. The wildflowers start to bloom, and the temperatures are perfect for hiking. Try the Alum Cave Trail, which provides amazing views, or drive the Newfound Gap Road for panoramic mountain vistas. - Arches National Park, Utah
April offers pleasant temperatures in Arches National Park, making it the perfect time to explore. Hike to Delicate Arch, one of the park’s most famous landmarks, or take the Devils Garden Loop Trail to experience the park’s spectacular rock formations. - Zion National Park, Utah
Zion is a fantastic choice for April with comfortable weather. For a thrilling hike, try the Angels Landing Hike, or for something easier, the Riverside Walk offers beautiful views along the Virgin River.
June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
June 19 marks Juneteenth, celebrating the end of slavery in the U.S. The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days on this day give you the chance to explore historical and natural parks that offer both beauty and meaning.
- Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is stunning in June, with mild weather and incredible views. Hike up Cadillac Mountain for sweeping views or drive the Park Loop Road to experience the park’s coastal beauty. - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
June is a great time to visit the Grand Canyon, as long as you go early in the day to avoid the heat. Hike the South Kaibab Trail for spectacular views, or explore the Canyon’s rim via the free shuttle buses that take you to various viewpoints for stunning photo opportunities. - Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is in full bloom in June, with its waterfalls at their peak. Take a hike to Yosemite Falls, or venture along the Mist Trail to see Vernal and Nevada Falls up close.
August 4 – Great American Outdoors Act Signing Day
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days on August 4 celebrate the Great American Outdoors Act. This day is a great opportunity to visit some of the country’s most iconic parks.
- Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier is beautiful in August with clear skies and accessible hiking trails. Hike the Highline Trail for breathtaking views, or drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road to see glaciers and alpine lakes. - Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
August is perfect for visiting Crater Lake, with warm weather and clear views of the lake. Hike the Rim Trail for incredible views or take the Cleetwood Cove Trail to reach the water’s edge and enjoy a boat tour of the lake. - Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
August is a great time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, as the weather is warm and the trails are open. Take a stroll around Bear Lake or hike up Flattop Mountain for spectacular views of the surrounding area.
September 27 – National Public Lands Day
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days continue on September 27, which is National Public Lands Day. This day encourages you to explore public lands while also volunteering to help preserve them.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
September is a beautiful time to visit Shenandoah as the fall foliage begins to appear. Hike the Old Rag Mountain Trail for amazing views or drive along Skyline Drive to experience the stunning autumn colors. - Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Yellowstone is less crowded in September, making it the perfect time to visit. Be sure to see the iconic Old Faithful geyser and visit the Grand Prismatic Spring for its vibrant colors. - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
September brings cooler temperatures and breathtaking views in Grand Teton. Take the Jenny Lake Trail for scenic views or try the Cascade Canyon Trail for a more challenging hike.
November 11 – Veterans Day
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days on November 11 celebrate Veterans Day, providing a chance to visit national parks with fewer crowds and beautiful fall weather.
- Joshua Tree National Park, California
November is the perfect time to visit Joshua Tree, as the temperatures are cooler and ideal for hiking. Explore the Hidden Valley Trail or visit the Barker Dam for both history and stunning desert views. - Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is a remote gem, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Hike the Lost Mine Trail for incredible views of the Chisos Mountains or enjoy a river trip on the Rio Grande. - Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin is quiet and beautiful in November. Hike the Wheeler Peak Trail for incredible mountain views and enjoy the serene environment.
Make the Most of the 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days
The 2025 National Park Free Entrance Days offer a fantastic opportunity to visit America’s national parks without the usual entrance fees. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the outdoors, these days are a great chance to experience some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for these special days and make the most of your visit to these amazing parks!
For more national park inspiration, be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Yosemite National Park! You’ll find everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit to one of America’s most iconic parks. Also, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @ptadventuring for more travel tips, hiking trails, and scenic views from across the national parks!
