There are 63 incredible National Parks in the United States, but some stand out for their truly one-of-a-kind landscapes and adventures. If you’re looking to build your ultimate bucket list, these six parks absolutely deserve a spot. Each of these bucket list National Parks offers unique experiences that make them unforgettable.
What Makes These National Parks Stand Out?
1. Big Bend National Park (Texas)
Why it’s special: Big Bend is one of the most remote and underrated parks in the U.S., offering vast desert landscapes, stunning canyons, and some of the best stargazing in the country. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, the night skies here are unmatched. This makes it a top destination among bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- The Chisos Mountains: A lush oasis in the middle of the desert.
- Santa Elena Canyon: A breathtaking canyon carved by the Rio Grande, perfect for kayaking or hiking.
- Hot Springs Historic District: Relax in natural hot springs along the river.
Top hike: The Lost Mine Trail (4.2 miles round trip, 1,100 ft elevation gain) offers sweeping views of the Chisos Mountains and is perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes.
Pro tip: The park’s remoteness means minimal cell service, so download maps and bring plenty of water. The best time to visit is fall or spring when temperatures are mild.
2. Redwood National and State Parks (California)
Why it’s special: Home to the tallest trees on Earth, this park offers a magical experience as you wander through ancient forests. Redwood’s coastal setting makes it one of the most diverse and enchanting bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- Tall Trees Grove: Features some of the tallest redwoods in the world.
- Fern Canyon: A lush canyon with walls covered in vibrant green ferns—it’s so cinematic, parts of Jurassic Park 2 were filmed here.
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: A gorgeous drive through the heart of the redwood forest.
Top hike: Lady Bird Johnson Grove (1.5 miles round trip, minimal elevation gain) is an easy trail that immerses you in the majesty of the redwoods.
Pro tip: Fog often blankets the park, adding to the mystical vibe, but bring layers for the cooler temperatures. Combine your visit with a trip to nearby beaches or tidepools.
3. Death Valley National Park (California/Nevada)
Why it’s special: Death Valley’s extremes make it unforgettable. It’s the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S., yet it’s filled with surprisingly vibrant life and surreal landscapes. Its unique features solidify its place among bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- Badwater Basin: The lowest point in North America, with vast salt flats that stretch for miles.
- Zabriskie Point: A dramatic overlook offering incredible views of the colorful badlands.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Perfect for sunrise photography or sandboarding.
Top hike: Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral (3 miles round trip, 577 ft elevation gain) takes you through vibrant golden rock formations to a stunning red rock cathedral.
Pro tip: Visit in winter or early spring to avoid extreme heat. If you’re there in spring, you might catch a rare wildflower super bloom.
4. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
Why it’s special: Bryce Canyon is like stepping onto another planet, with its unique hoodoo rock formations glowing in shades of red, orange, and white. It’s also one of the best parks for stargazing and undeniably one of the top bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- Bryce Amphitheater: A natural amphitheater filled with thousands of hoodoos.
- Sunrise Point: The perfect spot to watch the amphitheater light up as the sun rises.
- Inspiration Point: A stunning overlook offering panoramic views of the park.
Top hike: Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail (3 miles round trip, 650 ft elevation gain) takes you down into the amphitheater for an up-close view of the hoodoos.
Pro tip: Bryce’s high elevation means it can get chilly, even in summer. Dress in layers and bring plenty of water for hikes.
5. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)
Why it’s special: Known as the “Badlands of the North,” this park offers a peaceful escape into wide-open prairies, rugged landscapes, and abundant wildlife. It’s named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who credited the area with inspiring his conservation efforts. Its peaceful landscapes make it a hidden gem among bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- Painted Canyon Overlook: A jaw-dropping view of the colorful badlands.
- Wildlife spotting: Bison, wild horses, elk, and prairie dogs are common sightings.
- Little Missouri River: The perfect backdrop for scenic drives and hikes.
Top hike: Painted Canyon Nature Trail (1 mile round trip, moderate) is a short but rewarding trail with excellent views of the badlands.
Pro tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and a chance to see wildlife at their most active.
6. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
Why it’s special: Dominated by the iconic Mount Rainier, this park is a paradise of alpine meadows, ancient forests, and glaciers. It’s the perfect place for year-round adventure and one of the top bucket list National Parks.
Must-see highlights:
- Paradise: Known for its stunning wildflower meadows in summer and snowshoeing trails in winter.
- Myrtle Falls: A picturesque waterfall framed by Mount Rainier in the background.
- Reflection Lakes: A serene spot where the mountain’s reflection creates postcard-worthy views.
Top hike: Skyline Trail to Panorama Point (5.5 miles round trip, 1,450 ft elevation gain) offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, nearby peaks, and the Nisqually Glacier.
Pro tip: The best time to visit is July through September when the wildflowers are in full bloom and the snow has melted from most trails.
Why These 6 Bucket List National Parks Deserve a Spot on Your Itinerary
Whether you’re chasing towering redwoods, otherworldly rock formations, or glacier-covered peaks, these six bucket list National Parks showcase the best of what the U.S. has to offer. Each visit promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking views.
Which one are you planning to visit first? Use our guide on Planning a National Park trip for your next step to visiting one of these parks! Don’t forget to check out more travel inspiration on Instagram @ptadventuring!
