Wilderness on Wheels: The Ultimate Guide to USA’s National Parks & Scenic Routes That Take You There

You haven’t really seen the U-S-A until you’ve stood at the edge of the Grand Canyon, surrounded by miles of red rock and silence or craned your neck in Yosemite, to watch waterfalls crash down the cliffs, and thinking, how is this even real?

But here’s where it gets even better: the journey between these parks is just as incredible as the destinations themselves. Scenic highways like Route 66 and the Pacific Coast Highway don’t just get you from point A to B, they take you through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the country.

In this guide, we’re spotlighting the crème de la crème of American wilderness, national parks that deserve a spot on every globetrotter’s bucket list.

Top National Parks to Visit in the USA

1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

You’ve probably seen photos of steamy geysers or rainbow-coloured springs that don’t even look real…and chances are, that’s Yellowstone. It became the first U.S. national park in 1872, and even today, it remains wild, unpredictable, and one of the most jaw-dropping places to explore.

Where Is It?

Primarily located in northwestern Wyoming, Yellowstone also stretches into southern Montana and eastern Idaho.

What not to Miss?

• Old Faithful: World-famous geyser that erupts about every 90 minutes.
• Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the U.S., known for its vivid colors.
• Yellowstone Lake: A large, quiet lake ideal for picnics and scenic views.
• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: A deep canyon with colorful cliffs and a powerful waterfall falling down.
• Lamar & Hayden Valleys: Prime spots for spotting bison, elk, bears, and sometimes wolves.
• Mammoth Hot Springs: Steaming limestone terraces shaped by heat and minerals.

Things to Do:

• Wildlife Viewing: Bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves roam freely here. Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are prime spots for sightings, especially early morning or late evening.
• Hiking: From easy strolls like the Mystic Falls Trail to challenging climbs like Avalanche Peak, trails weave through forests, meadows, and past waterfalls.
• Visit Waterfalls: Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is a must-see, especially from Artist Point. 
• Scenic Drives: The Grand Loop Road takes you through many of the park’s major highlights. For a quieter route, try the Beartooth Highway or Firehole Canyon Drive.
• Boating & Fishing: Cast a line in Yellowstone Lake or paddle along its shores. Just be sure to check the rules and regulations.
• Camping: With over a dozen campgrounds, fall asleep under the stars and wake up to nature’s soundtrack. Reservations are essential in summers.
• Ranger Programs: Join a ranger for a guided walk, campfire talk, or wildlife watch. Their insight adds a new layer to everything you see.
• Snow Adventures (in Winter): Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours offer a completely different (and quieter) Yellowstone experience.
• Stargazing: High elevation and vast skies make Yellowstone ideal for stargazing.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (April–May): Great for wildlife spotting and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June–August): All areas are accessible, but it gets busy during this time.
• Autumn (September–October): Moderate temperature, golden foliage, and lesser crowds.
• Winter (November–March): It’s quiet, steaming geysers, snow-covered peaks, and hardly any crowds.

2. Yosemite National Park (California)

Ever stood in a place so massive, it makes you feel like a dot on the map? That’s Yosemite. It’s home to giant sequoias, high-alpine meadows, granite monoliths, and waterfalls that seem to drop from the sky. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a full-blown wilderness experience packed with “Do you see this!” moments.

Where Is It?

Yosemite sits in central California, about a 3–4 hour drive from San Francisco or Sacramento. The park spreads across Tuolumne, Mariposa, Mono, and Madera counties.

What not to miss:

• El Capitan: A massive vertical rock face, iconic for climbers around the world.
• Half Dome: A moderate day hike and one of Yosemite’s most recognized attractions.
• Yosemite Falls: The tallest waterfall in the park, especially beautiful in spring.
• Glacier Point: A high-elevation viewpoint offering scenic views of the valley.
• Mariposa Grove: A forest of over 500 giant sequoias, including some of the oldest trees on Earth.
• Tuolumne Meadows: Open alpine terrain gives you easy access to hiking trails.

Things to Do:

• Hiking: Yosemite is a hiker’s dream. The Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls is a classic and worth every step. If you’re up for a challenge, you hike up to the Half Dome (permit required).
• Waterfall Chasing: Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest in North America, thunders down in three tiers. Bridalveil Fall is a constant favorite, and if you time it right in February, Horsetail Fall glows orange at sunset during the famous Firefall.
• Scenic Drives: Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road offer you a scenic journey. Glacier Point gives you front-row views of Half Dome, while Tioga Road takes you through Yosemite’s quieter high country. (these routes are seasonal, check before going)
• Rock Climbing: Whether you’re scaling El Capitan or just watching from below, Yosemite is what every climber dreams of.
• Wildlife Viewing: From black bears and mule deer to bobcats and Steller’s jays, Yosemite has its wild side. Dawn and dusk are your best bets for animal encounters, especially in Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona.
• Photography: Tunnel View is the Yosemite postcard in real life capturing El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame. Bring your wide-angle lens; you’ll need it.
• Biking: Hop on two wheels and cruise the 12 miles of paved paths in Yosemite Valley. A great way to reach places like Mirror Lake, Yosemite Falls, and El Cap Meadow. 
• Camping: There’s nothing like falling asleep under Yosemite’s towering pines. Campgrounds range from primitive to popular. They fill fast, so reserve early or try your luck at first-come spots in the off-season.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution and big skies, Yosemite’s stars shine bright. Glacier Point is the best place for laying back and spotting constellations. In summer, ranger-led astronomy programs make the night even more unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (April–May): Waterfalls are gushing, wildflowers start popping, and the crowds haven’t fully arrived.
• Summer (June–August): Everything’s open, the weather’s great but it’s also peak season.
• Fall (Sept–Oct): Cooler temperature, colourful trees, and fewer people.
• Winter (Nov–March): Quiet trails, snow-covered views, and a totally different side of Yosemite.

Note: Some park areas, like Glacier Point and Tioga Road, are typically closed from November through May due to snow. Always check current conditions before your visit.

3. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

There’s big, and then there’s the Grand Canyon. Standing on the rim, you can’t help but feel small next to the sheer scale of it. Layer after layer of rust-coloured rock stretches out for miles, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. It’s wild, raw, and hands down one of the most dramatic places on the planet.

Where Is It?

Grand Canyon National Park is located in northern Arizona, USA. It stretches across Coconino and Mohave counties.

What Not to Miss:

• South Rim: Enjoy the dramatic viewpoints like Mather Point, visitor centres, museums, and a taste of life at Grand Canyon Village. It’s open all year and offers the kind of classic Grand Canyon views you’ve probably seen in travel magazines.
• North Rim: Remote and less crowded, with dense pine forests and cooler temperatures.
• Grand Canyon Skywalk: A glass bridge that juts out 70 feet from the canyon wall.
• Grand Canyon Village: The park’s main hub on the South Rim that has historic lodges, trailheads and shuttle stops.

Things to Do:

• Hiking: Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail are two of the most popular routes.
• Wildlife Viewing: You can spot animals like mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and even California condors. Early morning and late evening are the best times to catch them in action.
• Photography: Capture sunrise and sunset shots when the place looks like canvas of orange, purple, and deep red.
• Rafting: Multi-day rafting trips on the Colorado River offer a wild ride through the canyon’s most remote corners.
• Ride a Mule: If hiking isn’t your thing, mules have been carrying visitors down the canyon trails since the early 1900s.
• Stargazing: With little to no light pollution, the canyon’s night skies are among the clearest in the country. Consider going for a ranger-led astronomy program.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds. A great time for hiking and sightseeing.
• Summer (June to August): Days get hot, and the South Rim sees the most visitors during this time. If you’re heading out, stick to early mornings or late evenings to avoid both the heat and the crowds.
• Fall (September to November): Moderate temperature and quieter trails. Ideal for photography and long hikes.
• Winter (December to February): With snow all around, fog drifting through the canyon, it’s peaceful, stark, and stunning. Some roads and trails may be closed, but less crowded. 

4. Zion National Park (Utah)

A Desert Canyon Like No Other. Zion National Park is a place where red rock cliffs rise like ancient cathedrals and narrow canyons are carved by time and water. Sitting right where the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau, and Great Basin meet, Zion offers you one a rugged slice of Utah. It’s no surprise that this is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S.

Where Is It?

Southwestern Utah, near the town of Springdale. Part of the Colorado Plateau region.

What Not to Miss:

• Angels Landing: A challenging 5.4-mile(approx.) round-trip hike leading to the views that stretch across the entire canyon. (Permit required)
• The Narrows: Zion Canyon’s narrowest section, with 1,000-foot walls and a river just 20 to 30 feet wide.
• Emerald Pools: A series of trails leading to beautiful pools and waterfalls, suitable for various skill levels.
• Canyon Overlook Trail: A short walk that ends with sweeping, straight-off-a-postcard views.

Things to Do:

• Hiking: Explore numerous trails ranging from easy walks like the Riverside Walk to strenuous hikes like The Subway.
• Scenic Drives: Drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway or take the shuttle through Zion Canyon to enjoy breathtaking views.
• Wildlife Viewing: Here, you can spot diverse wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species.
• Bicycling: The Pa’rus Trail (when accessible by bike) offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the main canyon.
• Ranger-led Programs: Participate in educational programs to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March–May) & Fall (September–November): Mild weather, good for hiking, and fewer crowds than in summer.
• Summer (June–August): Very hot, especially in the canyon, with the most visitors of the year.
• Winter (December-February): If you can handle the cold, winter’s worth considering but some services may be limited.

5. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

The Teton Range rises above a landscape shaped by over 11,000 years of human history. Long before it became a national park, Jackson Hole was home to Indigenous communities who followed seasonal patterns, hunting and moving through these valleys. Today, Grand Teton National Park remains a key part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, just 10 miles south of Yellowstone.

Where Is It?

Northwestern Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone, in the Jackson Hole Valley.

What Not to Miss:

• Jenny Lake: A glacial lake surrounded by peaks, with access to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
• Mormon Row: Historic homesteads set against the Teton Range, known for their iconic barns.
• Oxbow Bend: A scenic bend in the Snake River with striking views of Mount Moran and frequent wildlife.
• Schwabacher Landing: A stretch of river offering clear Teton reflections and great wildlife viewing.
• Signal Mountain: A summit with wide views over Jackson Hole, the Snake River, and the Tetons.

Things to Do:

• Hiking: Explore over 200 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes like the Teton Crest Trail.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot elk, moose, bison, and maybe a bear, all from a safe distance.
• Scenic Drives: Drive the 42-mile Scenic Loop Drive for panoramic views of the Teton Range and access to various overlooks and trailheads.
• Boating and Fishing: Jackson and Jenny Lakes offer spots for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
• Photography: You can photograph stunning landscapes and wildlife at locations like Snake River Overlook and Mormon Row.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March–May) & Fall (September–October): Cool, pleasant weather with golden aspen leaves falling all over.
• Summer (June–August): Peak season with full access to trails, lakes, and roads. Expect warm days, cool nights, and crowded trails, especially around Jenny Lake and scenic viewpoints.
• Winter (November–February): While many roads and facilities close, the park remains open for winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing (especially elk at the National Elk Refuge).

6. Acadia National Park (Maine)

Tucked along Maine’s wild and rocky coast, Acadia National Park is where crashing surf meets granite peaks and forested trails lead to sweeping ocean views. One of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the U.S., Acadia welcomes over 4 million people each year.

Where Is It? 

Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula & Isle au Haut, Maine.

What Not to Miss:

• Cadillac Mountain at Sunrise: For a few months each year, it’s the first place in the U.S. to catch the morning light.
• Park Loop Road: This 27-mile loop ties the park together with one stunning view after another.
• Jordan Pond & Popovers: Sit by the glassy lake and enjoy fresh-baked popovers at the century-old Jordan Pond House.
• Thunder Hole: A natural inlet where the ocean crashes in.
• Otter Cliffs & Sand Beach: A classic coastal Maine: waves, wind, and photo-perfect cliffs.
• Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: Perched above crashing waves and framed by pine trees, this is one of the most photographed spots in the park.

Things to Do:

• Hiking: Hike the Beehive for dramatic views or take it easy along the scenic Ocean Path.
• Cycling: Ride Rockefeller’s car-free trails through forests, stone bridges, and lakeside curves.
• Paddle the Lakes: Kayak or canoe on Echo or Eagle Lake.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot bald eagles, harbour seals, deer, and maybe even a moose if luck’s on your side.
• Camp or Stargaze: Camp under Acadia’s famously dark skies, perfect for a night under the sky full of stars.
• Kayaking/Canoeing: Explore Jordan Pond by boat (no swimming allowed), one of the park’s clearest and calmest waters.
• Ranger Programs: Join guided hikes, tidepool walks, or evening talks to dive deeper into the park’s story.
• Stargazing: Don’t miss the Night Sky Festival in September, telescope viewings and astronomy events under pitch-dark skies.

Best Time to Visit:

• Fall (September–October): Peak season with cool weather, colorful foliage, and active bird migrations.
• Summer (June–August): Warm days, coastal breezes, full access to trails and roads, and the largest crowds. The classic Acadia experience.
• Late Spring (May): Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, fewer visitors, and some limited services.
• Winter (December–March): With most roads and services closed, Acadia becomes a winter retreat for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and solitude seekers.

Iconic Scenic Routes You Need to Experience in the USA

1. Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway runs along California’s rugged coastline, offering dramatic ocean views the entire way.

Route Name & Region: Also known as California State Route 1, this coastal highway hugs the western edge of California, running along the Pacific Ocean from Dana Point in Southern California all the way up to Leggett in Mendocino County, Northern California.

States Covered: Mostly California, from San Diego to the Oregon border.

Length (approx.): Approx. 655 miles (1,054 km).

Ideal Duration: 5 to 7 days for a relaxed road trip that allows time for sightseeing, short hikes, and overnight stays. You can drive it faster, but that defeats the point.

Highlights or Stops Along the Way: 

• Los Angeles
• Malibu
• Santa Barbara
• Pismo Beach & San Luis Obispo
• Big Sur
• Carmel-by-the-Sea & Monterey
• Santa Cruz
• San Francisco
• Point Reyes & Bodega Bay
• Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree (Leggett)

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

A road trip that makes you forget the frantic pace of superhighways and the monotony of endless concrete.

Route Name & Region: Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains, a segment of the larger Appalachian Mountain range, running through:

• Western Virginia (starting at Rockfish Gap, near Waynesboro)
• Western North Carolina (ending near Cherokee, at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park)

States Covered: Virginia and North Carolina

Length (approx.): About 469 miles (755 km)

Ideal Duration: 5 to 7 days for a leisurely road trip with scenic stops, hikes, and cultural sites.

Highlights or Stops Along the Way: 

In Virginia:

• Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5.8)
• Peaks of Otter (Milepost 85.6)
• Mabry Mill (Milepost 176)

In North Carolina:

• Crabtree Falls (Milepost 339.5)
• Mount Mitchell (Milepost 355.4)
• Waterrock Knob (MP 451.2)
• Pisgah National Forest (Milepost 408+)

3. Route 66

If there’s one road that’s earned a place in American pop culture and road trip dreams, it’s Route 66. Nicknamed “The Mother Road” and “The Main Street of America” this historic highway was once frequented by dust bowl migrants and roadside adventurers from the Midwest all the way to the shores of California.

Route Name & Region: The historic U.S. Route 66 spans over 8 states from the Great Lakes to the Pacific, Route 66 starts in Chicago, Illinois and winds its way to Santa Monica, California.

States Covered:  You’ll clock mileage across these 8 states:

• Illinois
• Missouri
• Kansas (just a quick but memorable stretch)
• Oklahoma
• Texas (Panhandle region)
• New Mexico
• Arizona
• California

Length (approx.): Around 2,448 miles (3,940 km)

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 weeks, long enough to enjoy the vintage diners, kitschy roadside stops, and national park detours without racing through it. Route 66 isn’t a road you rush.

Highlights or Stops Along the Way: 

In Illinois:

• Lou Mitchell’s Diner (Chicago)
• Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (near St. Louis)

In Oklahoma:

• National Route 66 Museum (Elk City)

In Texas:

• Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo)
• Glenrio Ghost Town

In Arizona:

• Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert
• Seligman

In California

• Santa Monica Pier (ends)

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road

Some drives are scenic. But this one’s spectacular. The Going-to-the-Sun Road slices through the heart of Glacier National Park, is a celebrated National Historic Place, National Historic Landmark, and Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

Route Name & Region: Going-to-the-Sun Road is entirely within Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana. It stretches from West Glacier to St. Mary, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, the highest drivable point in the park.

States Covered: Montana

Length (approx.): 50 miles (80 km)

Ideal Duration: About 2 hours without stopping, but that would be missing the point. Give it 4 to 6 hours (or more) to actually enjoy the sights.

Highlights or Stops Along the Way: 

• Lake McDonald
• Trail of the Cedars & Avalanche Gorge
• The Loop
• Logan Pass
• Weeping Wall
• Jackson Glacier Overlook
• St. Mary Lake & Wild Goose 

5. Overseas Highway

Some road trips take you through mountains or forests, this one takes you over the sea. The Overseas Highway, a legendary 113-mile stretch of U.S. Route 1, strings the Florida Keys together like beads on a necklace.

Route Name & Region: Florida Keys, Monroe County

States Covered: Just one: Florida, but you’ll feel like you’re island-hopping across a tropical dream.

Length (approx.): Approx. 113 miles (182 km)

Ideal Duration: You could speed through in 3.5–4 hours, but a full day (or two) lets you stop, explore, and soak it all in without rushing.

Highlights or Stops Along the Way:  

• Key Largo
• Islamorada
• Long Key State Park
• Seven Mile Bridge
• Bahia Honda State Park
• No Name Pub (Big Pine Key)
• Key West

6. Utah’s Mighty 5 Scenic Drive

Utah is a geological wonderland, home to a quintet of national parks so spectacular, that they’ve earned the collective title: “The Mighty 5”.

Route Name & Region: Southern and Central Utah

States Covered: Utah

Length (approx.): Around 700 to 1,000 miles (approximately 1,126 to 1,609 kilometers)

Ideal Duration: 7 to 10 days for a well-paced experience, enough time to explore, hike, and not feel rushed

Highlights or Stops Along the Way: 

• Arches National Park (near Moab)
• Canyonlands National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Zion National Park (Springdale)

If that stirred something in you, an itch to feel the open sky and drive down winding roads, ask yourself: why haven’t you started your trip yet?