Exploring National Parks in the Western United States: A Natural Adventure
The Western United States boasts some of the most breathtaking National Parks in the country. These parks offer a variety of landscapes, from alpine lakes and towering peaks to ancient forest, granite cliffs, fascinating trees, and historical sites. Spread from Western Colorado to California, this region includes parks in Wyoming, New Mexico, Idaho, Washington, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Arizona.
Here’s a curated list of must-visit parks in these areas, complete with entrance fees and highlights.
Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
Teddy Roosevelt once said, “One of the great sights every American, if he can travel at all, should see.” The Grand Canyon is truly a geological wonder, sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years. Whether you’re marveling from the South or North Rim, the sheer scale of the canyon will leave you in awe. Popular activities include South Rim trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab, with mule trips offering a unique perspective. Staying options include Bright Angel Lodge, Phantom Ranch, and Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20
Saguaro National Park
Divided into East and West units near Tucson, this park is named for the giant Saguaro cacti that dominate the landscape. These impressive plants can grow up to 70 feet tall and live for over a century. Spend a day exploring the desert landscape, hiking trails like the King Canyon Hike or driving scenic routes like the Bajada Loop Drive.
Entrance Fee: Car $25, Motorcycle $20, Person (foot/bike) $15
Petrified Forest National Park
This park is home to some of the world’s largest deposits of petrified wood, ancient trees turned to stone over millions of years. Highlights include the Blue Mesa Trail, Puerco Pueblo, and Crystal Forest. Note that there are no established campgrounds; camping is limited to backcountry by permit.
Entrance Fee: Car $25, Motorcycle $20, Person (foot/bike) $15
California
Sequoia National Park
Known for its giant Sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on earth by volume. The park also features Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous 48 states. Highlights include tree tunnels, the Giant Forest Museum, and scenic hikes like the Moro Rock Trails.
Entrance Fee: Vehicle $30, Individual (foot/bike) $20 (shared with Kings Canyon NP)
Kings Canyon National Park
Adjoining Sequoia, Kings Canyon is less accessible but equally stunning. Highlights include the Redwood Mountain Grove and scenic spots like Grant Grove and Panoramic Point.
Entrance Fee: Vehicle $30, Individual (foot/bike) $20 (shared with Sequoia NP)
Yosemite National Park
One of America’s oldest national parks, Yosemite is famous for its waterfalls, granite cliffs, and sequoia groves. Key spots include Yosemite Valley, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and Half Dome. A stay at The Ahwahnee Hotel is highly recommended for an immersive experience.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20
Redwood National Park
Home to the tallest trees on earth, this park’s highlights include walks through old-growth forests in Lady Bird Johnson Grove and scenic drives like the Coastal Drive.
Entrance Fee: Scenic drives are free; Gold Bluffs Beach/Fern Canyon $12
Channel Islands National Park
This archipelago off the California coast offers unique biodiversity and activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. Accessible by organized tours or private vessels, it’s a haven for nature lovers.
Entrance Fee: Free (transportation to the islands required)
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Featuring every type of volcano found on Earth, Lassen is a hotspot for geothermal activity and hiking. Key areas include Bumpass Hell and Cinder Cone.
Entrance Fee: Car $10–30, Motorcycle $10–25, Person (foot/bike) $10–15
Joshua Tree National Park
Known for its namesake Joshua trees and unique desert landscapes. Enjoy hiking trails like Barker Dam and Black Rock Canyon, or take part in rock climbing adventures.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
Death Valley National Park
Famous for being the hottest and lowest point in North America, with highlights like Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and spring wildflower blooms.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
Nevada
Great Basin National Park
Experience the unexpected glacier and ancient Bristlecone pines, some of the oldest trees on earth. The park also features the stunning Lehman Caves and offers some of the best stargazing in the U.S.
Entrance Fee: Free (Lehman Cave tours require fees)
Utah
Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, with key hikes including Delicate Arch and Devil’s Garden. The park is compact but requires a timed entry during peak months.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15; Timed Entry April 1 – October 31: 7am – 4pm: Fee $2.
Canyonlands National Park
Often overshadowed by Arches, Canyonlands is Utah’s largest national park, featuring sections like Island in the Sky and the Maze. Known for its dramatic rock formations and epic views.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
Bryce Canyon National Park
Renowned for its hoodoos, irregular rock columns formed by erosion. Highlights include the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and scenic drives through the park.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20
Zion National Park
Zion’s distinctive red canyon landscapes offer famous trails like Angel’s Landing and the Narrows. Note that permits are required for hiking Angel’s Landing and shuttle services are available for the scenic drive.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20
Capitol Reef National Park
The least visited of Utah’s parks, it features stunning desert landscapes and the Waterford Fold, a unique geologic monocline. Don’t miss the Fruita historic district and scenic drives.
Entrance Fee: Car $20, Motorcycle $15, Person (foot/bike) $10
Oregon
Crater Lake National Park
Known for its stunning blue waters and Wizard Island, Crater Lake offers scenic drives, boat tours, and a variety of hiking opportunities.
Entrance Fee: Car $20–30, Motorcycle $15–25, Person (foot/bike) $15, Snowmobile $15
Washington
Mount Rainier National Park
Home to the tallest peak in the Cascades, this park offers diverse hiking trails, stunning vistas, and incredible alpine scenery. Popular hikes include Skyline Trail and Camp Muir.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
North Cascades National Park
A lesser-known gem, North Cascades features epic mountains, glacial lakes, and stunning views, with highlights like Diablo Lake and Ross Dam.
Entrance Fee: Free!
Olympic National Park
A park of incredible diversity, from glacier-clad peaks to old-growth rainforests and wild Pacific beaches. Highlights include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and Cape Alava.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
San Juan Islands National Historical Park
Explore the fascinating history and scenic beauty of the American and British camps, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Entrance Fee: Free!
Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park
Characterized by stunning mountain vistas and diverse wildlife. Highlights include Jenny Lake, Mormon Row, and views of the Teton Range.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20
Yellowstone National Park
The oldest national park in the U.S., known for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and expansive landscapes. Must-see spots include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Lamar Valley.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20, Snowmobile $20
Montana
Glacier National Park
Featuring stunning hikes, wildlife, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, this park is a hiker’s paradise. Highlights include the Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier.
Entrance Fee: Car $35, Motorcycle $30, Person (foot/bike) $20; Timed Entry: Going-to-the-Sun Road:North Fork: Many Glacier: Two Medicine: Reservations: $2
Grant Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
A unique working cattle ranch operated by the National Park Service, showcasing the history and culture of the American West.
Entrance Fee: Free!
Western Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mesa Verde protects ancient Pueblo structures, including cliff dwellings like Cliff Palace. Ranger-led tours are available.
Entrance Fee: Car $20–30, Motorcycle $15–25, Person (foot/bike) $15
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Known for its steep, dark canyon walls. The South Rim is more developed, while the North Rim offers more solitude. Highlights include Warner Point Trail and North Vista Trail.
Entrance Fee: Car $30, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
Dinosaur National Monument
This park straddling Colorado and Utah offers a wealth of dinosaur fossils, petroglyphs, and canyon exploration. Key sites include the Dinosaur Quarry and Cub Creek.
Entrance Fee: Car $25, Motorcycle $25, Person (foot/bike) $15
New Mexico
White Sands National Park
Famous for its gypsum sand dunes. Activities include sand sledding and hiking. The park also offers ranger-led sunset walks.
Entrance Fee: Car $25, Motorcycle $20, Person (foot/bike) $15
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Home to one of the largest cave chambers in North America. Highlights include the Big Room and evening bat flight programs.
Entrance Fee: $15 per person; Timed Entry Self-Guided Tours: $1
Western Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The park features the highest peak in Texas and unique desert landscapes. Popular hikes include Devil’s Hall and Guadalupe Peak.
Entrance Fee: $10 per person
Idaho
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
A volcanic wonderland offering unique landscapes and wild cave explorations. The park is ideal for hiking and winter activities like snowshoeing.
Entrance Fee: Car $20, Motorcycle $15, Person (foot/bike) $10
This collection of incredible parks in the Western United States promises unforgettable adventures and striking natural beauty. Pack your bags, grab your America the Beautiful Pass, and set off on the adventure of a lifetime!