17 Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring in 2024

17 Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring in 2024

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Ahhh winter is thawing, the days are getting longer, it’s time to get outside. The spring can be an incredible time to visit the national parks. You can have great weather and usually less crowds than the busy summertime. Wondering where you should go first? Here we will cover the best national parks to visit in the spring as submitted by several bloggers with first hand experience.

Best National parks to visit in the spring
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Planning your National Park Trip

Before planning your trip to visit the US national parks, consider grabbing the America The Beautiful Annual Pass. It is $80 and good for one full year. As each park can charge in the range of $10-$35, it’s definitely a good deal if you plan to visit 3 parks in a 12 month period.

A pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (so it’s not just for national parks!). Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges as well as day use fees at national forests and grasslands, and at lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Tips for Visiting National Parks in the Spring

  • Just because it’s not summer doesn’t mean you don’t need to stay hydrated. When hiking, I like to use a hiking pack with a water bladder like this one. Consider getting or switching to one with an insulated tube to make sure the water does not freeze in the beginning of the springtime. You can also bring your own water filter, such as this one.
  • In addition to water, when you sweat you lose electrolytes, remember to replace these as well.
  • Visiting a few national parks? Your best “bang for your buck” might be to buy a national parks pass. It’s good for one year and costs $80. You want to decide this with the very first park you visit to make sure you get the most use out of it.
  • No matter what, make sure someone (who isn’t on the hike with you) knows where you are if you are going on a hike. You likely will not have cell service, so don’t plan on it.
  • LEAVE THE TRAIL BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT – similar to leave no trace, except you can always help make things better. Pick up trash, follow trails (and avoid the “social trails”), and be a good human being.
  • Remember that uphill hikers have the right of way
  • Dress in layers as the temperature fluctuation is no joke.
  • Regular sneakers may cut it for many hikes, however consider getting some hiking shoes/boots for better traction, and maybe even waterproof boots for hiking if there is a lot of water runoff, etc.
  • Always check in with rangers for latest information on trails, road conditions, etc.
  • The “All Trails” app available for both iOS and Android is super helpful for finding hikes. You can also use the routes with your phone on GPS and download trail maps before you leave.

Best National Parks to Visit in The Spring

And with all the tips and tricks out of the way, we bring you this list of the best national parks to visit in the spring (in no particular order).

300x250 - National Park Lodging

New River Gorge National Park
Submitted by Tom from Tomttake2

Our newest national park is a great one to visit in the spring, especially for anyone interested in white water rafting on its Class-5 rapids, which I did many years ago. We camped there on that first trip. But one need not be so adventurous to take in the beauty of this park, as spring is an equally fine time to walk the trails around the iconic New River Gorge (NRG) Bridge, which I did this past May.

New River Gorge National Park in the spring
The iconic New River Gorge Bridge taken by Tom. You can follow him on Instagram here.

Well-maintained trails allow for exploring on and around the bridge. South of the bridge and main visitor center area is what may have been my favorite stop while at NRG, which was at the aptly named Grand View. Here a sweeping view of the river as it winds through the rolling mountains of West Virginia has to be seen to be truly appreciated.

New River Gorge National Park in the spring
The Grand View at New River Gorge National Park as taken by Tom, You can check out his blog here.

Rail fans will appreciate the twin tracks at the bottom of the gorge, where trains with long freight trains were running in both directions. Waterfall admirers may want to head to the park’s southern end near the Sandstone Falls visitor center.

The towns of Charleston and Beckley offer many lodging options for those who don’t want to camp, and the park is not far off of I-79 or I-64 for those who only have a few hours to spend there. The park follows standard CDC compliance (masks indoors, social distancing), but should not get in the way of enjoying this place.

On a Saturday morning this past May, there were plenty of people enjoying the park, but it never felt crowded. There are some historic towns within the park boundaries that I plan to see on my next trip there.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in the spring. After all, it is an absolute gem that is located in beautiful Arizona, It’s also easy to get to since you can just hop in your car for a scenic drive from Phoenix or Flagstaff to the South Rim. Or, head over to Kanab, Utah and explore the North Rim from there.

Once there, get ready to be blown away by the sheer grandeur of this place. The Grand Canyon is like Mother Nature’s masterpiece, carved over eons by the mighty Colorado River.

You’ll also be treated to jaw-dropping vistas, and can take in stunning views from spots like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station on the South Rim or take in the North Rim’s unique perspective.

Moreover, there’s no shortage of things to do here. You can go for a leisurely stroll along the rim or challenge yourself with a hike down into the canyon on trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab.

Ranger-led programs, stargazing, and wildlife watching are all part of the experience. And if you’re into photography, you’re in for a real treat since the ever-changing light is a photographer’s paradise.

So, in a nutshell, Grand Canyon National Park in the spring is the quintessential American adventure, offering nature’s grandeur and a chance to explore our stunning backyard.

Zion National Park
Submitted by Andrea from BeaUTAHful World

Zion National Park is the crown jewel of the Utah national parks and it is certainly one of the best national parks to visit in the spring. It is located in the southwest corner of the state.

Many Pools Trail in East Zion
Many Pools Trail in East Zion as captured by Andrea. You can follow her on Instagram here.

There are so many amazing hikes to do while in this park. However many of these hikes require a permit so make sure to check the requirements in advance of making your plans.

  • Angel’s Landing – 4.1 miles, 1617 feet of elevation gain – has very narrow dropoffs on each side with chains and cables to help support you. You can get an idea of how this trail is by watching this Instagram Reel. If you want to make this hike even more challenging, you can add in The West Rim Trail. Please note this hike now requires a permit that is obtained via lottery. To learn more, check out this link.
  • The Narrows – can be as long as you want it to be as you start and end at the same place so you decide when you turn around, this hike is in/through water – In the winter I rented Narrows gear from a local outfitter. In the summer I did it with Keen’s and neoprene socks, regardless of if you purchase alternate hiking apparel or rent it, you want something other than your main hiking shoe as you will be wet and you want don’t want to do any other hikes in wet shoes, for more details read this post on hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park
  • The Subway – So cool it got its own dedicated post here

Even if you are not a hiker, there is so much to see in this park from your car. You can drive through the park year-round, but the main Zion canyon is closed to vehicles for the majority of the year. At that time you will need to take the Zion National Park shuttle.

hiking the narrows in Zion National Park
Hiking the Narrows in Early April – Dry Pants, 1 pair of neoprene socks, rented boots. You can follow Andrea on Instagram here.

There are many options for where to stay near Zion National Park and your specific choice may have to do with the other plans you have outside of visiting this park. If you are focused on the main Zion Canyon, staying in Springdale or Virgin, UT would likely be best. However if you are planning to stop at other nearby parks such as Bryce Canyon, staying over on the east side at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch might be a better choice. For more information about the area surrounding this park, check out the post Fun Things to do near Zion National Park.

Zion National Park charges $35 per vehicle to enter and is covered under the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks pass that costs $80.

east mesa trail to observation point
Zion National Park as captured by Andrea. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Olympic National Park
Submitted by Sharon from Dream Travel with Kids

Olympic National Park is one of the jewels of Washington State, located in the northwest corner of Washington State. Olympic National Park has a very diverse landscape in its 1,442 square-mile area; there is no storage of things to see. It takes approximately 10 days or 3-4 weekends to see all the highlights.

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park as captured by Sharon. You can follow her on Instagram here.

The Olympic National Park is open all year round, but the best time for sightseeing is spring through fall. In the late spring, the landscape is lush and vibrant with life. Pack warm clothes for layering regardless of the season, as the weather is unpredictable.

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park as captured by Sharon. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Here are some of the best things to do in Olympic National Park in the spring:

#1 Lake Quinault – Hidden on the southwest corner of the Park. You can spend the day kayaking or paddle boarding on this beautiful lake framed by mountains.

#2 Lake Crescent – An iconic destination in the Park featuring crystal clear waters and framed by lush forest-covered mountains. Ideal for water activities, hiking, and relaxing. To get a good view of Lake Crescent, consider hiking the Mt. Storm King Trail; however, this is a steep trail.

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park as captured by Sharon. You can follow her on Instagram here.

#3 Rialto Beach – Where the peninsula meets the Pacific Ocean. This moody beach is gorgeous and is the best place to see sea-stacks and the sunset. In addition, during low tide, you can hike to Hole in The Wall and find spectacular tidepools.

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park as captured by Sharon. You can follow her on Instagram here.

#4 Hoh Rainforest – Nestled on the west side of the Park, it is located 45 minutes from Forks, WA. You can explore the moss and fern carpeted Rainforest with towering trees via various trails for different abilities.

Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park as captured by Sharon. You can follow her on Instagram here.

#5 Mineral Hot Springs & Pool at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort – Deep in the northwest end of Olympic National Park lies the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Operates March 25th – October 30th. For $15 per adult, you can soak in mineral hot spring pools. Note on COVID19 – All visitors must maintain social distancing.

Where To Stay
For Lake Quinault – The most convenient place to stay is Lake Quinault Lodge and the surrounding campgrounds. For Rialto Beach, Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent, and Sol Duc – Forks, WA would be a fantastic base. Lake Crescent and Sol Duc are also easily accessed from Port Angeles.

Park Fees
• Non-commercial Vehicle – $30 for a 7-day pass, free for Military.
• Campgrounds – ~$25 per night
• Free days in Spring – April 16th – First day of National Park Week

For even more details on what to do when you visit, check out the Best of Olympic National Park here.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must-visit when looking for the best national parks to visit in the spring. It’s nestled along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and can be accessed by car through major cities like Knoxville, Tennessee, and Asheville, North Carolina.

Once you arrive, get ready for a breathtaking experience. Spring paints the park in vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom, making this the perfect season to visit.

Plus, hiking is the name of the game since a whopping 800 miles of trails, including a section of the iconic Appalachian Trail, fall within the sounds of this incredible place. Just don’t miss Clingmans Dome for some epic mountain vistas before checking out local wildlife like black bears, deer, and various bird species. In fact, take a scenic drive along Cades Cove to get an up close and personal look at local wildlife.

Death Valley National Park
Submitted by Andrea from BeaUTAHful World

The addition of this park to the list of best national parks to visit in the spring should largely depend on the month. As Death Valley is the location of the highest recorded temperature in the USA, this is a place to avoid during the summer and likely consider avoiding during the late spring and early fall.

Mesquite Flats in Death Valley
Mesquite Flats in Death Valley as captured by Andrea. You can follow her on Instagram here.

If you do visit Death Valley here are some beautiful spots to check out: Mesquite Flats, Artists Palette, Devil’s Golf Course, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View. Even if you are visiting during cooler temps (relatively speaking), still bring tons of water in a cooler along with electrolytes and sunscreen. There is no shade in pretty much the entire park and it can get quite hot.

best national parks to visit in the spring
Devil’s Golf Course in Death Valley National Park as captured by Andrea. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Both times I have visited Death Valley on a very long day trip from Las Vegas, but there are a few nearby options for hotels or you could consider camping. The Death Valley entrance fee is $30 and it is also covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Parks Pass. If you are planning to see this park as well as others on a roadtrip throughout the southwest, check out this Ultimate Southwest Road Trip Itinerary.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park sits in California’s rugged Sierra Nevada mountains and features towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and diverse landscapes.

Therefore, it is a must-visit destination for anyone craving an authentic outdoor experience.

Getting to Yosemite is part of the adventure. You can hop in your car and take a scenic road trip from bustling cities like San Francisco since it is just a few hours away.

Alternatively, fly into nearby airports like Fresno Yosemite International, rent a car, and kick off on a picturesque drive to the park.

Furthermore, Yosemite boasts iconic trails that capture the essence of American exploration, perfect for thrill-seekers who want an adrenaline rush.

The Mist Trail treats hikers to stunning views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, while the challenging Half Dome trek promises panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

In particular, spring in Yosemite is a spectacle to behold. Wildflowers carpet the meadows, waterfalls roar from snowmelt, and the weather is just right for outdoor adventures.

It’s no wonder Yosemite ranks among the best national parks to visit in the spring.

Badlands National Park
Submitted by Madison from Mazyonthemove

If you’re looking for the perfect national park to put winter in the rearview mirror then look no further than Badlands National Park.

This South Dakota gem is my personal favorite for its pastel sunrises, fiery sunsets, and rock formations that create a terrifically unique landscape. Springtime means the return of seasonal wildlife (hello bison & prairie dogs), cooler temperatures, and less crowds along the trails.

Badlands National Park in the Spring
Badlands National Park as captured by Madison. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Where to Stay Badlands NP offers three locations to sleep within the park:

Cedar Pass Lodge cabins starting April 23 for $189/night
Cedar Pass Campground starting April 1 for $38/night (RV or tent)
Sage Creek Campground (dirt road access) offers free camping on a first come, first serve basis.
Backcountry camping is also permitted in Badlands (restrictions apply).

What To Do Hiking, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing opportunities are boundless at Badlands! Take advantage of their unique Open Hike policy so you can explore any area of the park off-trail. Here are some more ways you can enjoy the park:

Badlands National Park in the Spring
The Notch Trail at Badlands National Park as captured by Madison. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Scenic Drives along Badlands Loop Road (perfect sunset location) or Sage Creek Rim Road (dirt road) with plenty of overlooks to admire the landscape.

Hiking Trails such as the poplar Notch Trail (1.5 miles) takes you through the rock formations, up a ladder on the cliffside, and to a stunning overlook. Door Trail (.75+ miles) is an accessible trail with a great playground of crevices and formations at the end. Medicine Root Loop (4 miles) and Castle Trail (10 miles) are two other options if you’re hoping to put in more miles.

Badlands National Park in the Spring
The Notch Trail at Badlands National Park as captured by Madison. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center contains the Fossil Preparation Lab and is the best place to learn about about the landscape you’re exploring!

Night Sky Viewing is abundant at Badlands with clear skies, low light pollution, and Ranger led programs.

The South Unit of the park is located within the Oglala Sioux Tribal Lands and currently closed to the public (including White River Visitor Center). For even more information on this incredible park, check out this Badlands National Park blog post.

Badlands National Park in the Spring
The Notch Trail at Badlands National Park as captured by Madison. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is an awe-inspiring wilderness nestled deep in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Spanning a vast 415 square miles, this park is famous for its breathtaking alpine vistas, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of wildlife.

Situated in north-central Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is easily reachable from major cities like Denver and Boulder.

Just hop onto US Route 36 or US Route 34 for picturesque drives that lead straight to the park’s entrances.

Once you get there you can dive into plenty of hiking trails that are perfect for out adventurers of every skill level.

The legendary Trail Ridge Road grants access to lofty panoramas, while gems like the Emerald Lake Trail offer tranquil views of incredible alpine lakes.

For anyone craving a more strenuous challenge, the Longs Peak Trail promises a rewarding summit vista.

Additionally, spring in Rocky Mountain National Park unveils a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers as local wildlife emerges after a long winter.

Expect crisp mornings and mild afternoons, perfect for outdoor pursuits like hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives amidst snow-capped mountains.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park, nestled in the heart of Utah, easily ranks among the best national parks to visit in the spring. To reach Capitol Reef National Park, you can take one of two scenic routes.

From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15, then follow UT-50 and UT-24 East. However, from Las Vegas, head northeast on I-15 and follow UT-9, US-89, UT-12, and UT-24 East. Both routes offer beautiful landscapes and lead directly to the park.

In the spring, the weather is perfect, and the park becomes filled with colorful wildflowers.

There’s also a trail for everyone, including easy walks like the Hickman Bridge Trail and more adventurous treks like the Capitol Gorge Trail.

You can even dive into the history at the area at Fruita Historic District, where you can explore pioneer settlements and orchards. Afterward, hit the road along the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive for some jaw-dropping views of the rugged terrain.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is nestled in the heart of Utah’s red rock country, and is a true gem of the American Southwest.

This iconic park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, as well as towering spires, and unique rock formations.

When exploring Arches, be sure to try Delicate Arch Trail, a captivating 3-mile loop that leads you to the majestic Delicate Arch, a symbol of Utah’s untamed beauty.

As you trek through the desert, you’ll become awe-inspired by the sight of red rock canyons stretching out before you.

For those looking for a more adventurous trek, Devil’s Garden Trail is a challenging, 7.2-mile loop hike with glimpses of multiple arches, including the impressive Landscape Arch.

Moreover, spring transforms Arches into a kaleidoscope of colors, with wildflowers in bloom and mild temperatures that are perfect for exploration.

It’s also a great season to capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the park’s natural wonders without the scorching heat.

Joshua Tree National Park
Submitted by Andrea from BeaUTAHful World

If you are looking for an other-worldly, Dr. Seuss-like addition to your national parks road trip, look no further than Joshua Tree National Park. This park is certainly one of the best national parks to visit in the spring with cool mornings and warm temperatures in the afternoons.

best national parks to visit in the spring
Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail as captured by Andrea. Follow her on Instagram here.

You have many choices for hikes in Joshua Tree, especially if you are looking for shorter options. A few of my favorites were Arch Rock, Heart Rock, Face Rock, Hall of Horrors, Barker Dam, Fortynine Palms Oasis and Cholla Cactus Garden. This park is exceptionally beautiful at golden hour, so prioritizing your time there during sunrise and sunset is a must. Some of my favorite golden hour spots were Cholla Cactus Garden and Keys View.

Joshua Tree National Park in the spring
Golden hour at Joshua Tree National Park as captured by Andrea. Follow her on Instagram here.

There are three different entrances to Joshua Tree National Park – North, West, and South. The North and West entrances are the closest to the majority of the parks main features. Therefore it is recommended to stay in either the town of Joshua Tree near the west entrance or the town of Twentynine Palms near the North Entrance.

Joshua Tree National Park in the spring
Face Rock at Joshua Tree National Park as captured by Andrea. You can follow her on Instagram here.

GPS cell service is almost non-existent in this park, so make sure to download your maps and trails in advance. There are also very limited amenities so a cooler with snacks and drinks in your car would be ideal. Private vehicle entrance fee is $30 and it is covered under the America The Beautiful Annual Parks Pass.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is an incredible National Park, that sits proudly in the heart of the American Rockies, spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

If you’re in the South, hop on I-15 North to US-20/US-191 North for the South Entrance.

What, Bozeman-bound? Then cruise East on I-90 and swing South on US-89 for the North Entrance. In fact, the routes are well-marked, allowing you to arrive in this iconic park in no time.

Upon arrival, become immersed in a world of natural wonders that include bubbling geysers and cascading waterfalls.

In particular, Spring brings a vibrant burst of life to the park, with bears, bison, and elk becoming more active against the backdrop of snow-draped peaks.

Fun Activities also abound and include scenic hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and geothermal wonders like the legendary Old Faithful geyser.

You can also drive the Grand Loop Road to explore the park’s gems, including the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs.

As a result, Yellowstone National Park is a truly American spectacle and one of the best national parks to visit in the spring, offering unparalleled natural beauty, geological marvels, and the chance to encounter the country’s wildlife heritage.

Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in the spring since it is beautiful hidden gem off the coast of Southern California.

Comprising five pristine islands – Santa Cruz, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara – this park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity.

Located just a short boat ride from Ventura or Santa Barbara, Channel Islands National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park is home to rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

Visitors can explore the islands through a variety of activities like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

One of the must-do hikes is the Scorpion Canyon Loop on Santa Cruz Island. It’s an epic trek that features stunning coastal views and encounters with native flora and fauna.

Another popular trail is the Potato Harbor Trail on Santa Cruz Island which takes you to a breathtaking overlook of the island’s rugged coastline and turquoise waters.

Springtime at Channel Islands National Park brings blooming wildflowers, migratory birds, and playful seals and sea lions.

It’s the perfect season to experience the island’s vibrant ecosystem and enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re seeking solitude or thrilling aquatic experiences, Channel Islands National Park promises an unforgettable spring getaway.

Bruce Peninsula National Park
Submitted by Karen, editor at GapBeetle

If you want to escape just outside the US, Bruce Peninsula National Park in Canada is a great choice. The 100 kilometre long Bruce Peninsula forms the end of Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment. This slice of natural heaven juts into Lake Huron separating the cooler waters of Georgian Bay from the warmer, sandy shored Lake Huron. The peninsula is home to The Bruce Peninsula National Park. We spent a week exploring kayaking, hiking and star gazing.

Bruce Peninsula National Park
Bruce Peninsula National Park as captured by Karen. You can follow her on Instagram here.

The Bruce is harsh and icy in the Winter and comparatively cool in the Summer, but in the Spring it comes into its own. The wildlife wakes up and you cannot fail to be greeted by the resounding sound of frogs coming out of hibernation. The wetlands are home to 30 species of reptiles and amphibians, but the frog’s spring chorus (mostly from Wood Frogs, Spring Peeper and Chorus) is unforgettable. The peninsula is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and we suggest kayaking through the inland lakes and wetlands to get the most out of this spectacle. It’s also much quieter than the Summer and Fall with significantly less traffic and people.

But it’s not all about frogs. Year round attractions are the large tracts of forests (home to roaming black bears) and a spectacular lake shore. The Georgian Bay coast, looks like a stretch of the Mediterranean. The rocky shore is dotted with cypress trees and it’s up there with Greece, Sardinia and Croatia in our books. The clarity and colour of the water is exceptional. However, take care, even in Summer the water remains icy cold, so limit your swim time. We preferred kayaking as the visibility even in deeper sections is remarkable.

Bruce Peninsula National Park
Bruce Peninsula National Park as captured by Karen. You can follow her on Instagram here.

The Park is also a dream for hikers. It includes the end of the 782 km Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath, and offers hikes of all levels and lengths. The most popular is to the must see aquamarine Grotto – a lake cave with sunlight speckled water of an unbelievable deep blue. Don’t miss it, but you need to book car parking slots at the car park ahead of your visit if you go in peak season. The grotto is reached by a well maintained track. The tricky bit is when you reach the grotto which requires a slippy rock scramble to enter. Finally, in 2004 the Northern Bruce Peninsula declared itself to be a Dark Sky Community. The star gazing is phenomenal with the Milky Way visible to the naked eye.

The peninsula is quite remote. We stayed in an AirBNB near the pretty port of Tobermory where you can stock up on supplies. Plus, you can visit the unique rock formations Flower Pot Island and nearby Fathom Five National Marine Park with 20 islands and 22 historic shipwrecks to snorkel over. It’s well worth a day trip.

Bruce Peninsula National Park
Bruce Peninsula National Park as captured by Karen. You can follow her on Instagram here.

If this trip to Bruce Peninsula has you looking to spend more time in Canada, learn more about spending a full gap year in Canada here.

Please note: The Visitor Center building and Cyprus Lake group camping are both currently closed due to Covid.

Big Bend National Park

Get out your binoculars because spring in Western Texas is perfect for birdwatchers. See, from late February through early May, migrating birds relax among the various pine and oak trees that dot the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande river.

In total, you can expect to see over 400 different species of birds in the park, including yellow-breasted chats, painted buntings, and hepatic tanagers. If you’re prepared for an intense hike through Boot Canyon then you can even spot the Colima Warbler.

Big Bend’s famous bluebonnets also pop up all along the road and turn a beautiful shade of blue from late January through March.

So, enjoy these beautiful blooms before gliding with turtles down the Rio Grande, relaxing in the park’s many hot springs, or doing a bit of stargazing since Big Bend is an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Everglades National Park

In spring, the wetlands of Everglades National Park come alive with alligators. From mid-April to mid-May, adult male alligators try to impress females with water slapping, tail lifting, and growling. You can see these impressive mating rituals at Shark Valley on the southern end of the park.

Afterward, try biking, hiking, or taking a guided tram tour through the park’s 15-mile loop trail since dry season means low humidity and highs of around 80°F. You could also enjoy air-boating across lily pad filled ponds or glide through mangrove tunnels during a guided kayak tour with Everglades Adventures.

Just be sure to grab a permit and do a bit of camping on a Chickee. This camp features unique elevated wooden platforms that are only reachable by boat. Therefore, your nearest neighbors are cool creatures like manatees and aquatic birds.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Snow lovers may be a bit sad that spring is the end of ski season. However, if you head just 200 miles south of Denver then you can try sandboarding and sledding down the epic sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park.

They stand 750 feet above the San Luis Valley and are perfect to explore between April and May since temperatures are quite mild at 50°F to 70°F. Just rent specialized gear from Oasis and get ready to hit the sand.

However, if you’re not a fan of the high adrenaline sports, then try some water-based activities instead. By late May, snowmelt from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains creates Medano Creek. It is an awesome, seasonal body of water that is perfect for tubing, skimboarding, and building sandcastles.

Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring FAQs

What are the 4 Most Visited National Parks?

The four most visited national parks are:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee)
  • Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
  • Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
  • Zion National Park (Utah)

Which National Park is Best to Visit First?

There are plenty of best parks to visit and that depends on your interests and location. However, here are some options that cater to different tastes:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Yosemite National Park
  • Grand Canyon National Park
  • Yellowstone National Park
  • Zion National Park

What is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Every National Park?

Late September and October are fantastic times to visit many American national parks. The weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, accommodation rates are lower, and most trails and restaurants are open before winter.

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in Alaska is one of the least-visited national parks.

This vast wilderness area contains no roads or trails, making it a remote and challenging destination to explore.

Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring

In summary, there are many great options if you are looking for the best national parks to visit in the spring. Are any of these on your list?? Let me know if you have been already or if you are planning to go in the comments.

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9 thoughts on “17 Best National Parks to Visit in the Spring in 2024

  1. These are some really great recommendations! I’d totally love to visit Zion, Badlands and Joshua Tree NP 🙂

  2. I really want to visit our newest national park in West Virginia. Your article was a reminder to investigate options.

  3. Great post Andrea, not only are all the pictures and descriptions so enticing but there are a couple of parks that are new to me on here as well as some of my favorites like Zion and Olympic! Reading this makes me want to pack my bags and head to a National Park!

  4. I love this guide! I’d love to visit some of the US national parks some time – they all look incredible but with really varied landscapes! Zion National Park looks especially fascinating! Thanks for the great guide!

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