Top 10 National Parks to Visit in August
August is an ideal time to explore the beauty of America's national parks. Here are the top 10 national parks you should consider visiting this month:
1. Yosemite National Park (California)
Why Visit: Experience full waterfalls, open hiking trails, and fewer crowds.
Highlights: Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point.
Details: Yosemite is renowned for its stunning granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, giant sequoias, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can hike to Half Dome, marvel at the towering Yosemite Falls, and enjoy panoramic views from Glacier Point. August offers warm weather, making it ideal for exploring the park's numerous trails and scenic spots. Learn more about Yosemite National Park
2. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Why Visit: Perfect for wildlife viewing, hiking, and driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Highlights: Lake McDonald, Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier.
Details: Glacier National Park is known for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The Going-to-the-Sun Road offers breathtaking views and access to many of the park’s highlights. Hikers can explore trails leading to stunning spots like Grinnell Glacier and Many Glacier, and enjoy the serenity of Lake McDonald. Learn more about Glacier National Park
3. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Why Visit: Warm weather, geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar Valley.
Details: Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, is famous for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife. Visitors can witness the iconic eruptions of Old Faithful, explore the vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, and spot bison, elk, and wolves in Lamar Valley. The park’s vast landscapes offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and photography. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park
4. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Why Visit: Beautiful wildflower displays, scenic drives, and clear hiking trails.
Highlights: Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, Longs Peak.
Details: Rocky Mountain National Park boasts dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and rich wildlife. Driving along Trail Ridge Road offers panoramic views of the Rockies. Hiking trails like the ones around Bear Lake and up to Longs Peak provide varying levels of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and experienced climbers. August is perfect for wildflower viewing. Learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Why Visit: Cooler temperatures, coastal views, and great hiking conditions.
Highlights: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Sand Beach.
Details: Acadia features a stunning mix of ocean, forest, and mountain landscapes. Visitors can hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for sunrise, explore the crystal-clear waters of Jordan Pond, and relax on Sand Beach. The cooler August temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities like biking and kayaking. Learn more about Acadia National Park
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)
Why Visit: Lush greenery, pleasant temperatures, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Laurel Falls.
Details: Known for its biodiversity and mist-covered mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains offer lush forests and scenic vistas. Visitors can drive through Cades Cove, hike to Clingmans Dome for expansive views, and enjoy the beauty of Laurel Falls. August provides comfortable weather for exploring the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Learn more about Great Smoky Mountains National Park
7. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
Why Visit: Wildflower blooms, clear skies, and excellent hiking conditions.
Highlights: Paradise, Sunrise, Reflection Lakes.
Details: Dominated by the towering Mount Rainier, this park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The Paradise and Sunrise areas are famous for their vibrant wildflower meadows and stunning mountain views. Reflection Lakes provide perfect photo opportunities with mirrored landscapes. August is ideal for hiking with clear trails and beautiful weather. Learn more about Mount Rainier National Park
8. Zion National Park (Utah)
Why Visit: Warm temperatures, beautiful red rock formations, and great hiking opportunities.
Highlights: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Zion Canyon.
Details: Zion’s red rock formations and deep canyons offer dramatic landscapes and thrilling hikes. The Narrows, a hike through the Virgin River, and Angels Landing, known for its steep drop-offs, are must-dos. The park’s warm August weather is perfect for exploring its unique geological features. Learn more about Zion National Park
9. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Why Visit: Clear skies, stunning mountain views, and numerous outdoor activities.
Highlights: Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake, Teton Range.
Details: Grand Teton National Park is characterized by its iconic mountain range and serene lakes. Hiking around Jenny Lake, kayaking on Jackson Lake, and photographing the Teton Range are popular activities. The park’s diverse ecosystems offer rich wildlife viewing opportunities in August. Learn more about Grand Teton National Park
10. Olympic National Park (Washington)
Why Visit: Diverse ecosystems, cooler coastal areas, and great hiking conditions.
Highlights: Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, Rialto Beach.
Details: Olympic National Park is unique for its variety of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and alpine regions. Visitors can hike through the lush Hoh Rain Forest, enjoy the coastal views at Rialto Beach, and explore the alpine environment of Hurricane Ridge. August’s mild weather makes it ideal for exploring all these areas. Learn more about Olympic National Park
Gear Up for Your Adventure
Make sure you’re fully equipped for your national park adventures with top-quality gear from Ozark Outdoorz. From hiking boots to camping essentials, we have everything you need to make your trip unforgettable.
Happy adventuring!