5 National Parks That Didn’t Impress + 15 That Took Our Breath Away
Not all national parks are created equal. Some sweep you off your feet with jaw-dropping views and unforgettable moments. Others? Well… they leave you wondering what all the fuss was about.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fiftieth, it helps to know which parks truly live up to the hype—and which ones might not deliver that “wow” factor you were expecting. After miles of trails, countless campsites, and more than a few mosquito bites, here’s the real scoop.
From the underwhelming to the absolutely awe-inspiring, this guide breaks down the national parks that fell flat—and the ones that completely blew us away.
1. Arches National Park, Utah
Visitors often come seeking solitude among the stunning rock formations, but instead find themselves amidst a sea of selfie sticks and sun hats. Arches National Park, known for its iconic arches and red rock landscapes, can feel like a crowded theme park rather than a tranquil escape.
Overcrowding and repetitive scenery may leave some visitors yearning for a more serene and varied experience. When every turn offers a similar view, the park’s unique beauty might lose its charm. Despite this, those who cherish geological wonders can still find joy in its natural sculptures.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC
Imagine driving through a picturesque landscape only to be stalled by bumper-to-bumper traffic. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is famed for its breathtaking vistas, yet heavy traffic and limited visibility due to persistent fog can detract from the experience.
Tourists may find themselves in a slow crawl rather than an exhilarating journey through nature. The park’s appeal lies in its diversity and history, but sometimes nature’s quirks make it challenging to appreciate fully. Nevertheless, those who enjoy misty landscapes can find solace in the Smokies’ ethereal beauty.
3. Joshua Tree National Park, California
In the heart of the desert, where the sun reigns supreme, lies Joshua Tree National Park. Known for its surreal landscapes and iconic Joshua trees, it promises an otherworldly experience. However, the unrelenting heat can make exploration a daunting task, and many find the scenery repetitive after a while.
While the rock formations are striking, the harsh conditions mean it’s not for the faint-hearted. Still, for those who revel in desert beauty and can handle the heat, Joshua Tree remains a mesmerizing, albeit challenging, destination.
4. Everglades National Park, Florida
Wading through the vast wetlands of Everglades National Park might sound like an adventurer’s dream. Yet, without a guided tour, some visitors find the sprawling landscape underwhelming. The park’s diverse ecosystem is undeniable, but the experience can feel monotonous without expert insight.
Alligators and mangroves intrigue first-time visitors, but the repetitiveness can wear thin. Guided tours often make the difference, transforming a passive visit into an engaging exploration of this unique environment. For those who appreciate subtropical wonders, the Everglades still offer a glimpse into nature’s resilience.
5. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park offers a mix of natural beauty and industry views. While the accessibility is a bonus, some visitors may find the scenery lacking the grandeur expected of a national park.
The juxtaposition of sandy dunes with an industrial backdrop can be jarring. Despite this, the park provides a tranquil lakeside retreat for city dwellers. Those looking for a classic national park experience might be left wanting, but the charm of a lakeside escape can still be found here.
6. Glacier National Park, Montana
Scenic drives don’t get much better than this. With alpine lakes so clear they look photoshopped and rugged peaks in every direction, this park is a dream for road trippers and hikers alike.
Whether you’re cruising the Going-to-the-Sun Road or hitting the trail to Grinnell Glacier, the views are next-level. And if you’re lucky, you might just spot a mountain goat or two along the way.
7. Zion National Park, Utah
There’s a reason this park is on so many bucket lists. Between towering red rock cliffs and heart-pounding hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows, it’s got drama in all the right ways.
Even the shuttle ride through the canyon is packed with jaw-dropping moments. It’s an adventurer’s paradise that still manages to wow even the casual sightseer.
8. Acadia National Park, Maine
A coastal escape with classic New England vibes, this one has a little of everything—rocky shorelines, forested hikes, and scenic lookouts like Cadillac Mountain, where the sunrise hits first in the U.S.
It’s compact enough to explore in a weekend, but the peaceful atmosphere and charming nearby towns might make you want to stay longer.
9. Olympic National Park, Washington
Few places offer so much variety in one park. You can walk through a rainforest in the morning, chill on a rugged beach by afternoon, and finish the day in the snowy mountains.
Olympic National Park is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place, perfect for anyone who wants to see different ecosystems without ever leaving park boundaries.
10. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Sharp, dramatic peaks tower over crystal-clear lakes in one of the West’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re paddling on Jenny Lake, hiking to Hidden Falls, or just enjoying the views from your car, it’s impossible not to be awed.
Wildlife sightings—think moose, elk, and maybe even a bear—add extra thrill to the experience
11. Yosemite National Park, California
Few national parks are as instantly recognizable. With waterfalls pouring over granite cliffs and trails that range from relaxed strolls to bucket-list hikes like Half Dome, this one truly has something for everyone.
Even the valley floor views are enough to make you stop and stare. It’s popular for a reason, and it absolutely delivers.
12. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
The hoodoos steal the show here—those strange, spiky rock formations that rise from the canyon floor in shades of red, orange, and pink. They’re surreal up close and even more striking when viewed from the rim at sunrise or sunset.
What makes this park special is how easy it is to experience its magic. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to walk among the hoodoos—short, well-marked trails take you right into the heart of the formations.
13. Denali National Park, Alaska
Vast doesn’t even begin to cover it. This is wilderness on an epic scale—think open tundra, icy rivers, and a single road cutting through six million acres of raw, untamed land.
And somewhere within all that space stands North America’s tallest peak, often hidden behind clouds, which makes catching a glimpse of it feel like a reward. Wildlife isn’t fenced in here—you might spot grizzlies, caribou, moose, or wolves roaming free in their natural habitat.
14. Redwood National And State Parks, California
Walking among the tallest trees on the planet is a humbling experience. These redwoods have been around for centuries—some for more than a thousand years—and there’s something grounding about being in their presence. The trails here are shaded, quiet, and smell like fresh earth and pine.
It’s not about dramatic views or adrenaline-pumping activities; it’s about feeling small in the best possible way. And while the trees are the main attraction, don’t miss the nearby coastal drives or prairie landscapes, where you might even see a herd of elk grazing..
15. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Utah has some heavy-hitter parks, so it’s easy to overlook this one—but don’t. Capitol Reef has red rock cliffs, twisting canyons, scenic drives, and a genuine sense of discovery. It feels more relaxed than Zion or Arches, with way fewer crowds and just as much beauty.
One of the coolest surprises? A historic orchard where you can pick apples, peaches, or cherries depending on the season—yes, really. You can hike to arches, drive through narrow canyons, and even spot ancient petroglyphs carved into stone.
16. North Cascades National Park, Washington
If you’ve ever dreamed of glacier-fed lakes, jagged peaks, and trails with no one else around, this might be your spot. Often called the “American Alps,” the North Cascades are wildly beautiful—and wildly underrated.
North Cascades National Park is one of the least visited national parks, which means you get front-row seats to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes without the elbowing crowds. The hiking is serious business here, but even short trails and scenic overlooks deliver jaw-dropping views.
17. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
This park gives you the full Colorado experience—craggy peaks, alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and plenty of wildlife. Whether you’re driving the winding Trail Ridge Road, spotting elk in a valley, or hiking to Dream Lake, the scenery just keeps delivering.
It’s easy to tailor your visit, too. Hardcore hikers can head for the high-altitude trails, while casual visitors can stick to the overlooks and still walk away with unforgettable views. The altitude is real—so go slow and hydrate—but the payoff is totally worth it.
18. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Boat tours are the best way to experience this coastal wonderland, and they don’t disappoint. Towering glaciers tumble into icy water, sea otters float on their backs, and whales breach just yards away from your boat. The landscape is cold, rugged, and teeming with life.
Kenai Fjords National Park is not your typical park—you won’t be hiking or driving through it like others—but that’s part of the magic. There’s a wildness to Kenai Fjords that reminds you how powerful nature can be. Bring layers, a camera, and a sense of wonder.
19. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
If bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and active volcanoes sound like your kind of adventure, this park is for you. Often overshadowed by Yellowstone, Lassen offers similar geothermal activity with a fraction of the visitors.
It’s also incredibly diverse—you can hike through alpine forests, swim in icy lakes, or summit Lassen Peak for panoramic views. It’s one of California’s best-kept secrets, with a little something for everyone. The trails are manageable, the campsites are peaceful, and the volcanic landscape feels like a science lesson brought to life.
20. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
This park is straight-up unexpected. One minute you’re driving through Colorado’s mountains, and the next you’re staring at a sea of towering sand dunes backed by snowy peaks. The contrast is wild. You can hike the dunes, rent a sandboard, or just sit back and watch the golden light dance across the ridges.
There’s also a seasonal creek that flows at the base of the dunes—perfect for cooling off after a climb. It’s the kind of place that makes kids go wild and adults feel like kids again.