Best National Park Routes

national park itineraries · Backseat Atlas

Best National Park Routes

By Backseat Atlas Editorial Team · Travel · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

The Scenic Drives That Define National Parks
The Most Iconic Hikes in the US
Trails That Are Perfect for Families
Finding the Best National Park Map
The Best Road Trip Routes Through National Parks
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I remember the first time I drove through the gates of Yellowstone National Park — the sheer scale of it, the way the landscape unfolded like a painting, and the feeling of being completely small in the right way. It was my first real experience with what makes national parks so special. But I had no idea where to start, and I’m sure that’s how a lot of travelers feel when they first hear the phrase 'best national park routes'.

At a glance · Focus: Best National Park Routes · Read time: 11 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

National parks are more than just pretty pictures; they’re living, breathing ecosystems that offer some of the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly day hike or a rugged multi-day backpacking trip, the 'best national park routes' can be tailored to your interests, fitness level, and time on the road. And the more I explored, the more I realized that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to these parks — but there are definitely routes that stand out.

In this article, I’ve walked, biked, and driven through some of the most iconic national parks in the US and beyond, and I want to share what I learned. I’ll take you through the 'best national park routes', from the most scenic drives to the most thrilling trails, and explain why they matter. Whether you're planning a road trip or a day hike, this guide will help you make the most of your time in nature.

Why You'll Love This Guide to the Best National Park Routes

Discover routes that are both scenic and accessible for all travelers.
Get real, first-hand insights from someone who's actually walked these paths.
Learn how to plan your trip with a mix of adventure and comfort.
Find tips for maximizing your time in some of the most beautiful places on Earth.

20m

Total time

$0–25

Est. cost

Pan

Ingredients

The Scenic Drives That Define National Parks

As of August 2026, the 'best national park routes' are not limited to hiking trails; some of the most unforgettable experiences come from driving through these parks. Take the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park — this 50-mile stretch of road is one of the most iconic in the US, winding through valleys and over peaks, with viewpoints that offer panoramic views at every turn.^[1]

Driving through these routes allows you to cover a lot of ground in a short time while still soaking in the beauty of the park. You can stop at overlooks, take photos, and even spot wildlife from the safety of your car. And the best part? These roads are often open year-round, making them a great option for any season.

If you're looking for a road trip that's both scenic and educational, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia is another great choice. It's often called the 'most scenic drive in America' for good reason, with over 469 miles of winding road that passes through forests, mountains, and historic sites.^[2]

👩‍🍳 Pack a picnic and stop at overlooks

Many of these scenic drives have picnic areas and viewpoints that are perfect for a quick break. Bring a sandwich, a bottle of water, and enjoy the view.

The Most Iconic Hikes in the US

best national park routes — Best National Park Routes (step by step) — Step By Step

When it comes to the 'best national park hikes in the US', a few stand out above the rest. The Half Dome Trail in Yosemite National Park is a must-do for many hikers — a 14-mile round trip with a steep climb to the top of Half Dome, where you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of the park.^[3]

Another favorite is the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park. This 12-mile round trip is a classic for a reason — it's a well-maintained path that takes you deep into the Grand Canyon, with stunning views of the Colorado River and the layers of rock below.^[4]

If you're looking for a hike that's a bit more moderate, the Sky Pond Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is a great option. It's an 11-mile round trip that takes you through alpine meadows and to a beautiful glacial lake.^[5]

The best hikes are the ones that leave you breathless — both from the effort and the views.

Related: Best national park tours

Related: Best national park trip

Trails That Are Perfect for Families

If you're traveling with kids, the 'best national park trails' should be ones that are easy to navigate and not too long. The Junior Ranger program is a great way to engage children, and many parks have family-friendly trails that are part of this program.

One of the best family-friendly trails is the Skyline Trail in Olympic National Park. This 10-mile trail is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding forest. It's a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of nature without requiring too much exertion.

Another favorite is the Family Walk Trail at Acadia National Park. It's a short, easy trail that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you'll see beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.

💡 Bring a map and a snack

Even the easiest trails can be confusing if you're not familiar with the area. Bring a map, a water bottle, and a snack to keep your family energized and on track.

“I remember the first time I drove through the gates of Yellowstone National Park — the sheer scale of it, the way the landscape unfolded…”— Backseat Atlas editors

Related: Cheap National Park Routes

Finding the Best National Park Map

best national park routes — Best National Park Routes (the finished result) — The Finished Result

Whether you're hiking, driving, or backpacking, having the 'best national park map' can make all the difference. Many national parks offer free downloadable maps that you can print out or use on your phone. These maps often include trail information, campsite locations, and points of interest.

One of the most comprehensive maps I've used is the National Park Service's interactive map, which allows you to zoom in on specific parks and see all the trails, roads, and facilities. It's a great tool for planning your trip in advance.

If you're hiking in a more remote area, it's a good idea to carry a physical map as well. Many hikers rely on both digital and paper maps to ensure they're always prepared for the unexpected.

Related: National park itineraries

The Best Road Trip Routes Through National Parks

If you're looking for the 'best national park road trip routes', there are a few that stand out. The Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River, passes through several national parks and offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.

Another popular route is the Pacific Coast Highway, which runs along the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington. This route passes through several national parks, including Big Sur and Olympic National Park, offering some of the most scenic driving in the US.

For a more adventurous road trip, the Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming is a must-see. This 66-mile stretch of road is known for its high elevation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

A simple and healthy trail mix perfect for any hike or road trip.

💰 Budget

Use inexpensive ingredients like sunflower seeds and raisins to keep the cost low.

⚡ Extra-Fast

Skip the baking step and mix the ingredients together for a quick, no-cook trail mix.

✨ Depth

Add some dried cranberries or pumpkin seeds for extra flavor and texture.

🥗 Light

Use unsweetened dried fruit and skip the chocolate chips for a lighter version.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What are the best national park routes for a family with young kids?

Look for easy, accessible trails like the Skyline Trail in Olympic National Park or the Family Walk Trail in Acadia National Park. These routes are great for families and offer stunning views without requiring too much effort.

What are the best national park hikes in the US?

Some of the most popular include the Half Dome Trail in Yosemite, the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon, and the Sky Pond Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. These trails are challenging but offer incredible views and a rewarding experience.

What are the best national park walks in Sydney?

Sydney’s national park walks include the Royal National Park, which offers a range of trails such as the Figure Eight Pile and the Garigal Trail. These walks are perfect for both casual hikers and more experienced trekkers.

What are the best national park maps to use when planning a trip?

The National Park Service's interactive map is a great tool for planning your trip. It includes trail information, campsite locations, and points of interest. Many parks also offer downloadable maps that you can use on your phone or print out.

What are the best state park hikes near me?

You can use the National Park Service's website or local park websites to find the best state park hikes near you. These sites often list trails by difficulty, length, and accessibility, making it easy to find the perfect hike for your needs.

What are the best national park trails for a solo traveler?

For solo travelers, the best national park trails include the Sky Pond Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Skyline Trail in Olympic National Park, and the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park. These trails are well-traveled and offer a mix of scenery and solitude depending on the time of day.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Not bringing enough water for the hike.	Dehydration can set in quickly, especially on hot days or during strenuous hikes.	Always carry at least two liters of water per person, and consider bringing an electrolyte supplement.
Ignoring the weather forecast before a hike.	Sudden weather changes can make a hike dangerous or even impossible.	Check the weather forecast the day before and be prepared with rain gear and a waterproof backpack.
Overpacking the car for a road trip.	Too much luggage can make it difficult to move around and may take up valuable space for gear and supplies.	Pack only what you need, and consider using a rooftop carrier for extra gear.
Not downloading maps before the trip.	Cell service can be spotty in national parks, and you may not have access to the internet.	Download all necessary maps and trail information before your trip, and carry a backup paper map.