5 Best National Parks For Hiking
Home > Outdoor Recreation > Camping & Hiking
Best National Parks For Hiking in 2025
Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Map
- ROCKY MT NATIONAL PARK #200
Shenandoah National Park (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map)
- Approximately 4 1/4" x 9 1/4" folded; 25.5" x 37.75" fully opened
- Scale = 1:75,000
- Map Revised - 2007
- Features Included: wilderness areas; Rapidan Wildlife Management Area; Overall Run Waterfall; Whiteoak Canyon Waterfall; Cedar Run Waterfall; Rose River Waterfall; Dark Hollow Waterfall; Lewis Waterfall; South River Waterfall; Doyles River Waterfalls; Jones Run Waterfall; the cities of Front Royal, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, Shenandoah, Elkton, Grottoes, and Charlottesville; George Washington National Forest; the Appalachian Trail; Shenandoah River; Skyline Drive.
- Waterproof
National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States, 2nd Edition: 400+ Parks, Monuments, Battlefields, Historic Sites, Scenic Trails, Recreation Areas, and Seashores
- From recreation areas and trails to historic sites, from nature hikes to seashores, this comprehensive travel guide and reference to the United States National Parks has been completely revised and updated, with a brand-new cover, more than 30 new photos,
Hiking Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks: A Guide To Southwestern Utah's Greatest Hikes (Regional Hiking Series)
- Hiking Zion And Bryce Np 2nd
Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park: The Essential Guide
- Hikes are listed in order from easiest to hardest making it easy to identify hikes in your difficulty range
- Each section is color-coded for easy reference
- You'll find hikes listed by type: wildflower hikes, summit hikes, wildlife hikes, etc.
- At the back you'll find tables with all the trail stats
Best National Parks for Hiking
Explore the great outdoors and discover the best national parks for hiking in the US. From the Rocky Mountains to Zion and Bryce Canyon, find the perfect trail for your next adventure.
Choosing the Right National Park for Your Hike
With so many incredible national parks to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the perfect park for your hiking adventure:
Park Size and Trail Options
Some national parks, like Rocky Mountain National Park, offer a vast array of trails for all skill levels, from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. Others, like Shenandoah National Park, may have fewer trails, but offer more scenic drives and waterfalls.
Difficulty Level
Consider your physical abilities and choose a park with trails that suit your needs. For example, Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park: The Essential Guide lists hikes in order from easiest to hardest, making it easy to find a trail that's right for you.
Scenic Features
Think about what you want to see on your hike. Do you want to explore waterfalls, like those found in Shenandoah National Park? Or do you prefer summit hikes with breathtaking views, like those in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Must-Have Maps and Guides
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, it's essential to have the right maps and guides. Here are a few recommendations:
National Park Maps
A good map is crucial for navigating the trails and finding your way back to camp. Look for waterproof maps, like the Shenandoah National Park map, that can withstand the elements.
Comprehensive Guides
For a more in-depth look at the parks and their trails, consider a comprehensive guide like National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States. This guide covers over 400 parks, monuments, and historic sites, and includes practical information on recreation areas, trails, and scenic drives.
Regional Hiking Guides
For a more focused look at specific regions, consider a regional hiking guide like Hiking Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks or Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park. These guides offer detailed trail information, including difficulty levels, trail stats, and scenic features.
Trail Stats and Tables
When planning your hike, it's helpful to have quick access to trail stats and tables. Look for guides that include this information, like Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park, which lists hikes by type and includes tables with trail stats at the back.
By considering these factors and investing in the right maps and guides, you'll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable hiking adventure in one of the US's incredible national parks.
