Hey there, fellow adventurer! July is one of the best months to explore the great outdoors, and what better way to do that than by visiting some of the most spectacular national parks in the United States? With warm weather, long days, and beautiful summer scenery, July offers the perfect opportunity to experience nature at its finest. In this post, we’ll explore the best national parks to visit in July. Let’s dive in and start planning your next summer adventure!
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Why It’s Amazing in July: Yellowstone National Park is a true gem and an iconic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. July is the peak season for visiting Yellowstone, offering warm weather, lush landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife. The park’s geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, are at their most vibrant during the summer months.
Top Activities:
- Watching geysers erupt, including Old Faithful
- Hiking (Fairy Falls Trail, Mount Washburn)
- Wildlife watching (bison, elk, bears)
- Exploring geothermal features (Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs)
Travel Tips:
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure parking at popular spots.
- Pack layers as temperatures can vary, especially in the early morning and evening.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
Why It’s Amazing in July: Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking destination known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. In July, the park is in full bloom, with wildflowers dotting the meadows and the waterfalls at their peak flow. The warm weather makes it ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Half Dome, Mist Trail, Glacier Point)
- Rock climbing (El Capitan, Cathedral Peak)
- Visiting Yosemite Valley and its iconic landmarks
- Camping and picnicking
Travel Tips:
- Make reservations well in advance, as campgrounds and lodges fill up quickly.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle system to get around the valley.
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why It’s Amazing in July: Glacier National Park is often called the “Crown of the Continent” for its stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. July is the perfect time to visit as the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive through the heart of the park, is fully open. The park’s high elevation means cooler temperatures and beautiful wildflower displays.
Top Activities:
- Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Hiking (Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail)
- Boating and kayaking on Lake McDonald
- Wildlife watching (mountain goats, bears, bighorn sheep)
Travel Tips:
- Plan for early morning hikes to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds.
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it, as the park is home to both grizzly and black bears.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Why It’s Amazing in July: Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with over 300 miles of trails offering stunning views of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and towering peaks. July is the height of the summer season, with pleasant temperatures and an abundance of wildlife. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, is fully open, providing breathtaking views.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Emerald Lake, Bear Lake, Longs Peak)
- Scenic drives (Trail Ridge Road)
- Wildlife watching (elk, moose, bighorn sheep)
- Camping and picnicking
Travel Tips:
- Start your hikes early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
- Stay hydrated and be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
5. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Why It’s Amazing in July: Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. In July, the park is at its best, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant wildflower displays. The Teton Range provides a dramatic backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to wildlife watching and photography.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Jenny Lake, Cascade Canyon, Teton Crest Trail)
- Boating and kayaking on Jackson Lake
- Wildlife watching (bears, moose, elk)
- Scenic drives and photography
Travel Tips:
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, as the park is home to a diverse range of animals.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why It’s Amazing in July: Acadia National Park offers a unique blend of rugged coastline, granite peaks, and lush forests. July is the perfect time to visit, with warm temperatures and long days for exploring. The park’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to kayaking and tide pooling.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond Path)
- Biking the Carriage Roads
- Exploring the coastline and tide pools
- Kayaking and canoeing
Travel Tips:
- Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain is a must-see, but arrive early to secure a spot.
- Take advantage of the Island Explorer shuttle for easy access to popular spots.
7. Zion National Park, Utah
Why It’s Amazing in July: Zion National Park is renowned for its dramatic red rock formations, deep canyons, and stunning vistas. July offers warm weather and long days, making it ideal for exploring the park’s unique landscapes. The Virgin River provides a refreshing escape from the heat, with opportunities for swimming and wading.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Angels Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point)
- Canyoneering and rock climbing
- Scenic drives (Zion Canyon Scenic Drive)
- Wildlife watching (desert bighorn sheep, mule deer)
Travel Tips:
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as temperatures can soar in July.
- Use the park shuttle system to access popular trailheads and avoid parking hassles.
8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Why It’s Amazing in July: The Great Smoky Mountains are a lush, green paradise in July, with vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. The park offers a mix of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Alum Cave Trail, Clingmans Dome, Rainbow Falls)
- Wildlife watching (black bears, elk, wild turkeys)
- Scenic drives (Cades Cove, Newfound Gap Road)
- Exploring historic sites and settlements
Travel Tips:
- Start your hikes early to avoid the afternoon heat and thunderstorms.
- Be mindful of wildlife and keep a safe distance from animals.
9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Why It’s Amazing in July: Mount Rainier National Park is a stunning destination with its iconic snow-capped peak, lush meadows, and diverse ecosystems. July is the perfect time to visit, with wildflower meadows in full bloom and numerous hiking trails accessible. The park offers a mix of alpine and forested landscapes, providing a variety of outdoor experiences.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Paradise, Sunrise, Wonderland Trail)
- Wildlife watching (marmots, deer, black bears)
- Scenic drives (Sunrise Road, Stevens Canyon Road)
- Photography of wildflowers and mountain vistas
Travel Tips:
- Check trail conditions before you go, as snow can linger on higher elevations.
- Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in some areas.
10. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Why It’s Amazing in July: Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique rock formations, called hoodoos, which create a surreal and otherworldly landscape. July offers warm temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to explore the park’s stunning vistas and hiking trails.
Top Activities:
- Hiking (Navajo Loop, Queens Garden, Rim Trail)
- Stargazing (clear, dark skies)
- Photography of hoodoos and rock formations
- Scenic drives (Bryce Amphitheater, Rainbow Point)
Travel Tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as the trails can be steep and uneven.
- Plan for cooler temperatures in the evening, as Bryce Canyon sits at a high elevation.
The best national parks to visit in July, each offering a unique adventure and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, or thrilling outdoor activities, these parks have something for everyone. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the natural wonders that these national parks have to offer.
P.S. If you enjoyed this list, check out our list of the best national parks in the US!
