Article Overview: Summer in Zion National Park

Summer in Zion National Park ushers in hot weather and massive crowds. Days are hot, and nights are warm, with highs reaching into the 100s and lows in the high 60s.

Every summer, millions of tourists pack into the 15-mile-long Zion Canyon, so trails, shuttle stations, and roads are typically quite crowded.

Luckily, Zion has instituted a wonderful shuttle system to keep cars off the road in the main canyon and improve the visitor experience.

Despite the massive influx of visitors, there are still spots where one can escape the crowds. If you’re looking to find solitude check out Kolob Canyon, Kolob Terrace, Lava Point, and Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon.

Summer Monthly Temperatures in Zion National Park

Summer Activities in Zion National Park

Summer is a beautiful, albeit hot and crowded, time to visit Zion National Park. Popular Summer activities in the Zion National Park include:

• Hiking The Narrows
• Driving the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway Scenic Drive
• Exploring Kolob Terrace and Lava Point
• Hiking Angels Landing

Things to Pack

Map: I use this one.

Guide: I recommend this one – James Kaiser is the gold standard when it comes to national park guide books.

Sandals: We recommend these sandals that we love and these sandals which have straps.

Insect Repellent: You hope not to need it, but you want to have it. We typically bring an Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent with us just in case.

Sunscreen: For many of us, visiting national parks in the summer means lots of sun. Seriously, some of these parks can zap you if you don’t wear sunscreen. We happen to like this one because it works AND it’s not full of a bunch of chemicals.

Details About Zion National Park

Location: Springdale, Utah

Established: November 19, 1919

Size: 323,431 acres

Native Land: Hopi, Navajo, Northern Ute, Pueblo of Zuni, Southern Paiute

Visitors: 4,320,333 (2018)

Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle (or $80 for America the Beautiful Pass)

The Zion Film

ZION is the culmination of nearly a month spent exploring Zion National Park during peak fall color. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

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The post SUMMER in Zion National Park (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Summer is the season that gives Death Valley its morbid name. In Summer, average high temperatures are over 110F and lows are over 80F. Visiting the park in Summer is not advisable unless you are adequately prepared with water, sunscreen, and shaded cover.

Prolonged exposure this time of year can be deadly.

RELATED: Comprehensive Death Valley National Park Guide

Summer in Death Valley Overview

• June weather in Death Valley is really hot with highs in the 110s and lows in the 80s. Visiting Death Valley during this time of year requires serious precautions against exposure and dehydration.
• July weather in Death Valley is extremely hot (often the hottest place on Earth) with high temperatures as high as 134F! Low temperatures in July are close to 90F. Prolonged exposure this time of year can be deadly so come prepared.
• August weather in Death Valley is really hot with highs consistently in the 110s and lows in the mid 80s. Prolonged exposure this time of year can be deadly so come prepared.
• September weather in Death Valley is quite hot with highs in the 100s and lows in the high 70s. Visiting Death Valley during this time of year requires serious precautions against exposure and dehydration.

Summer Monthly Temperatures in Death Valley

RELATED: 10+ (FASCINATING) Death Valley National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Summer Activities in Death Valley

Summer can be a dangerous time to visit Death Valley National Park as it is easy to come unprepared for the extreme temperatures.

The only time for any outdoor activities during the Summer is in the morning unless you are visiting the higher elevations. Popular Summer activities in Death Valley include:

• Visit Darwin Falls, a year-round waterfall in Death Valley National Park, at high water. 
• Hike up to Telescope Peak for sweeping views of the valley floor.
• Experience the hottest place on earth (if you’re lathered up in sunscreen and have lots of water) at Furnace Creek or Badwater Basin.
• Catch a sunrise at Zabriskie Point (great anytime of year)

RELATED: 16 STUNNING Things to Do in Death Valley National Park 2021

About Death Valley in Summer

Situated on California’s southeastern border with Nevada, Death Valley National Park spans over 5,000 square miles of otherworldly vistas. The largest national park in the continental United States, Death Valley is a park for superlatives.

Death Valley is the hottest place on earth, the lowest place in North America, and the driest place in the United States. Death Valley is also the largest National Park outside of Alaska.

Death Valley Map

Death Valley Video

In the remote far reaches of the Mojave Desert lies the largest national park in the continental United States. Hidden here in the hottest place on earth is another world full of diverse life and colorful landscapes.

Join us as we take life to the extreme and explore Death Valley. Filmed primarily in 8K.​

Why Listen to Us About Visiting National Parks?

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues.

Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us national parks experts.

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

If you’d like to follow along our journey we’d be delighted to have you!

And a bonus! Tips for Visiting a National Park

Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

• Sticking to trails
• Checking the weather before going out on a hike
• Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
• Avoid ledges with steep drop offs

The post Should You Visit Death Valley in SUMMER? (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Top 15 National Parks to Visit in August

The best national parks to visit in the United States during August honestly comes down to timing. The busiest parks ease up a bit later in the month before the Labor Day crowds. August also comes as part of a short window at the snowiest national parks in the USA – meaning the most terrain of the entire year is open.

We rank all the national parks by month and season but don’t think that number 15 is less awesome than number one. This a la carte menu balances crowds, weather, storm risk, and access points on top of the parks that you have to see to believe; crowds be damned. Plus, August offers one of the fee-free days at all national parks for Great American Outdoors Day.

SOUND OFF: While Reddit (r/nationalparks) and other social media sites have great forums to discuss this, we would love your comments below to help first-timers make the most of their August national parks trips in the USA.

Online Editor/Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Hardy

5 Things to Know about USA National Parks in August

• Purchasing an America the Beautiful interagency pass gets you into all national parks and more than 2,000 public lands for a low price of $80. That’s good for a year. You should also check to see if your favorite park requires reservations. We put together this helpful list of all parks with timed entry or reservation requirements.
• August is typically the hottest month for many national parks, especially those in the southwest deserts. Be prepared for scorching temperatures (above 100F), particularly in Death Valley, Big Bend, Saguaro, Grand Canyon, and Joshua Tree National Parks.
• The southwest also gets monsoons from June through September, meaning severe thunderstorms and sudden flash flooding can occur, usually in the afternoon. The short-lived storms leave damage behind, but usually clear for stunning night skies.
• Consider adding an International Dark Sky Park to your national park itinerary in August. This is one of the best months to see the Milky Way at its highest point in the sky.
• Many American schools go back to class in mid to late August. That’s one reason weekday trips in late August come with smaller crowds.

Top 15 USA National Parks in August

15. Denali National Park

• Location: Alaska
• Weather: Highs in the low 60s, with lows in the mid-40s. About three inches of rain throughout the month.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:49am. The sunset is around 9:56pm.
• Crowds: This is the second busiest month of the year, but still plenty of room for everyone.
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Park Conditions | Map | Guidebook| Where to Stay

August is 100% the sweet spot for visiting Denali National Park and Preserve, especially for ecosystem variety. While the lower 48 scorches in summer, Denali kicks off fall in mid to late August.

First, fall foliage starts during August and the vast landscapes transition from lush to a golden luster. Snow might fall but not at a serious enough level to close roads.

Second, August means abundant berries for hungry bears getting ready for the winter. The Big Five of Denali National Park animals are grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. It’s a hard goal to see all five, but I was so thrilled with the caribou (aka reindeer) and moose that dotted the landscape during the bus ride.

Finally, the extra long days still give way to night skies and August brings a prime month for Northern Lights viewing. Be sure to request wake-up calls if you want to see the Aurora Borealis – sometimes, just three hours of notice is all you’ll get.

HEADS UP: Denali National Park Road stops at Mile 43 until the fall of 2026 due to the Pretty Rocks landslide. The park is open, and buses are running in the summer, but anything on the other side of the landslide isn’t accessible until then.

14. Mesa Verde National Park

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: Highs near 85°F with lows around 51°F. About two inches of rain falls, and about 13 days have clear skies.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 6:30am and sunset happens around 8:05 pm.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Map | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Facts

This park makes the list of best national parks to visit in August for shrinking crowds, as peak visitation is in June and July.

Mesa Verde National Park immerses you in the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Explore some of the more than 4,700 archaeological sites, including the famous cliff dwellings carved into the canyon walls.

Mesa Verde offers ranger-led tours for a deeper look. Tickets go on sale 14 days in advance, and they can go quickly. However, you should check the physical requirements of a tour before you commit. Some access requires climbing steep ladders or climbing through narrow passageways.

The park offers 30 miles of trails to explore, and night sky programs are held throughout August. The park’s scenic drive includes many viewpoints. I would recommend booking tours and making plans for as early in the day as possible to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

NOTE: Due to the closures of Spruce Tree House and Wetherill Mesa, booking a trip to Mesa Verde National Park is best for 2025 and beyond while repairs are made.

13. New River Gorge National Park

• Location: West Virginia
• Weather: Highs range from 80°F to 85°F. Lows get near 60°F to 65°F. August is generally a moderately rainy month in New River Gorge, with average rainfall ranging from 3 to 4 inches
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 6:30 AM to 6:45 AM. Sunset happens from about 8:15 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Guide | Things to Do | New River Gorge Film | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

Rafting makes this one of the best national parks to visit in August, with the Upper Gorge and Lower Gorge offering two whitewater styles to suit every experience level. Unless you’re an expert rafter, book a ride through one of the New River Gorge rafting companies.

In fact, this is such an epic experience that National Geographic ranked it as one of the Top 20 Coolest Adventures in the World for 2024.

Even if you don’t want to ride the water, how about taking the West Virginia Waterfall Trail? Eight of the more than 100 waterfalls on the river are in New River Gorge National Park, including the largest.

With more than 100 miles of trails, you can walk the gorge rim, descend 821 stairs to the Kaymoor Miner’s coal mine site, or take the bridge trail more than 800 feet above the gorge across the New River Gorge Bridge.

New River Gorge National Park becomes more popular every year, so don’t wait!

12. Great Basin National Park

• Location: Nevada
• Weather: Highs around 85°F to 90°F. Lows down to 50°F to 55°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM. Sunset happens between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Map | Facts | Things to Do

At the eastern edge of Nevada, just four hours of a surreal road trip from Las Vegas, Great Basin National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in the system. Adventures here range from half a mile below the surface to 13,000 feet atop Wheeler Peak.

The park rarely sees a month with more than 25,000 visitors. However, the Lehman Cave tours can sell out quickly if you don’t plan ahead. If you’re a cave explorer, listen up! Great Basin National Park offers wild caving permits, with access to seven caves of varying difficulty – including vertical caves!

Back above ground, wildflowers burst throughout the summer, adapting to the ecosystems among the elevations. Bristlecones pines, warped by the weather over centuries, are some of the oldest on Earth and give a gothic vibe to the upper elevations.

Camping weather is perfect at Great Basin National Park in August. At the same time, you get some of the darkest and clearest skies in the nation. Plus, the park has an astronomy amphitheater.

11. Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: Highs around 75°F to 80°F. Lows near 40°F to 45°F. Expect minimal rainfall in August, with an average of less than 1 inch (25 mm) for the month.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM. Sunset 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

Lassen Volcanic NP is a thermal wonderland home to every type of volcanic possible on Earth. Standing 10,457 feet above sea level, Lassen Peak ranks as the largest dome in the world. By August, plows clear all the snow from roadways, opening up the chance to summit.

Despite what could sound rather dark and dreary, Lassen Volcanic includes more than 200 lakes with creeks running through the park. Temperatures range from thermal heat too dangerous to touch to alpine water cold enough to cause hypothermia.

Visitors can witness the geothermal activity, including fumaroles, mud pots, and hot springs, which serve as a reminder of the park’s ongoing geological processes.

The night skies shine with ranger-guided programs, an astronomy festival, and plenty of spots to see the Milky Way in August.

Top 10 USA National Parks in August

10. Hawai’i Volcanoes

• Location: Hawaii
• Weather: Highs around 80°F to 85°F. Lows near 65°F to 70°F with humidity between 50% to 80%. August is one of the drier months with average rainfall typically less than 2 inches.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM. Sunset 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Expert Guide | Things to Do | MTJP Film | Map | Guide | Where to Stay | Volcanic Activity Updates

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is renowned for its dynamic geological features, including active volcanoes, lava fields, and steaming vents.

It’s one of the best national parks to visit in August, especially late August, as the summer season winds down and families focus on getting kids back to school. Plus, August falls in the dry season, offering more time to spend outdoors without worrying about rain or storms.

Visitors can embark on a variety of adventures, from hiking across rugged lava fields to witnessing the mesmerizing glow of molten lava at Halema’uma’u Crater. The park offers numerous trails catering to all skill levels, allowing visitors to experience the diverse ecosystems up close, including lush rainforests, barren lava landscapes, and coastal cliffs.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: Daytime temperatures averaging around 73°F. Nighttime temperatures typically drop to around 43°F. August is one of the drier months.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise occurs around 6:15 am. Sunset typically occurs around 8:00 pm.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Map | Guide | Where to Stay | Photo Guide | Facts | Park Conditions

One of my top three favorite hikes in the park system is the Sky Pond Hike in the Rockies. For those like me who love a good summer day to explore the depths of places covered in snow 75% of the year, Rocky Mountain National Park is the best national park to visit in August.

August is also the peak of wildflower season at Rocky Mountain National Park, above 11,500 feet. All park roads are open and there’s little to no chance that snow will keep any trail closed, yet you’ll find some patches along the trails.

The warm – but still mild compared to many of the Southwestern parks – weather allows for camping under the night skies with your favorite hoodie while t-shirts and shorts pack lighter for daytime hikes.

ROAD TRIP: I’ve spent several summers on Colorado Road Trips, and I compiled my favorites for you. August begs for a road trip in Colorado, with all roads open and adventures around every summit.

8. Kenai Fjords National Park

• Location: Alaska
• Weather: Highs near 60°F to 65°F. Lows around 45°F to 50°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise approximately 6:30 am. Sunset around 9:00 pm.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

Some of the best national parks to visit in August are in Alaska, and that brings me to one of my favorites – Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the Kenai Peninsula. August brings the second-highest months for visitors, with July being the peak, yet you still have plenty of room to explore by land and water.

This land of towering glaciers, stunning fjords, and abundant wildlife changes every year as climate conditions cause glaciers to melt. August is an ideal time to visit the park, especially for tackling the Harding Icefield Trail that parallels Exit Glacier.

For first time visitors, consider staying in one of the Coastal Public Use cabins, only accessible by boat or seaplane. Backcountry camping accessed by paddling provides an epic experience.

You also get the option to explore Seward and Anchorage without driving for more than three hours.

7. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

• Location: New Mexico
• Weather: Highs around 91°F. Nighttime temperatures drop to approximately 64°F. Inside the cave, it is 56° F year-round.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 6:30 am. Sunset typically occurs around 8:00 pm,
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

Even with the heat outside, Carlsbad Caverns is one of the best national parks to visit in August near Texas because the caves are cool throughout the year. It’s a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat.

Plus, the crowds drop between July and October, creating an oppotunitiy to score reserved cave tours when other times of year (looking at you, March) there might be long lines.

The nightly bat flight from the cave offers a unique sunset experience. Bat activity peaks in August, and this is a free, no reservations needed activity.

Carlsbad Caverns Planning Tips

Here’s my advice to make the most of the trip, since there are still great spots above ground to visit. Since the caves require timed entry tickets, plan the tour during the hottest part of the day.

First, you can start the day with a sunrise visit to the Bat Flight Amphitheater and see the bats return to the cave. Crowds are smaller, and you’ll be awake for an early morning hike before the heat sets in. Several short trails leave from the visitor’s center, and Old Guano Trail offers a four-hour round-trip scenic hike.

Second, Guadalupe Mountains National Park sits just 30 minutes down the highway in West Texas. Consider doing a short morning hike there before heading to Carlsbad Caverns.

6. National Park of American Samoa

• Location: American Samoa
• Weather: Expect warm and humid weather, with daytime highs averaging around 86°F. Nighttime temperatures remain balmy, typically ranging from 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). August is part of the dry season, but it still rains an average of 19 days.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 6:15 am. Sunset approx. 6:45 pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Facts | Park Conditions

You can’t just swing by the National Park of American Samoa, given that it’s in the middle of the Pacific between Hawaii and New Zealand. That’s why it’s one of the best national parks to visit in August, so you have more time to explore this immersive cultural and natural experience.

This region is no frills but full of personality – swimming, snorkeling, and diving among colorful coral reefs and marine life fill the days while Polynesian culture greets you in the neighboring towns. Guided tours and cultural programs offer insights into the park’s rich Polynesian heritage, including traditional practices, storytelling, and music.

The weather stays consistent throughout the year, aside from more rain between October and May. When you truly want to get away at an American national park, you can’t go any further than the National Park of American Samoa.

TRAVEL TIP: If you’re adding American Samoa to a Hawaiian getaway, the flight lasts about five hours and 40 minutes.

Top 5 USA National Parks in August

5. North Cascades National Park

• Location: Washington
• Weather: Highs 70°F to 80°F. Lows 45°F to 55°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 6:00 am. Sunset typically occurs around 8:30 pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Things to Do | Best Hikes | Facts | Map | Guidebook

The misunderstandings around North Cascades National Park bring big benefits to those who visit. The spectacular range in and around North Cascades National Park brings the rugged beauty of Alaska without having to leave the Lower 48.

The park also offers more glaciers than any other park in the contiguous United States, and the warmer month of August fuels waterfalls deep in canyons and gorges.

Least Visited National Park?

The misnomer around North Cascades National Park is that it’s among the “least visited.” It’s true enough on the surface, with about 40,000 people visiting in 2023. The context missing is that the North Cascades National Park is a complex, including Ross Lake National Recreation Area and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. That complex brings in about a million people each year.

The wilderness area of North Cascades National Park is roadless by design to allow people to “gain the pioneer feeling of isolation and adventure so necessary for retention of sanity in our day and age.” Ironically, that day and age was the 1950s. How important is that now in this chaotic world?

However, this park was fought for over decades of politics vs. conservation vs. recreation vs. land uses like logging and mining. The three-unit complex served all the needs and ended the lengthy battle. It also grossly underrates the impressive footprint of this dramatic landscape.

Even mountaineer Herman Ulrichs said the North Cascades offered a “decidedly grander appearance” than the Rocky Mountains or Sierra Nevadas due to the absolute elevation (aka relief).

What to Do at North Cascades National Park in August

Trails of all difficulty levels exist in the roadless section of the park, but many start from the Ross Lake NRA. Experienced hikers need the Sourdough Mountain Trail to feed their souls. Mountaineering and backcountry camping ranks at nirvana level here.

As a writer, I was drawn to Desolation Peak, where Jack Kerouac spent 63 days in the fire tower. His experience inspired the book Desolation Angels.

Not much comes easy in the North Cascades, but every step is worth it. Plus, you have two NRAs and Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest – North Cascades nearby.

4. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

• Location: California
• Weather: Warm during the day, ranging from mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit in lower areas and mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit in higher elevations. Comfortable at night, ranging from 50s to 60s Fahrenheit in lower areas and 40s to 50s Fahrenheit in higher elevations.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 6:00 AM. Sunset 8:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Facts | Things to Do at Kings Canyon | Things to Do at Sequoia | Best Hikes

These two powerhouse parks house the deepest canyon in the country – one that John Muir called a “rival to Yosemite” – and the largest trees on Earth. They combine for the best national parks to visit in August because the full gamut of outdoor amenities awaits, including a hike to the tallest mountain in the contiguous U.S.

While techically two separate parks, they are managed as one. Even though they are right next door to each, that’s a liberal term considering the entrances are 45 miles of winding mountain roads away from each other.

The bonus of visiting these national parks in August comes with accessible roads that can be covered by snow well into June or even July.

Kings Canyon National Park

On the surface, Kings Canyon National Park seems simple enough – there’s one road that leads in and out.

In Kings Canyon National Park, adventurers can journey into the depths of the canyon itself, where towering granite cliffs and the rushing waters of the Kings River create a dramatic landscape. The park boasts the awe-inspiring General Grant Grove, home to the second-largest tree in the world, the General Grant Tree.

Hikers can tackle the strenuous yet rewarding trails to Mist Falls or the panoramic vistas of Cedar Grove Overlook, while those seeking solitude can explore the remote wilderness areas of the park, such as Tehipite Valley.

Sequoia National Park

In Sequoia National Park, visitors can marvel at some of the largest trees on Earth, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest living tree by volume.

The park offers stunning vistas from Moro Rock and panoramic views of the Great Western Divide from the summit of Mount Whitney. Visitors can explore underground wonders in Crystal Cave, hike through lush forests and alpine meadows along the Congress Trail or the Lakes Trail, and cool off in picturesque spots like Crescent Meadow and the roaring waters of Tokopah Falls.

TRAVEL TIP: No timed entry requirements here, but plan at least a two-day trip and get to the park each day by 9am to score a parking spot.

3. Crater Lake National Park

• Location: Oregon
• Weather: Highs between mid-60s to mid-70s. Lows range from the mid-40s to the low 50s.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 6 AM and sunset around 8:00 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Winter Activities | Park Conditions | Facts

August is arguably the best month to visit Crater Lake National Park, offering an ideal blend of favorable weather conditions and abundant outdoor activities. Yeah, it’s one of the busiest months, but in a place that gets anywhere from 23 to 73 feet of snow annually, it takes up to two months to clear Crater Rim Road.

It’s one of the best national parks in August because everything is open, barring a wildfire emergency. Hiking trails thread through meadows and wooded areas, while others keep the lake in view. Two campgrounds, including one in an old-growth forest, give ideal stargazing spots.

Boat tours and trolley rides are in full swing, and the Cleetwood Cove Trail opens to get you close to the stunning blue waters of the lake. Wildflowers grow abundantly, even among the collapsed volcano edge.

2. Voyageurs National Park

• Location: Minnesota
• Weather: Highs around 70°F to 80°F. Lows range from 50°F to 60°F
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 6:00 am to 6:30 am. Sunset around 8:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Expert Guide | Map | Guide | Where to Stay

Voyageurs National Park stands out as one of the best national parks to visit in August, offering a myriad of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty that make it an unforgettable destination for summer adventure.

August provides perfect conditions for boating, kayaking, and canoeing on the park’s interconnected waters. Visitors can explore the park’s pristine wilderness from the unique perspective of the water, discovering hidden coves, secluded beaches, and picturesque islands along the way.

August is prime fishing season in Voyageurs National Park, with abundant opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater fish, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskie. Access hiking trails by boat or car, whatever suits your adventurous style for the day.

August nights in Voyageurs National Park are perfect for stargazing. Stay at a campsite or on a houseboat for the ultimate Voyageurs National Park experience – maybe even get a chance to see the Northern Lights.

VIDEO: Voyageurs National Park More Than Just Parks Film

1. Glacier National Park

• Location: Montana
• Weather: Daytime highs typically range from 70°F to 80°F, while nighttime lows range from 40°F to 50°. August is one of the drier months in Glacier, with less than 2 inches of rain during the month.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 6:00 am to 6:30 am. Sunset usually occurs around 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Best Hikes | Suggested Itinerary | Facts | Map | Guide | Where to Stay

As much as there’s no getting around the crowds at Glacier National Park in summer, there’s also nothing quite like this epic experience during the short-lived summer season. I’m not sure anyone can argue about Glacier National Park being one of the best national parks to visit in August.

The one benefit is that crowds are down about 10% from the July peak. We put together this itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

In addition to the natural beauty of August at Glacier, you get full access to Going to the Sun Road (GTTSR). You HAVE to get to Glacier National Park early to avoid overfill in parking areas. As of 2024, vehicle reservations are required from 6am to 3pm. Reservations open 180 days ahead of time and then 7pm the day before.

Managing Glacier National Park Summer Crowds

As much as the crowds can impact the quality of your experience, a few tactics will help.

1. Get there before 6am. Yep, that’s early. But you’ll get a parking spot, the best access to the most popular trails, and a lot less stress. You can also arrive after 3pm, but tackling trials like Grinnell Glacier might be pushing it close to sunset. Bring a headlamp, just in case.
2. Book an expedition. You can skip time entry if you have a reservation on a boat tour or horseback ride outfitter. Proof of a campsite reservation or lodging stay within the park gets you out of the reservation portal as well.
3. Scout out backup plans. The Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier, and Avalanche Lake will have crowds in August. Yet, more than 700 miles of trails fill the park – why not explore off the beaten path? Check trail conditions before you head to the park.
4. Don’t rely on the shuttles. Sure, the shuttles offer a way to avoid parking, but you can wait up to an hour to access one of them.
5. Consider wilderness camping. It’s the absolute best way to beat the crowds.

If you want to wait until September to visit Glacier for even smaller crowds, keep in mind that boat tours will end mid-month.

Map of Best National Parks to Visit in August

List of National Parks to Visit in August

1. Denali National Park
2. Mesa Verde National Park
3. New River Gorge National Park
4. Lassen Volcanic National Park
5. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
6. Rocky Mountain National Park
7. Kenai Fjords National Park
8. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
9. National Park of America Samoa
10. North Cascades National Park
11. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
12. Crater Lake National Park
13. Voyageurs National Park
14. Glacier National Park

Top 5 Least Crowded National Parks in August

We get asked a lot about the least crowded national parks in August or any other popular month. Unfortunately, you can’t just go on the number of visitors in a given month since each park is a different size with different thresholds.

Here are a few examples explaining what I mean.

• National Park of American Samoa is the least populated national park in August (547 visits), but even at a peak in October, the park is never crowded.
• Kobuk Valley National Park comes in second for the least number of August visits, but it’s also the busiest month of the year. However, with a massive footprint of 1.75 million acres, that still means less than one person per square mile.
• Number five of the least visited national parks in August is Guadalupe Mountains National Park. August is also one of the rainiest and hottest months at that park. Keep in mind that this is a roadless park with amazing trails but plenty of heat and storm dangers.
• August consistently ranks as the lowest visited month at Death Valley National Park, but highs are near 114°, and lows only drop to around the mid-80s. Most trails should be completed by 10am to avoid heat dangers.
• Dry Tortugas and Isle Royale National Parks have low visitation in August, but you need to plan way ahead of time to reserve a ferry trip. August is also the “buggiest” month on Isle Royale, which is one reason it didn’t make this list. August in Dry Tortugas means the height of hurricane season.

The Bottom Line

All things considered (heat, access, visitation numbers, etc.), the least crowded national parks in August that are worth visiting are North Cascades National Park, Channel Islands, any Alaska National Park, National Park of American Samoa, and any park centered around caves, since the underground chambers stay the same temperatures year-round.

Pin National Parks to Visit in August

Helpful Related Articles

January: 10 Best National Parks To Visit in January

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March: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in March

April: 15 EPIC National Parks to Visit in April

May: 15 BEST US National Parks to Visit in MAY (+2 Parks to Avoid!) 2023

June: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in June (+EPIC June Road Trips)

July: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in July (+Alaska Summer Guide)

October: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in October (+ 3 to Avoid)

November: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in November (+Holiday Hours)

December: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December (+2 to Avoid!)

Most Visited National Parks in 2023: 10 Most & Least Visited National Parks in 2023

Best National Parks Ranked: ALL 63 US NATIONAL PARKS RANKED By Experts

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Summer in Virgin Islands National Park is the most popular time to visit with hot temperatures, abundant sunshine,  bigger crowds, and higher prices. Summer brings the biggest crowds of the year to the Virgin Islands. Summer also marks the real start of the hurricane season although fall is peak time for hurricanes.

Summer flights to the virgin islands are among the most expensive.

In this post we will cover:

• What to Pack & Things to Know for Visiting Virgin Islands in Summer
• Current Weather Virgin Islands National Park
• Virgin Islands National Park Summer Monthly Temperatures
• Things to do in Virgin Islands National Park in Summer
• Summer Activities in Virgin Islands National Park
• More Virgin Islands National Park Seasons & Weather

Francis Bay from America Hill Ruins | Virgin Islands National Park, St John

Things to Know Before Visiting Virgin Islands in Summer

Sandals are your friend.

•  FOOTWEAR: There’s nothing like the feeling of warm sand between the toes. There’s also nothing quite like the feeling of something sharp and pokey in the toes. The walk to the beach from the parking lot is short but best attempted with something between your feet and the ground, like these sandals that we love. and these sandals which have straps.

Goggles and flippers for the win.

• SNORKEL GEAR: There is an actual underwater trail in Virgin Islands National Park – how cool is that? In order to best experience it along with so many other amazing underwater spots, you need snorkel gear! This is the inexpensive set we used. We also liked this cool American Flag swimming cap

Underwater camera housing… to ruin, or not to ruin.

• UNDERWATER CAMERA HOUSING: So here we must add the caveat that we lost a camera to the depths in Virgin Islands National Park (at Maho Bay). Anytime you get your camera near water, let alone saltwater, you’re taking a risk. With that being said we have used this underwater camera housing in the past and had luck with it.

Rash guards are great for extra UV protection, especially after that inevitable burn.

• RASH GUARD: We were told to be sure and pack rash guards for this trip not so much for the coral etc but for extra UV protection (especially for Will who burns easily). We got these inexpensive ones off amazon and we were sure glad to have them.

Do not touch our dear friend, the sea turtle.

• Sea Turtles: Green Sea Turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Believe it or not it is a felony to touch one. As tempting as it might be, resist the urge and admire from a distance. We’ve all gotten pretty good at social distancing – best to apply these practices to our sea turtle friends as well.

Virgin Islands National Park Current Weather

Here’s a look at the current weather in Virgin Islands National Park.

Summer Monthly Temperatures in Virgin Islands National Park

Summer Activities in Virgin Islands National Park

Summer in Virgin Islands National Park does not really limit activities for the average visitor. Some great summer activities include:

• Hike to the America Hill Ruins
• Spend a relaxing day on Honeymoon Beach
• Explore the Reef Bay Trail
• Swim the Underwater Trail at Trunk Bay
• Kayak to Whistling Cay

The Virgin Islands Film​
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VIRGIN ISLANDS 8K is a visually stunning journey through one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Virgin Islands. Journey with More Than Just Parks as we explore this tropical paradise located on the outskirts of the Caribbean Sea. Swim with sea turtles, explore ancient jungle ruins, relax on white sand beaches, and soak in the island beauty. This is Virgin Islands National Park.

The post SUMMER in Virgin Islands National Park (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Summer In Acadia Overview

Summer sees mild weather with temperatures ranging from 50-90 degrees and consistently cooler weather near the coastline. Summer also brings the crowds of course so be prepared to compete for lodging and campsites.

Weather in Bar Harbor can change dramatically this time of year and with little warning so make sure to pack your rain gear too.

RELATED: Comprehensive Acadia National Park Guide

Summer Monthly Temperatures in Acadia National Park

Summer Activities in Acadia National Park

Popular Summer activities in the Acadia include:

• Hiking the carriage roads and trails.
• Driving the park loop road.
• Exploring the coast.
• Hiking the Beehive

Acadia National Park Facts

Location: Maine

Established: January 19, 1929

Size: 49,075 acres

Visitors: 3,437,286 (2020)

Sunrise: Seeing the sunrise from Acadia National Park is a popular pastime both for its beauty and the bragging right for being the first in the US to see the sun!

Things to Know Before You Visit Acadia

Entrance Fees: $30

Crowds: Hate to burst any bubbles here, but Acadia is a very crowded national park. Spring, summer, and fall see the small national park bursting at the seams with tourists. Parking is extremely limited during these seasons so prepare accordingly!

Getting Around: Acadia is a very accessible park with roads taking visitors through much of the park. Most any vehicle will do throughout the park and prepare for some scenic driving! The park does get very busy in the Summer so be prepared for long lines of cars in various areas and limited parking.

Sunscreen: Visiting national parks during certain times of the year can mean lots of sun. Seriously, some of these parks can zap you if you don’t wear sunscreen. We happen to like this one because it works AND it’s not full of a bunch of chemicals.

Leave No Trace: We’re big fans of Leave No Trace, here at MTJP. Want to learn more? Read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.

Ticks: Ticks are quite prevalent in the wooded areas of Acadia National Park and are most active in the spring and summer. Take precautions to properly protect yourself and be sure to check yourself after getting back from any hike as these little critters can be quite persistent.

Insect Repellent: Given the tick situation in Acadia we highly recommend this top rated insect repellent that provides superior protection against ticks. It works folks.

Dogs are allowed in Acadia National Park which is rare for US National Parks! Enjoy the park with your furry friend!

Our Award Winning Acadia National Park Video

More Than Just Parks ACADIA is the culmination of several weeks spent exploring Acadia National Park during peak fall color. The film is dedicated to George Dorr, who was instrumental in saving the land and founding the park. Journey with us as we explore this magnificent coastal wonderland in stunning fall color.

About Acadia National Park

Sculpted by glaciers and landscaped by beavers, Acadia National Park is full of wonderfully unique natural features. Rounded mountains, tranquil ponds, rocky coastline, & some of the most beautiful trails in the national park system comprise this marvelous coastal Maine wonder.

Acadia National Park Map

Related Articles

Summer in Acadia National Park: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Acadia in the Summer

Acadia National Park Guide: More Than Just Parks Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Acadia National Park

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ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Best National Parks to Visit in June

Let’s be honest: you or I could probably make a strong argument for almost any park to be one of the best United States national parks to visit in June. However, a few have special qualities that allow them to stand out from the (busy) crowds.

June ranks as the third busiest month across the National Park System. All parks remain open and accessible, as even May still has some closures to contend with. Wildflowers bloom, and wildlife roams once again.

The Pattiz Brothers and I have extensive experience visiting national parks in June and summer, as we all love the warm weather. We brought together our separate experiences for one exclusive list of the national parks to visit in June in the USA.

Our litmus test includes crowd size vs. number of amenities and attractions open, special June events at a park, and seizing the most out of a summer trip with minimal bugs and weather health risks. Even the night skies set some parks ahead of others. Take this list as a buffet, not a competition.

We’ve included National Parks to visit in June near California and our top pick for Alaska in June, too. Your feedback is always welcome in the comments below.

Online Editor & Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Hardy

15. Kenai Fjords National Park in June

• Location: Alaska
• Weather: Highs around 55°F to 65°F. Lows can get to around 40°F to 50°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM with sunset as late at 11:30 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Harding Icefield Trail | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

The best national parks to visit in June also bring the longest daylight hours, and in Alaska, that means up to 17 hours of sun. While the peak Alaska cruise season starts in July, you can beat the crowds in June while still getting access to the amazing sights of Kenai Fjords National Park.

Time matters here because the glaciers are melting, and Exit Glacier is one of 200 that might be gone by the year 2100. June sits smack dab in the middle of whale-watching season, too.

Kenai Fjords National Park opens for the summer season in late May, making June ideal for you to be one of the first visitors of summer. All of the tours await your next adventure, from kayaking to boat cruises to Harding Icefield strenuous hikes or camping near one of the glaciers.

If you’re up for it, Denali National Park sits just six hours north of here, easily accessed by roads in summer.

14. Voyageurs National Park in June

• Location: Minnesota
• Weather: Highs are around 70°F to 75°F, and lows are between 50°F and 55°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise between 5:15 AM and 5:30 AM. Sunset is from 8:45 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Expert Guide | Facts | Camping Guide |

Voyageurs National Park in June offers mild temperatures perfect for boating, fishing, and hiking. Its interconnected waterways beckon adventurers to explore pristine lakes, teeming with wildlife like bald eagles and otters.

Anglers cast their lines for walleye and bass while hikers traverse scenic trails adorned with vibrant wildflowers. In addition, that wildflower season brings an abundance of 400 species that bloom between late spring and fall. You’ll also find mushrooms growing seasonally throughout the park.

As one of the best national parks to visit in June, you’ll also find it’s among the busiest months. However, this is one park that rarely feels crowded. May brings the busiest month at Voyageurs, yet lakes can still be ice-covered in the early part of that month. June allows for houseboats and campsite access via waterways.

13. White Sands National Park

• Location: New Mexico
• Weather: Highs around 95°F to 100°F with lows between 65°F and 70°F. Average rainfall is minimal, often less than 0.5 inches for the entire month.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset is 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

If you’re like me and love the heat of the summer but don’t want to overdo it, White Sands National Park can be a treasure check of activities in June. Of course, you’ll want to start the day when the park opens to avoid the potential for triple digits in the afternoon.

At the same time, you’ll likely want a midday nap because June brings sunset strolls, full-moon parties, and moonlit hikes. With the summer solstice in late June, you get more opportunities for these events – plus extended park hours- than any other month.

Even better is that the gypsum sand won’t get hot like the Great Sand Dunes National Park variety. Just don’t forget to lather on sunscreen before that bright white sand will reflect UV rays. You can also pay extra for an Early Entry pass to catch the sunrise.

12. Grand Canyon National Park in June

• Location: Arizona
• South Rim Weather: Highs between 80° and 90° and lows between 50°F to 60°F
• North Rim Weather: High temperatures are around 70°F to 80°F with lows near 40°F to 50°F.
• Canyon Bottom Weather: Highs can exceed 100°F with warm evenings near 70°F to 80°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:15 AM to 5:30 AM, with sunset between 7:30 PM to 7:45 PM.
• Crowds: Medium to High
• Resources: Things to Do | Expert Guide | Best Views | Closest Cities | South Rim | North Rim | Facts | Best Hikes | Rim to Rim Hike | Bright Angel Trail

June brings the first full month of the year that all of the Grand Canyon is open. That includes the North Rim roads, trails and amenities.

In addition, the Grand Canyon Star Party kicks off annually in June, with events at both rims over eight days. This festival offers amazing changes to see the night skies with some of the top astronomy experts in the country.

While the bottom of the canyon will be in triple digits, you can enjoy warm, sunny days before the monsoon season kicks into full gear. If you descend in the early morning hours, you’ll escape the heat of the day.

Even with crowds above 500,000, the North Rim saw an average of 18,000 vehicles in June 2022. That’s compared to the 118,000 who came to the South Rim. Take the time to enjoy the ride to the North Rim, which is an ideal way to start the Rim to Rim Hike since it’s 1,000 feet higher.

11. Channel Islands National Park in June

• Location: California
• Weather: Highs are around 65°F to 75°F with lows between 50°F and 55°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sun’s up between 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset happens around 7:45 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Facts | Things to Do | Guidebook | Where to Stay

Channel Islands National Park ranks as one of the best national parks to visit in June for whale watching alone, but so many other surprise await on these series of islands off the coast of California.

Blue and humpback whales migrate during the summer, while seal lions start tending to their newly born pups. Additionally, many bird species are nesting during this time, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities. June is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. The calm seas and clear waters make it a great time for exploring the coastal areas and underwater ecosystems.

June tends to be slightly less crowded compared to July and August, but keep in mind that many of the people who visit Channel Islands National Park don’t land on the islands. They either take a boat tour or stop by the visitor center in Santa Barbara or Ventura.

10. Petrified Forest National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Weather: Highs average around 90°F but can get into triple digits. Lows are 50°F to 60°F, on average.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Expect sunrise around 5:15 AM to 5:30 AM with sunset between 7:30 PM and 7:45 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

Petrified Forest National Park in June offers the best month of summer to skip the dangerous monsoons that sweep across the desert. While the official monsoon season begins in June, storms really take off in July.

We consider this one of the best national parks to visit in June because it’s easy to drive through but also includes plenty of stops along the way for scenic views or short hikes. Along those paths, you’ll see the sparkly insides of petrified trees once part of a lush forest. Plus, you’ll get a taste of the Painted Desert scenery at the north end of the park.

Petrified Forest’s backcountry routes don’t have traditional trails. You can wander at will and see unique rock formations, petrified wood, and artifacts.

The daytime temps usually make early morning hikes ideal to skip the scorching sun, but trails include shelters to cool off.

HEADS UP: Keep in mind that the park closes in the evening, usually around 5 or 6. Too much vandalism and theft of the petrified wood required this reduction of hours. You can get a permit to camp or see the night skies at the visitor’s center.

9. Haleakala National Park and Video

• Location: Hawaii
• Sea Level Weather: Highs are around 85°F to 90°F, with lows into the lower 70s.
• Summit Weather: Expect highs only in the lower 60s with lows into the 40s. Temperatures and weather conditions change quickly.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise at the summit happens around 5:40 AM to 5:50 AM. Sunset ranges between 7:10 PM and 7:20 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Expert Guide | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

While Hawaii makes a great destination in June, it’s worth noting that it’s the busiest month at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. That’s a great reason to head to Maui and explore Haleakala National Park.

No trip to Haleakala is complete without a reservation to see the sunrise. From there, explore the Haleakala Crater on a strenuous hike through the surreal landscape. The cool weather up here brings a respite from the humidity down below.

At the same time, if you’re not acclimated to the elevation, spend a day or two in the tropical paradise jungles or at the stunning shoreline. We recommend the Pipwai Trail for tropical forest and waterfall views. Haleakala brings beauty below sea level all the way to 10,000 feet up.

VIDEO: Haleakala National Park Film

8. Great Sand Dunes National Park in June

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: Expect highs around 75°F to 85°F. Lows average near 40°F to 50°F. June is one of the drier months, with five or fewer days with measurable rain.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:30 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Hotel

Great Sand Dunes National Park makes one of the best national parks to visit in June for the day and nighttime activities you can’t get most other months.

To start with, Medano Creek’s activity peaks in early June. Medano Creek is known for its distinctive “surge flow” phenomenon, where the water surges and recedes rhythmically in waves, creating small waves and ripples in the sandy bottom. The creek provides visitors with a chance to wade and play in the shallow waters using inflatable tubes to float along the currents.

Second, the Milky Way becomes visible in the night skies at this International Dark Sky Park. Time your trip to the New Moon to get the more vibrant starry skies.

Finally, the sledding on dunes is epic in June, but aim for early morning or late afternoon. The sand here soaks up the heat of the day with temperatures that can cause burns on bare skin at midday.

By June in Great Sands National Park, all or most of the snow is gone from the upper elevations. While June brings one of the busiest months to the park, weekends are busiest. Plan a mid-week trip for more room to splash and slide.

7. Isle Royale National Park in June

• Location: Michigan
• Weather: Highs around 60°F to 70°, with lows between 40°F to 50°F on average. About 2.5 inches of precipitation over 10 days.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:30 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset happens between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Facts | Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Park Conditions

Isle Royale National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in June for several reasons. First, despite the fact that the park opens in mid-April, most ferries, hotels, and campsites on the island only open in late May or early June. Without your own boat, getting there before June proves quite challenging.

Second, the first half of June brings more spring-like conditions to this outer island of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The bugs are least annoying in early June, offering more comfortable hikes and paddles through the park.

Even though Isle Royale is the least visited national park in the lower 48, ferries and seaplanes book quickly during the peak summer season. At the same time, this is the most re-visited national park, and people stay an average of more than two days.

Take some time to enjoy the wilderness forests, jagged coastline, and ample paddling waters before the black flies and bigger crowds come to this small island. Otherwise, wait until early fall to visit.

6. Sequoia and Kings Canyon in June

• Location: California
• Weather: Average high temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. Average low temperatures range from 40°F to 50°F. Average rainfall is minimal, with approximately 0.5 to 1 inch.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise generally occurs around 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset typically happens around 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM
• Crowds: Kings Canyon is the highest of the year. Sequoia is one month pre-summer peak. Expect medium crowds at both.
• Sequoia Resources: Things to Do | Our Favorite Hikes | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions
• Kings Canyon Resources: Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Park Conditions

Not everyone realizes that Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks share management and are next-door neighbors. In fact, the $35 per vehicle entry fee gets you into both parks and the Hume Lake District of Sequoia National Forest and Sequoia National Monument.

Between the two parks, you’ll see the world’s largest tree and a canyon that John Muir himself stated was a rival of Yosemite. Expert paddlers love the Class IV conditions on the Kaweah River, and plenty of robust waterfalls are waiting on the trails.

By late May, all roads are opened (barring monstrous winter storms from the prior months). Planning a trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon makes one of the best national park visit in June because you get two for one and access to all areas before the height of the summer travel season.

In fact, some people choose to take the Majestic Mountain Loop and explore Kings Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite in one road trip – something that isn’t possible from late fall to late spring due to winter weather in the Sierras.

5. Mesa Verde National Park in June

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: Average high temperatures range from 80°F to 90°F with low temperatures ranging from 45°F to 55°F. Average rainfall is minimal, with approximately 0.5 to 1 inch.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset between 8:15 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Crowds:
• Resources: Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions | Facts

Visitors can delve into the rich culture of the ancestral Puebloan people, marveling at the well-preserved structures that date back centuries at Mesa Verde, one of the best national parks to visit in June.

It’s important to note that several of the most popular cliff dwellings are only available by guideded tours which don’t start until mid-May. By June in Mesa Verde National Park, those tours are in full swing, but you do need to make reservations up to 14 days in advance.

NOTE: For the 2024 season, no self-guided cliff dwelling tours will be possible due to a restabilization and safety project on both Spruce Tree JHouse and Wetherill Mesa. Those ranger-guided tours will sell out fast!

Mesa Verde National Park’s twisting access roads and the stunning scenic drive stay snow-free for the rest of the summer. Don’t miss the sunset on Knife Edge Trail, which sounds more dangerous than it really is. For the most challenging trail, head to Chapin Mesa.

4. Great Basin National Park in June

• Location: Nevada
• Weather: Highs stay around around 70°F to 80°F, and lows between 40°F to 50°. Average rainfall is minimal, with approximately 0.5 to 1 inch
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise occurs around 5:30 AM to 5:45 AM. Sunset typically happens around 8:15 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

From ancient bristlecone pine forests to dramatic limestone formations inside Lehman Caves, each corner reveals a unique natural wonder at Great Basin National Park in June.

While June is one of the most visited months, crowds won’t feel suffocating. Great Basin National Park is the 10th least visited in the United States, though as a Nevadan, I can’t understand why – this park is spectacular.

With minimal rainfall and roads cleared from winter’s wrath, adventurers can immerse themselves fully in the rugged wilderness. Sunrise and sunset paint the sky with breathtaking hues. Those night skies paired with clear desert air lure you to stay up just a little bit longer. Various colors of wildflowers spread across the elevation throughout June.

Lehman Cave tours are guided, but you can also explore wild caving with a permit. Crawl and stem your way through more than half a dozen wild caves.

One last thing to consider – take the Park to Park in the Dark road trip between Death Valley and Great Basin.

3. Yosemite National Park in June

• Location: California
• Weather: Average highs range from 70°F to 80°F, and lows average between 40°F and 50°F. Expect around 1 to 2 days of rain and less than 1 inch
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 5:30 AM to 5:45 AM local time. Sunset around 8:30 PM to 8:45 PM local time.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Best Hikes | Our Suggested Itinerary | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

Yosemite National Park in June brings the best of every season, with warm but not too hot weather in the lower elevations and some snow lingering around in the upper elevations. That snowmelt brings the waterfalls to life, and they are down to trickles by August.

The cables are up at Half Dome, but I can’t recommend the Clouds Rest hike enough as it stands much taller than Half Dome, with even more stellar views. Wildflowers explode throughout Yosemite Valley and Wawona.

June in Yosemite brings backpacking adventures back from the winter challenges. On the other hand, a small chance exists that Tioga Road will remain closed in June. However, after researching the data, I found that in 17 of the past 23 years, Tioga Road was open in May or early June. The odds remain in your favor.

Another great reason to visit Yosemite National Park in June focuses on the dreaded (but necessary) timed entry. Through June, reservation requirements run on weekends only and the June 19 holiday.

2. Zion National Park in June

• Location: Utah
• Weather: Highs average around 90°F (32°C) while lows dip to 60°F (15°C). Expect minimal rainfall with around 2 to 3 days of rain and less than 1 inch (25 mm) of total precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise is around 5:30 AM to 5:45 AM, and sunset generally happens around 8:30 PM to 8:45 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Map | Guide | Where to Stay | Facts | Complete Fall Guide | Visitor’s Guide | Park Conditions

I debated longer than I probably should have about putting Zion National Park in June on this list of best parks to visit in the summer. Part of me wants to tell you to skip Zion in the summer since it’s being loved to death. The mama bear in me knows you’re likely going to go anyway, along with about 550,000 other people.

Southern Utah brings magic in summer. June makes the best warm weather month, while temperatures can still get into the mid-90s. You’re much better off, crowds be damned, picking June in Zion National Park instead of July or August. If you can’t swing it in June, wait until October.

Our advice when exploring Zion National Park in June comes from experience – head to Kolob Canyon or take the paths less traveled. Kolob Canyon will offer cooler temperatures and nearly empty trails, with stunning scenery too many people miss with their eye on Angels Landing or the Narrows.

Make a point of enjoying the night skies, which adds to the reason for making this one of the best national parks to visit in June. Explore the trails from the east entrance of Mt. Carmel Highway. Leave No Trace and skip the crowded trails for a less crowded month.

1. Acadia National Park in June

• Location: Maine
• Weather: Highs around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, lows approximately 45 to 55 degrees. On average, there are around 8 to 10 days of rain in June, with total precipitation averaging between 2 to 3 inches for the month
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 4:45 AM to 5:00 AM, Sunset around 8:15 PM to 8:30 PM
• Crowds: Medium/High
• Resources: Map | Guide | Epic Visitor’s Guide | Facts | Video Tour |Park Conditions

Acadia National Park in June offers an optimal time to experience the splendor of warmer weather at Acadia National Park. Maine doesn’t consider summer to start until after the 4th of July. You’ll get the lowest crowds of the traditional summer.

With milder temperatures, vibrant blooms, and boat tours back in action, June balances perfectly for outdoor exploration. The meadows burst with colorful wildflowers and lush foliage, creating picturesque scenery for hiking or biking those famed carriage roads. I’m not sure how much more idyllic the best national parks in June can get.

In addition, longer daylight hours at Acadia National Park in June provide ample time for adventures while wildlife sightings abound and puffin tours are plentiful.

As an added bonus, the closeness of Bar Harbor makes it ideal to schedule a puffin tour or take a ferry to the Schoodic Peninsula, a.k .a. the ‘Quiet Side of Acadia,’ or visit Isle au Haut, also under the supervision of the National Park Service.

The only con of visiting Acadia National Park in June rests in the cliff nests. This is peregrine falcon nesting season, and places like the Precipice Trail could be closed.

Best Family Roadtrips in June

I love road trips, and long before I wrote for the More Than Just Parks team, I used their guides to find amazing adventures across the country. Summer makes a great season for taking your time on the open road.

First, start with the 10 Best National Park Road Trips. This detailed all inclusive guide helps you plan a trip to any region, soup to nuts. Using my experience in the mountains of Colorado, I put together this ULTIMATE Colorado Road Trip with 26 Scenic Byways to choose from.

If you’re looking for national parks to visit in June in California, this collection of 16 California Road Trips is for you. Honestly, it’s worth expanding that trip to the Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip. One tip on traveling California’s Route 1 – Big Sur has been a mess for several years now due to landslides. Check before you fall in love with that trip – here’s a link to help you out.

While Florida isn’t my thing in June due to the humidity and bugs, you might love the trek across the bridge from Miami to Key West. June comes early enough in the hurricane season that you likely won’t get evacuated or put in the path of a storm. Just in case, stay up to date with the National Hurricane Center.

List of National Parks to Visit in June

1. Acadia National Park
2. Zion National Park
3. Yosemite National Park
4. Great Basin National Park
5. Mesa Verde National Park
6. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
7. Isle Royale National Park
8. Great Sand Dunes National Park
9. Haleakala National Park
10. Petrified Forest National Park
11. Channel Islands National Park
12. Grand Canyon National Park
13. White Sands National Park
14. Voyageurs National Park
15. Kenai Fjords National Park

Map of National Parks to Visit in June

Pin National Parks to Visit in June

Helpful Related Links

January: 10 Best National Parks To Visit in January

February: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in February (From Snow to Tropical)

March: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in March

April: 15 EPIC National Parks to Visit in April

May: 15 BEST US National Parks to Visit in MAY (+2 Parks to Avoid!) 2023

October: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in October (+ 3 to Avoid)

November: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in November (+Holiday Hours)

December: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December (+2 to Avoid!)

Most Visited National Parks in 2023: 10 Most & Least Visited National Parks in 2023

Best National Parks Ranked: ALL 63 US NATIONAL PARKS RANKED By Experts

List of National Monuments: Ultimate List of National Monuments (Alphabetical + By State)

Free Downloadable National Parks Map & List: LIST & MAP of National Parks By State (+ Printable Checklist)

Largest National Parks: 15 Largest National Parks in the United States (+ Full List)

Best National Monuments: All 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)

The post 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in June (+EPIC June Road Trips) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Best National Parks to Visit in July

The best national parks to visit in July overlap with summer vacations across America and the height of cruise season to Alaska. We want to help you find the perfect mix of national parks in summer, whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or with friends.

I’m approaching this list a bit differently because, obviously, July makes a great time to visit Alaska. Wasting eight spaces in Top 15 Best National Parks in July list didn’t seem fair – especially if you know you aren’t going to Alaska. So, I’m going to go through the top 15 parks outside Alaska and then dip our toes into the tundra and glaciers of the Last Frontier.

The team here at More Than Just Parks loves summer travel—the warm weather, the late nights under the stars, and the terrain that opens up after the snowy parts melt away. We cater to everyone from peak baggers to first-time parents heading to a crowded park.

Treat this list as a menu, not a countdown. No best park in July exists to meet all the requirements of nice weather, low crowds, kid-friendly, array of activities, and costs.

Online Editor & Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Hardy

5 Quick Things to Consider for National Park Summer Trips

1. Ideally, purchase an America the Beautiful interagency pass. This will allow the pass holder plus a carload of adults and children access to parks with entrance fees. It will also cover more than 2,000 other public lands through BLM, Forest Service, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife.
2. Check your park of choice for reservation or timed entry requirements. This applies to entering the park and campsites, as well as popular trails like Angels Landing (Zion), Half Dome (Yosemite), and Old Rag (Shenandoah).
3. Not all parks allow you to carry bear spray. Generally, the line of demarcation comes with the presence of grizzly bears vs. black bears. For example, Yosemite National Park bans bear spray, while Yellowstone National Park recommends it and even sells it at the park.
4. The monsoon season runs from late June through September. This seasonal flow of moisture builds potentially dangerous storms in the afternoon across Arizona, southern Utah, and New Mexico. Plan activities as early in the day as possible or larger in the evening after the storms.
5. Follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. This guidance is important year-round, but during the peak summer travel season, every step becomes that much more important.

MORE: You could be missing out on free National Park access

Questions to Ask Yourself Before a National Park Summer Trip

I added this section at the last minute after reading through a bunch of sub-Reddits for National Parks in July. Park visitors come with a lot of different expectations. For example, I love hot weather. Give me 100° with low humidity before ever making the humidity more than 50%.

I gleaned the following things from talking with our followers and first-hand experience.

1. CROWDS: What tolerance do you have for crowds? Can you handle waiting in lines or planning a trip 3-6 months out? If you look at our Most Visited National Park list, you can see which parks will have the largest crowds in summer. Places like Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone will be packed.
2. WAKEUP CALL: Can you handle getting up at 4am to 6am to beat the crowds to your favorite trail or attraction? If not, can you wait until after 3pm to 4pm to enter? If not, choose a less-visited park on the list.
3. TRAILS: Several of the best national parks in July are pure wilderness. Few to no trails and a lack of roads can deter some people from beautiful parks.
4. WEATHER: Do you have experience hiking in hot weather, with temperatures in the 90s or possibly triple digits? Can you balance water and electrolytes to avoid dehydration without overconsuming? Also, can you pivot plans if thunderstorms are in the forecast?
5. ALTITUDE: Some of the parks on this list come with high altitudes, and if you live closer to sea level, you’ll need an extra day or two to let your body adjust. The CDC offers this guidance to help adapt.

Figuring out your national park trip in July dealbreakers makes narrowing down the process much easier.

Top 15 National Parks in July

As noted above, we’re looking for a good balance of a great summer experience at the best national parks in July without putting you in wall-to-wall traffic as much as possible. Some parks are just worth it. While I’ll provide my tips for avoiding crowds (as I live my life to avoid crowds in any way possible), I don’t have a magic hat with answers. Expect crowds on holiday weekends or any summer weekend, regardless of where you visit.

15. Indiana Dunes National Park

• Location: Indiana
• Weather: Average high: 82°F, Average low: 63°F
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 6:15am, Sunset 8:30pm. About 9 days of rain with 3″ of rainfall.
• Crowds: Medium/High
• Resources: Facts | Things to Do | Where to Stay | Park Conditions

Indiana Dunes National Park stands as one of the best national parks to visit in July because where else in the Midwest can you get access to such a pristine, expansive beach? Yeah, you’ll face crowds. It’s the most visited month of the year. However, crowds can spread out between Indiana Dunes State Park, too.

In July, Indiana Dunes National Park experiences peak bloom for many of its wildflowers, including the dog rose, purple bergamot, and starry campion. This creates a vibrant display of colors across the dunes and meadows across Cowles Bog Trail and West Beach.

Additionally, July marks the height of bird activity, with numerous species nesting and feeding in the park’s diverse habitats, such as the Great Marsh Trail.

Moreover, July offers ideal weather conditions for beachgoers along 15 miles of shoreline.

Tips to Avoid Summer Crowds at Indiana Dunes

You can visit West Beach to all but guarantee a parking spot, a beach that also leads to several trails and massive dunes. Also, while some parts require a pre-dawn wakeup call to skip the biggest crowds, just arrive here before 9:00am.

14. Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: Average high temperatures in July range from 65°F to 80°F. Average low temperatures in July range from 40°F to 50°F. Minimal rainfall over 1-2 days of precipitation in July.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:45 AM, Sunset: 8:30 PM
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

Lassen Volcanic National Park makes the list of best national parks to visit in July because you can actually visit the ENTIRE park! July ranks as the busiest month at the park, but Yosemite sees in a summer month what Lassen Volcanic sees in a year. The last of the snow melts (usually) by July, and temperatures are just perfect.

Plus, you get the hydrothermal features of Yellowstone without any of the crowds. The Bumpass Hell thermal basin only opens in the summer and fall, and I can attest that it’s a sensory superload. Waterfalls, wildflowers, mountain peaks, volcano remnants, exquisitely light blue pools, and what’s that smell?

The Big Boiler’s water temperatures peak above 320°F, but boardwalks guide you safely around – like Yellowstone – without the crowds. Did I say that already?

Yet other regions of the park bring crystal waters in Juniper Lake, the shadow of the youngest park volcano, and pristine night skies. From parking pullouts to campsites to Lassen Peak Trail, you can’t miss this sparkly slice of darkness.

13. Great Basin National Park

• Location: Nevada
• Weather (Lower Elevations): 85-90°F for highs, with lows down to 50-55°F.
• Weather (Above 10,000 feet): 65-70°F for highs, with lows around 35-40°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 5:45am. Sunset 8:45pm.
• Crowds: Low to Medium
• Resources: Map | Guide | Park Conditions

Great Basin National Park in eastern Nevada rarely gets more than 25,000 people a month, and that includes the peak summer season. For that reason alone, it could be one of the best national parks to visit in July, but it goes much deeper (and higher) than that.

Wheeler Peak stands more than 13,000 feet tall, making it the sixth-highest peak in a national park in the contiguous United States. In fact, Yosemite’s Mount Lyell is only 50 feet taller, and Wheeler Peak beats Yellowstone’s Eagle Peak by 1,700 feet.

Second, you have the Lehman Caves to explore on ranger-guided tours AND the wild caving opportunities at dozens of caves throughout the park, from beginner to expert level caving options.

Third, wildflowers peak in summer at Great Basin National Park, and plenty of trails or scenic drives get you to them. Baker Creek Trail is among my favorite wildflower spots in the country, with nearly 2,000 feet of altitude and wildflower adjustments.

Finally, the amazing night skies of the International Dark Sky Park, viewed from the Astronomy Amphitheater, the nearby archaeological site, or a campsite, make it worth staying up late.

STARGAZING ROAD TRIP: While Death Valley is super hot in July, if you start there in the morning and drive the Park to Park in the Dark route to Great Basin, you’ll take one of the best road trips in the country.

12. Wind Cave National Park

• Location: South Dakota
• Weather: Highs mid-70s to mid-80s. Lows mid-50s to low 60s. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible to likely.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:30-6:00 AM. Sunset: 8:30-9:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium
• Resources: Things To Do | Guidebook | Park Facts | Park Conditions

In the summer, Wind Cave National Park offers a plethora of delights above ground. Its expansive prairies burst with vibrant wildflowers, painting a picturesque scene against the rolling hills.

Hiking trails beckon adventurers to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Black Hills to the tranquil serenity of its ponderosa pine forests. In addition, off-trail hiking options prove rare in the national world ecosystem, and here, you can blaze your path (without leaving a trace, of course).

Wildlife sightings are abundant, with opportunities to spot bison, elk, pronghorn, and various bird species.

Underground, a massive cave system unfolds and stands as one of the oldest on Earth.

Other South Dakota Public Lands

Another great aspect of Wind Cave National Park is the conglomeration of public lands nearby.

• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial
• Black Hill National Forest
• Badlands National Park

HEADS UP: Wind Cave (the cave) is getting a new elevator in the summer of 2024, which means no entrance to the cave is allowed. Work should finish by October, making Wind Cave one of the best national parks to visit in October, too. Jewel Cave makes a great backup plan if you’re determined to get in a cave and it’s just 30 minutes away.

11. Redwood National Park

• Location: Calfornia
• Weather: Highs in the mid-60s to low 70s. Look for lows in the mid-40s to low 50s—minimal rainfall.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:45-6:00 AM. Sunset: 8:45-9:00 PM
• Crowds:
• Resources: Things to Do | Exclusive Expert Guide | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

If only Indiana Dunes National and State Parks could take a page out of this book at Redwoods National Park. When you visit the home of the tallest trees on Earth, you don’t pay an entry fee, and you get access to Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek Redwoods state parks if you have the federal interagency pass. Some day-use areas and campsites could have nominal fees.

Redwood National Park makes the list of best national parks in July due to the mild weather mixed with low rainfall. From the coastline through the fascinating Fern Cayon to the towering tree forests, you get the beach and wilderness among one of the most unique landscapes worldwide.

As an avid paddler, my favorite part of July at Redwoods is the kayak tours down the National Wild and Scenic Smith River. The currents top out at Class II, so don’t worry about the ride being too dangerous.

10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: Highs around 90° F with lows in the upper 50s. Minimal rainfall in July, with precipitation levels generally below one inch for the month. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: Between 5:45 AM and 6:15 AM. Sunset: Between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: Medium to High
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay

A huge canyon, a robust river, and starry night skies – sounds like the Grand Canyon, but Black Canyon of the Gunnison brings the charm without the crowds. That’s why it’s one of the best national parks to visit in July.

Divided into North and South Rim sections, Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers diverse activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The park’s July appeal lies in its pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor adventures. Plus, all sections of the park are open, something you can’t get between November and April.

Three scenic roads, including the nailbiting East Portal Road, include more than a dozen overlooks of this steep canyon. Family-friendly trails await at both rims, but the extreme adventurer can enter the wilderness and take one of six intense scrambling routes to the river that drop 2,000 feet in less than a mile.

Even the dark skies at night bring a level of pristine beauty comparable with the dark levels at Arches National Park, yet it’s about 10° cooler here.

NOTE: Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s South Rim is undergoing extensive roadwork on the South Rim. Expect increased traffic. By the summer of 2026, all park roads will be resurfaced and fresh.

9. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

• Location: North Dakota
• Weather: Highs: 80°F to 90°F. Lows: 50°F to 60°F. Expect 6-8 days of rain with 1-2 inches total.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:45 AM to 6:15 AM. Sunset: 9:00 PM and 9:30 PM.
• Crowds:
• Resources: Expert Guide | Things to Do | Park Film by More Than Just Parks | Map | Guide | Where to Stay | Another Hotel Option

Three sections of one park named after the trailblazing president who shaped the legacy of national parks await visitors in North Dakota. July is the busiest month at this park, but plenty of room to explore means you won’t sit in traffic or feel crowded on the trails.

Even if you’re just driving through, you get nearly 50 miles of scenic drive with jaw-dropping vistas.

“I never would have been President if it had not been for my experiences in North Dakota.”

–President Theodore Roosevelt

The North Unit features rolling prairies, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bison and prairie dogs. The South Unit boasts colorful badlands formations, extensive hiking trails, and the historic Maltese Cross Cabin, once owned by Theodore Roosevelt.

The remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit preserves the site where Roosevelt lived and found solace in the wilderness. Each section offers unique landscapes, recreational activities, and a glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural history.

8. Mt. Rainier National Park

• Location: Washington
• Weather: Longmire gets highs near 75° and lows in the 40s. Paradise tops out at 65° on average, with mid-40s for lows.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:30 AM to 5:45 AM. Sunset: 8:45 PM and 9:00 PM. Average 5-7 days of rain combining to 1-2 inches.
• Crowds:
• Resources: Map | Guidebook | Hikes | Things to Do | Paradise | Facts | Where to Stay

To enjoy the full extent of Mount Rainier National Park’s offerings, you’ll need to deal with the crowds. Considering how amazing the sunrise is at places like Fremont Lookout Trail, getting up early before the timed reservations start (6am) is the best way to avoid traffic.

Heading to Mowich Lake is another great way to avoid traffic, though it can be closed through mid-July. When the Tolmie Peak Lookout is open, the sunset is epic, but it’s also a helluva nice sunrise if you want to skip the Fremont Lookout Trail crowds.

Some of the less crowded trails at Mt. Rainer National Park in summer include:

• Reflection Lake to Narada Falls
• Sunrise Rim Trail
• Comet Falls (Hike PAST the falls to get fewer crowds)

The fact of the matter is that the Sunrise corridor is only open about three months of the year. Crowds are going to swarm. Get there early or score a backcountry permit so you can explore the paths less traveled.

7. Kings Canyon National Park

• Location: California National Park
• Weather: Highs around Around 85°F. Lows around 50°F. 1-2 Days of Rain.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 5:30 AM. Sunset around 8:30 PM
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guide | Park Conditions

Kings Canyon National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in July because you also get access to Sequoia National Park. In addition, three national forests surround the parks, including the highest point in the United States, lower 48 – Mount Whitney.

John Muir once described Kings Canyon as a park to rival Yosemite. In fact, one summer road trip option is to take the Majestic Mountain Loop from Yosemite to Sequoia to Kings Canyon so you can compare for yourself!

Between Kings Canyon and Sequoia, you get the largest trees on earth, the deepest canyon in the country (yes, deeper than the Grand Canyon by 2,000 feet), and granite domes like Big Baldy. Keep in mind that no reservations are needed for domes or entrances here.

Rock climbers love the options in Kings Canyon, as it gives a Yosemite experience without the El Capitan crowds.

To make the most of your time, stay at a lodge or campsite within the park or nearby forests. The parks are remote, and not much lodging is nearby outside the park. The entrances are where the traffic bottlenecks happen.

6. Glacier National Park

• Location: Montana
• Weather: Highs around 75°F. Lows around 45°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Expect the sun to rise around 5:30 AM and set around 9:15 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Best Hikes | Suggested Itinerary | Facts | Map | Guide | Where to Stay

One of the best national parks to visit in July is also one of the busiest months at Glacier National Park, a fan favorite. In fact, the average visitor spends 33 hours here in July. The scenery is second to none, and even the crowds can’t dampen this amazing experience.

While many visitors flock to popular spots like Going-to-the-Sun Road and Logan Pass, consider exploring less frequented areas of the park, such as the North Fork region or the Two Medicine Valley. These areas offer beautiful scenery and hiking opportunities with fewer crowds.

Vehicle reservations go into effect in May or July 1 and last through September. That means you can either roll the dice on getting an entry in advance or the day before, OR you can arrive before 6:00 am or after 3:00pm. In my experience, before 9am you might get trails like Grinnell Glacier to yourself on the way up.

Some of the less crowded trails at Glacier National Park in July include:

• Baring Falls
• Cracker Lake
• Huckleberry Lookout

The short season for Going-to-the-Sun Road and most park sections make it impossible to avoid all the crowds during the warmest time of year.

5. Olympic National Park

• Location: Washington
• Weather: Highs around 70°F. Lows around 50°F. Typically 4-6 days of rain.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise 5:30 AM. Sunset 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Guide | Map | Guidebook | Things to Do | Hikes | Where to Stay

Escape to Olympic National Park as one of the best national parks to visit in July for an unrivaled adventure from the temperate rainforest to snow-capped peaks. Traverse lush rainforests, witness cascading waterfalls, and bask in the tranquility of alpine meadows. Discover hidden coves along the rugged coastline, or embark on a scenic drive along Lake Crescent.

Immerse yourself in nature’s symphony while avoiding peak hours at popular spots like Ruby Beach or the Hoh Rainforest. July in Olympic promises unforgettable encounters with nature’s wonders. In fact, Ruby Beach is ranked as one of the “most incredible seaside spots” in the world.

Yeah, July is busy at Olympic, but also not as busy as August. You still need to get to Hurricane Ridge or the Hoh Rain Forest by 9am to find parking. Two of the least crowded spots are Heart O’ the Hills and Deer Park.

4. Grand Teton National Park

• Location: Wyoming
• Weather: Highs 75°F to 85°F. Lows 40°F to 50°F. 5 to 8 rainy days during the month, with an average rainfall of 1 to 2 inches.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset: 8:45 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Hikes | Ultimate Guide | Things to Do | The Best Maps | 15 Amazing Facts |  Oxbow Bend |  Phelps Lake | Schwabacher Landing | Snake River Overlook

Grand Teton National Park stands as one of the best national parks to visit in July for a more serene and unspoiled wilderness experience compared to its bustling neighbor, Yellowstone.

In July, the Grand Tetons and its jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and verdant valleys provide unparalleled opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

Unlike Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, Grand Teton showcases dramatic mountain vistas reflected in crystal-clear lakes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solace in nature’s raw beauty. Grand Teton allows you to get closer to nature than just watching it from a distance.

Grand Teton’s smaller size means more time on the trails and less time in traffic. Plus, rafting the Snake River is one of my core memories as a child. I’ve rafted dozens of rivers since, but the Snake River will always be my favorite.

In addition, Yellowstone’s south entrance is one of the least used in summer. That means doing both parks in one trip will save you time as well. We recommend getting away from all the crowds and visiting Bridger Teton National Forest next door.

3. Bryce Canyon National Park in July

• Location: Utah
• Weather: Highs around 80° F. Lows around 47° F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 5:45 AM to 6:00 AM. Sunset 8:45 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Crowds: High
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Utah Roadtrip | Utah’s Parks in Summer | Map | Guide | Where to Stay

Bryce Canyon’s higher elevations make for more comfortable days for those who want the best national parks in July to be in Utah. Home of the hoodoos, Bryce Canyon offers great trails like the Navajo Loop Trail and scenic views like Sunrise Point. Plus, Bryce Canyon National Park avoids many of the steep cliffs that give you vertigo at the other parks.

In addition, July brings the Geology Festival to the park while still getting a chance to explore the night skies at this International Dark Sky Park.

While Bryce Canyon National Park ranks as my all-time favorite national park, it’s also the coolest one of the Mighty 5 in July. Too early in spring and Bryce Canyon can be covered in snow. Waiting until fall means nearly freezing temperatures at night.

Southern Utah Park Temperatures in July

Another reason Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the best national parks in July is that it’s close to all the others. The (less crowded) east entrance to Zion National Park is less than 80 miles away, and Scenic Byway 12 through Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is right outside the park.

2. Crater Lake National Park

• Location: Oregon
• Weather: Highs near 66-74°F. Lows down to 40-45°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise: 5:30-5:45 AM. Sunset: 8:30-9:00 PM. 1-2 days of rain.
• Crowds: Peak
• Resources: Things to Do | Facts | Map | Guidebook

When you want to experience the most of Crater Lake National Park, you get about three months of the year to do so before the seemingly eternal winter sets in and closes off sections of the park.

Experience the awe-inspiring wonder of Crater Lake, a stunningly blue gem nestled in the caldera of an ancient volcano. Full access makes this one of the best national parks to visit in July. August crowds are about the same size.

Part of the park is closed until June due to the massive amount of snow that needs to be cleared. Boat cruises also start July 1, with our favorite taking you to Wizard Island. Trolly tours gear up about the same time. The scenic Rim Drive goes around the lake, with 30 overlooks along the way.

TRAVEL TIP: If you don’t stay in the lodging or campgrounds inside the park, plan for a 20-35-mile drive to the park each day.

1. North Cascades National Park

• Location: Washington
• Weather: Highs near 70-80°F. Lows around 45-55°F.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Sunrise around 5:15-5:30 AM. Sunset around 8:30-9:00 PM.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Things to Do | Best Hikes | Facts | Map | Guidebook

North Cascades National Park is misunderstood, but there’s a very good reason it made it to the top of the best national parks to visit in July list. You see, North Cascades National Park COMPLEX covers the park and two national recreation areas, Ross Lake and Lake Chelan. It’s similar to Kings Canyon and Sequoia being under the same management.

Often listed as one of the least visited parks in the United States, there’s more to the story than that. North Cascades National Park is almost entirely wilderness, meaning no roads. Yeah, more people visit the lakes and roads, but those who dare make the trek into the wilderness know the secret to crowd-free national parks in summer beauty is at North Cascades. Full stop.

Boating makes another great way to get around, especially in the Stehkin region. The national recreation areas offer more boating, while the part is filled with 300+ glaciers and brilliant waterfalls.

Campers should know that hardly any other park can even come close to the epic spots available across North Cascades, and certainly none with no crowds around.

Quite frankly, North Cascades National Park Complex is everything a national park in July should be—and despite the visitation of 40,000 or so in 2023, the entire complex saw nearly 1,000,000 people.

Summer in Alaska: National Park Trips

Summer is the best time to visit the Alaska National Parks, seven of which fall among the least visited. Here are a few things to know.

• Approximately 87% of Alaska does not have roads, making it one of the least road-accessible states in the United States.
• Not all parks include designated trails. Places like Gates of the Arctic and Kobuk Valley are open wilderness, and there are no roads leading to them.
• Several park access points come from seaplanes only.

The best Alaska national parks in July also have up to 24 hours of daylight! The only bummer is that they don’t have the potential for the Northern Lights.

Alaska National Parks in Summer Summary

Alaska in July: Park By Park

Even once you settle on visiting Alaska in July, the decisions continue. Much of the right park determination is your physical ability, experience in the wilderness, enjoyment of seaplanes, and willingness to travel long or short distances.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

As the most popular national park in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park benefits from the cruise ship industry. In fact, 2023 saw the highest visitor count in the park’s history, with more than 703,000 visitors.

There’s a catch, however. Cruise ships stay on the water—they don’t dock. Since the ship passes into the park boundary on Glacier Bay, everyone on the cruise ship counts as a visitor.

For those visiting Juneau, you can get closer to the park through a State of Alaska ferry trip. Once you’re there, the park is roadless.

Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, dynamic glaciers, and abundant wildlife, making it a truly special destination. Visitors witness the dramatic spectacle of towering tidewater glaciers calving into the sea, creating thunderous echoes and majestic icebergs.

Denali National Park in July

The second most visited national park in Alaska is Denali, home of the tallest mountain in North America. Many know of its previous name, Mount McKinley. Denali stands 20,310 feet tall.

Denali National Park sits four hours north of Anchorage. It can be reached as an excursion on an Anchorage cruise, by rental vehicle, or by tour bus. Beyond its iconic peak, the park offers an unspoiled wilderness of vast tundra, boreal forests, and pristine rivers.

One road leads into the park, and it’s closed at Mile 43 through at least 2026 due to the Pretty Rocks landslide.

Katmai National Park in July

Home of the famous Fat Bear, Katmai National Park comes with a global following thanks to those cameras. In addition to its famous brown bears, Katmai National Park boasts stunning volcanic landscapes, including the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a desolate and otherworldly terrain formed by a historic volcanic eruption. If you want to see the bears of Brooks Falls, plan for a late July visit. That’s when they start fattening up for winter.

To reach Katmai National Park in southern Alaska, visitors typically rely on air or water transportation due to its remote location without road access.

Commercial airlines offer flights from Anchorage or Homer to nearby towns like King Salmon or Kodiak. From there, travelers arrange floatplane or air taxi services to fly into the park. Alternatively, some visitors may opt for boat transportation, particularly from Kodiak.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Located near Seward, Kenai Fjords brings an urgency for your visit since Exit Glacier and many others are melting. Ideally, you’ll drive from Anchoring to Seward on the Seward Highway All America Road.

Most activities at Kenai Fjords happen on the water, through boat tours or paddle trips. You can paddle to a backcountry campsite or watch whales while spotting glaciers along the Gulf of Alaska. Its blend of icy fjords, towering mountains, and rich biodiversity makes Kenai Fjords a truly special destination that is changing fast due to climate change.

The one epic trail walks the edge of Exit Glacier to the Harding Icefield viewing location. I wrote my experience on the Harding Icefield Trail if you’d like to have a look. A shorter trail takes you to views of Exit Glacier.

July brings the biggest crowds to Alaska’s third-most-visited national park.

Gates of the Arctic National Park

This remote park is not easy to get to and easy harder to navigaate once you’re there. As pure wilderness, trails don’t exist. The easiest way to get there is a one-hour flight from Fairbanks to the small town of Bettles.

Its vast expanses of rugged mountains, rolling tundra, and winding rivers offer unparalleled opportunities for solitude and exploration. Visitors can experience true wilderness adventure, backpacking through remote valleys, witnessing the Northern Lights, and encountering iconic Arctic wildlife such as caribou and grizzly bears.

Gates of the Arctic regularly ranks as the least visited national park in America, and that’s okay. This place isn’t for your average day hiker. However, for those with more experience under their belt, the trek is worth the effort.

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Yet another roadless and flight-required national park in Alaska limits visitors to about 17,000 a year. Lake Clark National Park’s second problem comes with exploring the entire park. You’ll pick which section you want to visit. Should you want to visit a second location, you’ll have to return to the flight base and then board another trip. It’s just not feasible to see all of the park in one trip.

Landing locations include the turquoise waters of Lake Clark, the rugged coastline of Cook Inlet, and the towering peaks of the Chigmit Mountains. If you’re up for the adventure, one of the best locations is the Priest Rock Cabin on Lack Clark. Experienced paddlers can cross the lake from Port Alsworth to get there.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

It’s important to note that Wrangell St. Elias National Park is the largest in the US at over 13 million acres – that’s the size of 25 Great Smoky Mountains or six Yellowstones. Plus, the park features 9 of the 16 tallest mountain peaks in the country. About 78,000 people visited in 2023.

Driving to this park is an option, but plan to spend seven hours on the road from Anchoring to Kennecot, where the park is located. Flightseeing or backcountry plane rides are another option, but those costs add up quickly.

Wrangell St. Elias houses four mountain ranges, one of the most active volcanos on the continent, and includes a Glacier larger than Rhode Island. July brings endless views of wildflowers and berries ripe for picking. Be sure to see the picturesque and history-filled Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.

List of Best National Parks to Visit in July

1. Indiana Dunes National Park
2. Lassen Volcanic National Park
3. Great Basin National Park
4. Wind Cave National Park
5. Redwood National Park
6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
7. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
8. Mount Rainier National Park
9. Kings Canyon National Park
10. Glacier National Park
11. Olympic National Park
12. Grand Teton National Park
13. Bryce Canyon National Park
14. Crater Lake National Park
15. North Cascades National Park

Map of Best National Parks to Visit in July

Pin 15 Best National Parks in July

Helpful Related Links

January: 10 Best National Parks To Visit in January

February: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in February (From Snow to Tropical)

March: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in March

April: 15 EPIC National Parks to Visit in April

May: 15 BEST US National Parks to Visit in MAY (+2 Parks to Avoid!) 2023

June: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in June (+EPIC June Road Trips)

October: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in October (+ 3 to Avoid)

November: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in November (+Holiday Hours)

December: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December (+2 to Avoid!)

Most Visited National Parks in 2023: 10 Most & Least Visited National Parks in 2023

Best National Parks Ranked: ALL 63 US NATIONAL PARKS RANKED By Experts

List of National Monuments: Ultimate List of National Monuments (Alphabetical + By State)

The post 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in July (+Alaska Summer Guide) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

If you’ve made it to this page that means you’re considering exploring Summer in Joshua Tree which is *hot* and requires special planning along with adequate preparation to withstand the extreme daytime temperatures. The good news is that it’s not quite as hot as it’s neighbor park to the north, Death Valley, but daytime temperatures are still known to soar into the triple digits making for downright dangerous hiking conditions.

Those visiting Joshua Tree in summer need to pack adequate water, sunscreen, clothing, and avoid long hikes during midday.

When entering Joshua Tree National Park for the first time (which was during summer) I still recall the helpful Park Ranger at the entrance station warning me about leaving any plastic items (in this case the national parks pass) on the dash as “they will absolutely melt”, she said.

Despite that, summer can be a fun time to visit Joshua Tree if you’re prepared with hot days and warm nights. Stargazing during this time is especially glorious as the milky way is very easily visible on moonless nights roaring overhead.

Things to Know Before Visiting Joshua Tree in Summer

Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months we suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be purchased at any national park) and gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee.

Sunscreen: Use it. Lots of it. Especially this one which we never leave the house without because it plays nice with our dear friend, earth

Gas: Fuel up before you enter the park (even if you’re at like 3/4 of a tank) because the park is massive and you don’t want to run out of gas in the desert.

Cell Service is spotty in the park.

The Best Guide Book: James Kaiser is the proverbial bees knees in this department. We love all of his National Park guides and his Joshua Tree Guide is no exception.

The Best Map: We like this map for Joshua Tree National Park.

Water: Drink it. Lots of it. Don’t forget it in the car.

The Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree National Park is NOT during the Summer when the temperatures will literally melt your park pass on your dash… But you can still have fun! The best time to visit the park is Winter or Spring (in my opinion).

Joshua Tree Monthly Temperatures (Summer)

Monthly temperatures in Joshua Tree during the Summer are pretty brutal. High temperatures during this time of year routinely soar into the triple digits while lows stay right around the 70s. Add in the fact that the low temperatures aren’t reached till early morning makes for some especially difficult (can you say hotttt) camping conditions.

Summer Activities in Joshua Tree

Summer in Joshua Tree National Park really limits daytime activities as the soaring temperatures can create dangerous hiking conditions. Shade comes at quite the premium in this park as the Joshua trees themselves provide very little of it. Make sure to pack lots of water and limit daytime hikes as much as possible to avoid heat related illnesses.

With that being said, there are still some great Summer activities to enjoy in the park.

• Stargazing at Skull Rock (and just about anywhere)
• Exploring Cottonwood Springs Oasis (sunsets here can be spectacular)
• Spotting Bighorn Sheep at Barker Dam (in the morning)
• Driving Geology Tour Road (think air-conditioned car)

Joshua Tree National Park Photos

The Joshua Tree Video

We made a little video about Joshua Tree that happened to win an award or two (we’re pretty proud of it). If you’re visiting the park ya just gotta take 3 minutes to watch this film.

The post SUMMER in Joshua Tree (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.