The 2 Best National Parks for First-time Visitors

When it comes to choosing the “best” national park, Chris Zielinski, operations director for Wildland Trekking and a longtime trail leader, likens it to choosing a favorite trail. “There are countless great options, and the right fit depends on when someone is traveling and how they like to explore,” he says.

But when we pressed travel experts and industry insiders further, two parks came to the top for national park newbies: Grand Canyon National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Diane Eichler, senior vice president of marketing at Kampgrounds of America, agrees that both parks are fantastic choices for first-timers. “You can step out of your car and immediately be surrounded by views people dream about for years,“ she says. “But what really makes these parks special is slowing down and actually spending time in them.“

Here’s why these iconic destinations make the best introduction to the United States national park system.

Grand Canyon National Park

“For a first-time national park visitor, I recommend Grand Canyon National Park,” says Maxie Johnson, lead guide at Exp Journeys. The park remains the only U.S. national park to appear on the list of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it works particularly well for first-timers because the experience is so accessible.

“From the moment one steps onto the brink of the canyon rim, the views are overwhelming, in the best of ways,” Johnson says. The mostly paved Rim Trail on the South Rim stretches roughly 13 miles. There are frequent shuttle stops, railings at major viewpoints, and plenty of benches. There is year-round lodging both inside the park and in the gateway town of Tusayan, Arizona, and it’s easy to get to from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) or Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

What to prioritize in a day

Johnson recommends a “Grand Tour” of the South Rim, starting early to catch the sunrise before crowds arrive. The main park road stretches more than 30 miles from Desert View Watchtower to Hermits Rest, with multiple pullouts along the way. Stop by Grand Canyon Village for lunch and to explore the historic lodges.

According to National Park Service estimates, only about 5 percent of visitors hike below the rim, but they’re missing out. “Consider a short hike below the rim. Even a brief descent on the Bright Angel Trail changes everything—crowds, sounds, temperature, and perspective,” says Johnson.

Johnson also encourages spending “at least a few minutes simply sitting at a viewpoint, watching the timeless light and shadow dance across nearly two billion years of rock layers. For me, it is often the most memorable part of the day.“

Jim Ligori, executive director of Teton Valley Ranch Camp, says that hiking in the canyon can catch people off guard. “It’s basically like hiking a mountain, but you hike down first, and ‘up’ on the way out,” he says. “That means that the hike out are the hardest and most difficult miles, and they come often at the end of the day.“

Yellowstone National Park

When asked about the best national park for first-time visitors, Kristin Diehl, a Travel + Leisure A-List 2025 travel advisor, says the answer is easy: Yellowstone. The iconic national park was the world’s first designated national park, and its drivable roads make it easy to enjoy the scenery without too much physical exertion. Diehl also notes that a bonus is how close Jackson, Wyoming, is to Grand Teton National Park.

A rental car is essential, and the park has clearly marked roads designed for self-driving. A representative from the National Park Service recommends Yellowstone’s Loop Road to first-time visitors for its scenic overlooks and easy access to shorter trails. The best season runs from mid-June to mid-September, with late June or early September ideal to avoid peak crowds in July and August.

What to prioritize in one day

Diehl recommends an early start to your day if you’re visiting Yellowstone. “Start early, as the best wildlife viewing happens at dawn—followed by viewing at dusk—especially for the resident apex predators and bison,” Diehl says. “Plan to reach Hayden Valley around sunrise for peak activity.” 

From Under Canvas West Yellowstone, drive east past Old Faithful toward Hayden Valley, one of the best places to spot bison, bears, and wolves. “After a day spent exploring, return to Under Canvas and head to the West Yellowstone Rodeo,” Diehl says. “It’s rustic and deeply authentic, and the perfect way to cap off your day.”

From Jackson, she recommends ending the day in Grand Teton at Schwabacher Landing, “where sunset colors the Tetons and their mirrored [reflections] across the water below.”

Diehl warns that the food options aren’t great in the park, so it’s best to pack your own picnic lunches and snacks. 

 Essential Tips for First-time Park Visitors

Before heading to your first national park, the National Park Service recommends visiting its official website. There, you can see the status of your chosen park for up-to-date information about weather conditions, lodging options, and temporary closures. Check the weather and bring the proper supplies and gear, including water, snacks, and a jacket. 

Mike Augustine, a T+L A-List 2025 travel advisor, warns that one of the most common mistakes first-time visitors make is assuming they don’t need to plan far in advance. “The best lodging and guided services often book out up to a year ahead, and some of the most popular hikes require permits that can be difficult to secure,” he says.

Johnson recommends getting in earlier or later to avoid the crowds. “Midday is when the park is busiest,” she says. “Early morning and late afternoon offer gentler light, cooler temperatures, and more breathing room, even in peak season.” 

But the most common tip experts had? Slow down to take it all in.

“The biggest mistake newcomers make is trying to do it all,” Zielinski says. “Instead of racing between every overlook, pick a few highlights and slow down with a short or moderate hike. You’ll walk away with a deeper, more memorable connection to the place.”