5 national parks to visit in 2025

Big Bend National Park in Texas is an arid oasis, with the biodiverse Chihuahuan Desert covering about 80% of it. Park highlights include river trips through the towering cliffs of Santa Elena Canyon and stargazing. Big Bend has the least light pollution of any national park across the continental U.S. and was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2012. Some wildlife includes javelinas (resemble wild boar), black bears, mountain lions and diverse bird species.

Death Valley National Park, on the eastern edge of southern California, is known for extreme heat and often ranked as one of the hottest places on Earth. The park's landscapes will make you feel like you’ve landed on Mars, a feature that made it a prime site for NASA studies. Visitors can explore Badwater Basin salt flat, North America’s lowest point at almost 300 feet below sea level. You can also witness the sprawling Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where dramatic sunrise and sunsets are common and always extortionary. You can also check out our recommendations for national parks along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Mount Rainier stands as Washington State’s tallest peak, an imposing summit visible from many scenic drives to its base. And the park is fairly accessible given its proximity to cities like Seattle. During warmer months, the Paradise and Sunrise areas burst with colorful wildflowers. With over 260 miles of paved trails, there’s a variety of family-friendly routes that guide visitors through scenic waterfalls and serene lakes. But keep in mind, bikes and pets are not allowed on any park trails.

White Sands National Park in southern New Mexico is home to the world’s largest gypsum dune field. Drive through the endless sea of white sand, hike a trail or even sled down the steep sand dunes. Stay for sunset to witness the dunes illuminated under a sky of vibrant colors. The park also hosts Moonlight hikes where you can see the full moon’s glow intensify the dunes’ shadows.

Haleakalā National Park, located on the island of Maui, is a dormant volcano that offers panoramic views. Towering nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it’s the perfect place to see a sunrise or sunset above the clouds. If you're visiting for sunrise, be sure to reserve your spot in advance, as it's a popular activity. While there, explore the stunning red and orange landscapes of the Sliding Sands Trail, a 11-mile hike across the crater.