10 West Coast National Parks That Will Take Your Breath Away
From towering mountains to ancient forests, the West Coast is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the United States.
Which ones to visit? What to do there? Don’t worry, we got you! These are the best West Coast national parks you’ve got to visit!
Table of Contents
- 1. Yosemite National Park, California
- 2. Redwood National and State Parks, California
- 3. Olympic National Park, Washington
- 4. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
- 5. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
- 6. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California
- 7. North Cascades National Park, Washington
- 8. Pinnacles National Park, California
- 9. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
- 10. Death Valley National Park, California
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is the crown jewel of national parks, with its majestic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
Explore Yosemite Valley, stand in awe of Half Dome and El Capitan, and don’t forget to hike to Yosemite Falls for a spectacular view.
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Ride down Glacier Point Road for some of the most stunning scenery in the country and camp under the stars at night.
Check out our other guides to Yosemite:
Things To Do in Yosemite: 26 Can’t-Miss Spots!
15 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
Where to Stay in Yosemite: BEST Areas, Camping and Lodging
Waterfalls in Yosemite National Park: 8 BEST!
Glacier Point Road: What to Know
2. Redwood National and State Parks, California
Home to the tallest trees on Earth (yes, really!), Redwood National and State Parks offer a magical experience among the ancient giants.
Take a scenic drive through the Avenue of the Giants, hike the lush trails, and camp under the towering redwoods. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful Fern Canyon and spot wildlife like elk and banana slugs.
There are several areas of the redwoods to check out, it would take you days to see it all!
3. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is a land of diverse ecosystems, from the moss-draped Hoh Rain Forest to the rugged Pacific coastline and the alpine meadows of Hurricane Ridge.
Hike through the rainforest, explore tide pools teeming with life, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. If we had to choose one national park on the West Coast that’s a don’t-miss, Olympic is it!
You’ll really get a taste of all the national parks in this one spot.
More of our guides to Olympic National Park:
Things To Do in Olympic National Park: 35 Must-Do Activities!
Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
9 Incredible Olympic National Park Beaches to Explore
4. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S., is a stunning sight with its crystal-clear blue water.
Take a boat tour to Wizard Island, hike the trails for panoramic views, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.
The park’s serene beauty and fascinating geology make it a must-visit, and the best way to do so is to drive the Rim Road to see it all.
Check out our guides to Crater Lake:
Things To Do at Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake Rim Drive: Everything You Need to Know!
How to Hike Cleetwood Cove Trail in Crater Lake National Park
9 Best Crater Lake Hikes You’ve Got to Take On!
5. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Dominated by the iconic Mount Rainier, this park offers breathtaking scenery with its wildflower meadows, ancient forests, and glacial landscapes.
Hike the Paradise and Sunrise areas for stunning mountain views, or venture on the Wonderland Trail for a more challenging adventure.
The hiking here is next-level, and each step reveals a new epic perspective of the mammoth mountain.
Check out our guides to Mount Rainier National Park
13 Mount Rainier Waterfalls to Check Out
15 Epic Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
How to Hike the Skyline Loop Trail in Mount Rainier!
6. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California
These twin parks are home to some of the largest trees on Earth, including the General Sherman Tree.
Explore the vast Kings Canyon, hike among the giant sequoias, discover the underground wonders of Crystal Cave, and conquer the Moro Rock Trail.
7. North Cascades National Park, Washington
Known as the “American Alps,” North Cascades National Park boasts jagged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers.
Hike the scenic trails for incredible mountain views, paddle on pristine lakes, and enjoy the solitude of this lesser-visited park (their loss, your win!). It’s a paradise for those seeking rugged beauty and adventure.
We love the Chain Lakes Loop and Maple Pass Hike.
READ MORE: Best Hikes in North Cascades
8. Pinnacles National Park, California
Pinnacles National Park is an underrated park with unique rock formations, talus caves, and diverse wildlife.
Hike the High Peaks for alien-like panoramic views, explore the Bear Gulch Cave, and keep an eye out for the endangered California condor. This park’s fascinating geology and beautiful landscapes make it worth the visit.
READ MORE: Best Hikes in Pinnacles National Park
9. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and the impressive Lassen Peak.
Hike to the summit of Lassen Peak for stunning views over the park, explore the geothermal features at Bumpass Hell, and camp under the starry sky.
The park’s unusual volcanic landscape offers an adventure like no other.
10. Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley is a land of extremes, known for its scorching temperatures and dramatic landscapes. Explore the otherworldly Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and marvel at the colorful Artist’s Palette.
Don’t miss the stunning sunrise at Zabriskie Point or the towering sand dunes at Mesquite Flat.
READ MORE: 15 Best Hikes in Death Valley National Park
Have fun adventuring all of the best national parks on the West Coast!
