2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travel and adventure seekers, especially for those who find solace in the natural beauty of national parks. Several parks are already attracting attention for their stunning landscapes, unique experiences, and recent developments that promise to make them even more appealing to visitors.
Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys the serenity of the great outdoors, these national parks should be on your radar for your next adventure.
1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia
New River Gorge has been steadily gaining popularity since it was designated a national park in 2020. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, this park offers a perfect mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery. By 2025, the park is set to host new hiking and biking trails, making it even more accessible for outdoor enthusiasts.
- White-water rafting here is legendary.
- The New River provides thrilling challenges for experienced paddlers while calmer sections cater to families and beginners.
- Rock climbing is another big draw, with climbers flocking to ascend the rugged sandstone cliffs.
- For those who prefer a quieter experience, scenic drives and picturesque overlooks will satisfy any photographer’s lens.
- With its growing reputation, New River Gorge is bound to be a must-visit destination.
2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
The mesmerizing blue waters of Crater Lake have held visitors spellbound for decades, but the park is expected to draw even bigger crowds in 2025. Thanks to new investments in eco-friendly infrastructure and an expanded shuttle service, accessing this iconic destination will become easier than ever.
Crater Lake’s Formation Overlook, which was closed for renovations, is reopening just in time for new visitors to learn about the volcanic history that shaped this landscape.
Summer activities such as boat tours to Wizard Island and guided wildflower hikes will continue to be highlights, while winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Crater Lake’s pristine beauty and improved amenities make it a strong contender for your next national park trip.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
Long known as one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., the Great Smoky Mountains are never out of style. However, 2025 will see enhancements to its renowned hiking trails and wildlife conservation programs, ensuring an even better experience for visitors.
- Cades Cove—a favorite for wildlife viewing and historic sites—is rolling out an improved loop road for bikes and cars, cutting down congestion and adding to the park’s charm. With synchronized fireflies drawing crowds in late spring and unparalleled fall foliage in autumn, the Smokies continue to deliver experiences that appeal to all ages.
- Expect bigger crowds as more people discover why this gem belongs at the top of their travel bucket lists.
4. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska
If you’re craving an out-of-this-world experience, Wrangell-St. Elias promises something extraordinary. Covering an astonishing 13.2 million acres, this Alaskan park is the largest in the U.S., yet it remains beautifully untouched and remote. By 2025, new eco-tourism initiatives will bring sustainable lodging and guided tours to this snowy wilderness, allowing more visitors to experience its vast glaciers, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife.
Adventurous travelers will find plenty to do here. Glacier trekking and ice climbing are becoming more accessible, while guided trips through the abandoned Kennecott Mines take visitors deep into Alaskan history. Wrangell-St. Elias offers solitude and awe-inspiring landscapes for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Set in the rugged terrain of West Texas, Big Bend is capturing the attention of stargazers and solitude seekers alike. Enormous skies, dramatic desert landscapes, and the Rio Grande carving through lush canyons combine to create an unmatched experience.
Recent efforts to gain International Dark-Sky Park status are placing Big Bend on the map for those seeking the best starry skies in the U.S. The scenic drives, riverside hikes, and opportunities to paddle through Santa Elena Canyon will keep outdoor enthusiasts busy during the day. With its tranquil beauty and expanding reputation, Big Bend is poised to grow in popularity while remaining an oasis far from the crowds.
6. Pinnacles National Park, California
California’s Pinnacles National Park has long lived in the shadow of nearby Yosemite, but that’s about to change. Pinnacles is emerging as a hot spot for adventure seekers, with exciting rock formations, rare wildlife, and an influx of visitors looking for a quieter alternative to California’s busier parks.
- Known for its talus caves and towering spires, Pinnacles is home to reintroduced California condors, making birdwatching a highlight of any visit.
- Rock climbers love the challenging routes, while hikers enjoy the panoramic views from High Peaks Trail.
- The park’s growing visibility among nature enthusiasts ensures it will continue to attract attention in 2025.
These parks are more than scenic backdrops—they’re rich with adventure, history, and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re drawn to the surging rivers of New River Gorge, the secluded expanses of Wrangell-St. Elias, or the unique landscapes of Pinnacles, 2025 is your year to explore. Start planning now and be ready to experience some of the most remarkable national parks that the country has to offer!
