Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a guide through the best National Parks to visit in July. As the summer sun paints the landscapes with hues of green and blue, July unveils a captivating picture of natural wonders for adventurers to explore.
From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the sun-drenched canyons of the Southwest, each park we explore promises a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities that cater to every adventurer’s spirit.
Discover the secrets of Yellowstone, where geysers dance under the July sky, or immerse yourself in the lush forests of Olympic National Park. Whether you crave the serenity of Glacier National Park‘s alpine lakes or the red-rock wonders of Zion, our guide will help you navigate the choices and make the most of your July expedition.
These natural wonders are crowned America’s jewels for a reason! Let your adventure to the best National Parks to visit in July begin.
Acadia National Park – Maine
Suggested by: Rebecca from Fab 5 Family Travel
Acadia National Park is a gorgeous July destination for travelers of all ages to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine.
On your visit, schedule time to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain for beautiful views of the park and Bar Harbor, Maine. Due to Acadia’s popularity in July, you will need a reservation for Cadillac Mountain. Book this ticket as soon as you can as they will go fast. There are separate options for a daytime entrance or sunrise entrance, and the ticket is for a specific time.
Other highlights of this National Park in July include driving the park loop to see the majestic Thunder Hole & Sand Beach and visiting Jordan Pond and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. For the active traveler, check out kayaking in Bar Harbor, biking on the Carriage Roads, or hiking the Beehive Loop. For the foodie, make sure to enjoy a delicious lobster roll at Thurston’s or Beal’s.
The weather in July is delightful, with highs in the 70s during the day. However, the temps do drop a little at night, so pack layers.
Lastly, remember that summer is the busy season for Acadia as schools are on summer break. Be prepared for large crowds, and book lodging early!
Hotel Recommendation
Harborside Hotel Marina and Spa: Located in Bar Harbor, the closest town to the park. Dogs are welcome, and they have a beautiful pool to enjoy in the summer heat.
Check price and availability for Harborside Hotel Marina and Spa here!
Big Bend National Park – Texas
Suggested by: Kaylee from Kaylee Janell
When visiting Big Bend National Park in July, you can expect warm temperatures with a high of 96°F during the day and a low of 71°F at night. It’s the perfect time to explore the park and enjoy the best views in Big Bend.
One of the best things to do is hike the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, which offers breathtaking views and is located literally on the US and Mexico border. Another must-do is taking a dip in the free hot springs, a perfect relaxing experience after a day of hiking. Consider a float down the Rio Grande in a kayak, canoe or raft!
You can also cross over to Mexico and eat some delicious tacos at a Mexican restaurant, but make sure to bring your passport as there’s a small customs office in the park.
Accommodation options in the park are limited, with the Chisos Mountains Lodge being the only hotel available. It tends to fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to make reservations in advance. If you prefer camping, there are plenty of primitive campsites to set up your tent or park your RV for a very reasonable price.
Keep in mind that it can get hot during the summer, so it’s important to bring plenty of water to stay cool and hydrated.
To enter the park, there is a fee of $30 per car, which grants you access for one week. With these tips in mind, you can start creating an itinerary for your unforgettable trip to Big Bend National Park in July.
Hotel Recommendations
Chisos Mountains Lodge – The only hotel within the National Park grounds. Staying here will allow you to make the most of your time in Big Bend.
Check price and availability for Chisos Mountains Lodge here!
Ten Bits Ranch – Located just a short drive outside of Big Bend National Park and it has more amenities.
Check price and availability for Ten Bits Ranch here!
Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico
Suggested by: Caitlin from Twin Family Travels
The weather in July tends to be quite warm during the day with temperatures often in the 90s, sometimes even reaching over 100 degrees. Escape from the heat of the day by touring the cave, where temperatures typically range from 40s to 60s.
One of the absolute best things to do at Carlsbad Caverns National Park during your visit in July is to go on a cave tour, of course! For the self-guided tour, you have two options: take the elevator down or take the scenic route using the natural entrance.
If you can snag a reservation for the King’s Palace guided tour it’s worth doing. It’s a 90 minute tour and covers 1 mile in distance.
Another highlight of visiting in July is the Bat Flight Program. Don’t miss out on the ranger talk at the Bat Flight Amphitheater before you get to witness the bats take off from the cave. It’s an incredible sight!
If you’re into hiking, you’ll find a variety of trails in the park, ranging from the short 0.5-mile Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail to the 100-mile-long Guadalupe Ridge Trail. Stay late to experience the incredible stargazing at night!
Please note that timed entry tickets are required to access the cave, even if you plan to take the self-guided tour.
Hotel Recommendation
Hyatt House Carlsbad – There aren’t any accommodations within the park, so head to Carlsbad and stay at the Hyatt House Carlsbad.
Everglades National Park – Florida
Hotel Recommendation
Glacier National Park – Montana
Suggested by: Alec from Explore with Alec
Few places in America are more glorious and picturesque than Glacier National Park and it is easily one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
So why is it one of the best National Parks to visit in July? First, the weather is absolutely perfect. Daytime highs will be in the 70s, and there will be a little light in the sky even at 11:15pm. Whether you’re looking to enjoy short, easy hikes in Glacier or full day hikes, it’s perfect for hiking all day without worry of it getting dark.
In addition to the fantastic hiking, you can go river rafting, rock climbing, hop on a tour bus, enjoy a scenic drive, or even go flightseeing over the park’s giant peaks. In all, it’s one of the most awe-inspiring places in the world.
That being said, you do need a permit to visit Glacier in the summer. From 6am-3pm in July, a permit is required to enter all of the popular areas. Before or after this time, you can enter without one.
Hotel Recommendations
West Glacier
Belton Chalet – A comfortable hotel right outside the park entrance.
Check price and availability for Belton Chalet here!
Many Glacier
Many Glacier Hotel – A Swiss inspired hotel right on Swiftcurrent Lake. The views from the hotel are stunning and you have easy good to many of the best hikes in Glacier.
Check price and availability for Many Glacier Hotel here!
East Glacier/St Marys Glacier
Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins – Located inside the park and right on Saint Mary Lake and Going to the Sun Road. Easy access to West and East Glacier via Going to the Sun Road
Check price and availability of Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins here!
Grand Teton National Park – Wyoming
Suggested by: Kristen from Yonderlust Ramblings
Grand Teton National Park possesses all the best qualities of a summertime getaway – welcoming temperatures, loads of outdoor adventures, lively events, ideal wildlife viewing, and easy accessibility to the best places in the park!
July is the perfect time to plan a Grand Teton National Park itinerary! Daytime temperatures hover around the mid 70’s F, perfect for exploring outdoors. From enjoying the best hikes in Grand Teton, to fishing and boating on its many pristine lakes, to enjoying a ride on the Jenny Lake ferry – there is no better time to enjoy outdoor activities than July.
The nearby rustic town of Jackson hosts several events in July, including the annual Teton County Fair and Jackson Hole Art Fair. Just another reason this is one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
Wildlife sightings are a top attraction in Grand Teton, and there are plenty of opportunities in July when animals are fully active. Expect to see both brown bears and grizzly bears, as well as elk, pronghorn, moose, and bison roaming the pastures with their young. Maximize your chances of seeing wildlife with an expert guide on a wildlife adventure.
In July, Grand Teton’s roads, visitor centers, campgrounds, lodges, and other facilities are open and in full swing, making the park at its most accessible.
Keep in mind July is a busy month for Grand Teton, so plan to start your day early. Parking, trails, and buildings get busier later in the day. If reserving campgrounds lodges, or other accommodations, do so as far in advance as possible. There’s no doubt Grant Teton is one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
Hotel Recommendation
Jenny Lake Lodge – An upscale lodge right in the National Park near String Lake, Leigh Lake and Jenny Lake with lots of hiking nearby. Make sure to secure lodging here early as it books up months in advance.
Check price and availability for Jenny Lake Lodge here!
Haleakala National Park – Hawaii
Suggested by: Noel from This Hawaii Life
Hotel Recommendation
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea – If you are looking for a luxury place to stay on Maui, look no further. This resort is stunning and right on the beach in Wailea.
Check price and availability for Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea here!
Kenai Fjords National Park – Alaska
Suggested by: Claudia from My Adventures Across the World
Kenai Fjords National Park, in south-central Alaska and close to the small town of Seward, is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. While the park is open throughout the year, it is better to visit in the summer months. July is the best overall month to visit, as there are lower chances of rain (though it still rains a lot in Alaska) and more sunny days.
One of the best things to do in Kenai Fjords National Park in July is hiking the Harding Icefield Trail. This is a challenging 8.2-mile hike that will allow you to get stunning views of the Exit Glacier and of the Harding Icefield, which feeds the Exit Glacier and several other glaciers in the area.
When in Kenai Fjords National Park you should also take the opportunity of going on a boat cruise. This is perfect to admire several marine and bird species that live in the area, including whales which are regularly spotted in the peak summer months. Or book a hiking tour on Exit Glacier for a different perspective of this amazing place.
To access Kenai Fjords National Park, plan to stay in or near Seward. Hotels in town are fairly basic, so you may be better off staying a bit outside.
Hotel Recommendation
Bell in the Woods – Offers cozy, nicely equipped rooms in a gorgeous setting.
Check price and availability for Bell in the Woods here!
Mount Rainier National Park – Washington
Suggested by: Jessica from Uprooted Traveler
Rainier is one of the best National Parks to visit in July. After almost nine months of freezing cold temperatures and epic amounts of snow, the roads and the trails in the park become snow-free and, instead, technicolor wildflowers blanket the mountain slopes.
The best way to explore the park is to enjoy any of the incredible hikes in Mount Rainier. For example, the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout Trail will take you up to a historic fire lookout from the 1930s with in-your-face-views of Rainier’s glaciated peaks.
The Skyline Loop is one of the best places in the park to see vibrantly-colored wildflowers carpeting the meadows. Plus, the weather is usually perfect for hiking, with clear skies and highs in the mid-70s.
You might want to schedule your trip in mid-July or later to be on the safe side—during particularly cold or snowy winters, the snow on the mountain can linger through the middle of the month. At a minimum, toss some microspikes into your bag so you’re prepared if you hit any icy patches on trails.
Hotel Recommendation
Paradise Village Inn – Located in the teeny town of Ashford, WA. Not only is it just a short drive away from the Nisqually entrance of the park, but it also happens to have a wood fired hot tub!
Check price and availability for Paradise Village Inn here!
Olympic National Park – Washington
Suggested by: James from Parks Collecting
Even though a large part of the park is a temperate rain forest, the summer months are generally dry and warm, and the weather is perfect in Olympic National Park in July. Average temperatures range from the mid 50’s to the low 70’s, making this a great time for hiking and enjoying all the park has to offer.
There are so many things to do at this time of the year. Check the tide charts so you can explore the beaches at low tide. There are many tidal pools filled with colorful sea stars and anemones. Off shores are rocky sea stacks and piles of large driftwood that lines the edges of the beach. Beach camping is also popular here in July.
This is also a great time to explore the mossy rain forests, admire the waterfalls (Sol Duc falls are stunning) and enjoy water-sports at Lake Crescent or Lake Quinault.
If you prefer mountains, head up to the Hurricane Ridge section of the park. In addition to stunning mountain views, alpine meadows are covered in blooming wildflowers in July, making this an especially beautiful time to visit. The trails are finally snow-free in July, so you can enjoy them to the fullest.
It’s obvious this is one of the best National Parks to visit in July because July and August are the busiest months in the park. It’s recommended to get an early start each day to beat the crowds.
Hotel Recommendation
Olympic Lodge – Located just outside Olympic National Park in Port Angeles. July is a great month to enjoy their outdoor pool after a day exploring the National Park.
Check price and availability for Olympic Lodge here!
Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
Suggested by: Anwar from Beyond my Door
Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Rocky Mountain National Park presents some of the most stunning high alpine areas in the lower 48 states. The park is open year round, but summer is the best time to explore the park for weather.
July is a popular month and ideal to explore with warmer days and cool evenings. You may even get snow occasionally in early July so definitely plan for various weather when visiting. Overall though weather in July will have highs in the high 70s low 80s and lows in the 50s.
The park is very popular during these months and requires timed entry passes. There are two passes for exploring the park depending on if you plan to visit Bear Lake.
Bear Lake is an incredible area of the park and should be visited at least once on your Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary. This area has some amazing hike such as Sky Pond, Emerald Lake, Haiyaha Lake, Dream Lake as well as waterfalls. There’s a reason it requires its own pass to drive to.
Other great hikes in the park include Odessa Lake, Chasm Lake, deer mountain, and twin sisters. Beyond that, make sure to drive the high passes in the park for stunning views along Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. This is easily one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
For those planning to explore, it’s best to take a few days to visit the park. There is no lodging within the park but there’s plenty outside in Grand Lake or Estes Park, depending on which side of the park you are on.
Hotel Recommendation
YMCA of the Rockies – Located only a few minutes away from the park entrance. The hotel has a variety of room accommodations as well as cafeterias and plenty of hiking trails and activities within the facility as well.
Check price and availability for YMCA of the Rockies here!
Sequoia National Park – California
Suggested by: Monica from This Rare Earth
Sequoia National Park is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a summer getaway in nature. July is a prime time to visit this National Park, which is located just a few hours drive from Los Angeles and San Diego.
July is a perfect time of year to hike, nature walk, and enjoy the park’s fantastic scenery. The giant Sequoia named General Sherman is a highlight, as is Congress Trail’s scenic hike through the woods.
The temperature can reach up to 80 degrees during the day, and the nights are usually cool and pleasant. The long sunny days allow visitors to enjoy longer hikes, too, that can’t be completed in the winter months.
However, the summer season is the peak time, and the park can be crowded. So, it’s best to plan your trip in advance. Sequoia National Park is also connected to Kings Canyon, so you get to visit two parks for the price of one, as your entry fee allows access to both.
Sequoia National Park is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway in Southern California. It’s the perfect opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and escape to nature’s tranquility at one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
Hotel Recommendation
Comfort Inn – Located in the town of Three Rivers right outside of the parks entrance!
Check price and availability for the Comfort Inn here!
Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Suggested by: Megan from Virginia Travel Tips
Visiting Shenandoah National Park in July can be an epic summer adventure with its plentiful hikes and gorgeous Skyline Drive. While days can warm up into the 90s (F), temperatures generally stay below that and nights are cool.
July sees the park bustling with plenty of fun ranger-led activities like hikes or talks on the park’s history or wildlife. Make sure to cruise down Skyline Drive, stopping at the many lookouts to take in the magnificent scenery.
Shenandoah has some amazing hiking trails through forests, meadows, and along ridges. Popular Shenandoah hikes include Stony Man, Dark Hollow Falls, and Old Rag. Note that to hike Old Rag in July, you must make reservations in advance. Permits cost $1 and are implemented to prevent overcrowding of the trail.
It’s recommended to get an early start and explore some of the lesser-known hikes to avoid the crowds during peak season. You can even hike for a while on the famed Appalachian Trail as it traverses 101 miles of Shenandoah National Park!
Hotel Recommendation
Big Meadows Lodge – located in the park! Reservations in July can fill up quickly, so book early.
Check price and availability for Big Meadows Lodge here!
Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming
Suggested By: Catherine from Nomadicated
Did you know that Yellowstone is the oldest National Park in the world? Explored by millions every year, July is one of the best months to visit this iconic place. Although it would be peak season, the weather is perfect for hiking geothermal landscapes and catching roaming buffalo herds crossing the roads.
Covered by snow for much of the year, July marks the month in Yellowstone when summer is finally in full swing. All facilities and trails are accessible, with warm daytime highs averaging around 70-80°F (21-27°C).
From the Grand Prismatic Spring to Old Faithful, the park’s famous geysers and hot springs are a must-see on a Yellowstone itinerary. A hike to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone’s Upper and Lower Falls takes you to the park’s most dramatic canyons and waterfalls.
And if you’re into wildlife watching, Lamar Valley is where you can find grazing bison, elk, and grizzly bears. Specialty summer activities include white water rafting and horseback riding.
With good weather comes larger crowds, especially at popular spots. To avoid the masses and road traffic, consider touring northeastern Yellowstone from Bozeman or West Yellowstone and coming into the park early.
Hotel Recommendation
Old Faithful Inn – For a comfortable stay inside the park, you can’t beat the location of the Old Faithful Inn, just steps away from the famous geyser.
Check price and availability for Old Faithful Inn here!
Yosemite National Park – California
Suggested by: Kayla from CS Ginger
July is one of the best times of year to visit Yosemite National Park. Because Yosemite sees a fair amount of snow during the cold seasons, certain portions of the park aren’t accessible during the winter and spring. By the time July rolls around, with an average high of 90° F and little to no precipitation, nearly all of the park is open to be explored.
There are so many amazing things to do in Yosemite with kids and adults alike. You can hike to the stunning waterfalls and take in the gorgeous sequoias at Mariposa Grove. Enjoy a playful dip in the Merced River and marvel at all the iconic viewpoints like Tunnel View and Olmsted Point on your Yosemite itinerary.
If you are planning to visit the park between the hours of 5 am and 4 pm, you will need to make a reservation. Reservations are not required if you visit outside of these peak hours.
Visitors hoping to hike Half Dome will need to obtain a special permit when visiting in July. Wilderness permits are also required if you plan on any overnight hiking. For all these reasons, there’s no doubt Yosemite is one of the best National Parks to visit in July.
Hotel Recommendation
Yosemite Valley Lodge – A wonderful place to stay when visiting the park. Guests can choose from standard rooms or suites, and families will love the pool! The convenient location makes it easy to enjoy the park without requiring additional travel back to your hotel each day.
Check price and availability for Yosemite Valley Lodge here!
Zion National Park – Utah
Hotel Recommendation
Enjoy a National Park Trip in July
July stands as an opportune month for an unforgettable adventure of the best national parks across the United States. July offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler.
Acadia National Park welcomes visitors with pleasant weather, providing an ideal backdrop for exploring its rocky coastlines and vibrant landscapes. Explore Yellowstone National Park as it comes alive during the summer months.
From the breathtaking vistas of Grand Teton National Park or the iconic landmarks of Yosemite. The parks welcome visitors with open arms.
So, as July unfolds its warmth, consider venturing into these remarkable National Parks. Have so much fun exploring the best National Parks to visit in July.
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