Looking for the best National Parks to visit in August? We’ve explored 48 of the 63 U.S. parks, hiking forests, climbing mountains, swimming in alpine lakes, and spotting wildlife — and now we’re sharing our top picks for an unforgettable end-of-summer trip.
August is still peak travel season, so expect some crowds. But it’s also the perfect time to enjoy warm weather, open trails, and late-summer landscapes. From iconic landmarks to underrated gems, here are 11 National Parks that shine in August 2025.
Travel Tips for August National Park Adventures
- Get the America the Beautiful Pass – One pass gets you into 2,000+ federal sites, including all National Parks.
- Check Pet Policies – Many parks have limits on where pets can go.
- Leave No Trace – Pack out your trash, stay on trails, and respect nature.
1. Yosemite National Park – California
With granite icons like El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is a summer classic. August means all roads and trails are open, making it perfect for hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.
Why Go in August:
- Warm, sunny weather (highs ~85°F / 30°C)
- Accessible high-country trails
- Waterfalls still flowing in Yosemite Valley
Don’t Miss:
- Swim or kayak at Tenaya Lake
- Hike Glacier Point or Mist Trail
Know Before You Go:
- Reservation Alert: Aug 1–18 requires daily reservations from 5 AM–4 PM (weekends only after Aug 18).
- Wilderness permits required for backcountry camping.
- Bear safety is essential — use lockers for food storage.
2. Crater Lake National Park – Oregon
The deepest lake in the U.S., formed from a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake dazzles with sapphire-blue waters.
Why Go in August:
- Perfect weather for rim hikes
- Clear views from Watchman Peak at sunrise
- Boat tours to Wizard Island
Tips:
- High elevation (~6,000 ft) — pace yourself.
- Camp at Mazama Campground or stay at Crater Lake Lodge (book early).
3. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park – Alaska
America’s largest National Park (8 million acres) feels like true wilderness, with glaciers, mountains, and historic mining towns.
Why Go in August:
- Mild temps (60–70°F / 15–21°C)
- Long days for exploring
- Tours of the Kennecott Mines
Know Before You Go:
- Limited cell service
- Abundant wildlife — carry bear spray and keep distance
4. Glacier National Park – Montana
Nicknamed the Crown of the Continent, Glacier offers alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and scenic drives.
Why Go in August:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road fully open
- Prime hiking weather
- Fresh huckleberries everywhere
Don’t Miss:
- Highline Trail
- Polebridge Mercantile’s famous huckleberry bear claws
5. Grand Teton National Park – Wyoming
Jagged peaks, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife make Grand Teton a must-visit in late summer.
Why Go in August:
- Wildflowers still blooming
- Warm days, crisp nights
- Scenic boat ride to Inspiration Point
Wildlife Caution: Bears, elk, and bison roam freely — carry bear spray.
6. Kenai Fjords National Park – Alaska
An icy paradise where 51% of the land is covered by glaciers, including the massive Harding Icefield.
Why Go in August:
- Whale watching and marine wildlife sightings
- Hike to Exit Glacier before it retreats further
- Long daylight hours for exploring
Tips:
- Guided glacier tours recommended for safety
- No entrance fee, but some activities require permits
7. Lassen Volcanic National Park – California
A geothermal wonderland with volcanoes, steaming vents, and wildflower meadows.
Why Go in August:
- Warm weather without heavy crowds
- All trails open, including Bumpass Hell
- Least crowded summer month in Lassen
Safety Tip: Some areas close due to volcanic activity — check updates before visiting.
8. Mount Rainier National Park – Washington
Snow-capped Mount Rainier dominates the skyline, surrounded by alpine meadows and waterfalls.
Why Go in August:
- Peak wildflower season
- Clear views from Tolmie Peak hike
- Perfect camping weather
9. Wind Cave National Park – South Dakota
Home to the world’s largest concentration of boxwork formations, Wind Cave is both underground wonder and prairie habitat.
Why Go in August:
- Warm, sunny weather
- Fascinating guided cave tours
- Bison, elk, and prairie dog sightings
10. North Cascades National Park – Washington
Known as the American Alps, this is one of the least-visited parks — meaning quiet trails and untouched beauty.
Why Go in August:
- Mid-70s°F temps — perfect for hiking
- Bright blue alpine lakes
- Stargazing without light pollution
11. Olympic National Park – Washington
A park of contrasts: rugged coastline, temperate rainforest, and alpine peaks.
Why Go in August:
- Dryest month of the year here
- Explore Ruby Beach tide pools
- Hike Hurricane Ridge for mountain views
Final Thought
Whether you want glacier trekking in Alaska, waterfall chasing in California, or alpine hiking in Montana, August offers prime conditions to explore some of America’s most stunning National Parks. Pack smart, respect wildlife, and leave no trace — so these landscapes remain wild for generations.
Before you head into the weekend, why not stock up on a little extra sunshine and inspiration? 🌞 Dive into our Summer Water Safety Tips Everyone Should Know to stay safe by the water, catch a dose of motivation in Beat the Heat, Feel the Cheers: A Friday Note to Our Healthcare Heroes, and plan your dream getaway with Discover the Healthiest & Happiest Summer Escapes Across the US. Your perfect summer starts here — and it’s just a click away.
