The Most Planned National Park Trips of the Past Year: Where Travelers Are Heading in 2025

At Chimani, we’re always keeping a pulse on national park travel trends, and our latest data reveals which parks are dominating trip plans for 2025. With thousands of national park enthusiasts using our trip-planning tools, we’ve uncovered the top national parks where travelers are setting their sights—and the trends shaping their choices.

Top 5 Most Planned National Park Trips

1. Yosemite National Park (9.5% of all planned trips)
   Yosemite continues to reign as a top destination, drawing nearly 10% of all trip planners. Its iconic granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and world-class hiking trails make it an irresistible choice for adventure seekers.
2. Zion National Park (8.9%)
   Zion’s soaring red rock canyons and legendary hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows continue to make it a top choice. With a strong social media presence and a well-organized shuttle system, Zion remains one of the most accessible yet awe-inspiring parks.
3. Yellowstone National Park (8.4%)
   As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone remains a perennial favorite. Its geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and sprawling landscapes attract visitors from across the globe, securing its spot among the most planned trips.
4. Glacier National Park (5.5%)
   Glacier’s dramatic mountain scenery and the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road continue to lure visitors, accounting for over 5% of all planned trips. The park’s short peak season makes early planning essential for those hoping to experience its alpine beauty.
5. Acadia National Park (5.1%)
   The only East Coast national park in the top five, Acadia remains a favorite for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and coastal charm. Its carriage roads, rocky shorelines, and sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain solidify its place on the must-visit list.

Key Travel Trends from the Data

Western parks dominate.
With four of the top five parks located in the western U.S., travelers continue to favor rugged landscapes, expansive wilderness, and high-adrenaline hiking experiences.

Ease of access matters.
Parks with well-established shuttle systems and infrastructure—such as Zion and Yosemite—continue to attract high volumes of trip planners, suggesting that convenience plays a key role in destination choice.

Permit systems influence trip planning.
The rising trend of permit-controlled hikes, such as Zion’s Angels Landing and Glacier’s vehicle reservation system, indicates that travelers are adjusting their planning timelines to secure access to popular sites.

Year-round appeal drives demand.
Yosemite and Acadia stand out for their four-season offerings, with opportunities for winter exploration, summer hiking, and spectacular fall foliage. Their accessibility in multiple seasons likely contributes to their high ranking.

Looking Ahead: Planning Your National Park Adventure

If you’re eyeing one of these top destinations for 2025, now’s the time to start planning. Many parks require advanced reservations for lodging, camping, and key attractions, making early preparation crucial for securing the best experience.

At Chimani, we’re here to simplify your national park adventures with detailed guides, interactive maps, and expert travel insights. Whether you’re drawn to the wilds of Yellowstone, the towering cliffs of Zion, or the rocky shores of Acadia, these parks are sure to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Which national park is next on your list? Let us know in the comments!