The Best U.S. National Parks for Solo Travelers
Photo by Maximille Gonzales @maxoutthere
There’s something uniquely freeing about solo travel—no compromises, no schedules but your own, and the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in nature. And what better way to experience that than exploring the incredible National Parks of the United States? Whether you’re an experienced solo trekker or just dipping your toes into the solo travel lifestyle, choosing the right park can make all the difference in your adventure.
We’ve put together a guide to the best National Parks in the U.S. for solo travelers, considering key factors like affordability, accessibility, variety of trail experiences, safety, and opportunities to connect with other adventurers like yourself! Don’t forget your boots, water and sun protection when you take off for the trailhead!
Photo by Maximille Gonzales (@maxoutthere)
1. Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite is a solo traveler’s dream with its well-maintained shuttle system, making transportation easy without a car. The park offers a variety of accommodations, from campsites to budget-friendly hostels, ensuring opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Its world-famous hiking trails range from leisurely walks to challenging climbs, and the park’s popularity ensures plenty of foot traffic, adding to overall safety.
Popular Trails:
Mist Trail (7 miles round trip, moderate, 2,200 ft elevation gain) – Stunning waterfalls and stone staircases.
Half Dome (16 miles round trip, strenuous, 4,800 ft elevation gain) – Iconic summit climb via cables (permit required).
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Join a ranger-led stargazing tour in Tuolumne Meadows.
Explore Glacier Point for breathtaking panoramic views.
Photo by Jonathan Otero (@Noj_otero)
2. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Yellowstone’s well-developed infrastructure makes it perfect for solo travelers, with guided tours, shuttle services, and friendly campgrounds that encourage socializing. The park’s high volume of visitors adds an extra layer of security for those hiking alone. Wildlife spotting is a major highlight, with Lamar Valley offering some of the best opportunities to see bison, elk, and bears.
Popular Trails:
Fairy Falls Trail (5.4 miles round trip, easy, 200 ft elevation gain) – Leads to a picturesque waterfall and overlooks Grand Prismatic Spring.
Mount Washburn (6 miles round trip, moderate, 1,400 ft elevation gain) – Panoramic views and frequent wildlife sightings.
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Watch Old Faithful erupt without group schedules.
Relax in the Boiling River Hot Springs, a great social spot.
Photo by Maximille Gonzales (@maxoutthere)
3. Zion National Park (Utah)
With its free shuttle system, highly trafficked trails, and a vibrant hiking community, Zion is one of the best parks for solo adventurers. Well-marked trails ensure safety, and popular hikes like Angels Landing create opportunities to meet fellow hikers along the way. The stunning desert landscape offers both casual walks and technical climbs.
Popular Trails:
Angels Landing (5.4 miles round trip, strenuous, 1,500 ft elevation gain) – Thrilling chains section with sweeping canyon views (permit required).
The Narrows (varies, moderate to strenuous, water hike) – Hike through a slot canyon with towering walls.
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Join a canyoneering or rock-climbing group.
Take a scenic drive through Zion Canyon.
Photo by Maximille Gonzales (@maxoutthere)
4. The Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
A solo trip to the Grand Canyon is a bucket-list experience, thanks to its extensive trail system, well-placed lodges, and visitor infrastructure. The South Rim is particularly ideal for solo adventurers, with easy access to hiking trails, shuttle services, and a steady stream of fellow travelers, ensuring a sense of safety and community.
Popular Trails:
Bright Angel Trail (12 miles round trip, strenuous, 4,380 ft elevation loss/gain) – Iconic switchbacks leading deep into the canyon.
South Kaibab Trail (6 miles round trip, strenuous, 3,000 ft elevation loss/gain) – Epic sunrise views at Ooh Aah Point.
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Hike along the Rim Trail for breathtaking sunset views.
Join a guided rafting trip down the Colorado River.
Helicopter ride with Maveric Helicopters for incredible views you can’t see any other way.
Sunset at Yavapai Point.
Photo by Chelsea Pelsone (@somewhere_else_with_chels)
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Acadia’s compact size makes it easy to explore in just a few days, and its proximity to Bar Harbor offers plenty of solo-friendly accommodations and cafes. The park’s well-marked trails are diverse, ranging from coastal walks to summit scrambles, ensuring a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Popular Trails:
Jordan Pond Path (3.3 miles loop, easy, minimal elevation gain) – Scenic lake views with a rocky shoreline.
Precipice Trail (2.1 miles round trip, strenuous, 1,000 ft elevation gain) – A thrilling ladder hike with dramatic cliffside views.
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Cycle the historic Carriage Roads.
Kayak along the rugged Maine coastline.
Photo by Maximille Gonzales (@maxoutthere)
6. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
Easily accessible from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah is perfect for a solo weekend escape. Skyline Drive offers some of the most beautiful scenic overlooks in the country, while well-traveled hiking trails make it easy to meet fellow nature lovers. The park’s various cabins and campgrounds foster a friendly community atmosphere.
Popular Trails:
Old Rag Mountain (9.4 miles loop, strenuous, 2,600 ft elevation gain) – Iconic rock scramble with breathtaking summit views.
Dark Hollow Falls Trail (1.4 miles round trip, moderate, 440 ft elevation loss/gain) – A short but rewarding waterfall hike.
Solo-Friendly Activities:
Join a ranger-led wildlife program.
Hike sections of the Appalachian Trail within the park.
Tips for Solo Travelers in National Parks
Utilize Shuttle Systems: Parks like Zion and Yosemite have excellent shuttle services that make it easy to navigate without a car and provide opportunities to meet other visitors that could be traveling solo as well.
Stay in Hiker Hostels: Yellowstone and Grand Canyon have affordable hostels and lodges that attract other solo adventurers, creating a built-in community to explore the park together.
Join Ranger-Led Hikes: Many parks offer guided hikes where solo travelers can explore with a group while learning from experts.
Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): Essential for remote parks like Yellowstone, where cell service is spotty.
Pick High-Traffic Trails for Safety: Trails like Angels Landing in Zion or the Mist Trail in Yosemite are well-traveled, making them safer for solo hikers.
Explore at Sunrise or Sunset: Acadia’s Cadillac Mountain offers one of the earliest sunrises in the U.S., a peaceful and breathtaking experience.
Chat with Park Rangers: They know the safest solo routes and can offer insider recommendations based on your skill level and interests.
Are you ready to experience the US National Parks solo?
Traveling solo in National Parks is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for high-adrenaline hikes, serene landscapes, or social connections, these parks offer the perfect blend of adventure and safety. Which park is calling your name? Let us know in the comments, on Instagram (@GlobetrottersPodcast), or send us an email (Hello@gtspodcast.com)!
For more tips on all things travel, check out our podcast episodes to get inspired to get out and explore. Until next time!
