May is one of the best months to visit national parks because of pleasant temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds before the summer rush. Here are some of the best national parks to visit in May.
10 Best National Parks to Visit in May
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
- Why May? Wildlife is active, waterfalls are full, and crowds are smaller than in summer.
- Activities: Wildlife watching (bears, wolves, bison), geysers, and scenic drives.
- Weather: 30s-60s°F, still chilly at night, some roads may be closed.
2. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
- Why May? Spring brings wildflowers, active wildlife, and snow-capped peaks.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic photography.
- Weather: 30s-60s°F, snow may still be present at higher elevations.
3. Yosemite National Park (California)
- Why May? Waterfalls are at their peak, and the crowds are not as bad as summer.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, and scenic drives.
- Weather: 40s-70s°F, some high-elevation trails may still have snow.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
- Why May? Warm but not too hot, perfect for hiking iconic trails like Angels Landing.
- Activities: Hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.
- Weather: 50s-80s°F.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina)
- Why May? Lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
- Weather: 50s-70s°F.
6. Olympic National Park (Washington)
- Why May? Mild weather, snow still on mountains, and fewer visitors before summer.
- Activities: Hiking, rainforest exploration, and coastal walks.
- Weather: 40s-60s°F, rain possible.
7. Acadia National Park (Maine)
- Why May? Spring flowers bloom, wildlife is active, and temperatures are comfortable.
- Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and coastal views.
- Weather: 40s-60s°F, chilly in the mornings.
8. Glacier National Park (Montana)
- Why May? Less crowded, wildlife is active, and parts of Going-to-the-Sun Road start opening.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, and lake exploration.
- Weather: 30s-60s°F, some roads may still be closed due to snow.
9. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
- Why May? Skyline Drive is lush and green, with spring wildflowers in bloom.
- Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife watching.
- Weather: 50s-70s°F.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Why May? Spring wildlife sightings, melting snow, and blooming wildflowers.
- Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife watching.
- Weather: 30s-60s°F, with snow at higher elevations.
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