June is a fantastic time to visit the US National Parks with proper planning. You’ll find a variety of landscapes to explore such as the vistas of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, the peaceful forests of Olympic and Sequoia National Parks or the less crowded expanses of Wrangell St. Elias. Each park has its special attractions and ideal times to visit that enhance your overall travel adventure.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Get your hiking boots ready for a visit to the Rocky Mountain National Park in June. This place serves up warm days, contrasted by cooler nights that are perfect for campfire stories. If you find yourself on the west side at Grand Lake, pack an extra rain jacket, as this area is known for unexpected afternoon showers and some brisk gusts of wind.
You’ve got plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from leisurely walks to more intense treks. A standout experience is the drive along Trail Ridge Road, renowned for being the highest paved road in any national park across the States, and it’s totally worth the hype. Imagine cruising above the treeline with panoramic views for miles.
2 & 3. Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks
In the heart of California you’ll discover two neighboring parks: Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. If you’re a nature enthusiast who loves giant trees and breathtaking scenery these are the perfect spots to visit in June. The weather is ideal for hiking during this time along the trails in Sequoia National Park that take you under the magnificent canopies of some of the worlds largest trees.
Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots for exploring Kings Canyon where you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes from meadows to rugged canyons. Even if your visit is short you can still marvel at the beauty of the sequoias. Make your way to Tokopah Falls, a must see highlight. As you traverse these trails you’ll witness the blend of two distinct ecosystems – from lush foothills to enchanting alpine environments.
The most popular time to visit these parks is in summer making June an ideal opportunity to enjoy them before the crowds arrive. While daytime temperatures are pleasant and not scorching hot it’s wise to bring a layer for cooler evenings after sunset.
4. Yosemite National Park
Visiting Yosemite National Park in June means you’re setting foot in one of the most revered natural landscapes at a time when the weather strikes a perfect balance between warmth and cool freshness. During the day, temperatures in the valley reach around 82°F while at night they drop to 50°F making hikes through Yosemite’s meadows and valleys quite comfortable.
At higher altitudes however like Tuolumne Meadows at 8,000 feet conditions are cooler with average highs of 65°F and lows around 33°F.
Picture yourself waking up under the gentle morning light to explore Yosemites towering granite cliffs and majestic waterfalls. With June’s longer days you’ll have ample time to explore trails or catch sight of the iconic Half Dome that dominates the scenery.
The park tends to be less crowded before July arrives offering a more serene experience as you wander among giant sequoias or relax by the Merced River.
5. Acadia National Park
In June, Acadia National Park welcomes you with a mix of coastal views, easy hiking trails and invigorating ocean breezes. Your morning could begin with the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain—known for being the first place to see daylight in the U.S. At certain times of the year.
Your adventures may include a drive along the 27 mile Park Loop Road, which leads to many of the parks top attractions. Picture yourself meandering through forests along dramatic cliffs and beside crashing waves from the comfort of your car—although you might find it hard to resist stopping frequently to admire the stunning scenery.
Opting for a ferry ride to the peaceful Isle au Haut offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure for those seeking an intimate connection with nature. Half of this island falls within the park’s boundaries providing an opportunity for a day of exploration in harmony with the environment.
To complete your experience, nearby Bar Harbor offers a quaint retreat with its variety of accommodations, dining options and shops that complement your time in Acadia perfectly.
6. Grand Canyon National Park
Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park in June is definitely a decision you won’t regret. This expansive park in Arizona showcases some of the most breathtaking views in the United States. During June you can expect temperatures with highs ranging from 80°F to 90°F on the South Rim and nighttime lows between 50°F and 60°F. If you venture to the North Rim temperatures are slightly cooler with highs between 70°F and 80°F and nighttime lows around 40°F to 50°F.
June offers a balance of sunny weather and pleasant temperatures before the summer crowds peak in July. This means you can enjoy the parks scenery and hiking trails without too many people around. Picture yourself standing at the edge of the canyon taking in views with the Colorado River winding below.
Don’t miss out on catching a sunrise at around 5;40 am or witnessing a colorful sunset painting shades of orange and pink at approximately 9;10 pm. Keep in mind that the North Rim tends to be less crowded than the South Rim providing a more peaceful experience for those seeking an escape rom bustling crowds.
7. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Nestled in the heart of California is Lassen Volcanic National Park, a gem that truly shines in June with its pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy month of July. During your visit to this park you can expect daytime temperatures around 72°F, nights hovering at approximately 36°F and the opportunity to see unique pink flowers like the Lassen Paintbrush without any rainy interruptions.
This is the time to discover the parks famous hydrothermal attractions from steaming fumaroles to bubbling mud pots. Imagine yourself hiking along the Bumpass Hell Trail where you can witness steam rising from the ground and bubbling activity. Don’t forget to take a drive through the parks varied landscapes that range from lush forests to rugged volcanic terrains.
Consider dedicating a day for exploring picturesque waterfalls and serene lakes such as the peaceful Manzanita Lake which is ideal for kayaking or fishing. For those seeking some excitement consider tackling the ascent of Lassen Peak or venturing into the Subway Lava Tube. And as evening approaches don’t miss out on stargazing, under the parks skies—it’s a magical way to end your adventurous June escape.
8. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is a can’t-miss destination, especially in June when the weather is just right – not too hot, not too cold. You’ll want to stroll down the Little Mo Nature Trail for an easy walk with a big payoff: gorgeous views of the Badlands that shift from sunrise to sunset. You’ll cover anywhere from 0.7 to 1.4 miles depending on your chosen path, with about 30 to 60 minutes of hiking time.
If you’re coming from afar, flying into Bismarck Airport will put you roughly two and a half hours away from this nature gem. Prepare for a Wild West backdrop dotted with bison and prairie dogs as you explore the park’s diverse landscape. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, the Upper Paddock Creek Trail offers a taste of the wilderness in the park’s South Unit, guiding you along Paddock Creek.
9. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Imagine roaming the tallest dunes in North America, where you’re surrounded by a mix of grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. That’s what you get at Great Sand Dunes National Park, a place without the constraints of timed entries or reservations.
Your trip won’t hit a snag when it comes to visiting hours; the park welcomes visitors 24/7 throughout the year. If you’re an astronomy buff, plan your visit on a night with no moon to marvel at the star-filled sky in this celebrated International Dark Sky Park.
Thinking about the logistics? The park charges an entrance fee of $25 per vehicle. But here’s a tip: if you’ve got a string of park visits lined up for the year, consider grabbing the America the Beautiful Pass. With this pass, you’re all set to explore all the National Parks without fretting over additional entrance fees.
Weather-wise, June’s mild temps let you enjoy the park’s diverse landscape comfortably. Just remember that while the days can be warm, the sand keeps its cool in the early mornings and evenings, making for ideal dune exploration.
10. Olympic National Park
Fancy a dip into diverse ecosystems? Olympic National Park is your go-to in June. This area transforms with warmer weather and longer days, holding the title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. Established on June 29, 1938, Olympic National Park isn’t just any ordinary park. Imagine the greenest greens you’ve seen, from emerald hues to deep pine shades.
Your cameras should be ready for prime vistas with the park’s variety of landscapes, home to ancient forests and a cluster of Pacific beaches. If you’re game for a day full of exploring, the park’s Shi-Shi Beach and Cape Flattery offer rugged coastal views unlike any other. Tuck a candlelit dinner into your schedule because with sunsets not bidding goodbye till around 9:10 pm, your evenings just got extended.
Think you’re an early bird? Beat the crowds and head up the trails, where peace meets you head-on. Visitor numbers peak from 10 am to 5 pm, but you can sidestep the masses by going early or later in the day, especially past 5 pm or on holidays. With over 2.9 million people visiting in 2023, you’ll want to plan smartly to enjoy the serenity.
11. New River Gorge National Park
Heading to New River Gorge National Park in June, you’re in for a treat with its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Known for the New River Gorge Bridge, this park strikes a balance between exciting recreation and peaceful nature experiences.
With over 70,000 acres, there’s a lot of ground to cover. If climbing is your thing, you’ll find some of the best rock climbing in the country. The raging waters of the New River provide some of the finest whitewater rafting opportunities. Whether you’re after a thrill or a leisurely float, the park caters to all skill levels.
12. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park
Nestled in the remote corners of Alaska, Wrangell – St. Elias National Park offers you a vast wilderness to explore. Think of it as your getaway into a landscape where rivers run fiercely and glaciers carve through the earth. With its 13.2 million acres, you’re stepping into a region as large as some small countries.
June’s your prime time for visiting. Days stretch out long enough to make even insomniacs happy, with the sun barely dipping below the horizon. The weather’s mostly on your side too, with daytime temps hovering around a comfy 65°F – perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
When you step into Wrangell – St. Elias, you walk through diverse terrain, from forested valleys to towering peaks like Mt. St. Elias itself, standing proud at over 18,000 feet. Adventure’s around every corner here. You can trek to the Kennicott Ghost Town for a touch of history or fly over glaciers to see the park from a bird’s eye view. If you’re lucky, wildlife sightings might include anything from eagles to moose.
13. Yellowstone National Park
In June a trip to Yellowstone National Park can be truly unforgettable. The park comes alive with bison and elk babies and a vibrant display of wildflowers in bloom.
The daytime weather is delightful, averaging around 66°F for exploring comfortably. Evenings tend to be cooler with a temperature of around 38°F so it’s wise to pack layers for varying conditions. While June sees above average rainfall at 2 inches over eight days don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits; the parks beauty shines through.
June also offers a less crowded experience at Yellowstone compared to July making it an ideal time for those seeking some peace and quiet. However certain areas may still see their share of visitors so planning ahead can help you maximize your visit. With its diverse wildlife, iconic geothermal features like Old Faithful and breathtaking geysers scattered throughout the park, a June visit to Yellowstone is sure to be a standout, on your National Parks itinerary.
14. Grand Teton National Park
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park gifts you with a unique experience amid stunning mountain landscapes in June. The park offers serene drives with lookouts where the majestic Tetons loom over you. With longer daylight hours, sunrise around 5:40 am, and sunset close to 9:10 pm, you have ample time to explore.
Expect crisp mornings as temperatures can hover around 38°F, warming up to an average high of 66°F. Although rain is more common with nearly 2 inches expected over the month, it often quickly passes, leaving fresh conditions for you to sightsee or hike.
Nature is in full bloom; animal sightings are frequent as new life emerges. Keep an eye out for baby animals, from bison to bears, as they are often spotted this time of the year. That being said, the park is also bustling with visitors, so plan to confront crowds, especially on popular trails. Parking midday might be challenging, and booking accommodation well in advance is advisable.
15. Indiana Dunes National Park
Located along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is your go-to destination in June when you want a mix of beach and nature experiences. Covering over 15,000 acres, this park is as rich in biodiversity as it is in recreational opportunities.
June’s mild temperatures, averaging in the 60s, make hiking the Dune Succession Trail, which takes you on a scenic journey across a boardwalk and over the magnificent dunes to the shore, especially comfortable. Be ready to conquer the 270 steps—that’s your unofficial park initiation.
Don’t be surprised to find more than just sand beneath your feet; the park’s diverse ecosystems of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests are home to an astonishing array of wildlife. June also gives you longer daylight hours to play with, so you can enjoy the park’s 15 miles of beaches or the beautiful wildflowers blooming in the park’s various habitats.
