10 Best (and 5 Worst) US National Parks for Non-Hikers: Where to Go (and What to Skip!) in 2025

Think you need to be a hardcore hiker to experience America’s national parks? Think again! While some parks are famous for their challenging trails, many of our country’s natural wonders are perfectly accessible to those who prefer to take in the scenery without breaking a sweat.

From the comfort of your car seat to easy-access viewpoints just steps from the parking lot, there’s a whole world of national park experiences waiting for non-hikers.

Let’s see which parks roll out the red carpet for leisure travelers and which ones might be better left to the trail warriors.

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10 Best (and 5 Worst) US National Parks for Non-Hikers

10 Best US National Parks for Non-Hikers

These parks shine for non-hikers with their mix of scenic drives, accessible paths, and stunning natural features you can enjoy without long walks. They’re perfect for anyone wanting to experience some of America’s best views without tackling tough trails. 

1. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

You’ll love the laid-back vibe of Capitol Reef! The historic Fruita orchards are perfect for a relaxed afternoon – you can pick fresh fruit right off the trees when they’re in season.  

The 8-mile Scenic Drive is great for non-hikers, letting you see all those amazing red rock formations from your car.  

Plus, there’s plenty to do without breaking a sweat, from checking out old pioneer buildings to grabbing fresh-baked pies at the historic Gifford Homestead. 

➡️ Get my Capitol Reef National Park Itinerary 

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2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim is absolutely perfect for non-hikers. You can hop on and off the free shuttle buses, checking out various breathtaking viewpoints of the canyon. The paved Rim Trail has plenty of benches for resting, allowing you to go as far or as little as you want while enjoying spectacular views whether you walk 100 feet or 10 miles.  

You can watch the sunset from Mather Point, just steps from the parking area, providing a stunning end to your day. The Desert View Watchtower offers easily accessible panoramic views, and you can enjoy a refreshing ice cream at the historic El Tovar Hotel.  

For a unique perspective, consider booking a mule ride along the rim, which lets you take in the stunning scenery without the physical exertion of hiking. 

➡️ Get my Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Itinerary 
➡️ Get my Grand Canyon National Park North Rim Itinerary 

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3. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park offers loads of activities for non-hikers, starting with the scenic Park Loop Road, which provides stunning views of the park’s diverse landscapes. A stop at Thunder Hole allows you to witness the powerful force of the ocean as waves crash against the rocks.  

The flat Jordan Pond path is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering beautiful views of the pond and surrounding mountains.  

Watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, which is accessible by car, is a must-do experience.  

For a touch of nostalgia, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, offering a unique and relaxing way to see Acadia’s beauty. 

➡️ Get my Acadia National Park Itinerary 

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4.  Yellowstone National Park 

Yellowstone National Park is a paradise for non-hikers, offering numerous ways to experience its wonders without hitting the trails. You can watch Old Faithful erupt from paved paths and benches, providing a front-row seat to one of nature’s most reliable spectacles.  

Short walks to main geyser basins offer additional opportunities to explore without exerting too much effort. The park’s colorful hot springs are easily accessible via wooden boardwalks, allowing you to marvel at their vibrant hues up close.  

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bison and elk right from their car, making for an exciting and comfortable drive.   

For those interested in learning more about the park, ranger-led talks at visitor centers provide fascinating insights into Yellowstone’s unique features. 

➡️ Get my Yellowstone National Park Itinerary 

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5.  Yosemite National Park, California

Don’t let Yosemite’s reputation for hiking trails fool you! The valley floor is super accessible, with free shuttle buses that take you to all the best viewpoints.  

You can rent bikes and cruise around the valley, or join a tour that shows you El Capitan and Half Dome without breaking a sweat.  

The views are just as stunning from the road as they are from the trails! Classic views like Glacier Point and Tunnel require no hiking at all. 

➡️ Read my Yosemite National Park Guides 

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6. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

This park’s got two sections that are perfect for car tours. The Cactus Forest Loop Drive shows off those iconic saguaro cacti, and you barely have to leave your vehicle!

For a bit more action without hardcore hiking, take a spin on the park’s bike trails or check out the short interpretive paths that tell you all about desert life. 

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7. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Just 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a non-hiker’s dream, easily accessible by ferry. Upon arrival, you can tour the massive Fort Jefferson, wandering through its halls and along its walls for a fascinating glimpse into the past.  

The dock is a great spot to watch sea turtles, and the pristine beaches provide a perfect place to relax and unwind. For those interested in underwater adventures, the crystal-clear waters around the fort are perfect for snorkeling—just step right in from the beach to reveal a vibrant marine world without the need for strenuous activity. 

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8.  Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Talk about easy access to amazing views! Crater Lake’s Rim Drive is 33 miles of pure scenic goodness, with plenty of pullouts where you can snap incredible photos. The Sinnott Memorial Overlook is just steps from your car and gives you million-dollar views of that stunning blue water.  

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9.  Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

This is where you can see some of the steepest cliffs in North America without hiking a mile! The rim drives take you right to the edge (safely!), and the overlooks are just short walks from parking areas. It’s also an amazing spot for watching birds soar through the canyon – bring your binoculars!  

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10. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for non-hikers. You can stroll along the Anhinga Trail boardwalk, which provides excellent opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitat.  

An airboat tour is a thrilling way to spot alligators and explore the park’s waterways.  

From your car, you can watch wading birds in their serene environment, and tram tours at Shark Valley offer guided experiences through the park’s unique landscape.  

The wheelchair-friendly paths at Royal Palm make it easy for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the Everglades. 

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5 Worst US National Parks for Non-Hikers

These parks focus mainly on wilderness experiences and often lack accessible infrastructure. Most of the stunning views require some hiking, which can be challenging for those looking to avoid strenuous activity. Limited shuttle services or paved paths mean that getting around can be difficult, and there are few amenities available for those with mobility needs. 

 1.  Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend is stunning, but it’s not super friendly for non-hikers. The park is massive (800,000+ acres!), and while you can drive through parts of it, the most beautiful spots need some legwork to reach.  

You can take a boat trip through the canyons and the roads will take you to a few overlooks. But much of the magic – like Santa Elena Canyon and the Window View – requires hitting the trails. The desert heat makes even short walks challenging, especially in summer. 

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 2. Redwood National & State Parks, California

While you can see some big trees from your car, the most impressive groves of these giants need some walking to reach.

The Lady Bird Johnson Grove is one of the easier trails, but to really immerse yourself by walking among these ancient trees, you’ve got to go deeper into the forest. The scenic drives are nice, but they only show you a small part of what makes this place special.

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3. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

The high altitude here (starting at 7,860 feet!) makes even short walks feel like workouts. Trail Ridge Road offers some fantastic drive-by views, but the alpine meadows, waterfalls, and best wildlife-watching spots? They’re all out there on the trails. 

 Even the easier spots can leave you breathless – literally – thanks to the thin mountain air. If you’re not up for hiking at altitude, you might find yourself missing out on the park’s best features. 

➡️ Read my Rocky Mountain National Park Guides 

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4.  Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park poses significant challenges for non-hikers due to its remote and rugged nature. There are no roads on the island, meaning access is limited to boat or seaplane, which can be a barrier for some visitors.  

The main attractions within the park require long hikes to reach, making it difficult for those who prefer not to hike. Wheelchair-friendly areas are limited, and most amenities necessitate walking on rough terrain. 

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5. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park is one of the most inaccessible parks for non-hikers. The park has no roads, facilities, or marked trails, and it requires bush planes to access, making it a challenging destination.  

There are no visitor centers within the park, and it offers almost zero accessible infrastructure. The best views and experiences in this park demand serious backcountry skills, which are not suitable for non-hikers or those seeking a more relaxed visit. 

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Make the Most of Your National Park Adventure

There’s no “right way” to experience America’s natural treasures. While hiking might be popular, it’s just one of many paths to connecting with these incredible landscapes.  

Whether you’re dealing with mobility issues, traveling with young children, or simply prefer a more relaxed approach to nature appreciation, there’s no shame in being a non-hiker at our national parks. The key is choosing the right destination that matches your comfort level and interests. 

With proper research and realistic expectations, non-hikers can have just as meaningful and memorable experiences as those who trek the backcountry trails. After all, the real magic of national parks isn’t in how many miles you walk – it’s in the moments of wonder they inspire. 

So, which of these national parks look good to you?  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).  

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10 Best (and 5 Worst) US National Parks for Non-Hikers

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