One of the best ways to get up close and personal with the natural wonders of the US is to visit one of its many national parks. From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the peaceful shores of the Great Lakes, these parks offer some of the best opportunities in the country to spot wildlife in its natural habitat.

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned wildlife enthusiast, these parks are sure to please. Here are the top US national parks for wildlife viewing, with the best times of year to visit and what species to look out for.

Yellowstone National Park

The incredible landscape of Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the most iconic species in the US, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Summer and fall are the best times of year to visit for wildlife viewing, when animals are more active and easier to spot.

The best way to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife is to hike one of the many trails throughout the park. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the wolves that roam the park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with hundreds of miles of trails that offer stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. This park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, deer, and wild turkeys.

The best time of year to visit for wildlife viewing is spring and fall, when the animals are more active and you’ll have more opportunities to spot them. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’re more likely to see baby animals, such as fawns and cubs.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is a unique and fragile ecosystem that is home to a wide variety of endangered species, such as the Florida panther, manatee, and American crocodile. This park is a great place to spot some of these species, as well as a variety of birds, snakes, and alligators.

The best time to visit the Everglades is during the dry season (December to April), when the animals are more likely to be out and about. To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, consider taking a guided tour or hiring a professional guide.

Olympic National Park

The rugged landscape of Olympic National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, from the majestic Roosevelt elk to bald eagles and mountain goats. The park is a great spot for wildlife viewing year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall when the animals are more active.

To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, consider using wildlife observation tools such as binoculars or spotting scopes. You can also take a guided tour or hire a professional guide to help you find the best places to spot wildlife.

Challenges Facing Wildlife

While the national parks in the US are great places to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, it’s important to remember that these parks are facing a variety of challenges that are putting wildlife at risk. Habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive species, and climate change are all contributing to the decline of many species in these parks.

To help support conservation efforts, consider donating to organizations that are working to protect these parks and the wildlife that inhabit them. You can also volunteer your time and energy to help with habitat restoration projects or to educate others about the importance of conservation.

The US is home to some of the most incredible national parks in the world, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether you’re a novice or experienced wildlife enthusiast, there’s sure to be a park that’s perfect for you.

When planning your visit, keep in mind the best times of year to visit, what species to look out for, and how to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife. And, don’t forget to support conservation efforts by donating to organizations that are working to protect these parks and the wildlife that inhabit them.