For August, I recommend going off the beaten path to Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Basin, Isle Royale, Kings Canyon or Voyageurs. While some more famous parks are crowded and hot, a little effort visiting any of these rewards you with exceptional natural beauty.

The popular rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison sits around 8,000 feet, so summer is peak season with August a little cooler than July. Although the 2025 South Rim Fire closed campgrounds and washed out some roads and trails, most visitors only drive along the scenic rim and walk out to the overlooks which remain open. Mid-day can get hot, so plan a relatively short stay on either a clear morning or afternoon to take some great photos.

Great Basin is another very high altitude park where the hiking is good in August up where the bristlecone pines are. While the caves are at lower elevations, they never get hot. And August is less crowded than July. Make reservations and enjoy.

Isle Royale is best in August. It’s warm enough to spend time out hiking, camping or on the water. The bugs aren’t as bad as June and July, and everything is fully open. You just need to get tickets and make reservations by January, which is challenging.

Kings Canyon in August has great weather for hiking. So drive the scenic byway to Roads End, and let your feet take you away into the wilderness. Smart park travelers make reservations in advance and hit the busiest sights first thing in the morning.

Voyageurs has fewer bugs in August than June/July and the water is warmer. And you’re going to want to get out on the water, maybe canoe camping on an island. Again, early planning and reservations are essential.

For earlier months in this series, click January, February, March, April, May, June and July.