Glacier is "far and away the best national park in the country," says one GORP reader, and many others agree. How does a national park snag the #1 ranking? Spectacular scenery is just the beginning. Add in great lodges and services, as well as tons of wildlife; even a low score on crowds couldn't keep this Montana park from claiming the top spot. When's the best time to go? September, says one reader, when there are "fewer people and 'squitos, but lots of wildlife activity."

2. Big Bend, Texas
Score: 4.19

High marks for scenery and the visitor center catapulted west Texas' Big Bend to become Glacier's closest challenger. And what scenery it is. Here on the Rio Grande, desert meets mountains and north meets south. You won't be lacking for culture or things to do. One reader recommends hiking to the South Rim. Just beware that it's closed part of the year for falcon nesting.

3. Bryce Canyon, Utah
Score: 4.17

The towering rock formations and impossibly thin hoodoos of Bryce Canyon made it a shoo-in for #3. "The most beautiful backpacking scenery I have ever experienced," says one reader whose every photograph turned out postcard-worthy. The superlatives go on and on: "One of the most awesome sites I have ever seen in my life. Amazing." Just don't make the mistake of one reader who wished he had allowed more time there.

4. (tie) Yellowstone, Wyoming
Score: 4.13

The famous crowds almost tossed Yellowstone out of the top five, with frustrated visitors rating them a lowly 2.88. But great scenery and lodging kept this national park grandaddy in contention with the nation's best. How do you beat the crowds? One reader recommends visiting geyser basins early in the morning. Good idea—that's also a great time to see wildlife.