Top 10 Sweeping Views of Iconic Parks Around the World
There’s something magical about standing at a high point and taking in a panoramic view of a beautiful park. Whether it’s the jagged peaks surrounding a glacial valley or the glittering city skyline behind a sea of green, these spots give you a whole new perspective on nature—and sometimes, even life. We’ve rounded up 10 of the most jaw-dropping viewpoints across iconic parks worldwide. So, get your camera ready and your hiking boots laced—it’s time to chase those sweeping views.
1. Glacier Point – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Why it’s iconic: Glacier Point offers a bird’s-eye view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra peaks all in one glance. This viewpoint is accessible by car during summer and fall, and by snowshoe or cross-country skiing in the winter.
What makes it special: The view from Glacier Point stretches over nearly the entire Yosemite Valley. Watching the sun rise or set here is pure magic—especially when the light hits Half Dome just right.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and see the granite cliffs bathed in golden light.
2. Trolltunga – Hardangervidda National Park, Norway
Why it’s iconic: Trolltunga (“The Troll’s Tongue”) juts out dramatically above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, offering one of the most exhilarating views in all of Europe.
What makes it special: You’ll need to earn this one—it’s a 10-12 hour hike round trip. But once you’re standing on the cliff, it feels like you’re floating above an endless fjord landscape.
Pro tip: Start your hike early, and be prepared with the right gear and stamina. The trail is long, but the view is 100% worth it.
3. Moraine Lake Rockpile – Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Why it’s iconic: The Rockpile Trail offers the most famous view of Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks—so iconic, it once appeared on Canada’s twenty-dollar bill.
What makes it special: The water is an unreal turquoise, and the surrounding peaks reflect perfectly in the lake. It’s as close to a fairy tale as nature gets.
Pro tip: Go at sunrise when the water is calm, the light is soft, and the crowds are minimal.
4. Taft Point – Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Why it’s iconic: This lesser-known Yosemite viewpoint offers unobstructed views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and the forested cliffs—without the crowds of Glacier Point.
What makes it special: The dramatic fissures in the granite make for unforgettable photo ops, and the sunset views are unreal.
Pro tip: Combine this with a hike to Sentinel Dome for a double-dose of spectacular scenery.
5. Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) – Lysefjord, Norway
Why it’s iconic: Sitting atop a 600-meter (1,982-foot) cliff that drops straight into Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock is one of the most visited natural attractions in Norway.
What makes it special: The wide platform at the top offers unobstructed views of the fjord below—without guardrails, which adds an exhilarating edge.
Pro tip: Sunrise hikes are less crowded and give you the best light for photography.
6. Grand View Point – Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA
Why it’s iconic: As the name suggests, this viewpoint delivers. Grand View Point offers a sweeping panorama of the park’s iconic red rock canyons, spires, and mesas carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
What makes it special: You feel like you’re standing on another planet. The vastness of the landscape is mind-boggling.
Pro tip: Bring binoculars to spot the tiny details hidden in the distance.
7. Mount Washburn – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
Why it’s iconic: The summit of Mount Washburn provides one of the most expansive views in Yellowstone—on a clear day, you can even see the Grand Tetons in the distance.
What makes it special: In addition to sweeping views, you might spot bighorn sheep, wildflowers, and even grizzlies along the trail.
Pro tip: There are two trail options to the summit—choose the Dunraven Pass route for a more scenic ascent.
8. Roy’s Peak – Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand
Why it’s iconic: Roy’s Peak has become one of the most Instagrammed spots in New Zealand, and for good reason. The view over Lake Wanaka, snow-capped mountains, and curving ridgelines is unforgettable.
What makes it special: The photo from the ridgeline looks like you’re walking on the edge of the world.
Pro tip: It’s a steep 16 km (10-mile) round-trip hike—start before sunrise to catch the golden hour at the top.
9. Petrin Hill – Prague’s Petřín Park, Czech Republic
Why it’s iconic: While many of the parks on this list focus on natural wonders, Petrin Hill gives you a sweeping view of the historic city of Prague from a peaceful, tree-lined park.
What makes it special: From the top, you’ll see the Vltava River, Prague Castle, and the city’s red rooftops. It’s especially romantic at dusk.
Pro tip: Take the funicular up and walk back down through the gardens.
10. Table Mountain – Table Mountain National Park, South Africa
Why it’s iconic: Overlooking Cape Town, Table Mountain’s flat summit gives you a 360-degree view that includes the city, the ocean, and even Robben Island in the distance.
What makes it special: You can either hike up or take the rotating cable car, but either way, the views from the top are jaw-dropping.
Pro tip: Visit on a clear day—clouds (locally called the “tablecloth”) can roll in quickly and obscure the view.
FAQs About Viewing Points in Iconic Parks
Q: Are these viewpoints accessible year-round?
Not always. Some viewpoints, like Glacier Point and Trolltunga, are seasonal due to snow or weather conditions. Always check ahead before you go.
Q: Do I need to hike to get to these spots?
Some spots are drive-up friendly (like Grand View Point or Glacier Point), while others, like Roy’s Peak and Trolltunga, require serious hiking. Plan according to your fitness level.
Q: Is it safe to visit these locations alone?
While many of these spots are safe, remote trails (like Mount Washburn or Preikestolen) are better explored with a companion or group, especially if you’re not an experienced hiker.
Q: What time of day is best for visiting?
Sunrise and sunset often provide the best lighting—and fewer crowds. Midday light can be harsh and not ideal for photos.
Q: Are drones allowed at these parks?
It depends. Many national parks (especially in the U.S.) prohibit drone use. Always check park regulations before flying a drone.
Final Thoughts: Nature’s Grand Stage Awaits
The beauty of iconic parks isn’t just in the trails or the forests—it’s in those grand, sweeping views that leave you speechless. Whether you’re staring down the vast canyons of Utah or standing on a Norwegian cliffside above a glassy fjord, each of these places offers a window into something far bigger than ourselves.
So next time you’re planning a trip, consider going beyond the usual spots and aiming high—literally. These viewpoints remind us why we travel in the first place: to feel awe, to connect with nature, and to take in sights that leave a lasting imprint on our souls.
Which view are you dreaming of right now? Let us know, and we’ll help you plan the perfect adventure. 🌍📸🌲