Some of the world’s most stunning and adorable scenery can be found in the national parks. All Americans value these areas, which span tropical oases, boundless desert vistas, glaciated mountain peaks, lush rain forests, and more.
Though selecting the best national parks is never simple, we have narrowed down the best options through our years of experience. The recreational options and general scenery were taken into consideration when selecting these top national parks.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Unbelievably, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is both the best and most popular national park in the United States. The region is the ideal place to travel, especially if you enjoy hiking.
If that describes you, be sure to walk through the park on a section of the renowned Appalachian Trail. Additionally, they have the stunning Alum Cave Trail, which is definitely worth a stroll along. The location is gorgeous as a whole.
If trekking isn’t your thing, explore the park on your own terms while taking in the sights and breathtaking views. It’s quite useful, especially if you’re pressed for time.
2. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is one of the most well-known national parks in California. Yosemite, a 1,200-square-mile national park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is well-known for its waterfalls and enormous sequoia trees. Although a protected area since 1864, this lovely national park didn’t receive its status as a national park until 1890.
The majority of visitors travel to Yosemite to hike on some of the 750 miles of trails found there. Planning ahead is essential because these routes range from being really simple to being more difficult. You should arm yourself against the terrain’s mountains, valleys, and other obstacles.
For those who prefer to spend the night, the park has a large number of lodges and campsites. Yosemite Village has dining establishments that are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, yet
3. Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is one of those National Parks that has become indelibly etched in our memory of America, and everyone has heard of it.
One of the greatest canyons in the world is found within the Grand Canyon. Located in the picturesque American West, you can explore the information centers to learn more about Native American civilizations while taking in the stunning views of the red rock bands surrounding the canyon.
Especially if you’re already in Las Vegas or nearby in locations like Monument Valley, it’s one of the best national parks in the USA to visit.
4. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is tucked away on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. This park’s diverse ecosystems exhibit what people appreciate about the Pacific Northwest. The various regions of the park could be explored for at least a week.
There are many park entrances on the peninsula, but some of the more well-liked destinations are Rialto Beach, Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge, and the Hoh Rainforest. Except for mountain summits, the hiking is rather simple throughout the park.
The famous Tree of Life on the coast, snow-capped mountains in Hurricane Ridge, a stunning glacier lake, and several waterfalls can all be found in the park.
5. Yellowstone National Park
One of the most well-known parks in the world is Yellowstone National Park because of its vibrant landforms and geothermal activity.
Yellowstone, which was built on top of a volcano, is home to some amazing natural attractions. For instance, it is home to bears, elk, antelope, bison, and places like Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Now, if you’re patient enough, you can easily identify them. Just remember to show all animals respect and avoid getting too close to them.
If you’re traveling from Chicago to LA or through Wyoming, it’s simple to stop by one of the best national parks in the USA.
6. Mammoth Cave National Park
The world’s longest cave system is an incredible place to explore, and it’s in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
You see, the tunnels and paths in Mammoth Cave National Park total more than 400 miles (644 km). In addition, there are a ton more that have not yet been discovered. All of this means that you will have a ton to see on a trip, deep inside one of the best national parks in the USA.
Pack an additional layer of clothing because the temperature underground drops dramatically, making you feel chilly.
Once you arrive, make sure to check out Gothic Avenue, which has a ceiling covered in 19th-century signatures, and Frozen Niagara, which features flowstone formations that resemble waterfalls.
7. Everglades National Park
The waters of Everglades National Park are obstructed by mangroves and cypress trees. The only site on Earth where the American alligator and the American crocodile cohabit is this enormous wetland habitat. Follow boardwalk pathways or kayak through these untamed, aquatic canals while keeping a look out for wildlife. The Nine Mile Pond kayaking route is well-liked because it passes marshes and places you in a great area for bird watching.
8. Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park is frequently disregarded despite the fact that its five islands, arranged like an emerald necklace in the Pacific, are an adventurer’s paradise. Yosemite and Joshua Tree National Parks cast a larger shadow over it. Snorkelers can find undulating kelp forests in the waters near Santa Barbara and Anacapa, and skilled surfers can catch incredible waves off Santa Cruz. Tours for whale-watching are also very popular.
9. Acadia National Park
The North Woods at Acadia National Park slope down toward the frigid Atlantic. Stay at Bar Harbor, a city that developed from a colonial fishing village to a posh resort in the nineteenth century. Walk or drive around Cadillac Mountain, then descend to the shore for birds and dashing sea vistas. Thunder Hole, where waves roll and crash into the inlet, generating a “thunderous” clamor, is impossible to miss. Make careful to pack clothing because the Northeastern seaside may be cool even in the height of summer.