Must-See National Parks in the USA: A Guide to America’s Best Natural Wonders
The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. With over 400 national parks spanning across deserts, mountains, forests, and coastlines, there’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature, the national parks of the USA offer endless opportunities for adventure.
In this guide, we’re going to explore some of the absolute must-see national parks across the country. From the iconic Grand Canyon to the lesser-known treasures like Acadia, each park is a unique experience waiting to be discovered. So grab your hiking boots, pack your camera, and let’s dive into America’s most stunning national parks!
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – heading our list of National Parks
Let’s kick off our list of National Parks with the Grand Canyon—arguably the most famous of all national parks in the United States, and for good reason. When people talk about jaw-dropping landscapes, this one tops the list. Stretching 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that will leave you speechless.
What to Do:
- Hiking: The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and offers several iconic hikes, like the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail, where you can venture down into the canyon itself. For those with more experience (and stamina), try hiking to the bottom and back, or even spend a night at Phantom Ranch.
- Scenic Drives: If you’d rather take in the views without breaking a sweat, there are plenty of scenic drives, like the Desert View Drive, offering multiple viewpoints of the canyon. Stop at the Watchtower for a panoramic view that’s hard to beat.
- Sunrise and Sunset: No visit is complete without catching either the sunrise or sunset over the canyon. Hopi Point is a popular spot, but almost any viewpoint along the South Rim will give you that perfect photo.
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho – the mother of all national parks
Generally considered to be the very first national park in the world, Yellowstone holds a special place in America’s heart—and it’s easy to see why. Spanning over 2.2 million acres, Yellowstone is a land of geothermal wonders, towering waterfalls, deep forests, and one of the most active wildlife ecosystems in North America.
What to Do:
- Old Faithful: No trip to Yellowstone is complete without witnessing the famous Old Faithful geyser shoot boiling water up to 180 feet in the air. It erupts about every 90 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long to see it in action.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The vibrant colours of the Grand Prismatic Spring will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. The largest hot spring in the U.S., it’s a sight you must see to believe.
- Wildlife Watching: Yellowstone is home to bears, wolves, elk, and bison, and the Lamar Valley is one of the best places in the park to see wildlife in action, especially at dawn or dusk.
3. Yosemite National Park, California
If you’re a fan of dramatic cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias, then Yosemite is the park for you. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. It’s no wonder it has inspired countless artists and adventurers for generations.
What to Do:
- Yosemite Valley: This is where you’ll find some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Take the scenic drive through the valley or, if you’re up for a challenge, try the hike to the top of Half Dome (you’ll need a permit for that one).
- Waterfalls: Yosemite is home to several of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in the park, plunges a staggering 2,425 feet. It’s particularly impressive in the spring when the snowmelt is at its peak.
- Mariposa Grove: Get up close and personal with ancient sequoia trees at Mariposa Grove, where some trees are over 3,000 years old and reach heights of nearly 300 feet.
4. Zion National Park, Utah – the most iconic of national parks
Zion is one of Utah’s most visited national parks, and it’s not hard to see why. This park is a paradise for hikers, with its towering red sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and narrow slot canyons. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual nature lover, Zion offers something for everyone.
What to Do:
- Angels Landing: This trail is not for the faint of heart, but the view from the top is unforgettable. The last half-mile includes a steep, narrow ridge with chains to hold onto, but once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
- The Narrows: Want to walk through a river surrounded by 1,000-foot canyon walls? The Narrows is one of Zion’s most famous hikes, where you wade through the Virgin River, passing towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations.
- Canyon Overlook Trail: For a less intense, but equally beautiful hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail is short, sweet, and offers stunning views of Zion Canyon.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, North Carolina
Spanning across two states, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. With mist-covered mountains, diverse wildlife, and hundreds of miles of trails, this park offers a little something for everyone.
What to Do:
- Clingmans Dome: As the highest point in the Smokies, Clingmans Dome provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. You can drive most of the way up, but there’s a short (and steep) half-mile hike to the observation tower at the summit.
- Cades Cove: This picturesque valley is one of the best places in the park to spot wildlife, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. It’s also home to historic cabins, churches, and a working grist mill.
- Hiking: With over 800 miles of trails, the Smokies are a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk to a waterfall or a challenging backcountry trek, there’s a trail for every skill level.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine – less known internationally but one of the best national parks in the US
Located on the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a stunning mix of rocky shorelines, granite peaks, and dense forests. It’s the perfect destination for those who love both the mountains and the sea.
What to Do:
- Cadillac Mountain: This is the highest point on the U.S. East Coast, and if you visit early enough, you can catch the first sunrise in the country. Whether you hike to the top or drive up the summit road, the views are incredible.
- Ocean Path: If you’re more of a beach person, you’ll love the Ocean Path, a scenic trail that follows the coastline from Sand Beach to Otter Cliff. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking ocean views and the sound of crashing waves.
- Jordan Pond: Take a peaceful walk around Jordan Pond, where you’ll be surrounded by mountain views and calm waters. Don’t forget to stop at the Jordan Pond House for their famous popovers!
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
Nicknamed the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream come true. With over 700 miles of trails, pristine lakes, and jagged mountain peaks, this park is a true wilderness escape.
What to Do:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road: This 50-mile scenic drive is one of the most breathtaking in the country, winding through the heart of the park and offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. It’s a must-do, whether you’re hiking or driving.
- Grinnell Glacier Trail: One of the park’s most popular hikes, the Grinnell Glacier Trail takes you up close to one of the park’s remaining glaciers. The trail offers dramatic views of alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, and, if you’re lucky, a few mountain goats.
- Lake McDonald: For a more relaxed experience, spend some time at Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. The crystal-clear water and colourful pebbles make it a picture-perfect spot for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying the scenery.
8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
If you’re looking for towering peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife galore, look no further than Rocky Mountain National Park. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, this park offers some of the best mountain scenery in the country.
What to Do:
- Trail Ridge Road: This scenic drive takes you to over 12,000 feet above sea level, offering jaw-dropping views of the Rockies. Along the way, keep an eye out for elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots.
- Bear Lake Trail: One of the most popular trails in the park, the Bear Lake Trail is a short and
One of the most popular trails in the park, the Bear Lake Trail is a short and easy walk that offers stunning views of the lake, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest. It’s a perfect introduction to the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. For those seeking more of a challenge, the nearby Emerald Lake Trail leads you past more alpine lakes, with each one seeming more beautiful than the last.
9. Arches National Park, Utah
Utah is home to some of the most remarkable landscapes in the country, and Arches National Park is one of its crown jewels. This park is known for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, each formed over millions of years by the forces of nature. It’s the kind of place that will make you feel like you’ve landed on another planet.
What to Do:
- Delicate Arch: This iconic arch is one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the country, and it’s even featured on Utah’s license plates. The hike to Delicate Arch is around 3 miles round-trip and can be challenging due to the slick rock terrain, but the view at the end is worth every step. Try to go for sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- The Windows Section: If you’re looking for an easy way to see multiple arches in one go, head to The Windows Section, where you’ll find North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. These impressive formations are all within easy walking distance of each other, making it a great stop for families or those with limited time.
- Landscape Arch: This is the longest natural arch in North America, stretching over 290 feet. The hike to Landscape Arch is relatively flat and easy, and it’s a great spot for photos and marvelling at the delicate balance of nature.
10. Everglades National Park, Florida
For a completely different national park experience, head down to Florida and explore Everglades National Park. This is the largest tropical wilderness in the U.S., and it’s like stepping into a world of marshes, swamps, and mangroves, with a rich diversity of wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. If you’re a fan of birds, reptiles, and unique ecosystems, this park is a must-visit.
What to Do:
- Airboat Rides: One of the most iconic ways to explore the Everglades is by taking an airboat ride through the wetlands. You’ll zoom through the sawgrass marshes while keeping an eye out for alligators, manatees, and various bird species. There are plenty of tour operators around the park offering airboat experiences, but make sure you go with a licensed provider.
- Shark Valley: For some of the best wildlife viewing, head to Shark Valley, where you can either bike or take a tram tour along a 15-mile loop. At the halfway point, there’s an observation tower that offers panoramic views of the vast Everglades landscape.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: If you’re looking for a more peaceful way to explore the park, try canoeing or kayaking through the Ten Thousand Islands or the Nine Mile Pond. Paddling through the mangroves and marshes will bring you closer to the diverse ecosystems of the Everglades, and you’ll have the chance to spot everything from turtles to dolphins.
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