Introduction
It’s no secret that our world is full of incredible sights and natural wonders, but did you know that some of the most stunning panoramas and wide open spaces are found in our National Parks? Established in 1916, The National Parks of the United States are protected areas designated by the government as havens for some of the most incredible and beautiful outdoor locations in the world. From breathtaking mountain peaks and crystal clear rivers, to ancient deserts and lush forests, exploring America’s national parks can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From the coast of Alaska to the Florida Everglades, the United States is brimming with some of nature’s best kept secrets. From majestic peaks, crystal clear rivers, ancient deserts, and lush forests, a journey through the national parks is one of the best ways to experience all that the natural world has to offer. With more than 400 national parks, monuments, and other protected areas in the United States, the list of places to explore is nearly endless. Here are just a few of the most amazing and awe-inspiring sites that you’ll find on your journey through America’s national parks.
Yosemite National Park
From its towering giant sequoias, to its thundering waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is indisputably one of the most majestic and spectacular parks in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a diverse and fascinating array of wildlife, including coyotes, mule deer, black bears, and birds of prey. Nature lovers of all kinds will find much to explore and appreciate here, including the famous Glacier Point overlook, Yosemite Valley, and the iconic El Capitan granite monolith.
Yellowstone National Park
The first National Park in the United States and one of the nation’s most iconic natural wonders, Yellowstone National Park is a landscape of geysers, hot springs, canyons and more across nearly four million acres. The park is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, such as bison, elk, and bears, and provides visitors with an incredible array of outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting. For those looking for some of America’s best wildlife photo opportunities and stunning natural beauty, Yellowstone National Park is definitely a must-see destination.
Grand Canyon National Park
The sheer scale of the Grand Canyon is difficult to comprehend, and no words can truly capture its colossal beauty. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site spans nearly two million acres, displaying layers of sandstone, shale and limestone over 200 million years of geological history. Its stunningly diverse array of landscapes, colors, and wildlife make Grand Canyon National Park the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers.
Olympic National Park
The lush and rugged Olympic National Park in Washington state provides visitors with an incredible look at both the coastal and mountainous wilderness of the northwestern United States. Its mountains, rainforests and beaches offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. Home to more than 200 miles of trails, Olympic National Park provides endless possibilities for sightseeing, exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park encompasses over a million acres of stunning alpine terrain, just at the northern edge of Montana. An incredible array of ecosystems, from glaciers and mountain peaks, to lush meadows and ancient forests, can be explored here. The park also contains over 700 lakes, and is home to a wide range of wildlife such as bears, wolverines, moose, wolves, and mountain goats. With spectacular views, pristine wilderness and wild untamed beauty, Glacier National Park is an absolute must-see destination.
Acadia National Park
Located on the rocky coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers an unforgettable experience of rugged landscapes and stunning vistas. Comprised of more than 47,000 acres, this beloved National Park showcases some of the most spectacular coastal scenery on the east coast. Visitors can experience lush forests, tranquil woodlands, peaceful lakes, and dramatic ocean views. Biking, kayaking and wildlife watching are popular activities in this beloved destination.
Zion National Park
In the majestic Southwest Desert, there is no better place to experience the wonders of nature than in Zion National Park. Home to some of the most incredible hiking trails in the United States, Zion provides breathtaking vistas and a stunning array of plant and animal species. The park’s popular trails, including the Narrows, Angels Landing and the Emerald Pools, make exploring Zion an unforgettable experience as you discover some of the most incredible and beautiful sights in the world.
Denali National Park
A visit to Alaska wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Denali National Park, the land of glacier-covered peaks, permafrost wilderness and plentiful wildlife. Named for North America’s highest peak -- Denali, the park is home to a variety of wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, and moose. For the more brave at heart, this park also offers an array of incredible backcountry adventures like hiking, mountaineering, and camping.
Conclusion
From the lush forests of Acadia to the rugged mountain peaks of Denali and every breathtaking National Park in between, the United States is full of incredible sights and experiences. Exploring these majestic parks is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and splendor that our world has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous outdoor experience, a journey through the national parks is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.