There have been more than 14 billion visits to America’s National Parks since 1904, and it’s easy to see why so many people keep flocking to these amazing sites. Dedicated to preserving wild places and wildlife, providing recreational facilities and creating cultural spaces, the USA’s National Parks are well worth a visit. It can be difficult to choose which ones to see, but if you’re struggling to make a decision, here are the top five to add to your must-visit list.
Possibly the most famous National Park anywhere in the world, Yellowstone park was the first of its kind. Covering an impressive 2.2 million acres, this park boasts some unique and diverse geography and attractions. With its many mountains, lakes and valleys as well as hot springs and geysers, it’s a magnet for tourists all year round.
Following hot on Yellowstone’s heels, Yosemite is the most-visited National park in California and it isn’t hard to see why when you experience its amazing El Capitan and Half Dome granite formations and its spectacular waterfalls like Bridalveil and Vernal Fall. The Tunnel View Outlook is a must-see spot when you come to this site, thanks to its panoramic views over Yosemite Valley.
If you’re ready to experience some of the world’s most spectacular lakes and mountains, the Glacier National Park is hard to beat. Spanning no less than three different mountain ranges and encompassing over 700 lakes through the state of Montana, this amazing site boasts expansive trails for hikers including favorites such as the Iceberg Lake Trail and the Trail of the Cedars. There are plenty of other scenic spots for visitors to explore too, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park and the Apgar Nature Center.
If you asked tourists all over the world to name the best-known National Park, they would almost certainly name the Grand Canyon. This magnificent site is so beautiful that even the very best photographs simply can’t do it justice. The UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 18 x 277 miles and offers endless opportunities for hiking and sightseeing, not to mention rafting on the Colorado River. When you’re here, you have to see the impressive Havasu Falls and the North Rim, which is largely overlooked by tourists but is no less impressive.
Head to Utah to see one of the most amazing National Parks that is perfect for all thrill-seekers. You can enjoy hiking Angel’s Landing, a route which takes you through a natural staircase measuring almost 1500 feet, and trek the 10 mile Narrows through the Zion Canyon’s thinnest section. If you’d rather explore in a more leisurely fashion, jump in a car and drive the Zion Canyon Scenic route which covers 57 miles and takes visitors past most of the top landmarks that the park has to offer.
These are just five of the country’s best National Parks. Add them to your must-see list and start discovering the most beautiful locations nature has to offer!