America is vast, and truly blessed with nature’s bounty. There is no climate and eco system that you are not going to find in United States. From snow-capped mountains to sandy coastlines, from rainforests to deserts, from pine forests to cacti wastelands, United States has it all. The outdoors of this country has beautiful scenery, opportunities for adventure, and interesting wildlife. As we talk, the 61 national parks of United States attract 300 million visitors every year. Having said that the country is home to staggering 61 National Parks, it could get little daunting which one to visit. Also none of them is less appealing than the other, and carries something unique about itself. But here we are with list of best of bests National Parks to visit in United States.
Yosemite, California – It is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and is home to tallest waterfall of America, the Yosemite Falls. It has 800 miles of hiking trails, and 3,000 feet granite wall, El Capitan, also its best adventure opportunity. It is also home to black bear, coyotes, and bobcats.
Yellowstone, Wyoming Montana and Idaho – It sits on a giant super volcano, with world’s half of the geothermal activity on ground. Checking Old Faithful geyser and taking a dip in Yellowstone Lake are not to be missed. It is also home to Grizzly bears and American Buffalo you should watch out for.
Sequoia National Park, California – Located on southern part of Sierra Nevada Mountains, it is home to world’s largest trees, sequoia trees. Also worth seeing here is the underground Crystal Cave, made of marble and cool streams. Here also is General Sherman, largest living tree in world.
Grand Canyon, Arizona – These red rock canyons have seen millions of years, and are shaped by the river Colorado. They are close to 300 miles long network of canyons. It also offers opportunity to learn about Native American culture with many ancient tribes settled around the Grand Canyons.
Glacier National Park, Montana – Located in Montana’s Rocky Mountain, it is home to untouched lakes, wildflower valleys, snow-capped mountains, forests, and meandering rivers. It is also home to large population of Grizzly bears. With 700 miles of hiking trails, it is favourite of backpackers.
Zion National Park, Utah – One of the best national parks, it is known for its steep red canyons, rock formations, hidden emerald pools, waterfalls, and rivers..A road trip through here ensures scenic views. It also offers adventure opportunities like hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering, and swimming.
Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii – Located on the Big Island, it encloses two active volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The lava fields, dramatic coastline, and rich rainforests are highlights of this park you’ll remember forever. Thanks to active volcanic activity, this place is best visited anytime.
Denali National Park, Alaska – The third largest National Park, it is home to America’s highest peak Mt. McKinley, and was opened for preservation of Dall sheep. It is also home to caribou, grizzlies, wolves, and moose. It is popular for its remoteness, solitude and wilderness amongst backpackers.
Bryce Canyon, Utah – It is popular for orange red Hoodoos which are spiral shaped rock formations. It offers amazing views especially on sunsets n sunrise. It also offers star gazing opportunity with visibility of over 7500 stars. It is home to 100 species of birds, and dozens of reptiles’ n mammals.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado – It is home to some of America’s highest mountains, and is made of alpine tundra, forests, and lakes. It is a paradise for outdoor adventures like hiking, backpacking, white water rafting, horseback riding, climbing, and even snowshoeing in winters.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – It is home to Grand Teton peak, and Jackson Hole valley the popular ski resort. In summers it becomes paradise for hikers, ravelling through hidden waterfalls, lake shores, and fragrant wildflowers. Snake River in here also offers kayaking, rafting and boating.
Acadia National Park, Maine – It is made up of rugged coastline with lighthouses, and high mountains along. It is home to long hiking trails passing through marshlands, forests, mountains, and sea shores. Harbour seals, and whales are to watch out for. You can also enjoy water sports in here.
Arches National Park, Utah – It is home to more than 2,000 sandstone arches, natural bridges, and rock formations. It has plenty of hiking n biking trails, and great spot for rock climbing. Most popular in here are Fiery Furnace, and Delicate Arch. It is known to have the darkest nights in United States.
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky – It is an UN World heritage site, and world’s longest known cave system with 400 miles mapped currently. It also has 30 miles of river banks and 70 milesof on ground trails. The limestone caves are also popular for river rafting and hiking experiences.
Everglades National Park, Florida – It is one of the most swampy and wild places in United States. It is home to alligators, poisonous snakes, rare orchids and bizarre insects. It is best explored by boat rides and even hiking in the back country. Mangrove waterways are other spots to watch out for.
I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!
