10 National Parks in the USA to Visit

After captivating tales of friends and family's adventures, camping or hiking through the nation's beautiful parks, some people yearn for the same experience to share themselves. Many seek recommendations when planning where to take their next trip or vacation. Since nearly seventy million people take trips to America's national parks annually, they are the popular destination choices for any plans. Out of the fifty-nine National Parks listed by the National Park Services, there are some that are more popular than others. There are tons of extraordinary things to see and do at a National Park and is why many Americans make them their number one place to recommend to others.

Top 10 Best National Parks in the USA


Top 10 Best National Parks in the USA
Top 10 Best National Parks in the USA

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK (source)

People have been drawn to the Northeast part of the United States all throughout history. In 1919, Acadia was established as a national park. The combined beauty and diversity of the rugged coastlines of Maine is where people can find the Acadia National Park which is situated mostly on Mount Desert Island. There is an abundance of habitats that are homes for various plants and wildlife in Acadia.

Acadia National Park has the tallest mountain that can be found on the Atlantic Coast, Cadillac Mountain. Here is where you can hike through some of the best trails in the eastern part of the United States. With about 130 miles of trails, Acadia is the first national park in America to have an endowed trail system thanks to Friends of Acadia and their program, Acadia Trails Forever.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK (source)

One of the most popular parks since its establishment in 1910, Glacier national park covers over a million acres of Montana landscape with its rugged peaks, clear waters, and glacial-carved valleys. It is home to about 70 different species of mammals like the wolverine, gray wolf, and lynx. There are also over 270 bird species that can be seen throughout the park. Hikers and other outdoor enthusiast can explore nature up close and personal with over 700 miles of trails to choose from.

Glacier National Park received its name from the renowned landscape that was carved out by glaciers which have been an important part of the area since the ice ages. Many have recommended taken a detour down Going-to-the-Sun Road which is considered to be one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Either way, add this park to your bucket list before all the glaciers are no more.


GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK (source)

Being the most spectacular geological phenomenon in America, it is also one of the largest canyons on the planet as well as being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Up to 18 miles wide, a mile deep, and about as long as 277 river miles, its massive size is what draws millions of visitors to the Arizona location each year since it became a national park in 1919.

The South Rim is where most people visit the park because it is the easiest portion to access. It is about 7000 feet above sea level and is open all year long. If you are looking for more authenticity, head over to North Rim.

Having an elevation about 8000 feet above sea level, the North Rim is a more remote location that is closed during the winter months. Due to the fact that it is very hard to get to, many visitors are happy to stay at the South Rim to avoid 220 miles of driving from the South Rim or 21 miles trekking across the canyon.


GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

Travel to Wyoming for a stunning visual stimulation of immaculate lakes, mountainous landscape, and remarkable wildlife that can be found at Grand Teton National Park. Only 10 miles from Yellowstone, this park has hundreds of miles of their own trails to trek through, or you can find some tranquility while drifting down Snake River.

The Grand Teton National Park, established in 1929, is a prominent location for mountaineering, backcountry camping, hiking, and fishing. Park visitors who are snow fanatics can also bring snowshoes or cross-country skis to roam around the wilderness. The park service provides a guided snowshoe tour daily from their headquarters in Moose, Wyoming.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park


GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Great Smoky Mountain National park is part of the Appalachian Mountains with about 800 miles on over 150 hiking trails across the North Carolina and Tennessee border. Millions of people visit the park annually to partake in recreational events including sightseeing, camping, backpacking, fishing, and hiking since it became a park in 1934.

One great feature about the "Smokies" is that with over 270 miles of road many are participating in an activity called Auto Touring. Auto Touring is basically sightseeing from the car. There are plenty of picturesque views, historic architecture, towering hardwood forests, and flowing currents of mountain streams.


OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

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//s.topadventuresports.com/blg/mnt/user_img/20211110/1636592284358724.webp

The untamed beauty of this Washington State national park ranges from the crashing waves from the Pacific to ice-covered peaks of the Olympic Mountains. It is part of the International Biosphere Reserve and declared a World Heritage Site due to it being part of the last example of a temperate rainforest in the United States of America.

Olympic National Park was made official in 1938 and is open 24 hours each day for the whole year. June through September are the months that are most popular due to the abundance of programs that are available. In October through May, some of the roads and facilities are closed. It is always a wise decision to plan ahead when traveling to a national park to understand the hours and weather forecast.


ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK (source)

People love to explore Rocky Mountain National Park for the majestic feel of the mountains and terrain and have been doing so since it became a national park in 1915. There is plenty of recreational activities, extraordinary wildlife, phenomenal hiking trails, and an abundance of plant life. It is home to the highest paved road in America, Trail Ridge Road, at an elevation over 12,000 feet.

Hikers of any level can trek through any part of the 350 miles of trails. There are flat ones around the pristine lakes for the easy hikes. Veterans can bring their gear and go on more adventurous backpacking trips or climbs. The park created a color-coded label system to let you know the difficulty level of trails. Trails with green circles mean it is relatively short and easy for anyone. Blue diamonds indicate moderate trails are for those who are somewhat physically fit. For the most difficult trails, they use a black diamond to warn you that it is long and steep.


YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (source)

The impressive fact about this national park is that it has a considerable amount of backcountry, yet there is a volcanic hot spot that can be found under it all. Yellowstone was established as the world's very first national park in 1872. The massive park expands over 2 million acres across the states of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.

This mountain wilderness is home to a cornucopia of plant and wildlife. There are over 300 bird species and 60 species of mammals including wolves, grizzly bears, bison, and elk. Visitors flock to see the world's largest concentration of geysers especially the most active and infamous "Old Faithful".


YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK (source)

Out of the eight National Parks in the state of California, Yosemite requires a plan of several trips in order to absorb the full experience of all that Yosemite offers. There are ancient Sequoias, deep valleys with an abundance of wilderness, and high cliffs and waterfalls which is why it became a national park in 1890. Visitors can choose an assortment of things to do. You can backpack through the wilderness, use your rock climbing gear, or sit back and simply enjoy birdwatching.

Yosemite National Park possess some of the most spectacular waterfalls. The highest waterfall in America, Yosemite Falls, is also known to be one of the sixth highest waterfalls in the world measuring about 2,400 feet. Merced River is also a popular rafting destination during the summer. Bring your kayak to float among the wild in Tenaya Lake.


ZION NATIONAL PARK

ZION NATIONAL PARK
ZION NATIONAL PARK (source)

Zion National Park became official in 1919 and can be found in the southwest part of Utah. Visitors can see the world's largest arch, Kolob Arch, within the 229 square miles of cliffs and canyons. Just like many of the national parks, there are many outdoor activities to keep you busy. From canyoneering to hiking to horseback riding, Zion National Park has made it an exciting destination to enjoy with the whole family. One wonderful difference, Zion Helicopter Scenic tours will actually give you a bird's eye view of nature's wonderful creation. Take in the awe-inspiring aerial views of Zion National park and its surrounding areas.

Plan Ahead Before Visiting National Parks in the USA

Choose any one of the National Parks in USA to enjoy a glimpse into the history of the country or to bask in the beautiful views of nature. Keep in mind, the weather and season plays an important part of what you see and do in the parks. It is important to check the weather and official park website to see if there are any important events or information that may influence your trip or become an obstacle.

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