Experience the Wonders of Nature at These 17 National Parks
There’s something magical about stepping into a national park. With miles of untouched wilderness, jaw-dropping views, and the promise of adventure, these natural wonders are a must for any traveler.
Whether you’re into hiking, stargazing, or simply soaking in the sights, the U.S. has an incredible range of national parks that will make your heart race. Here are 17 national parks everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

Yellowstone is the original national park, and it still holds the crown. Famous for its geothermal features like Old Faithful, it’s a place where you can witness nature’s raw power.
From hot springs to bubbling geysers, and bison roaming the plains, this park will leave you in awe. Hiking, wildlife watching, and even soaking in natural hot springs make Yellowstone a bucket-list destination.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Few places on Earth compare to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Its vastness, beauty, and history are unmatched.
Whether you’re hiking down to the Colorado River or simply gazing at the views from the rim, the Grand Canyon offers an unforgettable experience. The shifting light throughout the day makes this park a photographer’s dream, and the hiking trails allow you to explore deep into its rugged heart.
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Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite’s granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees make it one of the most iconic parks in the U.S. Visitors flock to the valley to witness the majesty of El Capitan and Half Dome, while those seeking solitude can explore the backcountry trails.
Whether you’re rock climbing, biking, or enjoying a serene walk through the forest, Yosemite offers endless adventure.
Zion National Park, Utah

Zion’s towering red cliffs and narrow canyons have become the playground for adventurers. The famous Angel’s Landing hike challenges even the bravest hikers, while the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers spectacular views for those looking for a more leisurely adventure.
With diverse landscapes, from desert to riparian zones, Zion is a perfect mix of natural beauty and thrilling activities.
Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia is a hidden gem on the Atlantic Coast, where rugged coastlines meet dense forests and mountains. Perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking, it’s one of the few national parks where you can watch the sunrise over the ocean.
Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard, offers stunning panoramic views of the park and beyond.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

The Smokies are the most visited national park in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. With misty mornings, rich biodiversity, and charming Appalachian trails, this park is a haven for nature lovers.
Explore old-growth forests, spot wildlife like black bears, and get lost in the peace of the mountain air.
Glacier National Park, Montana

With dramatic mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and over 26 glaciers, Glacier National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds through the park’s most scenic areas, this park also offers an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears and mountain goats.
Glacier’s rugged beauty makes it a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Olympic National Park, Washington

From lush rainforests to rugged coastlines, Olympic National Park offers an incredible variety of ecosystems. Its diverse landscapes range from temperate rainforests to alpine peaks, and its coastline is lined with dramatic sea stacks.
Whether you’re exploring tide pools or hiking to Hurricane Ridge, Olympic is an outdoor playground.
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Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree’s surreal desert landscapes are dotted with unique rock formations and the eponymous trees that make this park famous. The stark beauty of the desert, especially at sunset and sunrise, is unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
This park is a magnet for rock climbers, stargazers, and those seeking solitude in nature.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon’s unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—create an otherworldly landscape that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. The park offers some of the best stargazing in the country, as well as hiking trails that allow you to get up close to the stunning rock formations.
Whether you’re hiking or simply gazing at the panoramic views, Bryce Canyon is a must-see.
Everglades National Park, Florida

The Everglades are a wetland paradise teeming with wildlife, from alligators to manatees. The park’s unique ecosystem, which includes swamps, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies, offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience.
Whether you’re kayaking through the mangroves or spotting rare birds, the Everglades are a natural wonder that shouldn’t be missed.
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Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California

Home to the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia and Kings Canyon offer a magical experience. The famous General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume, is just one of many awe-inspiring sights.
Explore giant forests, dramatic mountain scenery, and crystal-clear lakes in this incredible park.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Located in the heart of the Rockies, this park boasts towering peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. Hike the challenging Longs Peak or take a leisurely stroll around Bear Lake.
Whether you’re into wildlife watching, fishing, or snowshoeing in winter, Rocky Mountain National Park offers endless opportunities to explore.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands is a place of rugged beauty and remote wilderness. Known for its colorful rock formations, vast canyons, and stunning mesas, this park offers an unforgettable desert adventure.
Whether you’re hiking through the Island in the Sky district or navigating the remote Maze district, Canyonlands is a haven for adventurers.
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Arches National Park, Utah

With over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park’s surreal landscape is like no other. Hike through famous arches like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, or explore the park’s dramatic rock formations.
Arches National Park offers a stunning combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the most scenic hiking and driving experiences in the country. The Skyline Drive provides breathtaking views, and the park’s extensive trail system, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, invites hikers of all levels to explore.
With its peaceful atmosphere, Shenandoah is perfect for a relaxing escape.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.
Hike through ancient lava fields, explore craters, and learn about the islands’ geological history. Whether you’re watching steam vents or enjoying lush rainforests, Hawai’i Volcanoes is a one-of-a-kind experience.
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