People come from far and wide to experience the beauty of America’s national parks. Many of the parks have their own unique features, along with plenty of eye-catching sights, land to explore, and wildlife to catch a glimpse of.
If walking tours excite you, national parks are a great place to start when it comes to exploring America. However, no matter whether you’re in the mood for a long hike, planning a family day out or hoping to catch some Instagram-worthy snaps, you’re sure to find something to suit you.
America’s national parks
Tourists and locals alike flock to national parks around America and it’s not hard to see why. The natural beauty and stunning scenery offered by these treasured spots can’t be dismissed and given the historical connections of many national parks, they’re also an important aspect of the country’s heritage.
Here are five national parks to add to your bucket list.
Yellowstone
The original national park in America, Yellowstone is based in Wyoming, but spills into parts of Montana and Idaho too. Famed for its gushing geysers which erupt daily, the park also features luscious forests, alpine rivers, hot springs, and mud pools.
Home to numerous species of wildlife, Yellowstone is also where you’ll find the world’s largest herd of bison.
Yosemite
Located in California, the majestic beauty of Yosemite attracts millions of visitors every year. Renowned for its huge sequoia trees, flowing waterfalls and spectacular valleys, you’ll want to be sure you have a decent camera on hand!
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or you prefer a relaxing stroll, the forests, wetlands, and valleys offer endless opportunities for exploration too.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon
Vast mountains, deep canyons and towering sequoia trees are what make up the landscape of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and create their larger-than-life aesthetic. Together the two parks span 1,353 square miles, offering ample space for you to explore and take in the picturesque scenery.
The Grand Canyon
Situated in Arizona, The Grand Canyon is a natural formation identifiable by its patterned red rocks which reveal millions of years of geological history. Immense in size, the canyon has an impressive length of 277 miles and stretches roughly 10 miles across and a mile deep.
The majority of the canyon is part of the national park and features sweeping vistas and white-water rapids from the Colorado River which flows through the park.
Great Smoky Mountains
Great Smoky Mountains National Park runs along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina and is home to beautiful greenery and a plethora of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Along the miles and miles of hiking routes you can expect to see streams, rivers and waterfalls flowing.
Plus, if you make it to the very top of the highest peak, you’ll be treated to breath-taking views of the mist-covered mountains.
