A trip to a national park is a great way to get away from the day and find your zen. And the United States certainly has no shortage of great options, with a total of 58 national parks, each with their own unique spectacle and beauty.
And while each is worth visiting, certain parks stand above the rest.
Here are the five best national parks that must be seen to be believed.
Grand Canyon
Kicking off our list is one of the most popular destinations in the world. And it’s popular for a great reason.
Between the mind-blowing skylines and the miles upon miles of hiking trails, the park will keep guests busy for hours — if not days.
And you may indeed need days to see everything Grand Canyon National Park offers! The whole park spans 1,904 square miles and over one million acres of natural beauty.
Yellowstone
Yellowstone is the first recognized national park, ordained under President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872.
Perhaps the most well-known feature of this massive monument is Old Faithful, a massive geyser that erupts many times each day.
But Old Faithful isn’t the only natural attraction worth checking out at Yellowstone. There’s also Yellowstone Caldera, Yellowstone’s supervolcano.
If waiting for a volcano or geyser to erupt isn’t your speed, no worries. There’s still plenty to see!
For instance, the park’s gorgeous wildlife. Yellowstone is home to dozens of species of animals including:
- Grizzly bears
- Black bears
- Coyote
- Wolves
- Buffalo
- Elk
- Bullhorn Sheep
There’s something for the whole family to love, so be sure to bring everyone.
Olympic National Park
Located along Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park has almost everything a wilderness love could want in a park.
Want to spend a relaxing day at the beach? Take your pick between one of several!
Feel like a relaxing kayak excursion? Olympic National Park has tons of lakes, as well.
Or maybe you’re looking for great photography spots. Again, Olympic National Park has you covered.
And be sure to check out the park’s gorgeous architecture. The whole park is filled with beautiful bridges like those made by this company that will help you get closer to nature than ever before.
Yosemite
There’s no way around it: Yosemite is one of the top natural parks in the US.
Tucked away in Mariposa County California is a little piece of heaven on earth. Babbling brooks, eye-popping waterfalls, tranquil fishing spots and thousands of feet of granite await those lucky enough to visit the park.
And for those who can’t get around or wish to enjoy a more leisurely experience, the park offers an afternoon-long bus tour that hits the high spots.
Red Rocks
Red Rocks Park in Colorado is one of the most scenic parts of the Denver Mountain stretch — and that’s saying something.
The park gets its name from its famous sandstone cliffs, which are sure to be a hit for anyone interested in geology.
Aside from that, it’s one of the most intense hiking spots on this list, as parts of the park are located 6,000 feet above sea level. Be sure to prepare for the trip accordingly.
Once you’re done hiking, you can take in a show at one of the US’ most popular concert venues or enjoy the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
These Are the Best National Parks in the US
After reading this list of the best national parks, we’re about ready to grab a backpack, some trail mix and water, and head out for a day in nature!
Care to join us?
If you’re not convinced yet, check out our article on how travel can make you happier. So go on and see these gorgeous parks. You deserve it!