Congaree National Park is in South Carolina and covers over 26,000 acres. The park is known for its old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, which is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States. Visitors come to Congaree to hike, camp, bird watch, and explore the park’s unique ecosystems. The park is also a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing, as it is along the Congaree River. Some of the most popular attractions in the park include the Boardwalk Loop, a 2.4-mile boardwalk trail that provides access to the heart of the forest, and the Weston Lake Loop, a 3.5-mile trail that winds through the park’s diverse habitats.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park is located in southwestern Oregon, USA and covers over 183,000 acres. The park is known for Crater Lake, which is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the purest bodies of water in the world. The lake was formed over 7,700 years ago by the collapse of a volcanic mountain, Mount Mazama, and is now surrounded by steep cliffs and scenic vistas. Visitors come to Crater Lake National Park to hike, camp, and take scenic drives, as well as to enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring the park’s many geologic wonders. The park is also known for its diverse habitats, including old-growth forests, meadows, and wetlands, which support a variety of plant and animal species, including the threatened northern spotted owl.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a national park in Ohio, USA, between Cleveland and Akron. It covers over 33,000 acres and features scenic landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a rich cultural history. Attractions include hiking trails, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, the Cuyahoga River, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park is a protected area in California and Nevada, USA. It covers over 3 million acres and is known for its diverse landscapes, including the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin), the hottest place on earth (Furnace Creek), and towering mountain ranges. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species. Attractions in the park include scenic drives, hiking trails, sand dunes, salt flats, canyons, and historic sites, such as the ghost town of Rhyolite.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali National Park is in Alaska, USA and covers over 6 million acres of wilderness. It is home to Mount Denali (previously known as Mount McKinley), which is the highest peak in North America at 20,310 ft. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and wolves. It also features stunning landscapes such as glaciers, tundra, and alpine forests.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park: A Hidden Gem in the Florida Keys This remote and little-known national park is located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida and is a true hidden gem in the Florida Keys. The park comprises seven small islands, including Garden Key which is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th century fortress that served as a military prison during the Civil War. Visitors can tour the fort, hike the island trails, swim in the turquoise waters, and snorkel among the vibrant coral reefs. Dry Tortugas National Park is truly a special and isolated destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. So why not add it to your travel bucket list today and discover this hidden gem in the Florida Keys!
Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
Gates of the Arctic National Park in Alaska is a stunning wilderness of rugged mountains, pristine valleys, and sprawling tundra that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. This remote and breathtaking park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Alaska.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park in Montana is a stunning wilderness of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife that offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, but one of its top attractions is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic highway that winds its way through the heart of the park.
Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska is a stunning wilderness of glaciers, fjords, and diverse wildlife that offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, but one of its top attractions is the glaciers themselves, which are constantly changing and offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience for visitors.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located in Arizona, USA, the Grand Canyon is a massive canyon that was carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. At 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is truly a sight to behold. Visitors can experience the canyon in a variety of ways, from scenic drives to hiking and camping trips. The park also offers boat tours along the Colorado River, as well as helicopter and mule rides for a unique perspective of the canyon’s vast beauty.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park, in Wyoming, USA, is a breathtaking natural wonder that should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. With its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, the park offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages. At the heart of Grand Teton National Park are the Teton Mountain Range, which features several peaks that rise over 12,000 feet above sea level. The park is also home to over 100 lakes, including Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddling.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin National Park, in Nevada, USA, is a hidden gem that nature lovers and adventure seekers should not miss. This stunning park features towering peaks, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and the unique underground wonder of Lehman Caves. One of the most popular attractions in the park is the 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak, which offers challenging hikes and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the ancient bristlecone pine forests, which are home to some of the oldest living trees on earth, and take a guided tour of Lehman Caves, a complex network of underground tunnels and chambers filled with intricate formations.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
The Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, USA, is a unique and stunning destination that should not be missed. This park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine alpine lakes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The heart of the park is the 30-square-mile area of sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 750 feet. Visitors can hike to the top of the dunes, go sandboarding or sledding, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the dunes. The park also offers a variety of other activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching, as well as ranger-led programs and guided hikes.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina, USA, is a stunning destination that should not be missed. With its rolling peaks, lush forests, and pristine streams, this national park is one of the most visited parks in the country and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park features over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including over 1,600 species of flowering plants and over 50 species of mammals, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with historic structures and sites, such as log cabins, gristmills, and old-growth forests, providing a glimpse into the park’s rich history.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in West Texas, USA, is a hidden gem that should not be missed. With its towering peaks, diverse landscapes, and rich history, this national park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, which stands at 8,749 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the peak along a well-maintained trail, which provides a challenging but rewarding experience for those who love to hike.
Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Haleakalā National Park, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, is a unique and stunning destination that should not be missed. With its towering volcanic peak, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this national park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to the towering Haleakalā Volcano, which stands at over 10,000 feet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the summit along one of several trails, including the Sliding Sands Trail, which takes you through a unique and otherworldly landscape of cinder cones, volcanic rock formations, and native Hawaiian plants.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a truly unique and awe-inspiring natural wonder located on the Big Island of Hawaii. With its active volcanoes, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this national park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hawaii. The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, which offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the power and beauty of nature in action. Visitors can hike to the summit of Kīlauea and witness the stunning volcanic landscape, including steam vents, sulfuric acid pools, and glowing lava lakes.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is a unique and historic park located in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park is home to the natural hot springs that give the town its name, and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the healing properties of the hot springs. The hot springs at Hot Springs National Park have been used for their therapeutic properties for thousands of years, and the park is one of the oldest in the country, having been designated as a federal reserve in 1832. Visitors can bathe in the hot springs at one of the park’s many bathhouses or take a relaxing soak in one of the park’s hot springs-fed pools.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale National Park is a remote and rugged wilderness in Lake Superior, just off the coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This remote and rugged island is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundant opportunities for adventure. One of the major draws of Isle Royale National Park is its vast wilderness, which covers over 800 square miles and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can hike the park’s many trails, which range from easy lakeside walks to challenging backcountry treks, and encounter moose, wolves, beavers, and other wildlife along the way.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is a unique and stunning destination that should not be missed. With its iconic Joshua trees, towering rock formations, and diverse landscapes, this national park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the primary draws of Joshua Tree National Park is its iconic Joshua trees, which are found nowhere else in the world. These unique and fascinating trees, along with the park’s towering rock formations and diverse landscapes, provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Katmai National Park, Alaska
Katmai National Park and Preserve is a remote and rugged wilderness located in southern Alaska, and is widely considered one of the most unique and stunning national parks in the country. With its abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and world-famous brown bears, Katmai is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the main draws of Katmai National Park is its abundance of wildlife, including its famous brown bears. Visitors can observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, fishing for salmon in the Brooks River, or simply exploring the park’s vast wilderness.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Kenai Fjords National Park is a stunning wilderness area located on the coast of Alaska, in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula. This rugged and remote national park is known for its dramatic fjords, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the main draws of Kenai Fjords National Park is its incredible fjords, which were carved by glaciers over thousands of years. Visitors can take boat tours through these fjords and witness the stunning scenery, including towering glaciers, rugged cliffs, and sparkling waterfalls.
Kings Canyon National Park, California
Kings Canyon National Park is a breathtaking natural gem nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. With its stunning vistas, towering cliffs, and lush forests, this park offers a bit of everything for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. One highlight of the park is the towering granite cliffs of Kings Canyon, which rise over 8,000 feet from the canyon floor. These cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing adventures, and are also home to a number of unique and endangered species of plants and animals.
Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Kobuk Valley National Park is a remote and rugged wilderness area located in northern Alaska. Despite its remote location, this park is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife in the world. One of the highlights of the park is the Kobuk River, which flows through the valley and is surrounded by towering sand dunes. These dunes, which can reach up to 400 feet in height, are some of the largest sand dunes in the world and provide a truly breathtaking landscape for visitors to explore.
Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
Lake Clark National Park is a stunning wilderness area located in the heart of Alaska. This remote park is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world, including glaciers, active volcanoes, and crystal-clear lakes. One of the biggest draws of Lake Clark National Park is its namesake, Lake Clark. This stunning lake is surrounded by towering mountains and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and caribou. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, with anglers able to catch trophy-sized salmon, rainbow trout, and arctic grayling.
Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a unique and stunning wilderness area located in Northern California. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including the iconic Lassen Peak, as well as a diverse array of thermal features, including steam vents, boiling mud pots, and hot springs. One of the biggest draws of Lassen Volcanic National Park is its diverse and ever-changing landscape. The park’s active volcanic activity has created a truly unique and awe-inspiring landscape, with steam vents, boiling mud pots, and hot springs scattered throughout the area.
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park is a unique and fascinating wilderness area located in central Kentucky. The park is home to the world-famous Mammoth Cave, the longest known cave system in the world, as well as a diverse array of natural wonders, including rolling hills, forests, and streams. One of the biggest draws of Mammoth Cave National Park is its incredible cave system. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave, exploring its dark and mysterious passages, and learning about its geological formations and rich history. The cave system is home to a diverse array of animals, including bats, salamanders, and blind cavefish, and visitors can see these creatures in their natural habitat.
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park, located in southwestern Colorado, is a unique and fascinating destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. This park is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the world, providing visitors with a glimpse into the lives of these ancient people. One of the biggest draws of Mesa Verde National Park is its incredible cliff dwellings. These ancient homes, carved into the cliffs and mesas, provide a fascinating window into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloan people who lived here over 700 years ago. Visitors can take guided tours of the cliff dwellings, including the well-known Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House, and learn about the architecture, daily life, and cultural traditions of these ancient people.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park, located in the state of Washington, is a nature lover’s paradise, offering stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. With its towering mountain peak, pristine glaciers, and verdant forests, Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring destinations in the Pacific Northwest. At the center of the park lies Mount Rainier itself, a massive, active stratovolcano that stands over 14,000 feet tall. This magnificent mountain provides a stunning backdrop to the park, and visitors can hike to its summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
North Cascades National Park, located in the state of Washington, is a wilderness lover’s dream come true. With its rugged peaks, pristine glaciers, and crystal-clear rivers and streams, this park is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. At the heart of North Cascades National Park are its towering peaks, including the iconic Mount Baker and Liberty Bell. These peaks offer some of the best climbing and hiking opportunities in the region, and visitors can explore the park’s many trails, some of which lead to breathtaking mountain vistas.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park, located in the state of Washington, is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. With its stunning coastal beaches, towering peaks, and lush rainforests, this park offers visitors a diverse and breathtaking landscape unlike any other in the world. At the heart of Olympic National Park are its rugged peaks, including the iconic Mount Olympus. These peaks offer some of the best hiking and backpacking opportunities in the region, and visitors can explore the park’s many trails, some of which lead to breathtaking mountain vistas.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is a unique and fascinating destination for visitors from all over the world. With its towering formations of petrified wood, scenic vistas, and rich cultural history, this park offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. At the heart of Petrified Forest National Park are its towering formations of petrified wood, which were formed over millions of years as ancient trees were gradually replaced by minerals and transformed into stone. Visitors can explore these formations on a number of trails, including the popular Blue Mesa Trail, and marvel at the intricate patterns and rich colors of the petrified wood.
Pinnacles National Park, California
Pinnacles National Park is a unique and captivating destination located in central California, just east of the Salinas Valley. With its unique geology and diverse landscapes, Pinnacles National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the park’s biggest draws is its towering rock formations, known as the Pinnacles. These impressive rock spires, created by volcanic activity and erosion, offer a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and rock climbing. With over 30 miles of trails, including a challenging climb to the top of the High Peaks, there is something for every level of hiker.
Redwood National Park, California
Redwood National Park is a truly awe-inspiring destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the majesty of California’s tallest trees. The park is home to some of the tallest and most ancient trees on earth, including the coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), which can reach heights of over 300 feet. Visitors to Redwood National Park can explore the towering trees along a network of trails, which wind through the forest and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, there is a trail for every level of adventurer.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Colorado, USA. This beautiful park is home to towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. One of the highlights of Rocky Mountain National Park is the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains themselves, which offer breathtaking views and ample opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, a camper, or a photographer, the rugged beauty of these mountains is sure to leave you speechless.
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park, located in southern Arizona, is one of the most unique and iconic parks in the United States. This park was established to protect and preserve the giant saguaro cactus, a species of cactus found only in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and northern Mexico. The park is divided into two districts, the Rincon Mountain District to the east and the Tucson Mountain District to the west, both of which offer visitors a chance to explore and discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. From scenic drives and hiking trails to educational programs and ranger-led activities, Saguaro National Park has something for everyone. One of the highlights of the park is the Saguaro cactus, which can grow up to 60 feet tall and live for more than 200 years. These giant cacti provide a vital habitat for a variety of desert wildlife, including the Gila woodpecker, Gilded flicker, and the saguaro cactus wren.
Sequoia National Park, California
Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, the park is home to some of the world’s largest trees, including the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree on earth by volume. Visitors can explore the lush forest, hike through scenic trails, and witness the beauty of the park’s unique ecosystem. From the awe-inspiring views at the top of Moro Rock to the crystal clear waters of the Kaweah River, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Sequoia National Park.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is a stunning natural oasis located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. With over 200,000 acres of protected wilderness, the park offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic exploration. One of the most popular attractions of the park is the Skyline Drive, a scenic roadway that winds its way along the ridge of the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The drive takes visitors through a variety of habitats, including hardwood forests, rolling hills, and fertile meadows, making it an ideal location for wildlife viewing.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a stunning expanse of rugged badlands, rolling prairies, and pristine wilderness located in western North Dakota. This park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors and is looking for a unique and immersive experience in America’s rugged frontier. One of the highlights of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, from the rolling prairies to the dramatic buttes and formations of the badlands. Hiking trails and scenic drives offer breathtaking views of this unique and rugged landscape, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with its rugged beauty.
Virgin Islands National Park, US Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands National Park is a tropical paradise located on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. This stunning park is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests that are home to an incredible array of plant and animal species. One of the top attractions of the park is its stunning beaches, including Trunk Bay, which is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the world. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding coral reefs and marine life.
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Voyageurs National ParkVoyageurs National Park is a stunning wilderness area located in northern Minnesota, USA. This park was established to preserve the natural beauty of the area and to commemorate the rich history of the fur trade, which played a major role in the development of the region. The top attraction at Voyageurs National Park is the breathtaking scenery, with its lush forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged shorelines. Visitors can explore the park by water, taking a canoe or kayak trip along the many waterways that wind through the park, or by land, hiking or snowshoeing on the park’s many trails.
Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Wind Cave National Park is a unique and captivating destination that is often overlooked by visitors to the area. Despite its lesser-known status, this park is a true gem, offering a wealth of natural beauty, history, and adventure for those who take the time to explore it. At the heart of the park is Wind Cave, a vast and intricate underground labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that is one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. The cave is named for the strong winds that can be felt near the entrance, and its unique structure, which features an abundance of boxwork – a delicate, honeycomb-like formation of calcite – makes it a true one-of-a-kind experience.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is one of the largest and most remote national parks in the United States. This vast and stunning wilderness covers over 13 million acres, making it nearly six times the size of Yellowstone National Park. Despite its remote location and vast size, Wrangell-St. Elias is well worth the journey for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable wilderness experience. One of the highlights of this park is its diverse landscape, which ranges from towering mountain peaks to vast glaciers, and from rolling hills to rushing rivers. The park is home to nine of the sixteen tallest peaks in the United States, including Mount St. Elias, which rises over 18,000 feet above sea level. The glaciers that blanket the park’s valleys are also a must-see, offering a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. With its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, Yosemite offers a breathtaking landscape that has inspired artists, writers, and visitors for generations. One of the highlights of Yosemite is the iconic Yosemite Valley, a U-shaped valley that is surrounded by towering cliffs and is home to some of the park’s most famous landmarks, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. The valley is also a hub of activity, with visitors coming from all over the world to hike, rock climb, and explore the natural wonders of the park.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a breathtaking landscape of towering cliffs, lush forests, and flowing rivers. With its unique combination of natural beauty and rich cultural history, Zion is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the American Southwest. One of the highlights of Zion is the scenic drive through Zion Canyon, a narrow canyon that is surrounded by towering cliffs and is home to some of the park’s most famous landmarks, including the Temple of Sinawava and Angels Landing. The drive offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great way to get a taste of the park’s beauty.