5 Must-See US National Parks
Yellowstone National Park - Taken by Rachel Quintana-Baker
The United States is home to a diverse array of landscapes, from soaring mountains to lush forests and breathtaking deserts. Within this vast expanse, the National Park System preserves and showcases the nation's natural treasures of 360 National sites and 63 National Parks. Below are 5 exceptional U.S. national parks that we consider must-sees.
1) Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho: The Wonderland of Geothermal Marvels
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the world’s first national park, is a realm of unparalleled geothermal activity. It’s a place where the Earth’s inner workings are laid bare for all to see. The iconic Old Faithful geyser, punctual in its eruptions, symbolizes the park’s fiery heart. Yet, beyond Old Faithful lies a land of bubbling mud pots, multicolored hot springs, and powerful geysers that paint the landscape in surreal hues.
The wildlife of Yellowstone is equally captivating. Herds of bison roam freely, often creating traffic jams as they cross roads. Elk and pronghorn graze on the grasslands, while wolves and bears roam the backcountry. The park’s wildlife reminds us of the interconnectedness of all living things and the delicate balance of nature.
Yellowstone also boarders Grand Teton National Park. If you plan your trip right, you will be able to hit both of these beauties.
2) Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: A Geological Masterpiece
Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon stands as a testament to the immense power of erosion. Its sheer scale is impossible to fully grasp until you stand on its rim and gaze across the chasm. Layers of rock reveal Earth’s history, with each stratum telling a story of a different era.
Visitors can hike into the canyon, descending from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back. This journey through time provides a unique perspective on the geological forces that shaped this incredible landscape. Sunrise and sunset transform the canyon’s colors into a breathtaking spectacle, turning its walls into a canvas of reds, oranges, and purples.
3) Yosemite National Park, California: Granite Giants and Cascading Falls
Yosemite’s towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls have made it a symbol of natural beauty for generations. The imposing El Capitan and the iconic Half Dome challenge rock climbers and hikers, while Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall leave visitors in awe of nature’s power.
The park’s ancient giant sequoias, some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, inspire a sense of wonder and reverence. The Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 of these towering giants, including the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems, from subalpine meadows to alpine lakes, offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a sanctuary for diverse wildlife.
4) Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: Misty Peaks and Bountiful Biodiversity
Spanning the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its mist-shrouded peaks and lush forests. This ancient mountain range is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting thousands of plant and animal species.
The park’s diverse flora includes rare species like the flame azalea and the Fraser fir. Visitors in the fall are treated to a symphony of colors as the foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry. Hiking opportunities abound, with the iconic Appalachian Trail traversing the park’s rugged terrain. The ethereal mist that often envelops the mountains adds an air of mystery to the scenery, making every visit a unique experience. This is one of my personal favorites.
5) Zion National Park, Utah: Red Rock Wonders and Riverside Adventures
Zion National Park’s dramatic red rock canyons and towering cliffs create a landscape that seems almost otherworldly. The Virgin River has carved deep canyons through the sandstone, forming the famous Zion Canyon and the Narrows—a section where visitors can wade through the river between sheer walls of rock.
Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, including the challenging Angels Landing, which rewards brave hikers with panoramic vistas. The Emerald Pools provide a serene oasis amid the arid landscape. As the sun sets, the rocks glow with a warm hue, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that showcases the park’s raw beauty.
The U.S. national parks truly highlight many of the nation’s geographical gems. Each park offers a unique experience that ignites a sense of wonder and connection with the natural world. These 5 parks are but a sliver of the beauty that the US landscape has to offer.
Want your own personalized guide to one of these parks (or really any other destination)? Check out our website and schedule a consultation with one of our Travel Coordinators here.
