Most people think that traveling to the States is all about the glamour and glitz of NYC or Las Vegas! But the natural wonders of the USA are too good to be true!
Whether you marvel at geothermal wonders in Yellowstone, stand on the rim of the Grand Canyon, or hike through the towering cliffs of Zion, each park has its own unique selling points and accessibility options.
So pack your bags, plan your route from major cities, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime in these magnificent national parks.
Check out these 9 best national parks in the USA:
1) Yellowstone National Park
Witness the world's largest collection of geysers, including the famous Old Faithful. Explore the vibrant hot springs, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears and wolves.
How to reach Yellowstone National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Bozeman, Montana (90 miles), Salt Lake City, Utah (330 miles), Jackson, Wyoming (60 miles).
Park Timings: Open year-round, but access to some areas may be limited during winter.
2) Yosemite National Park, California
Marvel at the iconic granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. Discover majestic waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall. Hike through ancient sequoia groves and experience the serenity of Yosemite Valley.
How to reach Yosemite National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Fresno, California (60 miles), San Francisco, California (200 miles).
Park Timings: Open year-round, but some areas may be inaccessible during winter.
3) Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Stand on the edge of the magnificent Grand Canyon and witness the immense beauty of its colorful rock formations. Experience thrilling hikes, helicopter tours, and the Colorado River's adventure.
How to reach Grand Canyon National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Flagstaff, Arizona (80 miles), Las Vegas, Nevada (270 miles), Phoenix, Arizona (230 miles).
Park Timings: Open year-round, 24 hours a day.
4) Zion National Park, Utah
Enter a world of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and breathtaking vistas. Hike the famous Narrows, conquer Angels Landing, and immerse yourself in the unique beauty of this desert oasis.
How to reach Zion National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Las Vegas, Nevada (160 miles), St. George, Utah (40 miles), Salt Lake City, Utah (300 miles).
Park Timings: Open year-round, but some areas may have seasonal closures.
5) Glacier National Park, Montana
Explore a pristine wilderness of majestic glaciers, shimmering lakes, and rugged mountains. Drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike scenic trails, and spot wildlife, including grizzly bears and mountain goats.
How to reach Glacier National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Kalispell, Montana (30 miles), Missoula, Montana (150 miles).
Park Timings: Generally open from May to September, but access may vary depending on weather conditions.
6) Everglades National Park, Florida
Dive into the vast subtropical wilderness of theEverglades, home to unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife. Take an airboat ride through the mangroves, kayak along the waterways, and spot alligators and bird species. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the "River of Grass."
How to reach Everglades National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Miami, Florida (40 miles), Fort Lauderdale, Florida (60 miles), Naples, Florida (85 miles).
Park Timings: Generally open year-round, 24 hours a day.
7) Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Immerse yourself in the majestic splendor of the Rocky Mountains. Hike alpine meadows, marvel at shimmering lakes, and spot wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep. Drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road for breathtaking views.
How to reach Rocky Mountain National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Denver, Colorado (70 miles), Boulder, Colorado (40 miles).
Park Timings: Generally open year-round, but some areas may have seasonal closures.
8) Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Enter a fairyland of unique hoodoos and mesmerizing rock formations. Hike scenic trails, witness the vibrant colors during sunrise and sunset, and gaze up at the stunning night sky, designated as an International Dark Sky Park.
How to reach Bryce Canyon National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: St. George, Utah (150 miles), Las Vegas, Nevada (270 miles), Salt Lake City, Utah (270 miles).
Park Timings: Open year-round, 24 hours a day.
9) Acadia National Park, Maine
Embrace the rugged beauty of the East Coast, from rocky shores to picturesque peaks. Witness the first sunrise in the United States from Cadillac Mountain, hike the scenic trails, and enjoy the coastal charm of this enchanting park.
How to reach Acadia National Park?
Nearest Major Cities: Bangor, Maine (50 miles), Portland, Maine (150 miles), Boston, Massachusetts (280 miles).
Park Timings: Generally open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during winter.
As a travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust, I find myself drawn to the untamed beauty of the world's natural wonders. While I may not have personally stepped foot in the magnificent national parks of the USA just yet, my heart yearns to explore their breathtaking landscapes and capture the essence of their unparalleled allure.
If you've been to any of these, and think we missed out on something? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or write about it here on Tripoto.