Top 7 Iconic National Parks You Must Explore
Discover the top seven iconic national parks, from Yosemite's breathtaking waterfalls to the vast wilderness of Glacier and the geological wonder of the Grand Canyon. Learn tips for planning your visit and explore the natural and cultural treasures these parks have to offer for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Top 7 Iconic National Parks You Must Explore
National parks are vital for protecting our planet's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Many are open to visitors who can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, rock climbing, and kayaking. With numerous parks available, choosing the right one can be tricky. To help, we've highlighted seven must-visit national parks that showcase natural splendor and adventure.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite offers stunning vistas and remarkable landmarks such as Tunnel View and Valley View, perfect for nature lovers. The park features towering formations like Half Dome and El Capitan, with Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall at 2,425 feet, being a major highlight.
Glacier National Park
Known as the Crown of the Continent, Glacier spans over a million acres with breathtaking mountain scenery on both sides. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along Going-to-the-Sun Road, explore Logan Pass at the Continental Divide, and relax at several campgrounds.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon's striking color layers, vast depth, and unique formations captivate travelers. Helicopter tours offer glimpses of inaccessible areas, while educational programs deepen understanding of the canyon’s rich history.
Jasper National Park
Situated in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper offers outdoor adventures throughout the year. Hike, bike, or boat in summer, and in winter, enjoy cross-country skiing or ice climbing. Maligne Lake, the second-largest glacier-fed lake globally, is located within the park.
Arches National Park
Covering about 77,000 acres, Arches features distinctive sandstone arches and formation landscapes. Ideal for hiking, climbing, and photography, the Garden of Eden and La Sal Mountains viewpoint are top attractions, offering stunning vistas.
Zion National Park
Zion is a paradise for explorers and photographers. The Zion Narrows trek through a narrow canyon and Angels Landing’s challenging climb boost adventure seekers’ thrill. Many visitors opt to stay at park lodges for extended visits.
Hot Springs National Park
Boasting nearly 4,000-year-old hot springs, this park invites visitors to relax in steaming pools. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower provides panoramic views from 216 feet high, and a visit to the historic Fordyce Bathhouse offers cultural insight into the area’s past.
How to Plan Your Visit
To navigate parks easily, use online maps for route planning. Enter your starting point and set multiple stops at various attractions. Rearrange stops as needed, choose scenic routes, and send directions to your mobile device for convenience during your trip. Google Maps allows up to ten stops for a comprehensive itinerary.
About the National Park Service
Established in 1916, the National Park Service oversees hundreds of parks, monuments, and historic sites, dedicated to preserving natural landscapes and cultural heritage for future generations.
