The Most Incredible National Parks in the United States

The United States is brimming with world-class cities, quaint old-school towns, and countless miles of superb beaches, but much of its beauty lies in its national parks. There are 63 parks in total, each with its own unique characteristics, landscapes, and ecosystems. All of them warrant a visit, which means whittling down the top spots was no easy task. Throughout this article, we'll chronicle the most jaw-dropping national parks in the country that should be on everyone's radar.

Yosemite National Park, California

Despite stiff competition from the rugged Joshua Tree and the majestic Redwood, Yosemite claims the title of California's most visited national park. Though it's typically associated with its challenging peaks, namely the infamous El Capitan and Half Dome hikes, you don't have to scale towering granite formations to appreciate the beauty of Yosemite. There are a ton of leisurely hiking trails, powerful waterfalls, and vantage points you can enjoy without exerting yourself too much, cementing Yosemite's status as a wonderfully well-rounded destination.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Arguably the most well-known national park in the United States, the Grand Canyon is among the country's most emblematic landmarks. A geographical marvel, the Grand Canyon has become known all over the world for its layers of red rock that lie harmoniously together despite coming from different time periods. While the canyon looks pretty spectacular from any angle, setting off on one of many hiking trails or taking a helicopter ride to the canyon floor are some of the best ways to understand the true splendor of the park.

Zion National Park, Utah

The imposing sandstone formations of Zion National Park are some of the most recognizable attractions in all of Utah, but these are just part of what makes this vast nature preserve so enthralling. Dig a little deeper, and you'll unearth narrow gorges, hidden rock pools, and dazzling waterfalls. After you've spent your day tackling some of the scenic hiking trails and savoring the vistas, stay the night at a lodge or campsite and do some stargazing. Zion is also a stellar spot for a road trip, as there's a road running right through the park that allows you to gaze at the soaring rocks from a different perspective.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park encapsulates everything that makes the landscapes of New England so captivating. Packed with dense woodlands, rocky shores, and serene lakes, Acadia stands as the only national park in the Northeast. You'll likely start your adventure through Acadia from the charming town of Bar Harbor, the primary gateway to the park's hiking trails, peaks, and viewpoints. If you're feeling particularly daring, take on the famous Beehive and Precipice treks, which feature iron rungs, steep drop-offs, and narrow walkways.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The United States' first designated national park continues to be one of the most distinguished and visited in the country. Today, Yellowstone's bubbling geysers, fascinating free-roaming wildlife, and striking canyons are as alluring as ever. There's a whole host of must-see spots at Yellowstone, the most famous of which is Old Faithful, the park's frequently erupting geyser. Some other highlights include the brightly-colored Grand Prismatic Spring, the Mammoth Hot Springs, and the herds of bison, elk, and moose. Around half of the world's geysers and almost 1,000 miles of hiking routes lie within the park's confines, meaning that there are copious quiet corners waiting to be discovered.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Nestled near the Canadian border, Glacier National Park showcases some of the most sensational scenery in the country. Shaped over two million years ago during the Ice Age, the dramatic valleys, paternoster lakes, tundras, and glacial deposits of Glacier National Park are a sight to behold. To see the best of what this magical Montana hotspot has to offer, check out the Highline, Grinnell Glacier, and Hidden Overlook trails. If you have time, cruise along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile thoroughfare running through the heart of the Glacier National Park.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Even if you've never heard of Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park, you've probably seen photos of the vivid orange fairy chimneys that adorn vast swathes of the landscape. Some of these sedimentary structures, commonly called hoodoos, are almost 200 feet tall. The best place to see these spire-like formations is Bryce Amphitheatre, which is surrounded by a series of hiking paths that offer stunning vistas over the park. However, the beauty of Bryce Canyon isn't solely reserved for hikers, as the Southern Scenic Drive passes through a myriad of panoramic overlooks.

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Denali is perhaps Alaska's most widely-known national park, but it's also one of the largest in the United States and where you'll find North America's tallest peak. Summiting the 20,000-foot Denali is a challenge that should only be undertaken by seasoned mountaineers and climbers. Thankfully, the likes of the Horseshoe Lake Trail and Thorofare Ridge Trail afford visitors the opportunity to stand in awe of Denali, the crystal-clear lakes, and the expansive tundra without quite as much training! With some luck, you may even spot a grizzly bear or wolf lurking in the trees.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Be awestruck by the magnificence of the Appalachian Mountains at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. By far the most visited park in the country, millions of outdoor enthusiasts descend on the thick forests, wildflower-covered hills, and ethereal waterfalls every year. Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the park and makes for an impressive viewing platform, but trekking paths like Rainbow Falls, Cades Cove, and Newfound Gap are equally as astonishing. Experts believe some 100,000 species call the Great Smoky Mountains National Park home, making it the most biodiverse park by a landslide.

Get Ready to Uncover Some of the World's Most Awe-Inspiring National Parks

The national parks of the United States are among the most renowned in the world and for good reason. Offering remarkable natural wonders, unmarred wildernesses, and splendid vistas, each national park is a treasure trove of staggering scenery. With so many spots to visit, there's no time like the present to start checking these extraordinary destinations off your list!