11 Legendary US Parks That Live Up to the Hype
Hitting the great outdoors to reset your mind and spirit is like nothing else, and few places provide that reset quite like America’s parks. These parks are celebrated for their beauty and for the memories they help create – from jaw dropping vistas to trails that surprise with their adventures. Besides the most obvious reasons to visit these parks—chasing sunsets, gazing at ancient formations, soaking in the sounds of nature—these parks leave an indelible impression that continues long after you’re gone.
There is a treasure trove of parks in the United States, all with something special to offer. Some are famous for their rugged terrain, some for their still water, and some for their dramatic cliffs. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual camper or a scenic driver, here is a look at 11 legendary parks that totally deserve their good name.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is the crown jewel of American parks and a true Californian treasure. Picture vast, steel-gray granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and towering Sequoias that seem to whisper ancient secrets. It’s more than just a park—it’s an unforgettable experience. This park is a living postcard, wherever you look or turn your neck: You find El Capitan in the distance, craning your neck to try and make out Bridalveil Fall, or walking between the ancient majesty of the Mariposa Grove. Fun tip: Glacier Point sunsets will blow your mind.
Grand Canyon National Park
You’ve probably seen a million photos, but nothing prepares you for your first glimpse of the Grand Canyon over the edge. This wonder of nature stretches across Arizona and looks like a painted desert come to life. It’s about the size and the color, and it’s about adventure: hiking the Bright Angel Trail, rafting down the Colorado River.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is often considered nature’s theme park. Of course, Old Faithful is the rock star, but don’t miss the surreal Grand Prismatic Spring or wildlife meadows of Lamar Valley. And if you see a bison, leave it alone. We promise, it’s no cuddly mascot.
Zion National Park
Zion is tucked away in Utah, a hiker’s paradise. Steep red cliffs and emerald pools give the edge to the endless trails you could be brave enough to explore – the Narrows or Angel’s Landing. Every turn is something awe inspiring, the park feels like a natural cathedral. Yes, the views are worth every drop of sweat.
National Park Great Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains span the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, resembling something straight out of an Appalachian folk song. Nature lovers and photographers alike love rolling mist, lush forests, and wildflowers. Clingmans Dome offers sweeping panoramic views, while Cades Cove is a delightful drive.
Acadia National Park
In Acadia, mountains meet the sea in spectacular fashion, over on the rugged coast of Maine. A seaside adventure with a side of charm, Cadillac Mountain, the park’s crown jewel, is one of the first places in the U.S. to catch the sunrise, kayak the sparkling waters or bike along the carriage roads.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is a must if you like quirky desert landscapes. The park is named for the unique trees scattered throughout the area and is an otherworldly combination of rock formations and wide open skies. It’s also a stargazing haven. Lose yourself in the cosmos, bring a telescope, or just your imagination.
Rocky Mountain National Park
The Rockies have a way of making you feel both humbled and small at the same time. This park in Colorado contains everything from alpine lakes to towering peaks. If you’re lucky, you might see an elk or two on your way, but Its guaranteed you won’t forget this drive on Trail Ridge Road.
Arches National Park
Utah’s Arches National Park is an example of nature’s creativity. It’s an open air sculpture gallery, with over 2,000 natural stone arches. The true showstopper, particularly at sunrise or sunset when it glows like molten gold, is the delicate arch. As for the hikes? They’re short, sweet, and incredibly rewarding.
Everglades National Park
Florida’s Everglades is all about wetlands and wildlife—no beaches here. This off-the-beaten-path ecosystem is a magnet for adventure seekers. Settle into an airboat and keep an eye out for gators and herons. Out here it’s a bit of a wild world, but that’s half the fun.
Glacier National Park
Glacier is tucked into Montana and is a pristine paradise of icy peaks and glacial lakes. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a bucket list drive that offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll ever encounter. Magic is the only word for this park—just hike Hidden Lake Trail or hang out with views, both are equally pure.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
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