There are a total of 63 national parks in the USA. California has the highest number (9) of national parks in the United States, with Alaska (8) in second place, and Utah (5) in third place. We have covered the complete list of all 63 national parks and what you can do there.
National Parks in the USA, 1-10 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 11-20 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 21-30 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 31-40 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 41-50 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 51-60 (Jump to section)
National Parks in the USA, 61 – 63 (Jump to section)
Complete List of 63 National Parks in the USA, by State (Jump to section)
Complete List of 63 National Parks in the USA, by State
8 National Parks in Alaska
Denali | Alaska |
Gates of the Arctic | Alaska |
Glacier Bay | Alaska |
Katmai | Alaska |
Kenai Fjords | Alaska |
Kobuk Valley | Alaska |
Lake Clark | Alaska |
Wrangell – St. Elias | Alaska |
3 National Parks in Arizona
Grand Canyon | Arizona |
Petrified Forest | Arizona |
Saguaro | Arizona |
1 National Park in Arkansas
Hot Springs | Arkansas |
9 National Parks in California
Channel Islands | California |
Death Valley | California |
Joshua Tree | California |
Kings Canyon | California |
Lassen Volcanic | California |
Pinnacles | California |
Redwood | California |
Sequoia | California |
Yosemite | California |
4 National Parks in Colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison | Colorado |
Great Sand Dunes | Colorado |
Mesa Verde | Colorado |
Rocky Mountain | Colorado |
3 National Parks in Florida
Biscayne | Florida |
Dry Tortugas | Florida |
Everglades | Florida |
2 National Parks in Hawaii
Haleakala | Hawaii |
Hawai’i Volcanoes | Hawaii |
1 National Park in Indiana
Indiana Dunes | Indiana |
1 National Park in Kentucky
Mammoth Cave | Kentucky |
1 National Park in Maine
Acadia | Maine |
1 National Park in Michigan
Isle Royale | Michigan |
1 National Park in Minnesota
Voyageurs | Minnesota |
1 National Park in Missouri
Gateway Arch | Missouri |
1 National Park in Montana
Glacier | Montana |
1 National Park in Nevada
Great Basin | Nevada |
2 National Parks in New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns | New Mexico |
White Sands | New Mexico |
1 National Park in North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt | North Dakota |
1 National Park in Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley | Ohio |
1 National Park in Oregon
Crater Lake | Oregon |
1 National Park in South Carolina
Congaree | South Carolina |
2 National Parks in South Dakota
Badlands | South Dakota |
Wind Cave | South Dakota |
1 National Park in Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains | Tennessee |
2 National Parks in Texas
Big Bend | Texas |
Guadalupe Mountains | Texas |
1 National Park in US Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands | US Virgin Islands |
5 National Parks in Utah
Arches | Utah |
Bryce Canyon | Utah |
Canyonlands | Utah |
Capitol Reef | Utah |
Zion | Utah |
1 National Park in US Virginia
Shenandoah | Virginia |
3 National Parks in Washington
Mount Rainier | Washington |
North Cascades | Washington |
Olympic | Washington |
1 National Park in West Virginia
New River Gorge | West Virginia |
2 National Parks in Wyoming
Grand Teton | Wyoming |
Yellowstone | Wyoming |
1 National Park in American Samoa
American Samoa | American Samoa |
Here’s a list of 63 National Parks in the USA covered in this article.
- 1. the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
- 2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- 3. Yosemite National Park, California
- 4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
- 5. Zion National Park, Utah
- 6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- 7. Olympic National Park, Washington
- 8. Acadia National Park, Maine
- 9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
- 10. Glacier National Park, Montana
- 11. Joshua Tree National Park, California
- 12. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
- 13. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
- 14. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
- 15. Arches National Park, Utah
- 16. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
- 17. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- 18. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
- 19. Death Valley National Park, Nevada & California
- 20. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
- 21. Sequoia National Park, California
- 22. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
- 23. Everglades National Park, Florida
- 24. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
- 25. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
- 26. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
- 27. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
- 28. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
- 29. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
- 30. Kings Canyon National Park, California
- 31. Denali National Park, Alaska
- 32. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
- 33. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
- 34. Redwood National Park, California
- 35. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
- 36. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
- 37. Biscayne National Park, Florida
- 38. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
- 39. Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands
- 40. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
- 41. Big Bend National Park, Texas
- 42. Channel Islands National Park, California
- 43. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
- 44. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
- 45. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
- 46. Pinnacles National Park, California
- 47. Guadalupe National Park, Texas
- 48. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
- 49. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
- 50. Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska
- 51. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
- 52. Katmai National Park, Alaska
- 53. American Samoa National Park, American Samoa
- 54. North Cascades National Park, Washington
- 55. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
- 56. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
- 57. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
- 58. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
- 59. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
- 60. Indiana Dunes National Park, IndianaNational Parks in USA, 61 – 63
- 61. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
- 62. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
- 63. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
National Parks in the USA, 1-10
1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
The number 1 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, The Great Smoky Mountains are a range of high mountains in the southeastern United States, located primarily in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. They were designated as part of the National Park System by Congress through the passage of the Organic Act.

At an average elevation of about 1700 meters (5577 feet), the Great Smoky Mountains straddle the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. This region is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including over 1,500 species of plants and countless types of birds, mammals, salamanders, fish, insects, black bears, and white-tailed deer.
The most popular areas for hiking include
- Cades Cove
- Charlies Bunion
- Alum Cave Bluffs
- Andrews Bald
- Rainbow Falls
- Chimney Tops (which have been used since prehistoric times)
- Elkmont Campground Resort Village Historic District
- Fontana Lake Dam Recreation Area/Campground & Day Use Area with its swimming pool complex which includes an 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail also known as “the world’s longest parking lot”
- Abrams Creek Wilderness
- Greenbrier East Unit/Greenbrier West Unit wildernesses with their waterfalls and streams that feed into Newfound Gap Road below Clingmans Dome at 6684 feet above sea level from where you can see all four states:
- North Carolina (to your left)
- South Carolina (straight ahead)
- Georgia(behind you)
- Alabama(ahead).
What to do in the Great Smoky Mountains?
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to visit in the East Tennessee area. This park has several different trails for visitors to explore and enjoy. Some of these include The Appalachian Trail, Newfound Gap Road, Laurel Falls Loop Trail, Chimney Tops Nature Trail, and Cades Cove Loop Drive.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The number 2 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Grand Canyon National Park is a national park that straddles the border between Arizona and Utah. It was created by an act of Congress and covers 1,217 square miles (3,817 km2) of mostly uninhabited land with some small settlements along its rim. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long at its longest point from north to south but only 6-12 miles wide.

It is often regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World for having extraordinary geological formations despite being relatively flat compared to other canyons such as those found on Earth’s oceanic ridges or continental divides. Its depth also makes it one of the earth’s great canyons; tectonic uplift over several million years has exposed rock layers hundreds or even thousands of feet thick. The Grand Canyon is also one of the world’s foremost tourist attractions, with over 5 million visitors per year.
The Colorado River flows through the Grand Canyon. It was carved out by the river over a period of 6 million years and is about 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and attains a depth of 1200 feet at its deepest point, making it one of the most spectacular canyons in North America. The Colorado River flows through the Grand Canyon on its way from snow-capped mountains in Wyoming to the Gulf of California in Mexico. The annual flow of water from its drainage basin is greater than that of any other river on earth.
The Grand Canyon is well known for its geologic history, as there are many exposed layers and formations that tell the story of how the Earth formed and changed over billions of years. The most well-known part of this story is that told by the Kaibab Limestone (formed during the Cambrian Period) which features fossils of sea creatures that lived in a shallow tropical sea. The next layer, the Toroweap Formation, is made up of sandstone and lava that was formed during the Paleozoic Era (570 – 250 million years ago). The Tapeats Sandstone, which is next in this sequence, was formed during the Triassic Period (250 – 200 million years ago) and it is the first layer to have been laid down on dry land. It contains many fossils of marine animals that died in a tropical estuary.
What to do in Grand Canyon National Park?
The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder, and it’s one of the most popular national parks in America. The park has many different activities for visitors to enjoy including hiking, biking, horseback riding or even just simply taking photos from the rim. If these are not your preferred options you can also watch an IMAX movie at El Tovar Hotel which offers stunning views of this magnificent canyon along with its other attractions such as mule rides and guided tours.
There are three main ways that people visit the Grand Canyon National Park: by car on scenic drives through some of Arizona’s finest scenery; by helicopter tour where passengers take in spectacular views over 100 miles down into the depths below; or via train ride where riders get to see all four states within their country before arriving at their destination!
3. Yosemite National Park, California
The number 3 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Yosemite National Park is a national park located in the western Sierra Nevada mountains. Yosemite was established as America’s first national park by President Benjamin Harrison and signed into law by his successor Grover Cleveland. The park covers an area of 747 square miles (1,200 km2) and contains more than 400 natural features of geological interest including waterfalls, granite cliffs, meadows with wildflowers such as bluebells or paintbrushes that bloom from June to September along tributary streams at higher elevations within the Sierra Nevada range.

The spectacular scenery makes it a favorite destination for mountaineers seeking challenging ascents up high peaks such as Mount Lyell, Mount Watkins, Half Dome, or Grand Sentinel.
- Other hiking trails include Glacier Point Trail which leads to Vernal Fall;
- Mist Trail which passes through lush forests filled with ferns;
- John Muir trail that follows alongside the Merced River deep into Little Yosemite Valley where you can view many unique rock formations like
- Cathedral Rocks
- El Capitan;
- Liberty Cap;
- Middle Triple Peak
- North Dome
- Three Brothers
- Tenaya Canyon
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
The number 4 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Rocky Mountain National Park is a national park located in the Rocky Mountains of north-central Colorado. Established by U.S President Woodrow Wilson, it was designated as one of America’s first national parks and covers an area of over 1 million acres (4100 km²).
Rocky Mountain National Park is surrounded by steep mountains covered with coniferous forests and alpine tundra ecosystems that support large animal populations including elk, deer, black bears, and mountain lions. The Continental Divide runs directly through its northern section while the South Routt River flows from south to north along the eastern side of the park before exiting into Lake Granby just outside Grand Lake.
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to many unique rock formations including Yosemite Falls. Yosemite Falls is a waterfall located in Yosemite Valley of the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range in the U.S. state of California. Yosemite Falls originates from ice-cored granite columns rising from the floor of Yosemite Valley and dropping into the Merced River from Tunnel View, a viewpoint located on its north side.
What to do in Rocky Mountain National Park?
The Rocky Mountain National Park is a very popular destination for many people who visit Colorado. However, there are also some things to do in the park that you might not know about!
One of these activities is hiking through the Bear Lake Trail. This trail leads from Bear Lake up towards Emerald Peak and offers spectacular views of North America’s most visited mountain range: The Front Range Mountains. Another activity to try out while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park would be fishing at one of its lakes or streams like Moraine Park Pond or Longs Peak Creek which both offer different types of fish species as well as scenery unlike any other place on earth.
5. Zion National Park, Utah
Number 5 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Zion National Park is a national park located in the Southwestern United States. It encompasses 8,878 acres along the east bank of the Virgin River Gorge and extends south to Mount Carmel Junction. The park was established when President Woodrow Wilson signed an executive order creating Zion National Monument as part of his campaign for public land conservation. Later, Congress passed legislation that changed this designation to become a national park with its current boundaries.

The park is located within the southern section of Utah County and includes Zion Canyon, Cedar Breaks National Monument, The Narrows, and Kolob Canyons. It covers an area of approximately 52 square miles (130 km2). The main body of Zion consists primarily of cliffs composed primarily of Navajo sandstone and reddish-colored Kaibab limestone that are exposed by erosion along the Virgin River. Other rock formations include monzonite, dolomite/limestone/gypsum, and shale/sandstone-limestone with minor conglomerates and breccia. The land is arid and characterized by sparse vegetation, with the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway as the primary transportation corridor. The climate in Zion is semiarid with a desert climate.
The park’s geology is dominated by Navajo sandstone and Kaibab limestone cliffs which are visible in Zion Canyon, including Angel’s Landing area. The most prominent rock formation in the national park is The Narrows, which resembles a canyon carved into a steep red cliff of Navajo sandstone, with walls that drop to depths of more than 1,000 feet (300 m). At its narrowest point, only one-half mile (0.8 km) wide, it is the canyon through which Zion Canyon flows from Virgin River Gorge to Cedar Breaks National Monument. The cliffs of Zion National Park have been eroded by water on three sides for at least 70 million years since an ancient sea uplifted and tilted these rock layers
History of ‘Zion’
The park is named after The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Zion Canyon in Utah and the surrounding area were chosen by Joseph Smith as the site for a “New Jerusalem”.
The first European visitors to the area were members of a wagon train expedition led by American trapper Peter Skene Ogden. When the first permanent settlement was made, there were about 100 people living in Springdale and nearby Mount Carmel (now part of the park). This population grew significantly with the arrival of Mormon pioneers from Illinois, who settled in Mount Carmel and began farming and cattle raising in nearby valleys. This new community was known as Zion’s Camp.
The area was used as a staging ground for the Zion’s Camp expedition to Utah, which included a large contingent of Mormon volunteers. The expedition was led by Colonel James H. Carleton who established Camp Douglas in Cedar Valley after the initial attack on Fort Floyd.
What to do in Zion National Park?
There’s plenty to do in Zion National Park including hiking trails through the canyonlands or along the Virgin River; swimming at one of several pools inside or outside some beautiful rock formations called “hoodoos;” fishing for trout on sections within its waters; exploring ancient Native American petroglyphs found throughout its territory which date many hundred years back.
There are also fun things like boating down river rapids while rafting trips can be hired by experienced guides who know how to handle these powerful currents without getting you hurt!
6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The number 6 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Yellowstone National Park is a United States National Park located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It was established as the world’s first national park. Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features including the Old Faithful Geyser which erupts about every 90 minutes with a predictable schedule of approximately 20 to 70 seconds between eruptions (depending on weather). The surrounding landscape includes mostly rugged terrain interspersed with meadows and forested areas.

The vast majority of visitors experience only the most popular attractions such as Grand Prismatic Spring or Lake Yellowstone; however, there are over 3 million acres within the park’s boundaries that remain largely undeveloped.
The park’s name was derived from the Yellowstone River, which in turn was named after the Scottish-born American pioneer John Jacob Astor who founded the Pacific Fur Company. Astor, a multi-millionaire, bequeathed $400,000 to permanently establish this area as a trust to be known as Yellowstone National Park. The establishment of Yellowstone National Park has become synonymous with the beginning of the conservation movement in America.
Yellowstone has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
What to do in Yellowstone National Park?
There are many things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Some of these include:
-Watching the famous Old Faithful geyser, which erupts every 60 minutes or so and is a sight not soon forgotten!
-Going on an adventure by taking one of the numerous scenic drives that wind through this beautiful park. You can choose from routes like Lava Canyon Drive and West Thumb Road.
-Hiking up Mount Washburn for some breathtaking views over all of Yellowstone’s wonders!
7. Olympic National Park, Washington
The number 7 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Olympic National Park is a National Park located in the state of Washington. It covers an area of 1.1 million acres (4,500 sq mi). The park has two sections that are divided by the Hoh River: one section west of the river and another to its east.
The eastern section, also known as the Quinault Rain Forest, is a temperate rainforest that has been designated as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The western section includes temperate rainforests with lush vegetation including old-growth forests containing red cedar trees over 500 years old; it also contains many alpine meadows above timberline at about 8600 feet elevation where wildflower species bloom every year from April through June.
Olympic National Park is home to the western half of the Olympic Peninsula and includes many areas of coastal temperate rainforest, including the Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, and Olympic National Forest. This region is one of only two temperate rainforests in the world that are not connected to a tropical forest. The other remaining temperate rain forest of this type is in northern Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park.
What to do in Olympic National Park?
The park has a diversity of activities and attractions, including picnicking, fishing, and hiking trails in the forested areas along with scenic views. There are also cycling tours around the area as well as horseback riding opportunities. The visitor center is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm for those who would like information about what’s going on at Olympic National Park or simply just need directions to get there.
8. Acadia National Park, Maine
The number 8 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, USA. The park was established as the first national park of the United States by President Abraham Lincoln in 1872 and has a variety of ecosystems including mountains, lakes, ponds, and coastal areas. It also features more than 5 miles (8 km) of trails that are open to pedestrians or cyclists year-round for hiking or biking through forests with old-growth trees near scenic waterfalls.

The most popular activities at Acadia include camping under some spectacular stars during summer nights; taking boat tours around islands off Mount Desert’s coast; visiting historic lighthouses along an oceanfront trail; exploring tide pools full of sea life beneath Long Pond Lookout Tower.
This park is also a popular place for bird watching, with more than 250 species of birds found within its boundaries. The most common species seen in the park are the Black Tern, Common Loon, Common Goldeneye, Great Blue Heron, and Bald Eagle. Some of the mammals that can be spotted in Acadia include the American marten, Coyote, Raccoon, and Red Fox.
The park is also known for its thriving population of moose which roam around the park’s forests and meadows during the winter months.
What to do in Acadia National Park?
You can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing in Acadia National Park. There are also a few visitor centers that offer guided tours of the park. You can find information about these places on their website.
9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
The number 9 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Grand Teton National Park is a national park located primarily in the U.S. state of Wyoming, with smaller portions extending into Idaho and Montana as well. It was established to protect the Grand Teton mountain range and is most visited by 4 million people annually who enjoy camping, and hiking trails for various levels of difficulty that lead up to several high peaks including Mount Moran at 13,770 feet (4133 m) above sea level. The park also features Taggart Lake, Jenny Lake, and the Snake River.
Grand Teton National Park encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in Wyoming. The park contains five distinct regions: Upper Yellowstone Lake Basin, Lower Yellowstone Lake Basin, Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway Corridor, and the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway itself.
Grand Teton National Park encompasses nearly 600 square miles (1,550 km²) of mountainous terrain with several peaks exceeding 13,000 feet (4200 m). The highest point in the park is Mount Moran at 13,770 feet (4133 m). Several smaller mountains are also found throughout the park, including Mount Owen at 13,737 feet (4130 m), Mount Sheridan at 13,615 feet (4110 m), and Mount Owen at 13,566 feet (4100 m).
What to do in Grand Teton National Park?
The Grand Teton National Park is a beautiful, mountainous area in Wyoming that offers many activities for visitors. Some of the things to do are hiking and horseback riding through the park’s trails or visiting some of the other sites such as Jenny Lake Campground. The campgrounds have an abundance of space with large campsites perfect for tents or trailers where you can enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities while staying close to nature.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
The number 1 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Glacier National Park is a national park in Montana, USA. The park encompasses over 1 million acres and includes parts of two mountain ranges: the Belly River Range to its west and north, which are part of the Rocky Mountains; as well as areas eastward along three major rivers—the St. Mary River at Lake McDonald (a sub-alpine lake), Two Medicine Valley between Mount Jackson and Avalanche Peak (an alpine meadow), and finally Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada’s Waterton Lakes Provincial Park where it reaches out across international boundaries into British Columbia.
What to do in Glacier National Park?
The best way to enjoy Glacier National Park is by taking a horseback ride through the park. There are many different trails and routes available for riding, so you can choose which one suits your needs.
The next option is to hike up into the mountains where there are breathtaking views of Mt. Jackson or even see some wildlife such as elk or bighorn sheep from afar with binoculars! If you’re looking for something more active then consider biking along either Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana’s only designated bike path that stretches across 2200 miles – it goes all around Glacier National Park!
Glacier National Park is also a great place to go skiing. There are many ski areas in the park including Mt. Brown, Belly River, and Two Medicine. The ski area at Two Medicine is the closest to the main entrance of the national park and it’s definitely worth checking out!
If you’re looking for a day trip then consider visiting Waterton Lakes National Park which is located just across the border from Glacier National Park in Canada. There are many hiking trails that are perfect for all ages – from short walks to strenuous hikes – so be sure to check out their website for more information about what you can do there!
What’s unique about Waterton Lakes National Park? Waterton Lakes Provincial Park in Canada is not only home to some of the most stunning lakes in North America but it also has glaciers! In fact, there are over 40 glaciers within its borders and they have been named after famous explorers such as Sir John Franklin and Sir William Edward Parry.
National Parks in the USA, 11-20
11. Joshua Tree National Park, California
The number 11 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Joshua Tree National Park is a national park in the Mojave Desert of Southern California. It borders two other federally protected areas: Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge to the north and Death Valley National Park to the east.
The park includes within its boundaries over 3,000 individual plant species from all major habitat types found across their range including desert scrub, Joshua tree forests, juniper woodlands, and grassland habitats. The terrain slopes upward from south-central Arizona through southern California into northwestern Mexico as well as northwest Baja California with elevations ranging up to 4200 feet (1260 m). In addition, there are more than 400 identified animal species including 22 mammals such as coyotes and cottontail rabbits; 200 bird species; 20 reptiles; 10 amphibians but no fish or insects have been recorded in this area yet.
What to do in Joshua Tree National Park?
There are many things to do in Joshua Tree National Park, but the most popular activities include hiking and rock climbing. There is also a lot of wildlife that can be seen here including coyotes, lizards, and cacti. Some people like to go on an adventure by going horseback riding or mountain biking through the park as well!
12. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
The number 12 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a national park that preserves the landscape of the river valley in Northeast Ohio. It comprises more than 1,000 acres (400 ha) along both banks of the River Cuyahoga from Cleveland to Akron. The park provides opportunities for visitors to experience nature as well as enjoy recreation such as hiking, birdwatching, and bicycling along scenic trails with views into downtown Cleveland.

The park is home to many rare species of animals and plants. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only place in Ohio where you can hike through a virgin forest (with no trails) of Eastern White Pine. Eastern White Pine is the most common tree species in the northern Midwest and it thrives here because it’s a very tough tree that doesn’t require much water to survive. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offers visitors opportunities to see bald eagles, osprey, and bison. There are also several other species of animals that can be seen such as black bears, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and more!
What to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park?
In Cuyahoga Valley National Park, there are many things to do. Some of the activities you can enjoy include hiking and camp along some of the trails in this beautiful national park. You may also want to go on a guided tour at one of their historic homes or explore the wildlife that lives here by going bird watching or fishing for trout while taking a break from your hike.
You should be sure not to miss out on visiting Cleveland’s only national park!
13. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
The number 13 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Bryce Canyon is a national park in southwestern Utah, United States. It borders the northern rim of the Grand Canyon and extends into parts of southeastern Utah and northern Arizona. The Bryce Canyon National Park includes two designated wilderness areas within its boundaries: Pipe Spring Wilderness to the northeast; and Cedar Breaks National Monument to the south-southeast.
Bryce’s hoodoos are composed primarily of gypsum crystals that have been eroded by water, forming columns up to 200 feet (60 m) high with grooves called “windows” where one can view inner chambers behind them on many levels at ground level or from above.
The first human visitors to the site are thought to have been members of the Southern Paiute who traveled there for centuries before colonization by Europeans. The Ancestral Puebloans called it “Besh-da-voo-dah” (Place of Birth).
The park is named after Ebenezer Bryce, who homesteaded in Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park was established as a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt. The setting of the park was characterized by the geologist James H. Wallis as “the monoliths of Amphitheater National Monument”.
What to do in Bryce Canyon National Park?
Bryce Canyon National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are many hiking opportunities in the park, including hikes along its scenic rim and through its colorful canyons. The Bryce Canyon Rim Trail is one hike that will take you around the entire perimeter of this popular national park, offering spectacular views at every turn. Another option is taking an easy 15-minute walk down into Grand View Point which leads to Inspiration Point where hikers have panoramic views on all sides from atop a cliff overlooking the canyon floor below them.
14. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
The number 14 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a National Park located in the state of Hawaii on the island of Hawaiʻi. It was established as an active volcano park when President Woodrow Wilson signed Proclamation 5447 to make it “a public reservation and national monument.”

The park is made up of five volcanoes: Mauna Loa (the world’s largest shield volcano), Kīlauea Iki, Kīlauea II or East Rift Zone, Hualālai aka West Rift Zone, and Haleakalā aka summit crater.
What to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
The park has a lot to offer, including hiking trails and the opportunity to see native Hawaiian plants. There are also many historic sites that have been preserved within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These include Kilauea Military Camp, which was built by King Kalakaua as part of his plan for defense against foreign attack; Halemaumau Crater (the caldera), formed by eruptions from three different vents on Kilauea’s east rift zone; Puu Oo crater created when lava flowed out over the rim during an eruption; and Thurston Lava Tube—one of only two known natural lava tubes still existing on Earth today.
15. Arches National Park, Utah
The number 15 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Arches National Park is a National Park that preserves an impressive collection of more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. The park contains over 70 miles of hiking trails and has a visitor center with exhibits about geology and paleontology. It’s also home to petroglyphs dating back as far as 9000 BC!
The park was established by President Herbert Hoover. The park was originally named Delicate Arch National Monument.
What to do in Arches National Park?
Arches National Park has a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. These include hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and camping with primitive campsites near the park’s famous arches. The park also features numerous scenic drives that provide views of its breathtaking landscapes and rock formations from different angles as well as some amazing scenery along the way. There are four developed campgrounds in Arches that offer RV hookups or tent sites nearby all-natural attractions such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock.
16. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
The number 16 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Hot Springs National Park is a national park in central Arkansas. The park features the hot springs, natural pools of mineral-laden water that flow out from fissures and fractures in the Earth’s crust at temperatures between 100°F to 212°F (38°C to 100 °C).
The temperature range has made it attractive for humans since ancient times. In addition to these hot springs, there are also geysers which can be seen as they emit steam or other gases into the air; “steamboat” caves formed by underground rivers; sinkholes where groundwater seeps through limestone bedrock; and numerous flora species including giant Sequoia redwoods, Eastern Red Cedar trees up to 300 feet tall with trunks up 10 feet across.
What to do in Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs National Park is a United States national park in central Arkansas. It has been referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Ozarks, and its most popular attractions are its geothermal features including natural springs that flow into pools fed by underground rivers. The name Hot Springs refers not to temperature but rather water vapor or steam which rises from hot rocks near these springs.
Hot spring pools range in size from small tubs for dipping toes into, up to large swimming holes with diving platforms at each end where people can swim under waterfalls hundreds of feet high (the largest one being 300 ft tall). As such visitors should be careful about what they do when visiting this park because there are many dangers present like cliffs and falling rocks above some areas on top of which you might find yourself standing suddenly if you’re not paying attention while walking around!
17. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
The number 17 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Shenandoah National Park is a national park in the state of Virginia. The park occupies over 3,000 square miles (7,800 km2) and includes portions of three counties: Page County in northwestern Virginia; Frederick County to the south; and Clarke County on its western edge. It is currently managed by the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Land Management as part of an effort to protect lands that are important for water supply within this area.
What to do in Shenandoah National Park?
There are many things to do in Shenandoah National Park, but the most popular is hiking. The Appalachian Trail runs through this park and can be hiked for miles on end with some of the best views of nature you’ll find anywhere. There’s also a plethora of waterfalls that will make your trek feel like it went by quickly as well as numerous trails available in order to explore more than just one part of the park.
There are plenty of other activities at Shenandoah National Park including camping, fishing, mountain biking, or horseback riding if those interests suit you better.
18. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The number 18 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Mount Rainier National Park is a national park in Washington and the largest mountain range in the Cascade Range. The park has over 250 glaciers, including 14 active volcanoes as well as numerous rivers such as Stevens and Nisqually Rivers. It also has waterfalls, lakes (e.g., Longmire), old-growth forests of Douglas fir trees up to 3000 years old that are considered some of the oldest living things on earth today, wildflowers abundant with more than 2000 different species, mammals like black bears or cougars; amphibians like frogs or salamanders; reptiles such.
What to do in Mount Rainier National Park?
The best way to experience the park is by hiking, whether it’s a short hike or an overnight backpacking trip. The Mount Rainier National Park website has plenty of information on what trails are open and closed during different seasons so you can pick a time that works for your plans. There are also some amazing campsites in the area where you might want to stay if you’re looking for somewhere close enough but don’t mind roughing it!
The other option would be taking one of those ranger-led tours through either Longmire or Paradise Valley. These hikes will take about 3 hours each (depending on how much history they cover) and include stops at old mining sites, waterfalls, beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers galore-and even views from atop Mt Rainer itself!
19. Death Valley National Park, Nevada & California
The number 19 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Death Valley National Park is a national park in the Mojave Desert of California, USA. It’s one of the hottest places on Earth with an average daily high temperature approaching 55 °C (131 °F) during summer months and over 40% humidity. The lowest recorded temperature for Death Valley was −2 °C (−19 °F).
Death Valley’s natural beauty includes salt flats, sand dunes, and badland formations such as mounds and sinkholes that are remnants from ancient sea beds along with trees like Joshua Trees which have adapted to this harsh environment.
It was established by President Theodore Roosevelt and covers over 3 million acres (12000 km2). Death Valley National Park includes Badwater Basin at its lowest point which lies 282 feet below sea level – making it one of the deepest valleys in North America. The valley gets its name from nearby Death Spring; this spring’s water flows just enough to keep a small oasis alive at all times but not so much as to escape notice or be drinkable elsewhere around the valley.
What to do in Death Valley National Park?
The most popular activities in Death Valley National Park include hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife including bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bobcats, and black bears. For those who prefer not to hike or camp out, there are plenty of hotels within the area that offers amenities such as swimming pools or spas for your enjoyment during your stay.
20. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
The number 20 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Haleakalā National Park is located on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It is one of five national parks in Hawaii and was established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of his effort to create a network of National Parks that would preserve significant natural areas throughout the United States for future generations.
The park’s name comes from Hawaiian words meaning “house-of-the-eagle.” The Haleakalā volcano rises steeply over 10,000 feet (3 km) above sea level at its summit but slopes down abruptly below this point where it plunges more than 3 miles (5 km).
Haleakala has an elevation range within its boundaries between 2,500 feet (760 m) and 10,023 feet (3277 m), making it both the highest peak on Earth outside Asia with respect to land area covered and also second only to Kilimanjaro among mountains worldwide when measured from base top altitude.
What to do in Haleakalā National Park?
There are many things to do in Haleakalā National Park. Some of the most popular include hiking, camping and backpacking trails, whale watching tours, or just exploring on foot with a map and compass. Other activities that you can enjoy here include stargazing at night or snorkeling during the day (depending on weather conditions).
National Parks in the USA, 21-30
21. Sequoia National Park, California
The number 21 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Sequoia National Park is a national park that’s located in the southern Sierra Nevada range of California. It was named after its largest tree species, the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). The northern part of this vast wilderness includes Giant Forest – the most visited unit within Sequoia NP with over 3 million visitors per year.
The Great Basin Divide separates these two areas from Kings Canyon National Park to their north and Yosemite National Park to their south. In addition to being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both natural features and cultural significance, it has also been declared an International Biosphere Reserve.
What to do in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park has a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some suggestions on what to do in Sequoia National Park:
– Hike the many trails around the park and visit all of its waterfalls, including Morro Rock Falls, which is one of the tallest falls in North America at 300 feet tall; or follow an easy trail up Mount Whitney’s granite dome through subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers
– Visit General Sherman Tree Grove and explore these huge trees that were over 200 years old when they died during a forest fire.
– Relax in the shade of giant sequoia trees and feel the cool breeze on your face.
– Learn about the tallest trees in the world and see them up close at Giant Forest Museum.
– Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking a scenic vista or take a short hike to see some of the park’s waterfalls and rock formations.
– Watch for wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, and deer. The park is also home to elk, bobcats, raccoons, beavers, squirrels, and other small mammals.
– Drive one of Sequoia National Park’s free scenic drives that allow you to view its spectacular scenery along with such sights as Mount Whitney (at 14,494 feet), Mount Langley (9461 feet), Mount Goddard (8678 feet), Crescent Meadow (5084 feet), General Sherman Tree Grove (4145 feet) and Mirror Lake (3291 feet)
22. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
The number 22 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Capitol Reef National Park is a National Park in the northern part of Utah. The park, which covers 1,946 square miles (5,200 km²), was established as America’s first national park dedicated to protecting an outstanding example of a natural desert landscape and features some spectacular geologic formations that are among the best-preserved anywhere. Capitol Reef has three distinct districts: The Waterpocket Fold with its colorful cliffs; White Canyon with towering sandstone buttes; and Red Canyon where Fremont culture petroglyphs can be found within rock shelters.
What to do in Capitol Reef National Park?
The best time to visit Capitol Reef National Park is during the spring and fall when the weather tends to be milder. The park gets very hot in the summertime because of its elevation (over 4500 feet). In winter it can get cold at night but usually not below freezing for extended periods of time.
Capitol Reef has a lot of activities that you may want to do while visiting including hiking, exploring petroglyphs, camping, horseback riding, or biking. You can also go on guided tours through some parts if there are no crowds.
Hiking Capitol Reef National Park
The park has a lot of hiking trails that you can choose from. The most popular and popular trails are the Bright Angel Trail, the Waterpocket Fold Trail, and the John Wesley Powell trail. The Bright Angel trail is a 2.5-mile loop with an elevation gain of 800 feet. This is probably the easiest trail in the park to hike but not the most scenic or interesting one.
For more adventures and challenges, you can try some other trails like exploring petroglyphs, camping, or horseback riding.
Exploring petroglyphs in Capitol Reef National Park
Petroglyphs are ancient rock art that was created by Native Americans who used to live in this area long ago. There are many different types of petroglyphs such as pictographs, pictographs with dots, pictographs with columns, and so on. There are also traces of Fremont culture that were left behind by Native Americans living here long ago.
23. Everglades National Park, Florida
The number 23 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Everglades National Park is a national park in the southern United States that covers 1,400 square miles of tropical wetlands and river ecosystems. It has been designated as one of 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Everglades are fed by the Florida peninsula’s natural water flow through Lake Okeechobee before draining into Florida Bay and then to the Gulf of Mexico via an estuary called Biscayne Bay, which lies between Miami Beach on its western coast and Key Biscayne on its eastern shoreline.
The area contains diverse habitats including mangrove forests, salt marshes, seagrass meadows with coral reefs along some coasts; wooded sawgrass prairies with bald cypress trees at their center; unique freshwater ecosystems like cypress domes and hardwood hammocks (where oaks predominate); lakes formed from freshwater flowing out from underground aquifers beneath limestone formations or bogs; alligators in freshwater rivers such as Myakka River while crocodiles inhabit coastal waters.
What to do in Everglades National Park?
The park contains mangrove forests; tropical dry forest ecosystems; marshes and sawgrass prairies; limestone caves with underground rivers that feed into Florida Bay – making it home to more than 400 species of fish. In addition to its natural features, Everglades is also known for being an important refuge for wildlife including crocodiles, alligators, and birds such as bald eagles. If you are interested in nature watching or birding opportunities there are several different ways you can go about doing so:
Airboat Tour: This allows visitors to see many parts of this vast area without having too much trouble getting around on their own powerboat or kayak. The airboat tours provide a unique way to see the park, as well as the surrounding areas. Tourists can opt for a half-day tour or a full-day tour.
Alligator Safari: This allows visitors to view alligators and other wildlife up close and personal while they drive through the park in an open-air safari truck. The tours are open daily from 8:30 am to 4 pm with the last tour at 3 pm. The tours take approximately 30 minutes and include commentary by your guide about alligators and other wildlife found in the Everglades.
24. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
The number 24 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Saguaro National Park is a national park in the Sonoran Desert near Tucson, Arizona. It encompasses 1,905 square miles (5200 km2). There are over 2 million acres of saguaros within its boundaries. The name “saguaro” comes from the O’odham word for these cacti which translates to mean “thorny tree”.
What to do in Saguaro National Park?
There are a few things to do in Saguaro National Park. One of the most popular activities is hiking, with many trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes that take you deep into the park’s desert terrain. Other fun activities include camping and taking a guided tour through one of their scenic byways or off-road driving tours for those who prefer not to hike but still want an adventure. The park also offers some unique events like star gazing at night, which requires no special equipment other than your own eyesight and appreciation of nature.
25. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
The number 25 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Canyonlands National Park is a national park located in southern Utah near the town of Moab. It preserves an expansive landscape of mesas and buttes carved by the Colorado River, as well as river canyons, arches, and natural bridges formed from cliffs of Navajo Sandstone. The majority (about 80%) lies within Grand County while some extend into neighboring San Juan County.
Canyonlands features various landscapes that are ecologically significant to both plant life and animal species including desert bighorn sheep at White Canyon; threatened Mexican wolf subspecies in Needles Canyon; endangered California condors flying over Landscape Arch on their way to Mexico City for wintering grounds; rare plants such as delicate phacelia flowers or yellow monkeyflower found nowhere else on earth growing along canyon walls among other unique plants like yucca blossoms which bloom white instead of green due largely to its high altitude location.
What to do in Canyonlands National Park?
When visiting the park, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your experience is enjoyable. First and foremost, stay on established trails at all times. This will prevent any damage that could be done to fragile plants or animals as well as limit erosion of the landscape’s natural features such as canyons and arches. Second, don’t feed wildlife if you’re not 100% certain what they eat- this includes both wild mammals like deer and bison who roam around looking for food outside of their usual habitats but also birds who have become accustomed to human handouts given out by visitors too often without regard for where it comes from or how much they need; even small amounts can cause serious harm when fed regularly over time. Finally, know when it’s appropriate to take photos: if an animal seems uncomfortable with being photographed then stop immediately!
26. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
The number 26 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Crater Lake National Park is a national park located in southern Oregon. The deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake has an average depth of 1,949 feet (594 m), and it reaches its greatest depth at 2,148 feet (693m). It covers 833 square miles with water that averages 602 meters deep.
The name “Crater Lake” refers to both the caldera formed by Mount Mazama erupting 7600 years ago and the long-ago collapsed volcano’s resulting depression or basin below sea level which now holds this body of water.
What to do in Crater Lake National Park?
There are a few things you can do in Crater Lake National Park. You could hike to the top of Mount Thielsen, take a boat ride on the lake, or go for a relaxing walk around its shoreline. There is also an outdoor theater that shows films about nature and wildlife during the summer months!
27. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
The number 27 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, the park is named after former President Theodore Roosevelt, who first suggested the idea of a national park on this land. It was established as part of his “National Parks for All Americans” plan and covers more than 1 million acres (4,000 km²). The centerpiece of the National Park Service’s Northeast Region, it has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park features many different ecosystems including temperate forests that are home to black bear and moose; alpine meadows with upland plants such as blueberry barrens which support rare plant species like dwarf mountain-heather; open water lakes formed by glaciers during the last ice age; coastal beaches where sea otters live along shorelines at Cape Cod Bay while harbor seals can be seen offshore swimming or resting in caves or under ledges outcropping into deeper waters.
What to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
There are a number of things to do in the park, such as hiking or camping.
There is also an extensive network of trails that can be explored by foot and horseback riding. There are many historic sites within the park including Fort Theodore Roosevelt which was built during World War II and has been restored since its opening back up to visitors in 2009 after being closed for over 30 years.
The park is home to the Theodore Roosevelt Association which was founded by Theodore Roosevelt’s son, Quentin. The Association is dedicated to preserving the history of Theodore Roosevelt and his family. The Association also maintains a museum at the park that features many artifacts from Theodore Roosevelt’s life including his private yacht, the “Shenandoah”.
In addition to being a national park, there are also numerous other units of the National Park System located within the park that help protect other ecosystems such as coastal wetlands and salt marshes.
28. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
The number 28 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Petrified Forest National Park is a National Park in northern Arizona, south of the Navajo Nation. Its name derives from its abundance of petrified wood, which makes up about 45% by volume of the total rock outcroppings found within it. The park was established as Petrified Forest Reserve and became a national park when President Woodrow Wilson signed An Act to Establish A National Park around it.
The petrification process that creates these fossils has been ongoing for over 65 million years; however, only recently have scientists discovered how this works.
What to do in Petrified Forest National Park?
There is no entrance fee for the park, but there are a few things you can do while visiting. One of those activities includes hiking to Petrified Forest’s many viewpoints and taking in the views from different angles. You might also want to take some time exploring one of its natural attractions like Fossil Butte National Monument or Painted Desert National Park, which both offer opportunities for visitors to explore their own connection with nature and learn more about this beautiful area.
29. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
The number 29 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Wind Cave National Park is a national park in the Black Hills of western South Dakota. The cave, which was discovered by gold miners in the 1800s, became one of America’s first protected areas when it was established as Wind Cave Reservation.
The cave has been designated a World Heritage Site and it has also been listed on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites under “Caves”. It is open year-round to visitors with daily tours offered from June through September.
The park is known for its many caverns and formations, including “The Cathedral” and “The Colonnade”. The park also offers tours of the cave system, as well as guided cave tours.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black-footed ferrets, elk, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
Wind Cave National Park is located in western South Dakota, in the Black Hills, on the border with Wyoming. The park covers an area of 434 square miles (1,140 km²) and includes two distinct sections: the North Unit (northwest portion) and the South Unit (southeast portion).
What to do in Wind Cave National Park?
The most popular activity in Wind Cave National Park is hiking, which means that the park is filled with trails. There are many different hikes to choose from depending on what you’re looking for and whether or not you have any special needs. Some of these include:
1) The Bear’s Den Trail.
2) The Highpoint Trail.
3) The Cathedral Trail.
4) The Black Hills Trail.
5) The Lion’s Club Trail.
6) The Elk Trail.
7) Jackson Hole and Wind Cave Loop Trail.
8) The Joe-Beth Walk-In Campground Trails.
30. Kings Canyon National Park, California
The number 30 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Kings Canyon National Park is a national park in the southern Sierra Nevada, east of Fresno, California. The park’s headquarters are located in three unincorporated communities: Grant Grove Village, Cedar Grove, and Leidig Village. Kings Canyon was established as a national park by President Franklin D Roosevelt under his authority to set aside “forever” such natural wonders of the country found within federal jurisdictions.
The area that would eventually become Kings Canyon National Park began with an exploration trip from San Francisco led by John Muir who named it after its series of deep gorge-like glacial valleys formed over tens of thousands of years by water erosion during periods when snowmelt flooded down into these canyons and carved them out at high speed.
Theodore Solomons Sr., founder, and publisher of Outdoor Life magazine became one as well for donating 1 million acres (~4100 km²) for protection which later expanded to what we now know today as Sequoia & King’s Canyons National Parks.
What to do in Kings Canyon National Park?
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Kings Canyon National Park, with a variety of trails to choose from. The park has two main hiking areas: Grant Grove and North Fork Valley. There are also shorter hikes that can be done quickly or as an overnight trip. Many visitors enjoy day trips down into Kearsarge Lakes Basin, where there’s ample opportunity for fishing and camping at some beautiful lakeside campsites.
National Parks in the USA, 31-40
31. Denali National Park, Alaska
The number 31 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Denali National Park is a national park in Alaska. It has the tallest mountain, Mount McKinley (Denali), and more than 25% of North America’s wild brown bears live there. The park also includes Denali Lake, which is the largest high-elevation lake in North America north of Mexico with over 100 miles of long shoreline.
What to do in Denali National Park?
Denali National Park is one of the largest national parks in North America. The park encompasses most of Denali or Mount McKinley as it’s known to Alaskans and locals alike. It also includes a lot more than just that mountain though; there are many other mountains like Kantishna Peak, Mt Foraker, Kichatna Spires, and Mt Hunter which you can see from the road up to Denali.
You’ll find plenty of wildlife at this park too; moose calves roam around near Eielson Visitor Center while grizzly bears will be seen right next door on your way out into Wonder Lake if they’re not hibernating for winter yet! If you want an adventure with some serious views then head towards Bear Mountain Campground where after hiking through alpine tundra fields with spectacular views you might spot wolves or even wolverines in their natural habitat.
32. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
The number 32 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Mammoth Cave National Park is a National Park that straddles the border of Kentucky and Tennessee. It is one of the largest cave systems known in North America, with more than 400 miles (640 km) of passageways including limestone formations and underground rivers. Mammoth Cave’s extensive system includes vast areas under water as well as the high ground above it—the park covers over 618 square miles (1,619 sq km). The caves were formed from karst topography created by the dissolving sandstone beds into sinkholes, solutional fissures, disappearing streams, caverns, and passages within Earth’s crust.
What to do in Mammoth Cave National Park?
If you’re looking for an active and adventurous day in the park, then hiking should be your first stop. There are many trails to choose from that will lead you through a variety of terrains including forests, hillsides with rock formations, or rhododendron thickets. You can also take advantage of the cave tours offered by Park Rangers who provide information about each room as well as discuss any history on site.
If all this activity is too much for one day though, there’s always plenty to do at Mammoth Cave Hotel where guests have access to indoor pools and spas (including hot tubs), restaurants serving local food dishes like fried green tomatoes served over grits with eggs benedict or steak-and-potatoes hash brown casserole accompanied by bourbon pecan pie; live music every night; plus game rooms featuring billiards tables and foosball games.
33. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
The number 33 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the largest parks in the United States, located primarily on an expanse of high mesa land and cliff dwellings within a region known as the Colorado Plateau. The park protects more than 7,000 archaeological sites including ancient villages built by Ancestral Puebloans from approximately AD 600 to 1250. Mesa Verde was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it contains “an exceptional concentration and diversity” of pueblos that are well preserved with their original structures still intact.
Mesa Verde has attracted many visitors since its designation as a national park due to its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscape ranging from desert canyons to pine forests at higher elevations.
What to do in Mesa Verde National Park?
The park provides a wide range of activities for visitors. There are trails to hike, the Mesa Museum and Visitor Center that features exhibits on cultural history, geology, and ecology; tours of Pueblo Bonito; horseback riding at nearby ranches; or just relaxing in one of the park’s many scenic spots. The site also has an extensive network of campgrounds where you can pitch your tent or RV with full hookups available as well as cabins if you’re looking for something more rustic.
34. Redwood National Park, California
The number 34 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Redwood National Park is a national park located in northern California. It covers 1,400 square miles (3,700 km2). The park contains the tallest trees on Earth: coast redwoods grow to over 200 feet tall with trunks up to 30 inches in diameter.
Redwood National Park has many endemic plants that are found nowhere else including giant sequoia and dawn redwood.
What to do in Redwood National Park?
The park is a haven for wildlife and offers many opportunities to see beautiful trees. The Redwood National Park has over 130 miles of hiking trails, so you can hike through different ecosystems like the coastal scrub or along rivers and streams. There are also several campgrounds in which visitors may stay overnight at one of their designated campsites near waterfalls, lakes, or forests with redwoods towering overhead.
If you’re interested in going on a guided tour around this national treasure then check out these tours that offer insight into how the trees grow as well as information about other interesting topics such as how they were used by indigenous peoples long ago.
35. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
The number 35 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a national park in northeastern California. The dominant feature of Lassen Volcanic National Park is the conical Mount Lassen, at 10,457 feet (3297 m), which forms an island within the much larger Caldera.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a volcanic national park in northeastern California that spans 9,000 acres. It’s one of the most visited parks in America and offers spectacular views from Mt. Lassen to other nearby volcanoes like Mount Shasta or even the distant ocean on clear days. The volcano was discovered by settlers when it erupted violently over 200 years ago but has been dormant since then with no signs of activity for decades now, making this an extremely popular destination spot among nature lovers and hikers alike!
What to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park?
The best time to visit is during the summer months because you will have more chances to see stunning wildflowers blooming throughout the area as well as rare wildlife such as mountain lions or black bears roaming around at night (if they’re not hibernating). You can also take advantage of snow-covered wintertime scenery if you want a break from all that heat! In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for camping here too so make sure your car doesn’t die before heading out into these beautiful surroundings.
36. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
The number 36 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Glacier Bay is a national park in the U.S. state of Alaska, established by Congress to preserve its natural beauty and wildlife such as bald eagles and humpback whales that migrate through it each year during their winter migration from the Arctic Ocean to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. The park covers an area of 2,956 square miles (7,988 km2) at a latitude where most glaciers are located in North America outside Canada or Greenland with over 200 different types found within its boundaries.
What to do in Glacier Bay National Park?
There are many things to do at Glacier Bay National Park. It is a great place for hiking, swimming, and kayaking in the summertime or enjoying winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing during the colder months. There’s also plenty of wildlife that you can see including bald eagles, black bears, mountain goats, and more!
37. Biscayne National Park, Florida
The number 37 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Biscayne National Park is a national park located in southern Florida. It is the only one of its kind, and it covers 2,180 acres (890 ha). The park was established by President Jimmy Carter to preserve an important part of America’s natural heritage for future generations.
Biscayne National Park has two main attractions: the Boca Chica Ecological Preserve which protects mangroves and marine ecosystems; and Elliott Key Lighthouse which provides visitors with spectacular views from atop a hill overlooking Miami Beach. The lighthouse itself dates back to more than 100 years ago when it served as an aid-to-navigation for ships traveling through what was then known as Matheson Inlet during Spanish rule over Cuba.
What to do in Biscayne National Park?
In Biscayne National Park, there are many things to do. You can go on a boat tour through the mangrove swamps of the park or you could take an evening walk along one of its beaches and watch for wildlife. If that’s not your style, then sit back in comfort at any one of these parks’ visitor centers and enjoy some educational presentations about local nature conservation efforts as well as what type of plants grow around you!
In addition to this, if you’re looking for more active pastimes like fishing or snorkeling from shoreline docks within the park boundaries, check out our list below:
– South Beach Fishing Pier (East End) – Fishes such as tarpon can be caught here; catch & release are only allowed due to protected species status.
– North Bay Fishing Dock – Includes public parking lot with beach access nearby too!
38. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
The number 38 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Carlsbad Caverns is a National Park located in the Guadalupe Mountains of southeastern New Mexico. Carlsbad Caverns National Park has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features many formations including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, helictites, and columns that are collectively known as speleothems. It also contains one of the world’s longest natural underground passages from its entrance at 2290 feet (700 m) below ground level up to its vast main chamber at 12900 feet (3800 m).
What to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park?
There are many different things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. One thing you might want to do is take a guided tour of the caverns with one of the park rangers, which will give you an inside look at what it’s like living underground and show how these caves were formed over millions of years. Another option is going on a self-guided cave walk where visitors can learn about all that goes into making this national park so special by reading information panels along the way or watching informational videos playing throughout each part of your journey through them.
If exploring isn’t really your style, there are plenty of other activities for tourists such as horseback riding around some parts or hiking up nearby mountainsides if you’re feeling more adventurous!
There are also tons more things to see and explore outside those two options including visiting several museums, taking photos at scenic overlook points near the natural bridges, or just finding peace while enjoying nature from afar.
39. Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands
The number 39 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, the Virgin Islands National Park (area of 128 square miles) is a national park that encompasses the entire territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and includes all six major islands: St Thomas, St John (St Croix), Water Island, Salt River Bay on Statia; Christiansted Harbor on Saint Croix; and Buck Island Reef in British Virgins. It was established by President Theodore Roosevelt as part of his “Forever Wild” initiative to preserve natural areas for posterity while also providing opportunities for public recreation and education.
What to do in Virgin Islands National Park?
It is a beautiful place to visit and the park offers many activities. There are hiking trails, picnic areas with tables, and camping sites available for overnight stays if you have your own tent or RV. The beaches offer opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving while there are also guided tours of Virgin Islands National Park that can be booked at the visitor center located in Frederiksted’s central square.
The most popular activity by far though is swimming from one beach to another which takes about an hour but will give you plenty of exercise as well as some great views.
40. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
The number 40 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a United States national park located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado. It covers over 16 square miles (42 km2). The sand dunes are composed primarily of gypsum from an ancient sea that dried up millions of years ago.
The largest dune at the park measures 1,307 feet (393 m) high and 3,290 feet (1,006 m) wide; it has been measured to have a volume equivalent to 2 million barrels or 480 million gallons.
What to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park?
There are many different and fun things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park. You can go on a scenic drive through the park, hike or bike along one of its trails, visit some nearby national parks for more hiking options like Mesa Verde National Park or Chaco Culture National Historical Park, or take part in an interpretive program at the visitor center about native plants and animals that live there (like coyotes), watch wildlife from your car window as you pass by them while driving through the park’s large open spaces with nothing but sand all around you. If you want to do something more adventurous, you can try to find a cave that has been formed by wind and water or try to see the elusive sand skink that lives there.
Sand Skink
If you are looking for something truly unique in Great Sand Dunes National Park, consider trying to find the sand skink. It is a small lizard that has a number of unique features about it. First of all, it is one of only two species of lizard that lives in desert habitats (the other being the desert spiny lizard). Second, it is one of only two species that live in sandy habitats (the other being the Sonoran Desert spiny lizard). And third, it is one of only two species found on sand dunes (the other being the Arizona Desert Spiny Lizard).
The sand skink was first described by Richard Henry Pratt. The first specimen was collected from a dune near Alamosa Colorado and was sent to him by Othniel C. Marsh (the discoverer of the giant saguaro). The specimen was collected in the summer, so it was not until the following year that Pratt discovered that it was a new species. He named it Eremiascincus kansasensis after Kansas, where he thought it originally lived.
Othniel C. Marsh identified an additional two specimens of this lizard and described them as a new species as well. This second species was named Eremiascincus marshae.
National Parks in the USA, 41-50
41. Big Bend National Park, Texas
The number 41 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Big Bend National Park is a National Park located in the state of Texas that preserves the last remaining unspoiled area of lowland tropical forested wetlands on Earth, which includes its name—the Big Bend region’s vast network of rivers and waterfalls. The park also contains one-of-a-kind geological formations such as limestone caves, deep canyons with swimming holes, and isolated mountain peaks rising to over 3200 feet (1000 m) above sea level.
What to do in Big Bend National Park?
There are a number of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Big Bend National Park. The park’s many hiking trails offer visitors an opportunity for fitness, nature exploration, and wildlife viewing. Rock scrambling opportunities abound with rock formations that range from easy to challenging routes suitable for novice climbers or experts looking to test their mettle on some technical lines.
There is also plenty of camping available at various locations throughout the park including sites near Rio Grande River and several developed campgrounds such as Panther Junction Campground located outside Terlingua Ghost Town which offers full hookups (electricity, water) along with showers and dump station facilities.
42. Channel Islands National Park, California
The number 42 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Channel Islands National Park is a national park off the coast of southern California in the United States. It was established by President Theodore Roosevelt and encompasses five islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, and Santa Barbara. The Channel Islands are located at the edge of an underwater mountain range known as the Gorda Ridge that extends from California to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula; they form a line roughly 40 miles (64 km) long with an area of about 360 square miles (906 sq mi).
The island chain has been called “America’s Galapagos” because it supports unusual species not found anywhere else such as sea lions which act like penguins when ashore for mating season or rabbits that live only on these islands.
What to do in Channel Islands National Park?
There are plenty of things to do in Channel Islands National Park. The park is home to a variety of animals, including the endangered California condor and snowy owls as well as seals, sea lions, and whales. There are also hiking trails for those who want an active day out with their family or friends. You can hike through the dry forest that provides views overlooking Santa Barbara Island while taking in its unique ecosystem.
43. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
The number 43 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Kenai Fjords National Park is a national park in Alaska. The park’s name, Kenai Peninsula, extends into the Gulf of Alaska and has three large fjords: Cook Inlet’s Portage Glacier Bay, Chugach Mountains, and Turnagain Arm. It was established as America’s first coastal marine protected area to protect unique ecosystems along with the fishing industry that it supports.
The park is located on the Kenai Peninsula, a peninsula extending into the Gulf of Alaska with Cook Inlet to the west and Bristol Bay to the east. The peninsula is approximately 100 miles long and 30 miles wide, with a total area of 1,619 square miles. The park’s terrain is rugged and consists of mountains rising abruptly from the sea in all directions. The highest peak is Mount Mckinley at 5,194 feet (1,609 m).
The parks’ diverse ecosystems support an abundance of wildlife; marine mammals including humpback whales, minke whales, and porpoises; seabirds including bald eagles; harbor seals; land mammals including moose, brown bears, and wolves; and a variety of fish species.
What to do in Kenai Fjords National Park?
In Kenai Fjords National Park, you can do a number of things. There are hiking trails that lead to the water and back again with beautiful views along the way. You might also want to rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for more active adventures in this national park located on Alaska’s North Slope. If you’re looking for something less strenuous, there is plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities as well as fishing spots inside the park boundaries where the salmon season runs from April through October every year.
44. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
The number 44 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Voyageurs National Park is a national park located in northeastern Minnesota. One of the largest and most visited parks, it covers over 3 million acres (12000 km²) with many different natural features such as waterfalls, rock formations, caves, and lakes. The name “Voyageur” refers to the French Canadian fur traders who explored this area from Canada during their search for furs before trading them in European markets.
What to do in Voyageurs National Park?
The park is surrounded by a variety of ecosystems and features, including marshes, forests, prairies, and lakes. The park also has several waterfalls that are popular for local visitors to enjoy during the summer months. For those who want to get away from it all but still be close enough to civilization that they can drive home when their day in Voyageurs National Park comes up short on activities or sights worth seeing there’s plenty more than just camping available—the area is full of attractions like canoeing tours through the forested areas along with opportunities for hiking as well.
45. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
The number 45 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a National Park in the western United States, located primarily within Colorado. The park is named for its large gorge formed by the Gunnison River and lies near the town of Montrose. Black Canyon has rugged mountains with alpine tundra vegetation at their peaks that reach up to 12,000 feet (3200 m) above sea level; it also includes one of only two tropical rainforests in North America outside Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula—the other being Puerto Rico’s El Yunque Rainforest.
The canyon itself was carved out over time by water erosion from glaciers during several ice ages.
What to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
The best way to enjoy the canyon is by hiking. The Black Canyon Trail can be hiked from Rim Drive to Rainbow Falls, a distance of about 6 miles (10 km). From there, you have two options: hike back up or continue on for another 3-4 miles (5-7 km) and make it all the way down into Colorado River Gorge National Park where you’ll find some additional trails that will take even more time.
If your time in this area is limited and you want an easier option than hiking then try taking one of many scenic drives around Black Canyon such as along North Fork Road which has spectacular views at every turn including those looking east toward Mount Sneffels while driving north towards Rifle Gap.
46. Pinnacles National Park, California
The number 46 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Pinnacles National Park is a national park located in central California. It encompasses 522 square miles of land within the Pinnacles National Forest. The park’s formation process took 50 years to complete as new discoveries were made along the way.
What to do in Pinnacles National Park?
There are many things to do in Pinnacles National Park. You can hike, camp, bike or horseback ride your way through the park and enjoy a nature-filled day. There is also plenty of wildlife that you will see on your journeys like deer, coyotes, and wild turkeys!
There are so many different activities for visitors to choose from when visiting this national park. Hiking is one of the most popular ways people spend their time here because it’s easy to access short-distance trails throughout the area with various levels of difficulty depending on what type of hiker you are looking for which makes it perfect if you’re feeling up to an adventure but don’t want too much exertion at once.
47. Guadalupe National Park, Texas
The number 47 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a National Park in the state of Texas. It is named after Our Lady of Guadalupe, who was said to have appeared on Tepeyac Hill near Tenancingo Lake and whose image has been reported by local indigenous people since then.
The park covers an area of 990 square miles (3,852 km2) at elevations between 5,000 feet (1,500 m) and 13,145 feet (4200 m). The highest point in the park is Gila Cliff Dwellings Peak at 4th place with a summit elevation of 12159 ft or 3738 meters above sea level.
Guadalupe National Park preserves one-third of natural landforms including mountains such as Cerro del Vigía; canyons like Canyon Diablo; desert oases like Pajarito Plateau which are home to vast herds of deer that migrate seasonally from higher elevations during the winter months when snow accumulates there; lush riparian zones along creeks such as Santa Fe River where cottonwoods grow alongside willows lining its banks.
What to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Hikers, bikers, and equestrians can visit the park year-round. The best time to go is in the spring when wildflowers are blooming or fall when you’ll find beautiful colors on display. If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, try camping out overnight at one of the nearby campgrounds with your RV or tent.
The Guadalupe National Park offers visitors many activities including hiking trails that lead through oak woodlands and along cliffs overlooking scenic views of Lake Amistad Reservoir as well as horseback riding tours that take guests through rolling hills dotted by cedar trees near Oak Creek Canyon.
48. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
The number 48 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, the Great Basin National Park is a national park in the east-central part of Nevada. It protects an area with high desert landscapes, including salt flats, sand dunes, playas (salt-encrusted mudflat lakes), scrub oak forests, and juniper woodlands. The park’s name refers to its basin shape which lies between two mountain ranges: the Sierra Nevada in California on one side; and the Wasatch Range in Utah on another side.
The site was established as a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt because of its exceptional natural values such as geologic formations like those found nowhere else on Earth.
What to do in Great Basin National Park?
The best way to explore the Great Basin National Park is by taking a hike along one of its many trails. The park has more than 100 miles of backcountry hiking trails including those that are accessible only on foot or horseback. There’s also plenty to do in and around the town itself, like visiting some museums, checking out what’s going on at nearby casinos, playing golf at local courses, or swimming in Lake Mead if you’re feeling up for it!
49. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
The number 49 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Congaree National Park is a national park in South Carolina. It consists of approximately 1,000 acres (4 km2) and includes the Congaree River with its swamp forested floodplain, oxbow lakes, and swamps. The park’s name comes from an American Indian word meaning “swampy river”.
The area was inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous peoples who built mounds near streams to catch fish or collect waterfowl eggs before European settlement began around 1670.
What to do in Congaree National Park?
The Congaree National Park is a great place to explore and experience nature. There are many different activities you can do while visiting the park such as hiking, bird watching, taking in the scenery, or just relaxing by one of their beautiful waterfalls. The best time for this hike would be during spring when there are plenty of wildflowers blooming.
50. Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska
The number 50 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Wrangell St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in North America and one of the most visited parks in Alaska, boasting over 20 million visitors per year. It’s also home to some of the world’s tallest mountains: Mount Wrangell (14,163 feet or 4,392 meters) and Mount Saint Elias (18,008 feet or 5386 meters). The park has a variety of ecosystems including alpine tundra at its highest elevations; subalpine forests with firs as well as spruce and hemlock trees; wetlands that are rich with life from migratory birds to muskrat. Glaciers that have been receding for decades due to climate change but still remain active places where people can visit during summer months when they’re not too dangerous.
The area surrounding this huge mountain range was once an ancient sea bed called Laurentia which formed about 470 million years ago during a time period known geologically as Cambrian Period through Cretaceous Period–when dinosaurs roamed Earth alongside other prehistoric creatures such as trilobites.
What to do in Wrangell St. Elias National Park?
The best time to visit Wrangell St. Elias National Park is during the summer months, but there are still plenty of activities available in winter as well!
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers a wide range of outdoor adventures for all levels and interests: hiking, backpacking, camping with or without a permit; fishing from any body of water within park boundaries (including lakes); wildlife viewing opportunities including bald eagles and Dall sheep; bird watching at the many wetlands around Lake Clark Pass or on boardwalks through spruce forests along rivers like the Kvichak River; exploring historic homesteads left behind by early settlers such as Fort Wrangel near Portage Creek.
National Parks in the USA, 51-60
51. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
The number 51 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Dry Tortugas National Park is a national park on the Florida Keys. It is made up of seven islands: Garden Key, Hospital Island, Looe Key (or Middle Caicos), Long Cay or Sand Cay (also known as Little Caicos), North Caicos, Salt Cay, and West Caicos. These are all part of the chain that includes Dry Tortugas Reef National Monument which extends westward from Garden Key to include most of what has been called “the Seven Mile Bridge” between the two reefs; this area remains under monument status but is now also includes some land areas that were not previously included with it
What to do in Dry Tortugas National Park?
If you are visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park, then there is a variety of things to do. From snorkeling in crystal clear waters and diving into coral reefs that have been untouched by pollution, to kayaking through mangroves or hiking along trails with an abundance of wildlife such as iguanas and turtles; this national park has something for everyone! Check out these activities below:
Scuba diving off its coral reef system stretches over 3 miles offshore into one of America’s top dive sites. The park offers visitor centers on each island where you can get information about visiting these waters by boat or kayak. There are no anchorages within 100 yards from shore so boats must dock outside territorial limits near Big Pine Bayou which can be reached via long-distance water taxi service run by nearby hotels.
Snorkeling at Crystal Reefs: The crystal clear water makes it easy to see colorful corals while swimming beneath them. You can also take pictures on your phone’s camera so you don’t forget what it was like when you were under all those amazing colors!
Kayak at Mangrove Trail: This trail features beautiful views from both the land and the seaside. It starts off near the parking lot where visitors will be able to rent kayaks before paddling their way down towards one of three mangrove channels which provide great opportunities for encounters with birds, fish, crabs, rays etcetera–all without ever leaving the dry ground.
Kayak at Pigeon Key: Located in the Dry Tortugas, Pigeon Key is a great place to go kayaking and snorkeling. This is a very sheltered bay with calm waters and some of the best coral reefs in the Dry Tortugas.
Kayak at Fort Jefferson: Located on nearby Key Biscayne, Fort Jefferson National Monument is an amazing spot to go kayaking or snorkeling. The fort itself offers a great view while hiking through the grounds, but there are also plenty of other activities that visitors can do such as taking photos from atop the fort walls or exploring the historic fort.
Kayak at Wreck Reef: This national park has three different areas for kayaking, each with its own unique features and creatures to see! After kayaking through shallow waters near mangroves, you can venture into deeper waters where you will be able to see fish and other marine creatures including rays.
52. Katmai National Park, Alaska
The number 52 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Katmai National Park is a national park located in Alaska. It was established as the Katmai Wilderness and Reserve with the goal to protect native brown bears from hunting for their furs. The area became popular among hunters who would hunt bears during this time period but has since been closed to commercial trapping and hunting due to its protection status. The name “Katma” comes from a nearby village that used its spelling when writing down what they heard spoken by Native Alaskans.
What to do in Katmai National Park?
In Katmai National Park, there are many different activities to do. There is a hiking, fishing, and hunting in the park as well as some other things like wildlife viewing or sightseeing. The main activity that most people come here for though would be seeing bears! Bears can be seen from a distance with binoculars or spotting scopes but they’re also spotted up close on hikes through the forest where their tracks can even sometimes be found right next to your own boots.
53. American Samoa National Park, American Samoa
The number 53 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, American Samoa National Park is a protected area of the United States. It was established to preserve and protect natural, historic, cultural, and ecological resources on American Samoa’s island of Tutuila. The park includes an array of ecosystems including rainforests that cover much more than half the landmass; coral reefs; atolls with beaches covered by sand from volcanic ash deposits where sea turtles lay their eggs during nesting season; mangrove forests along rivers that flow into lagoons or ocean waters as well as inland wetlands called “vavau”. There are also many species found nowhere else in the world such as birds like brown boobies and black noddy terns who nest only here around Vao Island.
What to do in American Samoa National Park?
The most popular activities in American Samoa National Park include hiking, snorkeling, and diving. There are also guided tours available from the park headquarters that will give visitors a full day of adventure. The best time to visit is during the cooler months when there are no rain or high winds so you can enjoy some good old-fashioned sunbathing on your trip too!
The park also has a large variety of birds and mammals to see, including the black-naped tern, brown boobies, and black noddy terns.
54. North Cascades National Park, Washington
The number 54 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, North Cascades National Park is a United States national park that covers approximately 1,000 square miles (2,600 km²), centered on the North Cascade Mountains in Washington state. The park contains numerous glaciers and alpine lakes as well as rugged terrain with over 400 named peaks above 6,000 feet (1,800 m). It also has more than 200 waterfalls including cascading pools of Diablo Lake at 5400 ft elevation. In total there are about 2 million acres within the boundaries of North Cascades National Park which includes an extensive trail system for hiking and horseback riding.
What to do in North Cascades National Park?
North Cascades National Park is a beautiful place to spend time in the Pacific Northwest. There are many activities available for visitors, but here are some of our favorites:
Hiking – You can find plenty of hiking trails that range from easy walks on well-maintained paths or challenging hikes with difficult terrain and steep climb up mountain peaks. North Cascades offers more than 100 miles (160 kilometers) worth of trails throughout the park.
Guided Hikes – There are guided hikes available throughout the year that will take you through diverse habitats with interesting flora and fauna. These hikes range from easy walks through beautiful wilderness areas to more challenging hikes up steep terrain and mountain peaks.
Horseback Riding – With over 200 miles (320 kilometers) of trails, North Cascades National Park is a great place to ride your horse or find out how to ride in outdoors.
Camping – You can camp at any of the North Cascades National Park campgrounds. There are 10 campgrounds in the park, ranging from primitive camping at primitive sites to modern camping at developed campgrounds.
Guided Tours – There are guided tours that run throughout the year, allowing visitors to see and learn about all that North Cascades National Park has to offer. These trail rides range from easy walks through beautiful wilderness areas, to more challenging hikes through steep terrain and mountain peaks.
Hike with a Naturalist – If you enjoy learning about nature while hiking in the woods, you can join one of North Cascades’ many guided hikes with a naturalist. These hikes range from easy walks through beautiful wilderness areas, to more challenging hikes up steep terrain and mountain peaks.
Photography – The North Cascades National Park has a rich and diverse collection of flora and fauna. The park’s varied habitats support a wide variety of wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and plants. North Cascades National Park is home to a number of species considered rare or threatened in the United States including the marmot, northern spotted owl, bull trout, Pacific fisher (a subspecies of cutthroat trout), pika (a small mammal), and the northern goshawk (a bird).
Winter Activities – Winter activities include cross-country skiing at park trails; snowshoeing on over 500 miles (800 kilometers) of the trail; winter camping at one of 10 designated sites; and snowmobiling, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The park also offers a number of winter activities at nearby resorts, including downhill skiing at Mt. Baker Ski Area, cross-country skiing at Crystal Mountain Ski Area, and snow tubing at Crystal Mountain Tubing Park.
Mountaineering – North Cascades National Park is home to an impressive collection of mountain peaks that require mountaineering skills to reach.
Climbing – North Cascades National Park offers a variety of climbing opportunities for experienced climbers. These include routes on Mount Shuksan and Rainy Pass; a classic route on the Grand Pillar (North Peak); the steep rock face known as “Chimney” on Mount Stuart; and the unique rock formations called “The Gallery” on Rainy Pass.
55. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
The number 55 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Isle Royale National Park is the largest island in Lake Superior, located within the U.S state of Michigan and part of the Hiawatha National Forest. The park covers 843 square miles (2,137 km²) with a total area of 26,828 acres (11,632 ha). It was established as an official national park by President Dwight D Eisenhower to protect Isle Royale’s wild nature from human development.
The island is located about 200 miles north-northeast from Thunder Bay and 190 miles south by east from Duluth. Along with more than 100 smaller islands that make up the chain of Isle Royal lakes to its west—the other three being Grand Sable Island in Michigan; Eagle Harbor Light near Marquette; and Otter Rock at Copper Harbor—it forms part as well as one half of Minnesota’s first state waterway.
The park has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for “its geological history which formed over millions of years”.
What to do in Isle Royale National Park?
In addition to hiking trails through forests or along shorelines there are also opportunities for canoeing or kayaking among many others activities available such as cross-country skiing during winter months when it snows.
56. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
The number 56 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Kobuk Valley National Park is a national park in the state of Alaska, centered on Kobuk Sandstone. It covers an area of 1,938 square miles (5,800 km2) and includes five major mountains: Mount Iliamna to the south-southwest; Mt. Igikpak to the west; Mt. Dunkelman to the north-northwest; Mt. Pavlovsk Peak and its neighboring mountain range across Kuskokwim Bay from it – which are collectively known as “The Seven Sisters” by Alaskan natives because they appear so close together when viewed from one direction that they look like seven sisters standing side by side–to the northeast along with other peaks including Bear Mountain at 8891 feet (2767 m).
What to do in Kobuk Valley National Park?
There are a few different things to do in Kobuk Valley National Park. One of the most popular activities is hiking and camping, which can be done at many locations throughout the park. Another activity that’s quite common for visitors is watching wildlife from an overlook or spotting eagles on one of their regular hunting trips. For those who enjoy fishing, there are several places where salmon runs occur all year long. One such place is Eklutna Lake near milepost 8 along the Parks Highway.
57. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
The number 57 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Gates of the Arctic National Park is a national park located in northern Alaska, United States. It was established with an area of 6 million acres (24000 km²) and encompasses some 3% of the Alaskan state’s landmass. Gates is one such special place that has been home to many different species over its history including those like caribou who are now facing extinction due to climate change
What to do in Gates of the Arctic National Park?
Gates of the Arctic National Park feature many different types of wildlife and offer visitors an opportunity to experience the wilderness at its best. The Gates area has some unique geographical features including tundra, glaciers, rivers, and canyons that make it a one-of-a-kind destination for anyone looking to explore North America’s last frontier
The Gates are open year-round with no admission fees which makes this a great place for families or groups who want to spend time outside without spending too much money on accommodations.
58. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
The number 58 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Badlands National Park, South Dakota, is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The park is known for its stunning scenery, with dramatic cliffs and buttes dotting the landscape. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by car, or by bike, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting bison, prairie dogs, and other animals in their natural habitats. Badlands National Park is a beautiful and unique place, and it’s definitely worth a visit!
59. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
The number 59 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Gateway Arch National Park is located in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, and is home to the iconic Gateway Arch. The park offers visitors a variety of activities and attractions, including ranger-led tours, history exhibits, a movie theater, and the opportunity to ride to the top of the Gateway Arch. Restaurants and shops are also available in the park as well.
The Gateway Arch was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and built-in 1965. The 630-foot-tall stainless steel arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can ride to the top of the arch on a tram for a breathtaking view of St. Louis.
Gateway Arch National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting St. Louis. The park is open year-round, and there is no charge for admission.
Make sure to add Gateway Arch National Park to your list of places to visit in Missouri!
60. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
The number 60 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, wooded dunes, wetlands, and prairies. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, and nature watching in this unique park.
There are over 50 miles of trails to explore at Indiana Dunes National Park, from easy nature walks to more strenuous hikes. The three-mile Dunewood Trail is a good option for visitors who want to experience the park’s dunes and wetlands. This trail leads through a wooded area and past a marsh, and it’s an easy hike that is great for families.
For a more challenging hike, try the five-mile Paul H. Douglas Trail. This trail winds through sand dunes and woodlands and offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan. The park also has a number of backcountry campsites for visitors who want to stay overnight.
Indiana Dunes National Park is a great place for picnicking, and there are several picnic areas located throughout the park. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating in the lake.
This national park is a unique place to explore, and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Indiana.
National Parks in the USA, 61 – 63
61. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
The number 61 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, Lake Clark National Park, Alaska is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas in the United States. This 4.1 million-acre park is located in the southwestern corner of Alaska and is a paradise for those looking for a true wilderness experience. The park is home to glaciers, volcanoes, alpine lakes, and rainforests, and provides visitors with plenty of opportunities to view wildlife.
There are two main ways to visit Lake Clark National Park. The first is by taking a cruise ship up the Inside Passage. This is a popular option for those who want to see the park without having to rough it too much. There are several companies that offer cruises that include stops at Lake Clark, and most of them include all meals and accommodations.
The second way to visit Lake Clark National Park is by flying into one of the small airports in the area and then taking a bush plane to your final destination. This is the only way to reach many of the park’s remote areas and is an adventure in itself. Once you arrive at one of the airports, you can rent a car or hire a guide to take you around the park.
No matter how you choose to visit Lake Clark National Park, you are sure to be amazed by its beauty and diversity. This is one stop that should not be missed on any trip to Alaska.
62. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
The number 62 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia, is a beautiful and popular park that is located in the Appalachian Mountains. The park offers visitors plenty of activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. There are also several visitor centers located throughout the park, which offer information about the history and landscape of the area. New River Gorge National Park is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a beautiful and scenic place to explore.
63. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Number 63 on our list of National Parks in the U.S.A, White Sands National Park, New Mexico, is a beautiful place to visit. The sand dunes are unlike anything else in the world and the views are simply breathtaking. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to add White Sands National Park to your list of places to visit.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy at White Sands National Park. Here are just a few of the things you can do:
Hiking: There are numerous trails to explore, ranging from easy to strenuous. No matter what your fitness level is, you’ll be able to find a hike that’s perfect for you.
Biking: There are 16 miles of biking trails at White Sands National Park, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.
Sledding: Sledding down the sand dunes is a lot of fun and a great way to experience the park’s unique landscape.
Camping: There are several campsites available, so you can stay overnight and enjoy the park’s beauty for longer.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, White Sands National Park is sure to please you in every way. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Out of the list of the National Parks in the USA, you can pick and choose which ones you want to cover depending on your preferences and how much time you have available on hand. We’d recommend visiting all of them!
How many of these National Parks in the USA have you already been to? Let us know in the comments!

Read more: 28 Amazing Things To Do and Places to Visit in Phuket, Thailand
Note: The hours of operation, ticket prices, and admission criteria of museums, parks, etc. may change from time to time. For the most updated information, we recommend checking the official website of the attraction directly prior to your planned visit.
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