The United States National Park System covers more than 85 million acres across the nation. From stunning rock formations in Colorado to the mountainous wonder of the Smokies, the nation is home to some incredible landscapes.
Perhaps you’ve considered checking some of the parks off your list, but you’re unsure of which ones to see or which will be best for your group. Here’s some helpful information about five of the top rated U.S. national parks! Which ones will you see?
Yellowstone National Park
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Stretching from Northwestern Wyoming into Idaho and Montana, Yellowstone National Park covers a vast 2.2 million acres! The park is home to such diverse landscapes. With its wonderful trail system, unique wildlife, and boardwalk areas to watch geyser eruptions, Yellowstone is a treat for any age visitor.
Mesa Verde National Park
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Known to many as the “Machu Picchu of North America,” Mesa Verde National Park is home to the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. There are ranger-guided tours available for nearly every archaeological site, which range in difficulty.
Arches National Park
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Arches National Park is aptly named, as it is home to over 2,000 natural arches, some reaching 300 feet in height! To get an up-close look at of any of these formations will require you to hike. Luckily, the park has many well-maintained walkways and trails! Another great thing about Arches National Park is that it’s a great off-season destination. With cooler weather and smaller crowds, the fall and winter are the perfect times to go!
Acadia National Park
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With all the spectacular views offered by the western region of the nation, the national parks found on the east coast can often go unnoticed. Acadia National Park is not one to be overlooked, though. Situated along the rugged coast of Maine, the park provides visitors with dramatic ocean views and some of the best fall foliage in New England!
Bryce Canyon National Park
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Bryce Canyon is truly breathtaking in all seasons! The park has a wide variety of trails which vary in length and difficulty. The Queens Garden Trail is considered to be the least difficult hike when entering the canyon from the outer rim and provides visitors with great views of the park’s famous hoodoos.
