Top 10 Best National Parks To visit In 2024
Exploring natural beauty and taking in the fresh air of majestic national parks are one of the best ways to explore different parts of the world.
If you’re looking for an exciting adventure in 2024, these ten amazing national parks should be at the top of your list!
Our comprehensive guide will provide details about each park’s unique features so that whether you’re searching for outdoor activities or simply some rest and relaxation, there is something here that suits everyone’s needs.
So gather up your friends and family and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through some of nature’s most stunning landscapes.
Here are our picks for the top 10 best national parks to visit in 2024!
What Are The Top 10 Best National Parks To Visit In 2024
When you think of national parks, the number 63 might seem overwhelming!
However, there are 10 renowned and beloved national parks that stand out from the rest.
These special places have inspired people and stirred imaginations for generations and are the most iconic parks in all of America.
From the lush forests of Redwood National and State Parks to the stunning volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, these unforgettable destinations offer exciting activities and unique experiences perfect for any explorer.
Where will your national park adventure take you?
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is an iconic site of natural beauty and heritage, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
It boasts miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, vast meadows and giant sequoia groves.
A visit to Yosemite offers incomparable scenic vistas, dramatic rock formations and awe-inspiring wilderness with plenty of trails for whatever your desired level of adventure.
Visitors can choose from a variety of campsites and lodges or take guided tours to capture the spirit of the park’s breathtaking landscape.
In addition to offering recreational opportunities, Yosemite National Park serves as a symbol for conservation efforts and is home to many species of birds, mammals and plants – including endangered species.
With so much on offer, it’s no surprise that Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most sought after destinations!
Highlights
Bridalveil Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Yosemite National Park.
Towering 2,425 feet tall and with a backdrop of soaring redwoods, this incredible waterfall offers visitors the chance to take in the beauty of nature in all its glory.
The trailhead to reach the falls is easy to find and relatively flat making it accessible to any level of hiker or photographer.
With limited crowds, a visit to Bridalveil Falls ensures an intimate experience with nature as well as breathtaking views that will linger long after you leave.
El Capitan is an iconic rock formation located in Yosemite National Park, California.
Rising more than 3,000 feet tall, it’s an incredible example of nature’s beauty and a highly sought-after attraction for climbers from all around the globe.
With its steep granite face and deep crevices, El Capitan provides an unforgettable sight that serves as a reminder of how majestic our natural world can be.
Over the years, legendary mountaineers such as Warren Harding and Royal Robbins have worked their way up the imposing feature in their quest to ascend it.
Despite its intimidating presence, El Capitan continues to captivate visitors from all backgrounds who are mesmerized by its stunning curvature and grandeur.
Half Dome in Yosemite National Park stands as a stunning testament to the wonders of nature. Its iconic, granite face towers 2,694 feet above sunny valleys and jagged cliffs.
Hikers who wish to take on this formidable peak can achieve the summit following an arduous 8 mile round trip with the aid of metal cables.
Those who are brave enough get views of the surrounding wilderness that can only be described as spectacular.
From Half Dome’s perch near clouds, visitors can witness both snow-capped mountains and vast expanses of trees carpeting the horizon; this is truly a sight to behold.
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a stunningly beautiful place located primarily in Wyoming, but with parts extending into Montana and Idaho.
Its awe-inspiring landscapes of dramatic canyons, bubbling geysers and roaming wildlife have drawn millions of visitors every year since it became the first national park in the United States back in 1872.
With its vast biodiversity of almost 300 species of birds, 16 different species of fish and one of the largest intact ecosystems in the world, Yellowstone has become an Eden for nature enthusiasts determined to experience something truly special.
It’s easy to see why this park has become such an important part of American culture, preserved so that its memory may endure for centuries to come.
Highlights
The iconic Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park is a must-see experience for all visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of nature’s beauty and majesty.
This hydrothermal geyser’s eruptions can reach heights of 140 feet, and each eruption lasts between 1.5 to 5 minutes on average.
It is one of the most reliable geysers in the world, errupting at regular intervals ranging from 65-92 minutes.
With its stunning display of steam, water and natural power, it is no wonder that Old Faithful remains one of the most popular attractions in Yellowstone National Park.
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone national park is a breathtaking experience.
It is approximately 20 miles long, 1,000 feet deep, and has a staggering variety of wildlife.
Geologically, its colorful walls are made up of massive sediment packed in layers formed over countless years.
The canyon itself crosses the continental divide and is home to the Yellowstone River—responsible for its unique shape.
Its amazing grandeur can only be truly appreciated from the viewing points at Inspiration Point or Uncle Tom’s Point.
With plentiful activities, stunning views, and lush landscapes to explore, it’s no surprise that thousands of people come here each year to discover this remarkable landmark.
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park is an awe-inspiring geological wonder, situated near the Midway Geyser Basin.
The spring is easily identified by its vividly colored waters that range from vibrant shades of yellow to deep indigo blue, produced by pigmented bacteria in the mineral-rich waters originating from a crack in the surface of the Earth.
Its breathtaking hues and grand scale make this natural occurrence one of Yellowstone’s most stunning scenery.
Grand Prismatic Spring was first discovered in 1871 by the Washburn Expedition and has since become popular among sightseers who visit this enchanting place to marvel at its alluring beauty.
Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park is a remarkable sight to behold. Its sprawling landscape caters to all types of wildlife.
Visitors fortunate enough to be there in the early morning can witness herds of bison, elk, pronghorn, and other animals grazing the banks of the valley floor.
Beyond those iconic species, Lamar Valley also offers sightings of eagles, grizzly bears, wolves and coyotes.
It has been called one of the best wildernesses for spotting wildlife due its diverse terrain and abundance of streams containing fish that attract predators like grizzlies or wolves making for spectacular views that will take your breath away.
The scenery is only made more awe-inspiring by magnificent mountain peaks combined with endless rolling hills. For those looking for an unforgettable experience should look no further than Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park.
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park, located in Northern Montana, is one of the country’s most captivating national parks.
As visitors explore Glacier National Park, they’ll traverse through a wide variety of landscapes.
From sprawling alpine meadows to rugged mountains, Glacier National Park has something for everyone.
Countless glaciers and countless animals call this majestic park home, making it the perfect place for wildlife viewing and exploration.
There are numerous trails to explore and scenic vistas around every corner waiting to be discovered by adventurers.
No matter if you visit for a day or a week, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Glacier National Park, from extraordinary sightseeing opportunities to campfires under a canopy of stars.
Highlights
Lake McDonald is a stunning glacial lake in Glacier National Park, located in the Flathead Valley region of Montana.
With an area of about 9 square miles and depths up to 472 feet, it is the largest lake in the park and exemplifies its breathtaking beauty.
Surrounded by lush mountain forests and rolling meadows, visitors can take a break from their busy lives to relax while hiking, camping, or fishing around the lake.
With its crisp waters and unrivaled alpine vistas, Lake McDonald has been the starting point for many unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier National Park is one of the most picturesque destinations in the United States.
Located near Logan Pass and accessible by a trail, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding area or venture down the half-mile hike for an up close look at this tranquil lake.
Nestled in among mountains and wildlife, Hidden Lake Overlook gives adventurers the perfect opportunity to relax from a day of exploration in this stunning national park.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking for a peaceful escape, Hidden Lake Overlook has something to offer everyone.
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is considered one of the most scenic drives in the U.S.
Meandering 50 miles from West Glacier to Saint Mary, this iconic highway highlights the breathtaking landscapes of Montana’s Rocky Mountains.
The views are unparalleled for travelers looking for unique sights and breathtaking views.
A journey on the road showcases Glacier’s alpine meadows, glacial-carved valleys, pristine lakes, and pristine waterfalls as it winds through some of the country’s most spectacular terrain.
All while affording awe inspiring vistas enjoyed by millions of visitors since its construction during the 1930s.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is not a drive best experienced in haste.
But rather one designed to be savored while allowing adventurers to discover what makes this area so special on their own terms.
Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park is renowned for its remarkable beauty.
This majestic glacier is located in the Lewis Range of Montana, and provides breathtaking views of alpine wilderness.
It is believed to be over 1 Billion years old, and was named for George Bird Grinnell – the founder of the National Audubon Society.
With its stunning scenery and rich history, Grinnell Glacier offers an awe-inspiring experience for visitors looking for an idyllic getaway.
Although it has retreated nearly a mile since surveys were first taken, it continues to capture attention with its alpine meadows and huge wall of ice, inviting adventure-seekers from near and far.
Jackson Glacier Overlook in Glacier National Park offers an unparalleled view of the 7th largest glacier in the park.
With plenty of parking and easy access from Going-to-the-Sun Road, the overlook is one of the best ways to experience the stunning beauty of Jackson Glacier up close, yet safely distant.
Be sure to bring your camera for a chance to preserve this remarkably beautiful natural phenomenon for a lifetime!
4. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is truly a spectacle to behold.
This impressive park located in the southwestern portion of the United States offers its visitors breathtaking sights of towering sandstone cliffs, lush forests and diverse wildlife.
In addition to these natural wonders, there are numerous outdoor activities in which to partake such as camping, hiking, biking, climbing and backpacking.
Zion allows you to explore the natural world in a way that’s both exciting and peaceful.
For visitors looking for stunning visuals or an adventure unlike any other, this iconic park should be at the top of your list of must-see destinations.
Highlights
Angels Landing in Zion National Park is an iconic hike, renowned for its incredible views and thrilling experience.
Rising 1,500 feet above the Great West Canyon, Angels Landing offers a unique view of the steep red canyon walls.
The final leg of the hike consists of a knife-edge cliff side with chains to hold on to as you navigate it safely.
It is recommended that visitors use caution and keep hands on chains to ensure a safe journey.
Hikers, since 1916, have marveled at the beauty Angels Landing has to offer; an unforgettably rewarding experience.
Sitting atop one of the highest points in Zion National Park, Observation Point is famous for its unparalleled views.
Scenic hikes make their way up the cliff face where visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views both day and night.
Whether you take an early morning trek or an evening stroll, it’s easy to see why many visitors tout Observation Point as one of the greatest outdoor experiences they’ve ever had.
With a unique vantage point on the iconic sandstone rock formations, sheer canyon walls and sprawling desert beyond, there’s no wonder why this well-known spot earns such high praise.
Come for the sights, but stay for the feeling of awe that can only be experienced at Observation Point in Zion National Park.
The Narrows of Zion National Park are among the most exceptional and stunning hikes in the world.
The Narrows are located amidst spectacular scenery, with towering cliffs and wondrously colored sandstone walls framing a river of clear and sparkling water.
Being completely enclosed by nature means ample opportunities to view soaring birds, salamanders hiding amongst rocks, sunlight dancing on the waves, and many other sights that make this inspiring walk truly rewarding.
Hikers come away with a powerful sense of awe at the wondrousness of nature.
With some luck you might even meet up with a few bighorn sheep!
With canyons so narrow that they block out almost all light from above, incredible wading experiences await those who brave it through – bringing memories that will last your entire lifetime.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-known destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Located in the northern part of Colorado, the park features over 265,000 acres of pristine alpine wilderness providing stunning views of majestic snow-covered peaks, breathtaking valleys and glistening lakes.
As one of the most visited mountain parks in the United States, Rocky Mountain National Park offers an abundance of recreational activities like camping, fishing, bird watching, mountain climbing and more.
For those with less adventurous spirit there are also trails for family hikes as well as guided tours to explore the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the park’s mountains.
With its awe-inspiring scenery and unparalleled recreational opportunities Rocky Mountain National Park should be on everyone’s list when visiting Colorado.
Highlights
Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most picturesque destinations in Colorado, offering stunning views of the Continental Divide and glacier-carved canyons.
It sits atop a 3,500 foot cliff overlooking Glacier Gorge with nearby mountains providing a beautiful backdrop.
To get to this alpine wonderland, hikers must take on a 4.6-mile round trip journey filled with rocky climbing trails and cascading waterfalls.
While the distance offers quite a challenge for many adventurers, Sky Pond’s breathtaking array of scenery offers an experience worth its weight in gold.
From wildflower meadows to shimmering blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks – there is no shortage of eye-catching beauty here.
There’s nothing more refreshing than tackling this trail and admiring every aspect of this magical destination after all the hard work you put into reaching it!
Located in the heart of Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning natural beauty and an abundance of outdoor activities, including a driving tour that traverses through the park on Trail Ridge Road.
This historic road winds through mountains, alpine lakes, forests and meadows, reaching a height of 12,183 feet at its highest point.
As travelers make their way along the road, they will marvel at breathtaking views of Longs Peak and other dramatic mountain peaks in addition to glimpses of wildlife all around.
Experiencing Trail Ridge Road is sure to provide visitors with lasting memories to take away from their trip to Colorado!
Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park has long been a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
Located near the Colorado/Wyoming border, this stunning lake sits at 9,500 feet and offers spectacular views of Hallett Peak and Halletts Twins Mountains.
Whether it’s an early morning hike around the lake or fishing in the late afternoon, Bear Lake will surely offer something special to make your trip one to remember.
Its evergreen forests serve as a backdrop against the crystal blue waters where wildlife is plentiful and visitors can have fun spotting different species of birds or even the occasional moose sighting.
With its picturesque surroundings, visiting Bear Lake is a must while exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.
Alberta Falls is nestled in the Rocky Mountain National Park, and it’s one of the park’s most beloved attractions.
Those who are brave enough to make the hike up will be rewarded with stunning views of a towering waterfall plunging 30 feet into a dazzling pool down below.
With its refreshing spray, Alberta Falls is not just a sight to see but also an experience to feel; visitors will marvel at this natural beauty as they take in the sounds of roaring water and the delicate mist which it creates.
Tourists regularly flock here during summer months, but due to its location off the beaten path, it can be enjoyed even on days when crowds are minimal.
Alberta Falls deserves its title as one of Rocky Mountain National Park’s greatest gems.
6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most renowned natural attractions in the United States.
Located in Arizona, this national park is situated on 277 miles of the Colorado River, stretching across nearly two million acres of land.
Visitors from around the world visit to appreciate the unique sandstone rock formations, as well as its other diverse landscapes ranging from prairies and forests to mountains that are up to 10,000 feet above sea level.
The park also provides a variety of activities for those looking for an exciting adventure, like white water rafting down the river or taking a mule ride through some of its winding trails.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement while enjoying nature’s beauty, Grand Canyon National Park has something for everyone.
Highlights
The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder with spectacular views and an assortment of recreational activities.
From adventurous hikes along the rugged terrain to gentle day trips for families and casual visitors, this area offers something for everyone.
Camping, biking, rafting, fishing, and horseback riding are some of the fun activities available at North Rim.
Activities are available year-round as temperatures can vary significantly depending upon season and altitude.
The surrounding terrain dominates the skyline providing magnificent photo ops that can be treasured forever.
For a truly remarkable experience, the North Rim should not be missed!
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking sight and a unique experience for visitors.
This area of the Grand Canyon includes incredible rock formations, plateau lands and plenty of trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Tourists can also explore various historic sites in the area, with lodging ranging from simple camping to luxurious hotels.
Wildlife enthusiasts can take advantage of numerous bird-watching opportunities throughout the region, with species such as eagles, hawks and owls commonly found in the skies above Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
Whether you are interested in exploring nature or simply want to take in some stunning natural views, the South Rim offers an unforgettable adventure!
Mather Point in Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking scene. Set at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, it provides guests with gorgeous views of this magnificent landmark.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mather Point is also packed with historical significance.
It was named after Stephen Tyng Mather, the first director of the National Park Service who worked tirelessly to make sure these lands were officially protected and respected.
Visiting Mather Point allows visitors to appreciate and honor his work as well as bask in the endless splendor of nature’s wonders.
Havasu Falls, located in Grand Canyon National Park, is one of the most breathtaking sights in Arizona.
From a 110-foot drop cascading into beautiful turquoise waters to the lush vegetation and wildlife surrounding it, Havasu Falls offers an idyllic escape for nature lovers.
Visitors must hike 10 miles to get to the falls, making it a challenging yet rewarding excursion.
It’s also only accessible by permit between February 1st and November 30th, so careful planning is essential when attempting to visit this majestic site.
Havasu Falls is an incredible landmark worth the effort and adventure required to get there.
7. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is a must-see for the outdoor enthusiast, boasting some of the Pacific Northwest’s most scenic landscapes.
From snowcapped mountains and glacial valleys to wild coastlines and lush forests, no two hikes will feel the same.
The 73 miles of coastline offer picturesque views of rocky shores mixed with lush green forests, while inland lakes provide a tranquil spot for kayaking or fishing.
The park also harbors over 700 miles of trails, making it perfect for weekend wanderers or multiweek treks.
No matter what type of adventure you’re seeking, Olympic National Park has something to offer the adventurous traveler.
Highlights
The Hoh Rainforest is a magnificent sight to see found in Olympic National Park.
It is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem, housing some of the most remarkable plants and animals in the world.
The stunning rainforest is blanketed with lush vegetation that includes some of the largest Sitka Spruce trees, measuring up to 175 feet tall!
As you explore the trails, the large trees provide a sheltered pathway along with beautiful streams and moss-covered ground which will take your breath away.
Take the opportunity to capture divine moments at this awe-inspiring and enchanting place.
At Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park, visitors can climb up 3,000 feet and witness a spectacular vista.
Take in thrilling views of peaks reaching higher than 7,000 feet and the forests miles below. On top of that, you can gaze across the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the San Juan Islands.
Enjoy the tranquility of an alpine meadow or explore lake shorelines among other beauties available in this diverse region.
With a wide range of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing all accessible from Hurricane Ridge’s summit parking lot, it has become one of Washington’s top outdoor destinations to get away from it all.
Kalaloch and Ruby Beach are two special places that should be experienced first-hand to truly appreciate the beauty of Olympic National Park in Washington.
Kalaloch’s sweeping sand beaches, tide pools full of sea life, and majestic evergreens just a stone’s throw away create an atmosphere unlike any other.
Ruby Beach is a natural wonder with its striking red rock-enshrined shoreline and unique wealth of flora and fauna.
Both beaches can be visited all year round, yet both offer vastly different experiences depending on the time of year or day.
Easy access to both spots makes them top destinations when exploring this spectacular landscape, giving visitors enough time to savor the beauty found in these amazing destinations.
8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park is a slice of Wyoming bliss, located near the picturesque town of Jackson Hole.
This natural wonder offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, ranging from wildlife viewing and fishing to camping and hiking.
With over 300 miles of trails snaking around legendary mountain peaks, the park provides a wonderful opportunity to explore its vast wilderness.
The beautiful alpine and subalpine ecosystems are home to various species of animals including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, bison, and wolverines.
Grand Teton National Park provides an amazing visual experience unlike any other in the world, allowing visitors the chance to connect with the unspoiled beauty of one of our country’s greatest treasures.
Highlights
Located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is Jenny Lake, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountainous beauty.
Offering breathtaking views of the nearby peaks as well as providing canoeing, fishing and sightseeing opportunities to visitors, it is no surprise that Jenny Lake draws in tourists from all over the world.
It is also a popular destination for hikers looking to explore Cascade Canyon or Inspiration Point Trail.
Visitors are able to take advantage of its turquoise-blue waters and the peaceful atmosphere. It promises to deliver an incredible experience that will never be forgotten.
Grand Teton National Park is home to some extraordinary beauty, with one of its many gems being the peaceful Lake Solitude.
Visitors to the area are instantly taken aback by the sheer size and power of Grand Teton’s peaks, which can be seen in their greatest glory when standing on the shores of Lake Solitude.
Not only is this stunning glacier-fed lake a great spot to take a break while trekking through the park, but it also offers visitors opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.
Exploring Lake Solitude by boat offers an incredible view of snow-capped mountain peaks – something that must be seen in person in order to truly appreciate.
To experience all that Grand Teton National Park has to offer, including breathtaking sites like Lake Solitude, is truly a once in a lifetime adventure.
Grand Teton National Park is home to a beautiful 42-mile Scenic Drive that winds its way through the stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere of the park.
Travelers are able to experience up close views of the majestic Teton Mountain Range, sweeping meadows, and glittering rivers and streams – all from the comfort of their cars.
Along the drive, visitors can stop in designated areas to enjoy some recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
Wildlife lovers have plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings, especially during peak season in late spring and early summer when bison, elk, moose, foxes, bears, swans and bald eagles are often seen in the area.
Whether you explore this incredible park from your car or take some time to venture off on foot or bike along one of the numerous trails, a visit to Grand Teton National Park will surely be a memorable experience worth noting.
Grand Teton National Park is a premier spot for hikers of all levels in the United States.
Located in northwestern Wyoming, it’s home to two remarkable hidden gems – Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls.
These incredible destinations offer endless breathtaking views during any season, but especially during the summer when wildflowers are in bloom and snow has just melted away.
At Inspiration Point visitors have the chance to take in picturesque landscapes of mountain peaks and valleys, as well as observe local wildlife including bighorn sheep and elk.
Hidden Falls, however, is an even bigger natural wonder – featuring a 250-foot long cascading waterfall framed by lush native trees that provide a welcome respite from the summer heat.
Both locations are guaranteed to leave visitors with plenty of great memories and moments worth cherishing for years to come.
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an exceptional destination for anyone looking to escape into the beauty and serenity of nature.
Boasting a mix of lush old-growth forests, rolling mountainsides, and spectacular waterfalls, this park has something to offer everyone.
Visitors can explore a variety of wildlife in the park’s 800 miles of hiking trails or take a peaceful ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad during a scenic tour.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its majestic landscapes and myriad of activities, there really is no better place to reconnect with nature.
Highlights
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingmans Dome is one of Tennessee’s most majestic sites.
This 6,643-foot peak is home to diverse wildlife such as bears, wild turkeys, and salamanders — attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The area also features a beautiful observation tower to take in a spectacular panoramic view over hundreds of miles and experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
With its majestic peaks and diverse ecology, Clingmans Dome continues to be one of the most sought-after natural destinations in Tennessee.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place of majestic beauty, and among its many attractions are the iconic Chimney Tops.
Tucked away in the wild, these ancient jagged rock formations seem straight from another time.
Though magnificent to behold, they offer a less than hospitable environment – a steep climb up thin trails gives way to rocky terrain at the top with incredible views of the park below.
Many visitors take on the challenge to reach this unique spot, and it remains one of the most visited attractions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is a beautiful valley offering stunning views and plenty of exciting activities.
Rich in history, the area began as a settlement crafted by some of the first European families to settle in Tennessee during the 1800s.
Cades Cove is renowned for its diverse wildlife and serene landscape, providing a stunning backdrop for hikers, bikers, bird watchers and other outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy all that nature has to offer.
The beautiful 11-mile loop winding through Cades Cove allows visitors access to admire majestic mountains, pastoral fields, valleys and streams and more.
Laurel Falls is an extraordinary sight to behold in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
It is best known for its 80-foot waterfall, which cascades down a steep slope of creekside boulders and native laurel plants, creating a beautiful and breathtaking view.
Visitors can trek along a 2.6 mile well-maintained trail to the base of the falls, making it ideal for families with young children or those looking for an easy hike in nature.
After taking in the serenity of Laurel Falls, hikers will be rewarded by an abundance of wildflowers, singing birds, and cascading streams as they meander back down the mountain.
10. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah near the Colorado River, is a wondrous landscape of over 2,000 natural sandstone arches as well as rock spires, dramatic canyons and striking desert vistas.
It is an excellent place for hiking or backpacking, with miles of trails along streambeds and hugging canyon walls.
The beauty and grandeur of the park goes beyond its namesake arches; here one can find many windows and towers created by erosion to explore.
As the iconic Delicate Arch no doubt reminds us, Arches National Park embodies nature’s incredible force and almost limitless creativity.
Highlights
The remarkable Delicate Arch of Arches National Park stands as a symbol of the striking and unique landscape of Utah.
The spectacular arch captures the eye immediately with its 65-foot free-standing structure amidst the otherworldly red sandstone formations in the park.
Located in an isolated area not easily accessed, visitors must navigate a 3 mile round trip stretch to reach Delicate Arch’s visually captivating pinnacle.
Although rugged, the journey offers an incomparable view of this ancient natural wonder, as well as allows adventurers to experience a sense of accomplishment at its summit.
It’s no wonder that Delicate Arch is one of Utah’s most iconic landmarks and a favorite destination for sightseers around the globe.
Windows and Turret Arch are two of the most recognizable features offered by Arches National Park in Utah.
One of the world’s most renowned landscapes, this park offers, therefore, a large number of free-standing natural arches, breathtaking cliffs, steep walls, and massive pinnacles.
The Windows and Turret Arch are both composed of sandstone.
Furthermore, the arches are located at a higher elevation near an expansive desert terrain.
The eroded fins provide many unique shapes in both formations.
If you’re looking for an incredible photographic subject that will leave you breathless with its beauty, then it is highly recommended to experience these spectacular landmarks from inside Arches National Park!
Arches Scenic Drive, a backcountry road in Arches National Park, is an experience like no other.
This 12-mile stretch of winding asphalt offers unparalleled views of the captivating and majestic red rock formations that this region is famous for.
Along the way, visitors can take part in classic desert explorations by stopping at frequent overlooks and pullouts to take in the sights and sounds of Utah’s Lower Colorado Plateau.
With its great network of trails intersecting throughout the park’s many arched formations, Arches Scenic Drive is perfect for travelers looking to embark on a day-long journey or even plan an overnight stay.
Why Should You Visit A National Park?
Visiting a national park is one of the most enriching experiences you can have.
In these spectacular places, wild and untouched nature flourishes, waiting to be explored by visitors from all corners of the world.
Strolling through the forests, marveling at majestic waterfalls, discovering new plant species – national parks provide a safe haven for biodiversity for generations to come.
They also offer an incredible variety of activities that suit all kinds of travelers: fishing, kayaking, hiking and many more!
All these amazing features make national parks irresistible destinations for anyone who wants to connect with Mother Nature and recharge their batteries in an awe-inspiring setting.
Wrapping Up The Top 10 Best National Parks To Visit In 2024
Here are the top 10 best national parks to visit in 2024!
We hope you enjoyed reading about all of these amazing places and that you are inspired to start planning your next trip.
Remember, booking early is the best way to ensure you get the dates and accommodations that you want.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore one of these beautiful national parks!
