When it comes to national beauty, the United States is up there with almost any other country in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the arid desert panoramas of Arizona and New Mexico, the United States is home to a massive diversity of ecosystems and landscapes. Over the years, conservationists have fought hard to protect these landscapes. Their labors have yielded significant fruits in the form of the many pristine national parks that been established to preserve their country’s incredible natural bounties.
As a tourist, you are today spoiled for choice when choosing which national park to visit. To help you make your mind up, we have put together this list of what we consider to be the five most beautiful protected areas in the U.S.
- Yosemite National Park, California
Choosing the most beautiful park is a matter of subjectivity, but for us, the title has to go to Yosemite. Long the domain of some of the world’s most famous climbers, Yosemite plays host to some of the most jaw-dropping rock faces anywhere on the planet. At their feet are serene slow-flowing rivers and summer meadows that perfectly contradict the sun-dappled cliffs that tower above.
- Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
A close second is Grand Teton in Wyoming. With its pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains and amazing wildlife, Grand Teton has become a favorite among campers for its incredible views and stunning scenery. There are over 200 miles of trails to explore this most wild of places.
- Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park is named after the vast active volcano that stands in its midst. Dominating the surrounding landscape, Mount Ranier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. Around its icy slopes are located pine forests and subalpine wildflower meadows that play host to an impressive diversity of wildlife.
- Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park could easily be forgiven for thinking they had been teleported to Norway. At the place where the around 40 glaciers flow from the epic Harding Icefield, the barren waste of ice gives way to meadows and forests full of wildflowers and endemic wildlife. You can often spot whales when taking a boat trip into the fjords.
- Glacier National Park, Montana
The rugged mountains and spectacular lakes of Montana’s Glacier National Park make for one of the most epic scenes you are ever likely to cast eyes upon. The steely skies and brilliant white peaks reflect in the metallic surface of the lakes that dot the park, leaving the beholder with a sense of the true majesty of nature. If you are seeking outdoor adventure and solitude, the park has over 700 miles of trails that make it a paradise for camping and hiking.
The United States if full of some of the most beautiful national parks anywhere in the world. If you are planning on visiting from abroad soon, make sure to incorporate a trip to one of the five most beautiful ones mentioned in this article.
