All our nation’s national parks have their own unique qualities, so we’ve rounded up four that stand out and are sure to wow your group
There are 63 national parks across the United States, each with their own beautiful and distinctive characteristics. Each park has a rich history, breathtaking scenery, and a long list of things to see and do there.
If you and your group are interested in exploring the natural wonders of a national park, you may be wondering, “Which one should we visit?” While all parks have their perks, there are a handful that stand out as particularly unique. Here are America’s finest national parks you need to visit.
Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
The vast Canyonlands National Park is the biggest national park in the state of Utah. Known for its towering red rock formations, stunning desert scenery, and running alongside the Colorado River, this national park is a sight to behold. Island in the sky is a huge, flat surfaced mesa with panoramic overlooks and is truly breathtaking. Known for their red rocks the towering rock pinnacles named the Needles are a must see. Other notable attractions include the remote canyons of the Maze and the Native American rock paintings located in the Horseshoe Canyon.
But Canyonlands isn’t just nice to look at—it can be interactive as well! There’s plenty of exhilarating things to do at this national wonder. You can go canyoneering, white water rafting, or rock climbing, and even tour some of the historical landmarks from Canyonlands’ long and storied past.
Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Another national park you need to visit is Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. The scenic mountain paths, lush woodlands, crystal clear lakes, and plentiful wildlife make it a nature lover’s oasis. It holds the 4,000 meter Grand Teton peak, the mountain range, and the valley known as the Jackson Hole.
But don’t just gawk at nature—immerse yourself in it by mountaineering, hiking, boating, fishing, and camping your way through the park. You might even get lucky and see a few bison, elk, and moose on your journey.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
Cuyahoga National Park runs along the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron and encompasses many things to see and do. A refuge for local wildlife, this park is perfect for animal lovers. If you’d prefer a leisurely trip, you can hop on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and tour the trails, admiring the forests, hills, farmlands, and local plants and fauna as you chug along. The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a redone section of the original towpath that has to be checked off your list. If you’re the more adventurous type, you can go hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, golfing, fishing, and more!
Yosemite National Park (California)
One of the oldest and most popular national parks in the US, Yosemite National Park has a lot to offer its curious and adventurous visitors. Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains this park rose to fame for its humongous sequoia trees, along with Tunnel view. Not only this, but it is also known for its numerous granite formations including, El Capitan and Half Dome, and waterfalls. The sights of Yosemite truly never disappoint.
There’s plenty to do at Yosemite as well, including hiking and biking. Yosemite Village includes shops, restaurants, lodges, and even the Yosemite Museum. If you love photography the Ansel Adams Gallery includes the photographer’s infamous black and white prints of the beautiful landscape. Don’t think you can squeeze everything in one day? You are permitted to camp in Yosemite overnight and pick up exploring where you left off the day before.
No matter what park you choose to visit, you cannot make a wrong choice here. Each one has its own unique style and something to appeal to everyone. The natural beauty of all these places is truly what makes them special and the activities and attractions make us appreciate them even more.
By Alyssa Mastando
For more great travel inspiration and planning advice, subscribe for FREE to Leisure Group Travel.
