3. Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon stretches for over 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile. The park offers an array of activities, from hiking and rafting to scenic overlooks and helicopter tours. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to experience the canyon, as the changing light creates stunning, ever-evolving colors.

Why Visit: The Grand Canyon offers awe-inspiring views and numerous ways to experience its grandeur, from hiking to rafting and scenic drives. It’s a must-see for any nature lover.

4. Zion National Park – Utah

Zion National Park is known for its dramatic red rock canyons, sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations. The park offers some of the best hiking trails in the U.S., including the famous Angels Landing, which rewards adventurous hikers with breathtaking views. The Narrows, a hike through a river that winds through a narrow canyon, is another standout experience in Zion. The park’s otherworldly landscapes make it a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Why Visit: Zion is perfect for hikers and adventurers who are looking for both challenging trails and spectacular landscapes. The park’s stunning rock formations and canyons are a photographer’s dream.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains are a vast and biodiverse range that straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Known for its mist-covered mountains, rich wildlife, and old-growth forests, this park offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the country. The Cades Cove loop is a popular route for wildlife viewing, where visitors can spot deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. The park is also home to the historic Appalachian Trail and more than 2,100 species of plants and animals.

Why Visit: The Great Smoky Mountains offer a combination of scenic beauty, history, and biodiversity. It’s a fantastic park for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring.

6. Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. With over 100 hiking trails, visitors can explore everything from wildflower-filled meadows to high-altitude lakes. Trail Ridge Road, which winds through the park, is one of the highest paved roads in North America, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Wildlife enthusiasts can also catch a glimpse of elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots.

Why Visit: Rocky Mountain National Park offers incredible hikes, scenic drives, and opportunities to experience high-altitude landscapes and diverse wildlife.

7. Acadia National Park – Maine

Acadia National Park is a true gem on the East Coast, known for its stunning coastal views, dense forests, and charming villages. Located along the rugged coastline of Maine, the park offers visitors a chance to explore granite peaks, wild beaches, and scenic cliffs. Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak in the park, is one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise. Acadia is also a great place for biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

Why Visit: Acadia is perfect for those looking to combine the beauty of both mountains and the sea. It offers hiking, scenic drives, and a mix of outdoor activities along the stunning coastline.

8. Olympic National Park – Washington

Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse parks in the U.S., featuring temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, alpine peaks, and wild rivers. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering a variety of ecosystems to explore. The Hoh Rain Forest, with its moss-covered trees and lush vegetation, is a highlight of the park, as are the pristine beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park’s unique ecosystems are just some of the activities to enjoy.

Why Visit: Olympic National Park offers a unique mix of ecosystems and landscapes, from rainforests to coastlines. It’s an ideal destination for those who love diverse natural beauty.

9. Joshua Tree National Park – California

Joshua Tree National Park is a surreal and striking destination known for its otherworldly desert landscapes. The park is home to the iconic Joshua Trees, unique rock formations, and vast open spaces. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and exploring the fascinating desert environment. The park is especially popular for its incredible night skies, with clear views of the stars and Milky Way.

Why Visit: Joshua Tree is perfect for those seeking tranquility, stunning desert views, and unique rock formations. It’s also an excellent destination for stargazing and rock climbing.

10. Glacier National Park – Montana

Glacier National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering pristine wilderness, rugged mountain peaks, and breathtaking glaciers. The park boasts over 26 glaciers, and visitors can explore the beauty of these ancient ice formations along scenic drives and hiking trails. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., offers stunning views of the park’s majestic landscapes.

Why Visit: Glacier National Park offers dramatic mountain views, glacier hikes, and incredible opportunities to explore the wild beauty of the American Northwest.