National parks all around the world have made a remarkable contribution to protecting and preserving wildlife. In recent years, many species of animals have fallen victim to either being endangered or completely extinct. To prevent this from happening, various national parks have come up and in this article, we will be discussing the top 10 best national parks in the United States of America (USA) in the year 2024.
List of National Parks in America 2024: State Wise Complete List
| Rank | National Park | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glacier National Park | Montana | Mountain scenery, lakes, hiking trails, UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| 2 | Yellowstone National Park | Wyoming, Montana, Idaho | Large park with diverse landscapes, geothermal features, wildlife |
| 3 | Yosemite National Park | California | Waterfalls, granite cliffs, camping, hiking |
| 4 | Grand Canyon National Park | Arizona | Deep canyon carved by the Colorado River, scenic overlooks, rafting |
| 5 | Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming | Mountain scenery, lakes, hiking trails |
| 6 | Zion National Park | Utah | Canyons, mesas, adventurous hiking trails |
| 7 | Denali National Park and Preserve | Alaska | Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, wilderness |
| 8 | Kenai Fjords National Park | Alaska | Glaciers, fjords, kayaking, boating |
| 9 | Bryce Canyon National Park | Utah | Unique hoodoos rock formations, scenic overlooks |
| 10 | Redwood National and State Parks | California | Coastal redwoods, stargazing, scenic drives |
1. Glacier National Park:
This national park is undoubtedly one of the best national parks in the United States of America if not the whole world. It is nestled between two mountains and is known to have over 700 lakes within its compound. Not only does it offer you a variety of flora and fauna, but the two mountains provide you with some adventurous hiking trails. Within the park is a UNESCO world heritage site, the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Overall, this park will enchant you with its beauty and keep you entertained with various activities.
2. Yellowstone National Park:
This is not only one of the first national parks in the world but also expands over an area of more than 2,000,000 acres, making it go through three states. The natural attractions and landscapes of this park are some of the most extravagant in the whole world. Either sit beside one of the lakes and enjoy the calmness of the environment or catch glimpses of the many animals. Here the choice is yours. For the best experience, try visiting in April or October.
3. Yosemite National Park:
I am sure we all must’ve heard of this national park. The Yosemite National Park has some of the most majestic waterfalls, namely the Bridalveil Fall and the Vernal Fall. The camping and hiking scene of this area is so popular that booking spots run out in the blink of an eye. While you are at it, you absolutely cannot miss the Tunnel View overlook. This will provide you with one of the most delightful views of the valley. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags now!
4. Grand Canyon National Park:
We already know about the famous Grand Canyon. It is truly a natural wonder, to say the least. The Grand Canyon National Park will surprise you just as much. No amount of pictures will do justice to the views that you will be able to see here. You can enjoy rafting in the Colorado River or go on an adventurous hike on one of the several trails. If you want to get an overhead view of the place, helicopter rides are also available, which will give you a memory to cherish for the rest of your life.
5. Grand Teton National Park:
This beautiful park is situated in Wyoming and is a sight for sore eyes. It gives you an experience that many national parks can give you. It sits between two ice-capped mountains and hikers can find trails that go up to 250 miles. Check out the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Centre. They have all sorts of maps and a little documentary to give you more information about this majestic park.
6. Zion National Park:
If you are someone who loves some thrill and excitement in their life, then Zion National Park in Utah is the perfect place for you. It has some of the most adventurous hiking trails, making it a heaven on earth for hikers. The more adventurous ones can try the Hike Angels Landing, while the hikers who are just starting will have a blast trekking through The Narrows. But if you are like me, and just don’t wish to hike at all, take a bus tour, of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
7. Denali National Park and Preserve:
This park is not like any other park, since it does not exist in the tropical region. When you visit this park, you will see snow-covered mountains everywhere. The reason for this is that this park is situated in Alaska and spreads across 6,000,000 acres of untouched and unexploited land. There are not many trails thanks to the snow, but explorers from all around the world come here because of how glorious it is. Some scenic landmarks like Wonder Lake and Savage River blow your mind.
8. Kenai Fjords National Park:
This park is quite similar to the Denali National Park, but the views are different yet wonderful. Also situated in Alaska, it has some of the largest glaciers. It covers an area of around 700 square miles so tourists find it easy to cover. Some must-try things are trekking on the Glacier Overlook Trail and Glacier View Loop Trail. If you wish to do something more relaxing, boating and kayaking services are also available. This park is truly a winter dreamland!
9. Bryce Canyon National Park:
This park has one of the most unique topography in all of America. It has a unique collection of pillars called Hoodoos that are created due to erosion forces. They are fully made of red sandstone; something that will leave your jaw dropped. People usually prefer going in summer, but when winters hit and the pillars are slightly covered with snow, that’s a sight that you just cannot miss!
10. Redwood National and State Park:
As we can all tell by the name, this national and state park is popular for its iconic and majestic redwood trees that can grow up to a height of 300 feet! Yes, you read that right. Go inside the forested area during night time and you will catch the moon and stars at their brightest. But if that is something you don’t want to do, there are many scenic driving paths like Enderts Beach Road and Howland Hill Road.
I am so ready to just pack my bags and go on a vacation to one of these parks, and I am sure you are too!
