LeaderStat provided this article.
Of the 423 national parks in the United States, 63 incorporate the words “national park” into their official name. The other locations are identified as national historic sites, seashores, recreation areas, forests, or monuments. Wherever your travel assignment takes you, chances are that you will be close enough to visit one of these sites!
Here are some tips for planning your national park visit and suggestions on which parks to put on your bucket list. The National Park Service website is a great place to start.
Your Visit
Before you lace up your hiking boots and hit a trail at a national park, spend a few minutes researching the area. You’ll need to learn about the park and the environment to ensure you’ve brought the right gear. Don’t forget to inquire about the fees and permits you’ll need for your trip.
Once you arrive at the park, obey all posted signs and check in with the ranger station for up-to-date information on weather and other local conditions. Stay away from the wildlife, and don’t deviate from the marked trails and paths.
Best National Parks to Visit
Now that you’re ready to visit a park, which ones should you choose? Check out this list of national parks, which provides state-by-state information. There are parks for everyone, from beaches to mountains or historic sites to popular monuments. Here are nine suggestions.
Denali, Alaska
Denali, Alaska, has North America’s highest peak, plus six million acres of wilderness accessible by a single road. But plan your trip in the summer because all the snow arrives in the late fall through early spring.
Yosemite, California
Yosemite, California, boasts one of the most well-known rock-climbing formations, El Capitan. But you don’t have to be a rock climber to enjoy the Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Falls, or Half-Dome.
Everglades, Florida
Everglades, Florida, offers mangrove waterways and wilderness home to crocodiles, Florida panthers, and manatees. You can also fish for snook, snapper, and tarpon in the park.
Craters of the Moon, Idaho
Craters of the Moon, Idaho, originated several thousand years ago due to eight major volcanic eruptions that created craters, deep cracks, and lava fields. The landscape changes frequently since the area’s sub-surface still experiences high levels of volcanic and tectonic activity.
Mammoth Cave, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, has more than 400 miles in its cave system—the longest known US cave. You can explore the surface or descend into the earth for a closer look at the cave’s twists and turns.
Acadia, Maine
Acadia, Maine, offers granite cliffs along with a rugged seashore. Hiking trails include the exposed Precipice Trail—with its metal rungs and wooden bridges—and paths to the summit of Cadillac Mountain.
Assateague, Maryland
Assateague, Maryland, is a barrier island inhabited by wild horses. You can camp on the waterfront with the horses nearby.
Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico
Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico, offers caves used for thousands of years by nomadic dwellers. Come for the dwelling tours, bird watching, and nature walks.
New River Gorge, West Virginia
New River Gorge, West Virginia, is the newest National Park, designated in 2020. You’ll have more than 1,400 established rock-climbing routes to enjoy, plus miles of trails to pique your interest.
Find the perfect opportunity to explore our country’s national parks with LeaderStat. With these possibilities to choose from, how will you spend your free time this year?
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