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- I’ve visited all 63 major US national parks. Here are 10 of my all-time favorites. (businessinsider.com)
Having explored all 63 major U.S. national parks over the past decade, Emily Hart shares her personal favorites-parks that left a lasting impression and often beckon her back. National parks, often celebrated as America’s finest idea, each offer unique landscapes and experiences, but some stand out as truly exceptional.
One of Emily’s top picks is Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. From the striking, jagged peaks to abundant wildlife and inviting lakes perfect for swimming and kayaking, it’s a place that captured her heart on her very first visit and continues to enchant.
Acadia National Park in Maine, though smaller in size, consistently ranks among the most visited parks. Its dramatic coastline and breathtaking ocean and lake views provide a serene backdrop, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season.
In the Pacific Northwest, Olympic National Park in Washington offers diverse ecosystems-from the panoramic vistas at Hurricane Ridge to the tranquil Hoh Rainforest. Emily enjoys looping around the peninsula, stopping for a scenic drink at Lake Crescent Lodge before catching sunsets at Ruby Beach.
Montana’s Glacier National Park has moved her to tears more than once. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road showcases jaw-dropping natural beauty, while challenging hikes and plentiful wildlife create unforgettable adventures.
Among Utah’s famed “Mighty Five” parks, Capitol Reef holds a special place for Emily. This less-crowded gem features expansive red rock landscapes, scenic drives, and even orchards where visitors can pick fresh fruit.
The newest addition to the national park family, New River Gorge in West Virginia, impresses year-round. With spectacular river views, excellent hiking, and top-tier white-water rafting, the park combines natural beauty with a relaxed atmosphere.
Yosemite National Park in California remains legendary for good reason. Its iconic valley, towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the peaceful Merced River make it an enduring favorite.
Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique experience with the largest sand dunes in North America. From climbing and sandboarding on the dunes to wading in Medano Creek, it’s a place filled with childhood wonder and adult appreciation alike.
The Grand Canyon in Arizona holds the distinction of being Emily’s first solo national park trip. Its vastness and breathtaking vistas offer a sense of awe and tranquility that can captivate visitors for hours.
Lastly, Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park provides a different kind of adventure. Accessible primarily by cruise ship, Emily recalls the unforgettable experience of waking up surrounded by glaciers and enjoying a pizza on her balcony-a rare and extraordinary way to connect with nature.
These parks, each remarkable in their own right, highlight the diversity and grandeur of America’s national treasures and inspire travelers to explore and appreciate the natural world.
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- I’ve visited all 63 major US national parks. Here are 10 of my all-time favorites. (businessinsider.com)