7 Best US National Parks to Visit

Yellowstone National Park A Geothermal Wonderland

Yellowstone, a name synonymous with geysers and bison, is more than just a park; it's an experience. Spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone boasts a diverse landscape, from its bubbling hot springs to its vast forests. It’s a must-see for any nature enthusiast on a gap year adventure.

Why Visit Yellowstone

Yellowstone's allure lies in its geothermal activity. Old Faithful, the iconic geyser, erupts predictably, drawing crowds from around the globe. But don’t stop there! Explore the Grand Prismatic Spring, a rainbow-colored hot spring that's a photographer's dream. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot bison, elk, wolves, and even bears (from a safe distance, of course!).

What to Do in Yellowstone

• Hiking: Trails range from easy boardwalks around geyser basins to challenging backcountry treks. Consider the Fairy Falls Trail for stunning views of the Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Wildlife Viewing: Lamar Valley, often called \"America's Serengeti,\" is prime for spotting wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Geothermal Exploration: Explore the Upper Geyser Basin, home to Old Faithful and numerous other geysers and hot springs.
• Camping: Numerous campgrounds offer a range of amenities, from basic tent sites to RV hookups.

Gear Recommendations for Yellowstone

• Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX - Waterproof and comfortable for long hikes. Around $150.
• Binoculars: Nikon ProStaff 3S 8x42 - Great for wildlife viewing. Around $130.
• Bear Spray: Counter Assault Bear Deterrent - Essential for safety while hiking in bear country. Around $50.
• Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 (men's) / Tempest 20 (women's) - Perfect for day hikes. Around $130.

Yosemite National Park A Granite Paradise

Yosemite, located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, is renowned for its towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and stunning waterfalls. It's a mecca for climbers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates breathtaking scenery.

Why Visit Yosemite

The sheer scale of Yosemite is what truly impresses. El Capitan and Half Dome, iconic granite formations, dominate the skyline. Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, is a spectacle, especially during the spring snowmelt. The giant sequoia groves offer a humbling reminder of the age and resilience of nature.

What to Do in Yosemite

• Hiking: The Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall is a classic, though strenuous, hike. The easier Lower Yosemite Fall Trail offers stunning views of the falls.
• Rock Climbing: Yosemite is a world-renowned climbing destination. If you're a beginner, consider taking a guided climbing tour.
• Scenic Drives: Tioga Road (open seasonally) offers stunning views of the high country. Tunnel View provides the iconic vista of Yosemite Valley.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Yosemite is a fantastic place for stargazing.

Gear Recommendations for Yosemite

• Hiking Shoes: Merrell Moab 2 Vent - Breathable and comfortable for warm weather hikes. Around $100.
• Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 350 - Essential for hiking at dawn or dusk. Around $40.
• Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter - Lightweight and effective for filtering water from streams and rivers. Around $30.
• Sunscreen: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen - High SPF and water-resistant. Around $10.

Grand Canyon National Park A Geological Wonder

The Grand Canyon, in Arizona, is a vast and awe-inspiring canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Its immense scale and colorful rock layers provide a stunning glimpse into geological history.

Why Visit the Grand Canyon

The sheer size of the Grand Canyon is overwhelming. Standing on the rim and gazing into the abyss is an unforgettable experience. The canyon's colorful rock layers tell a story of geological time, and the changing light throughout the day creates a constantly shifting panorama.

What to Do in the Grand Canyon

• Rim Hikes: The South Rim offers numerous easy to moderate hikes with stunning views. The Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail are popular, but strenuous, options for hiking into the canyon.
• Mule Rides: Mule rides down into the canyon are a classic Grand Canyon experience.
• Helicopter Tours: Helicopter tours provide a breathtaking aerial perspective of the canyon.
• Stargazing: The Grand Canyon is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent place for stargazing.

Gear Recommendations for the Grand Canyon

• Wide-Brimmed Hat: Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat - Provides excellent sun protection. Around $35.
• Sunglasses: Oakley Holbrook - Stylish and provides excellent UV protection. Around $150.
• Water Bottles: Nalgene Tritan 32oz - Durable and BPA-free. Around $15.
• Electrolyte Tablets: Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets - Helps replenish electrolytes lost through sweating. Around $7 for a tube of 12.

Zion National Park A Canyon Carved by Water

Zion National Park, in Utah, is known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and the Virgin River, which has carved its way through the landscape. It's a hiker's paradise with trails ranging from easy riverside walks to challenging canyon treks.

Why Visit Zion

Zion's beauty lies in its towering sandstone cliffs and the lush vegetation that thrives along the Virgin River. The Narrows, a slot canyon hike through the river, is a unique and unforgettable experience. Angels Landing, a challenging hike with stunning panoramic views, is a must-do for adventurous hikers (permit required).

What to Do in Zion

• The Narrows: Hike through the Virgin River, wading through water that can be knee-deep or even chest-deep in places.
• Angels Landing: A strenuous hike with steep switchbacks and exposed sections, requiring a permit.
• Emerald Pools Trail: A moderate hike to a series of waterfalls and pools.
• Canyoneering: Explore Zion's slot canyons with a guided canyoneering tour.

Gear Recommendations for Zion

• Water Shoes: Keen Newport H2 - Excellent for hiking in the Narrows. Around $120.
• Hiking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork - Provides stability on uneven terrain. Around $80.
• Dry Bag: Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack - Protects electronics and other valuables from water. Around $20.
• Quick-Drying Shorts: prAna Stretch Zion Shorts (men's) / Halle Shorts (women's) - Comfortable and quick-drying for hiking in warm weather. Around $70.

Rocky Mountain National Park Alpine Majesty

Rocky Mountain National Park, in Colorado, showcases the beauty of the Rocky Mountains with its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. It's a popular destination for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Why Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from its alpine tundra to its lush forests. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, provides stunning views of the park's peaks and valleys. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.

What to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Hiking: Numerous trails range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents. The Emerald Lake Trail is a popular option.
• Scenic Drives: Trail Ridge Road is a must-do, offering stunning views of the park.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Kawuneeche Valley is a prime location for spotting moose.
• Camping: Several campgrounds offer a range of amenities.

Gear Recommendations for Rocky Mountain National Park

• Layers: A layering system is essential for adapting to changing weather conditions. Consider a fleece jacket, a waterproof shell, and a base layer.
• Hiking Gloves: For cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
• Beanie: A warm hat is essential for keeping your head warm.
• Waterproof Jacket: Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket - Lightweight and waterproof. Around $100.

Acadia National Park Coastal Beauty

Acadia National Park, in Maine, protects the rugged coastline of Mount Desert Island. It offers a unique blend of rocky shores, granite peaks, and lush forests.

Why Visit Acadia

Acadia's beauty lies in its dramatic coastline, its historic carriage roads, and its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, offers breathtaking sunrise views. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and whales.

What to Do in Acadia

• Hiking: Numerous trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Beehive Trail is a popular, though exposed, option.
• Biking: Explore the park's historic carriage roads by bike.
• Scenic Drives: The Park Loop Road offers stunning views of the coastline.
• Whale Watching: Take a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor.

Gear Recommendations for Acadia

• Rain Gear: Essential for unpredictable weather.
• Layers: Temperature can fluctuate quickly.
• Binoculars: For whale watching and bird watching.
• Waterproof Boots: L.L.Bean Bean Boots - Classic and waterproof. Around $140.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Lush Forests and Misty Peaks

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is known for its lush forests, misty peaks, and rich Appalachian culture. It's a hiker's paradise with trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks.

Why Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains are renowned for their biodiversity, with over 17,000 documented species of plants and animals. The park's misty peaks and lush forests create a sense of tranquility and natural beauty. Historic cabins and settlements offer a glimpse into the region's Appalachian heritage.

What to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Hiking: Numerous trails range from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. The Appalachian Trail passes through the park.
• Wildlife Viewing: Black bears, deer, and elk are common sights in the park.
• Historic Sites: Explore historic cabins and settlements, such as Cades Cove.
• Waterfalls: Ramsey Cascades is a popular, though strenuous, hike to a stunning waterfall.

Gear Recommendations for Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Insect Repellent: Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent - Protects against mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. Around $10.
• Bear Canister: Ursack AllMitey Bear Bag - Protects food from bears. Around $100.
• Rain Jacket: Columbia Watertight II Jacket - Lightweight and waterproof. Around $60.
• Hiking Socks: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks - Comfortable and durable. Around $25.