Imagine standing amidst ancient giant sequoias, feeling the mist from a thundering waterfall, watching grizzly bears fish for salmon in a pristine wilderness. These aren’t just scenes from a documentary; they’re everyday realities within America’s 63 National Parks. While thousands of state parks offer local escapes, it’s these federally protected, often immense, and exquisitely wild landscapes that promise the deepest immersion into nature’s grandeur. But which states are truly blessed with the most of these iconic natural treasures? Kick back and let’s explore 10 states where multiple national parks await your discovery.
California
You’ll look like an ant when you stand next to a mighty sequoia or North America’s tallest waterfall at Yosemite National Park – one of California’s nine impressive national parks, the most in any state. These parks offer a variety of landscapes, including volcanic peaks, deserts, islands, canyons, and forests. Cross out multiple national parks on your punch card, and you are well on your way to visiting them all.
Alaska
Marvel at the extraordinary power of these grizzly bears as they hunt fish at Katmai National Park. Alaska has one fewer national park than California, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking. Glacier, Gates of the Arctic, Denali, Lake Clark, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Katmai National Parks cover at least 3 million acres of naturally preserved wilderness. Where else are you going to see some of the Earth’s most magnificent creatures—bald eagles, moose, humpback whales, orcas, caribou, wolves, and more?
Utah
Bryce Canyon is a work of art. Thousands of years have sculpted colored hoodoos and natural amphitheaters formed by frost weathering and stream erosion. But this park is just one of Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks. Elsewhere, visitors will gape at the tall red rock arches and sandstone cliffs at Arches and Zion National Parks, or be astounded at the deep canyons at Canyonlands National Park. What are you waiting for?
Colorado
With 60 mountains towering over 12,000 feet, Rocky Mountain National Park easily has the highest average elevation of any park in the U.S. Hike its intricate trail system and uncover hidden vistas that overlook spectacular snow-capped glaciers. At the other end, Colorado’s other three parks offer different scenery, such as expansive sand dunes and vast canyons.
Arizona
For millions of years, the Colorado River flowed through Arizona rock, carving out an immense gorge, over a mile deep in some places. Even though this enormous hole—the Grand Canyon—may be a cliché vacation spot, until you stand on its edge and witness its true vastness, you’ll understand why. Arizona has two other national parks with their unique attractions—the largest cactus and a petrified forest—but the Grand Canyon takes the cake.
Florida
Spot a Great White Egret in the wetlands while standing on the boardwalk trail at Everglades National Park. The ecosystem features both freshwater and saltwater habitats, attracting animals such as alligators, crocodiles, and manatees. The park is home to the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Even more so, Florida’s other two national parks—Biscayne and Dry Tortugas—are primarily underwater.
Washington
Picture yourself standing in a meadow of wildflowers, taking in the majestic sight of Mount Rainier. Have your phone with you so you can capture scenes like this. You can visit other stunning views at Washington’s two parks, Olympic and North Cascades. Temperate rainforests, a rugged coastline, and jagged peaks await—the next time you visit Washington state, explore one of these parks.
Hawaii
Hawaii conjures an image of drinking piña coladas, watching hula dancers, and sunbathing at one of its many perfect beaches. Looking for an adventure? Take a tour near an active volcano at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Too brazen? Check out the dormant volcano at Haleakalā National Park. You only live once, so get out there and live!
Montana
Breathe in the chilled air, feel a breeze against your face, and marvel at the awe-inspiring glacier at Glacier National Park. You’ll enjoy the rugged mountains and alpine meadows that look like a Monet painting. This park has it all. You might also consider relying on the classic Yellowstone, but that one’s mostly in Wyoming. Montana, here we come!
Nevada
From rugged mountains to vast wetlands, impressive waterfalls to enormous rock formations, our country offers a diverse array of landscapes within its many national parks. Each of these 10 states hosts at least one national park, making them ideal tourist destinations, especially for those who love the outdoors. But before we send you off to explore, our last state on our list features two national parks: The Great Basin and Death Valley. Ancient pine groves or a hot desert with colorful badlands? It’s time for an adventure!
