THE BEST NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT THIS YEAR IN USA

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Today, there are more than 400 sites in the National Park Service, including 63 major parks—from America’s first national park (Yellowstone) to dramatic landscapes carved by ancient forces.

Yosemite National Park / CA.

Millions of people come to Yosemite National Park each year to see jagged peaks, glaciers, lush meadows and some of the world’s tallest waterfalls. Spanning 1,200 square miles, Yosemite offers activities ranging from child-friendly to extreme. Massive granite slopes like Half Dome and El Capitan dominate the landscape, taunting rock climbers. Paddlers dip into lakes and rivers, drivers cruise the dramatic Tioga Road, and day hikers walk by sequoias and canyons. Backpackers take to the rugged John Muir trail.

Grand Canyon National Park / AZ.

The Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that cradles two billion years of geologic history, is comprised of 40 layers of rock shaped into buttes, spires and cliffs. Carved by the Colorado River, the 277-mile gorge is magisterial from any perspective, but it’s thrilling to venture below the rim. The safest place to start is the well-maintained Bright Angel Trail, which follows an ancient route past sculpted sandstone to a cottonwood oasis. Look for elk, mountain lions and condors along the way, plus the 1,000 species of plants that survive in this semi-arid desert.

Yellowstone National Park / WY.

Yellowstone, America’s first national park is bigger than Rhode Island and has been a jewel in the NPS’s crown since 1872. Critters are everywhere in Yellowstone; geysers spurt regularly; sulfurous lakes bubble and boil; and massive waterfalls glint in the sun. Plus, don’t be surprised if you spot buffalo wandering right down the center divider of the two-lane road that connects the park.

timeout.com

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