Experience the beauty and majesty of the vast United States when you visit one of our breathtaking national parks. There are an incredible 63 national parks in the United States, but here are the top five that we recommend traveling to see the best of the best.

Yellowstone National Park

With geysers, natural hot springs, and some of the most amazing wildlife encounters, Yellowstone is the perfect place for those who want to experience wide open spaces with a diverse landscape.

• Old Faithful Geyser - You can see this geyser in action from the accessible path nearby, which surrounds the geyser’s area. It was named Old Faithful by explorers in 1870 due to its regularity.
• Grand Prismatic Spring - This is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring, spanning 330 feet at its widest point. In places, it is more than 120 feet deep. This doesn’t mean you can take a dip, however, since it is hot enough to burn you. Instead, view the amazing natural phenomenon from the designated walkway.

• Yellowstone Lake - This is a high elevation lake, sitting at above 7,000 feet higher than sea level, and the largest of its kind in all of North America. The lake covers around 130 square miles and is home to native cutthroat trout. 
• Hayden Valley - Yellowstone is home to many interesting animals, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and coyotes. Hayden Valley is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures, although you should be careful to give them their space. You can also find plenty of guided wildlife tours with local experts.
• Old Faithful Inn - For the ultimate Yellowstone experience, consider a stay at the Old Faithful Inn. This immense log structure was constructed from local wood and stone in 1903. Today, it is one of the most iconic places to rest your head in the park.

Glacier National Park

This is one of the best spots to visit if you want to see glaciers in person. 

• Lake McDonald Valley - On the western side of the park is Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. It was carved out by glaciers and is over 500 feet deep at some points. You can see epic peaks surrounding the lake and stay at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, just be sure to make a reservation early.
• Going-to-the-Sun Road - This 50-mile road is a great way to travel between some of the best views and hikes in the park. However, parts are only open during the summer months due to weather conditions and accessibility. There isn’t any gas along the road so make sure to fill up your tank before you start your adventure.
• Many Glacier - This region in the park is home to numerous fantastic hiking trails, campgrounds, and sweeping vistas. Grinnell Glacier is worth a visit and has a trailhead conveniently located at the Many Glacier Hotel.

Grand Canyon National Park

This massive canyon, which was formed over millions of years, spans the area around the Colorado River. It’s a great spot for hiking into the canyon, boating or rafting along the river and learning more about the geological formation of this amazing wonder.

• South Rim - This side of the canyon is open year round and is the perfect place to catch a sunrise. Stop by the Visitor’s Center to learn more about the geological formations, wildlife, and stargazing that you can enjoy at the Grand Canyon.
• Hermit Road - This 7-mile hike is for those with a little bit of hiking experience under their belt, but it includes some of the most epic views of the canyon. You have to take a shuttle bus to access it during parts of the year. For a shorter hike, consider the first sections of the Canyon Rim Trail.
• Mule Trips - You can travel by mule down into the canyon. The park offers day trips, which are around 3 hours, or overnight stays. Overnight trips go down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon, then back up the following day.
• Colorado River - This river runs through the bottom of the canyon and has sections for smooth water rafting as well as more adventurous whitewater trips. The options range from day trips to up to 21-day guided excursions.

Zion National Park

This national park in Utah includes a canyon with stunning red cliffs that glow during sunrise and sunset. It is also a popular destination for adventurers who want to go stargazing.

• The Narrows - Named for its narrow passage points through the Zion Canyon, this is a popular hike that involves getting your feet wet in the Virgin River. It also has Insta-ready photo opportunities in the golden orange slot canyon. Make sure to check for current conditions before embarking on your adventure, since the hike is sometimes closed due to flash flood warnings or high rainfall.
• Weeping Rock - This short hike is named for the constant “weeping” water flow that runs over the side of the rock. It is very steep and can be closed due to rocks falling.
• Emerald Pools - You’ll be able to see beautifully green natural pools as well as waterfalls in this section of the park. You can’t swim in these areas due to the delicate balance of the ecosystem, but the views are truly spectacular.
• Stargazing - There are plenty of places to take in the majesty of the night sky in Zion National Park. Because there is so little light pollution, you’ll be able to get a great view of celestial fixtures that you don’t normally see in more populated areas. If you’re staying in the park after dark, make sure to get the right permits for camping or arrange lodging.

Yosemite National Park

Massive sequoia trees and breathtaking waterfalls dominate the landscape in California’s Yosemite National Park. These natural landscapes inspired photographer Ansel Adams, whose work is on display in the park.

• Bridalveil Falls - Water plunges down 620 feet and there are multiple trails, both strenuous and more relaxed, to wonderful views of the falls. Spring is the best time to visit if you want to see the falls at its most epic levels.
• Tunnel View - This is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of many of Yosemite’s most iconic sights. From Tunnel View, you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls, and other natural vistas.
• El Capitan - The massive rock known as El Capitan towers more than 3,000 feet above the surrounding lush valley. Only experienced climbers should take on El Capitan, but it is an impressive place to view the athleticism of climbers even if you aren’t making the ascent yourself. El Capitan Meadow is the perfect place to enjoy nature on foot.
• Yosemite Village - Learn more about the natural beauty and history in Yosemite at the Yosemite Museum, the Yosemite Exploration Center, and the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center. The Ansel Adams Gallery is another hot spot for fans of the photographer’s work depicting the natural beauty of Yosemite.

Visiting one of the beautiful national parks in the U.S. is the perfect way to get a first-hand view of the country’s purple mountain majesties. Whether it’s the vibrant orange and red cliffs of the southwest, the towering ancient trees in California parks, or herds of wildlife roaming the vast valleys and meadows near massive lakes and glaciers, these parks are the next must-see item on your travel list.