There is so much more to the natural beauty of the United States than what meets the eye. Unlike Europe, the country consists of the world’s most diversified plains, vast woodlands, boundless canyons, and bewildering mountain ranges. If you’re planning a trip around the country soon, consider visiting natural parks for a change.
The visitation numbers in these national parks rose to 237 million in the past year. It is expected to grow even higher in the coming years, as the pandemic restrictions have caused people to have the urge to roam around once the crisis is over. These incredible natural locations and scenic national parks in the country are gradually attracting tourists—not just from the United States but from abroad.
Out of all national parks in the country, these four sites offer enchanting landscape views and have the most number of tourists all year long. So, if you are planning whether solo or group trip, make sure to add one of them to your list.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park — North Carolina and Tennessee
Located at the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts the most tourists in the United States. With the numbers storming up to 12 million visits annually, the park offers the most beautiful sceneries around the year.
In addition to the charismatic landscapes, the mountains are also famous for their diverse range of protected wildlife. The main specialty of the park is its black bears, which have an estimated population of 1,500.
With more than 1,500 species of wildflowers, the area also holds one of the most diversified plantations.
The park provides you with year-round hiking and camping experience. However, the best time to visit is in fall, when fog-covered mountains sitting behind orange and red colored trees offer one of the most splendid panorama views.
Grand Canyon National Park — Arizona
If you’re looking to visit one of the world’s natural wonders, the Grand Canyon National Park should be at the top of your list. Being one of the UNESCO world heritage sites, the mighty canyons impart a breathtaking sight that no one should ever miss.
The Grand Canyon is among the country’s top tourist destinations, attracting millions of tourists worldwide. In addition to the multiple scenic camping spots, the park also offers well-furnished lodgings at both north and south rims.
If you are planning a trip, make sure you have the necessary information about the climatic conditions and make preparations accordingly. Although the ranger tours are suspended due to the pandemic, you can still experience the thrill of the trip through the great Colorado River.
Zion National Park — Utah
Utah is known for its phenomenally gorgeous national parks that hold the most diversified natural beauty ever. The best of all Utah offers is the Zion national park, which provides a mixture of almost all landscapes. From fascinating cliffs to rocky canyons, you can enjoy a bit of everything.
These impressive landscapes offer every activity, including biking, stargazing, paragliding, hiking, and climbing. It’s better to rent out a lodge-style custom home if you are planning a trip with your family.
Not only will it provide you with every facility and safeguard you from extreme weather conditions, but you can also have enough time to relish everything the park has to offer. You can always go wild camping if you want to feel close to nature and enjoy the wilderness.
Yosemite National Park — California
The Yosemite national park is among the first to be included in the list of national parks in the United States. More than two million tourists visit Yosemite Park every year, as it is known for its lush green valleys, gleaming lakes, and awe-inspiring waterfalls.
It is recommended to plan your tour in spring when nature is in its full form with blooming flowers and voluptuous waterfalls. Also, the huge granite formations at the El Capitan and the Half Dome are must-see sites.
Make sure you have made the reservations before you set out for the journey in the current COVID-19 scenario. Whether you want to explore the wilderness further or have planned in-park camping, you need to obtain a permit by the authorities. Otherwise, you’ll have to book a lodge.
Enjoy Your Trip!
As the international flights are blocked up due to the pandemic, avail of the chance to explore what the United States has to offer. Visit one of these parks this year, and you will definitely have the experience of a lifetime. Make sure to follow all COVID-19 protocols during your trip, and have a safe journey.
