Are you a nature lover? If so, you may want to take your vacation this summer to view one of the many beautiful national parks the US has to offer!
Fresh air, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, stargazing . . . all things that sound amazing after months of being stuck indoors!
Check out just a few of the national parks that could be just the right spot for you to visit this summer!
Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming, Montana, Idaho
Yellowstone is generally the first place we think of when we think of national parks. Yellowstone is actually the first national park open for all to enjoy in 1872.
It is home to wondrous hot springs, hiking, bike riding, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and basically anything a naturist could ever want!
Yellowstone is one of the country's treasures. Simply taking in the beauty of this park could suffice for a weekend trip!
Take a look at their website to view more of the amazing attractions Yellowstone has to offer.
Grand Canyon National Park - Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the many amazing wonders of the United States. The views of course are the prime reason to visit. The Grand Canyon Village is the best place to visit as it is home to Yavapai Point which is said to have the best view of the canyon’s sites.
Havasu Falls is a tranquil crystal clear blue oasis when compared against the backdrop of the desert. You will have to hike to get there, but the peace and beauty of the falls will make the hike well worth it.
There’s also the infamous skywalk, rafting up the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon Railway, and even helicopter rides.
To learn more about what the Grand Canyon has to offer, visit their website here.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Tennessee/ North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. The mountains are best known for their variety of wildlife and plants. The smokies also still contain much of the old Appalachian culture.
If you enjoy hiking these mountains are home to some wonderful hiking trails:
- Charlies Bunion
- Alum Cave Bluffs
- Andrews Bald
- Rainbow Falls
- Chimney Tops
If hiking isn’t your forte, there are plenty of scenic attractions to visit simply riding in your car:
- Cades Cove Loop Road
- Newfound Gap Road
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- Upper Tremont Road
- Clingmans Dome
For more information on the Smoky Mountain National Park, you can visit their website here.
Crater Lake National Park - Oregon
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the USA. There was once a volcano and upon eruption collapsed an entire peak and what remained was the wondrous Crater Lake we know today- a beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous mountain peaks!
Many attractions make Crater Lake a must-visit:
- Boat and Trolley Tours
- Junior Ranger Activities for Kids
- Stargazing, Camping, and Fishing
- Rim Drive - 33 mile road that encircles the entire lake
- Wizard Island - see a volcano WITHIN a volcano
There are many more things to do at this majestic lake. If you think this is the spot for you, take a look at more information about Crater Lake National Park here.
Zion National Park - Utah
Here at Utah’s first national park you can walk the same paths the ancient natives walked. There are great paths amid the marvelous cliffs set against clear blue skies!
Hiking, camping, and horseback riding are among the favorite activities at Zion. You can also visit the Zion Canyon Visitor center that contains a wonderful library and is completely green with solar panels and other eco-friendly components.
Zion also offers scenic drives and canyon overlook trails. Here are a few other attractions at Zion:
- Weeping Rock
- Lower Emerald Pools
- Human History Museum
- Canyoneering and Rock Climbing
If Zion sounds like the place for you, you can view more about the park here.
Some parks may still have restrictions due to the coronavirus, so always be sure to check any closures before planning your trip!
There are many other national parks across America, but these are some of the most visited. Do your research before planning your trip and make sure everything you want to see is available so your trip can be everything you want it to be!
Hope you have a great summer at one of these amazing national parks!
Material discussed is meant to provide general information and it is not to be construed as specific investment, tax, or legal advice. Individual needs vary & require consideration of your unique objectives & financial situation. Please consult with your accountant or tax advisor for specific guidance.