A curated list of must-visit national parks and national forests—each offering breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable hikes, and moments that remind you how powerful and peaceful nature can be. Perfect for planning your next adventure or dreaming up ...
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Yellowstone is a must-see for geysers, colorful hot springs, and wildlife sightings. Plan time for Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and slow scenic drives—animals often stop traffic in the best way.
Yellowstone National Park
Best visited mid-summer through early fall when roads and trails are fully open. Expect limited cell service, rapidly changing weather, and some of the most rewarding views you’ll ever see.
Glacier National Park
A haven for adventure lovers—New River Gorge offers hiking, rock climbing, rafting, and sweeping overlooks. The bridge views alone are worth the trip.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
Expect otherworldly scenery, colorful rock spires, and endless skies. Sunrise and sunset bring the Badlands to life, making it a photographer’s dream.
Badlands National Park
Famous for its unreal blue color and dramatic cliffs, Crater Lake feels almost surreal. Rim viewpoints offer stunning perspectives, with options for hiking and boat tours in warmer months.
Crater Lake National Park
Bold yet peaceful—Grand Teton feels both grounding and awe-inducing. A place where stillness meets scale, and every view feels intentional.
Grand Teton National Park
Soft ridgelines, quiet forests, and misty overlooks create a deeply calming atmosphere. Shenandoah is perfect for reconnecting with nature at an unhurried pace.
Shenandoah National Park
Home to challenging hikes, scenic drives, and waterfalls, the White Mountains are perfect for adventurers seeking both solitude and iconic New England views.
White Mountain National Forest
From climbing Mount Shasta to exploring waterfalls and scenic trails, the forest offers adventure and serenity in equal measure. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse landscapes.
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Explore towering peaks, wildflower-filled meadows, and serene lakes. Pike National Forest is ideal for both casual hikes and challenging backcountry adventures.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest
Quiet valleys, forested slopes, and rushing rivers create a serene escape. Custer-Gallatin invites reflection, exploration, and connection with Montana and South Dakota’s wild beauty.
Custer Gallatin National Forest
Explore dramatic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic trails. The forest offers endless opportunities for backpacking, wildlife viewing, and quiet reflection.
Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
This is #1 on my list for 2026!
Olympic National Park
This park spans so much of Northern California! If you haven’t seen the Redwoods you have to add it to your list. Nothing can prepare you for these trees.