America is home to 62 extraordinary national parks that showcase the diversity and beauty of the country's landscapes. From mountain ranges and glaciers to deserts and beaches, the U.S. national park system protects the nation's most iconic scenery. Here are the top 10 national parks in the U.S. and the many reasons why they should be on your must-visit list.

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is one of the nation’s most popular parks for good reason. Its iconic granite cliffs, gushing waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and vast wilderness leave visitors awe-struck. Highlights include massive El Capitan rock, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the historic Ahwahnee Hotel. Activities range from hiking to rock climbing to stargazing at night. The varied landscape provides endless inspiration and photo opportunities.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone was the nation’s first national park, established in 1872. Famous for its geothermal features, Yellowstone contains over 10,000 hydrothermal sites including bursting geysers and bubbling hot springs. Don’t miss Old Faithful erupting on the hour and the brilliant rainbow hues of Grand Prismatic Spring. Abundant wildlife like bison, elk, wolves, and bears roam the park’s forests. Yellowstone offers hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing and more.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Carved over millions of years by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is an astounding natural wonder stretching 277 miles. Layers of rock in dazzling hues from orange to purple reveal our planet’s history. Gaze in awe from the rim or hike down into the canyon for breathtaking views. Spot California condors overhead and mule deer wandering the landscape. Raft the Colorado River for an unforgettable adventure.

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

Known as the “Crown of the Continent”, Glacier National Park is filled with rugged peaks, pristine forests, and stunning alpine lakes. Over 700 miles of trails allow hiking through wildflower meadows and up steep mountain passes. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and black and grizzly bears. Glaciers may disappear by 2030 due to climate change so visit this park soon.

5. Acadia National Park, Maine

On the rocky coast of Maine, Acadia National Park encompasses forested mountains, granite cliffs, and the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast. Bike or drive the scenic Park Loop Road with stops at Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond. Hike through conifer forests and up Cadillac Mountain for incredible coastal views. Spot whales, porpoises, seals, and seabirds along the dramatic shoreline.

6. Zion National Park, Utah

In southwest Utah, Zion National Park showcases incredible rock formations, steep red cliffs, and narrow sandstone canyons. Experience the main Zion Canyon on the free park shuttle. Iconic hikes include Angel's Landing, the Narrows, and Observation Point. Cool off in the Emerald Pools then ride to the end of the route and back for amazing canyon views. Zion's lesser-visited Kolob Canyons section also impresses.

7. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a pristine wilderness with glacier-formed valleys, forests, meadows, and hundreds of alpine lakes. Climb to the top of 14,259-foot Longs Peak for one of the park’s most prized views. Favorite activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and camping. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears along the trails. Don’t miss the epic views from Bear Lake.

8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

From deep forests to grassy balds, the biodiversity of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is incredible. It has more tree varieties than all of Europe. Thick fog that blankets the peaks gives the Smokies their name. Hundreds of miles of trails lead past waterfalls, historic buildings, and wildflowers. See black bears and synchronous fireflies in late spring. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning overlooks.

9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

North of Yellowstone sits Grand Teton National Park, named for its iconic jagged peaks jutting up from Jackson Hole valley. Follow hiking trails past alpine lakes with mirror-like reflections of the Teton Range. Spot moose, beaver, bald eagles, and other wildlife. Drive scenic Teton Park Road bordered by sagebrush plains teeming with roaming herds of elk and bison. The park has fantastic spots for camping under the stars.

10. Arches National Park, Utah

Containing over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, this park in eastern Utah provides some of the most unique scenery in the U.S. Marvel at the massive Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and Landscape Arch. Follow the easy paved trail to view Tower Arch framing the La Sal Mountains. Drive to see the hundreds of arches visible from the road. Stay until sunset when the fiery colors on the arches intensify.

Visiting America National Parks

Exploring America’s national parks provides the trip of a lifetime. Our most treasured outdoor places offer endless inspiration, adventure, and natural beauty waiting to be experienced. Try to visit as many of these ten parks and more to fully appreciate our country’s priceless protected lands.