the US has 63 national parks, 2474 state parks with 6792 state park sub-units (a location preserved on account of its natural beauty, historic interest, or recreational potential). In California alone, there are 9 national parks, 280 state parks and 279 park sub-units. If I visited one every weekend, it would take me almost 11 years to see everything in just my state alone. .
An interesting park note: NY State has the largest park in the lower 48 states, it's Adirondack state park and is spectacular year-round with mountains, lakes, rivers, forests and all sorts of wildlife. Lake Placid which is a town within the Adirondack park has hosted two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980). For a sense of scale, Adirondack Park is roughly the size of Belgium! Also in NY State is Niagara Falls State Park which is shared with Canada on the Northern side of Niagara Falls. This is one truly spectacular natural wonder. The Canadian side even has tunnels built in that allow you to actually stand beneath the falls and take in the enormity of the thunderous water cascading overhead. It's one of the natural wonders of the planet.
Thank you for reminding us to APPRECIATE where we live. I'm in the Pacific Northwest, born and raised, so I know that I take it for granted. I've been to all these places and it is unbelievably breathtakingly beautiful. You can't compare. It's like saying Which is better Apples or Oranges. Or Golden delicious apples or Honey Crisp apples. You CAN'T compare them. I have family that came across the US in covered wagons to settle in Utah, so I have a fondness for Utah. I also have family that came in colonial times so have an appreciation for that when I visit the east coast. Please come and visit the US sometime, but plan to make many trips or have an extended trip because there is so much to see. I love your channel, keep it up.
I live in California. The beauty is stunning and diverse. Snow capped mountains, giant redwoods, gorgeous beaches and coastline, rivers, lakes, deserts…we’ve got it all!
I grew up near Glacier National Park, went to university near Yellowstone, both are fantastic and beautiful in their own way. I've lived in Alaska, New York, and the West Coast since then and have family in Hawaii. It is kind of impossible to rank all of the beautiful places in North America, so it really depends on the kind of experience you want mountains, tropical beaches, arctic fjords, deserts, etc. There is so much diversity in landscapes, climate, culture, and outdoor amenities to choose from in the U.S. I personally love Glacier, Denali, Olympic, Red Woods, Zion, Grand Teton parks.
@ amazing place! I lived inside Glacier for the past 3 summers, I was running all the restaurants on the west side of the park. Best thing I ever did was spend those 3 years there. It’s like a different planet, absolutely stunning and it never gets old.
@jschneider5500 I went to glacier last year. I have a newer mini van that doesn't come with a spare tire. The entire time I was petrified I was going to get a flat tire with no way to call anyone. Not to mention the grizzly bear danger signs that are everywhere 😂
@KumSwallaHarris I lived on a ranch growing up and we would get Grizzly bears coming through our land to eat apples from our orchard and it could be scary because they are so large and intimidating but I am probably more worried about mountain lions than bears. Bears are curious and will be aggressive if protecting cubs but dont really view humans as food (unless desperate). Lions on theother hand definitely view humans as prey and will stalk people. My mother was an ER and flight for life nurse who had to respond to more mountian lion attacks than bear maulings during her career. I used to live in Alaska, and drove down the AlCan Highway when I moved to Oregon. I packed several full gas tanks on the car because of how few gas stations are located for long stretches and I went hours without seeing any other vehicles so I completely understand that feeling of isolation and worry when out of cell range or being near services. I think because I grew up in Montana, and spent all my free time hiking, rafting, snowboarding, ice fishing, etc. I was a little less cautious than was maybe wise because the animals and weather were such a part of my everyday life. I'm glad you didn't have a breakdown and I hope you loved your time in the Flathead Valley!
Whenever I truly need to get my head straight, I'll take a long drive down the back roads of this country, and enjoy the splendor that is to be found - in so many various forms.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve (California) - Home of the Sequoia Redwood trees. Some of the trees were here before the pilgrims landed. Walking through them is amazing. You cannot hear the city noise and looking up through the branches is like looking at an open-air cathedral. You cannot even see the top of the trees they are so tall. Plus 30-minutes car ride away you are on the beautiful northern California coast. You can see nothing but the Pacific Ocean as far as the eyes can see.
I've gone camping in the redwood forest. It's beautiful. But I am in the pacific northwest, WE HAVE THE BEST WEATHER and lots of trees just like the he showed. But the redwood forest is beautiful. Oregon is totally beautiful as well. I love the northwest.
I absolutely love living in Utah because the landscape is so diverse. Definitely a must-see when visiting the West. Also, check out the green and rainy sights of the Pacific Northwest. Multnomah Falls, the Hoh Rainforest, and the Oregon Coast are some of my favorite places on earth.
As someone that lives in California sure I love the diversity of this state I absolutely love Utah when I visited. I feel like I could just get up and drive and everything is just so beautiful. Really want to go back
Been living near Arches national part for the past decade and have gone there a few times a year. There is a lot of great places to see here more than just the 5 national parks because there are 'National Monuments' like Bears Ears or National Bridges and State Parks such as Valley of Goblins that's equally majestic. Really any recreational destination in the Colorado Plateau is a beautiful place to visit.
2021 we took a motorcycle ride. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Serpent Mounds, Gateway Arch National Park, One short week in Steamboat springs with loved ones, Million dollar highway, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park, Colorado National Monument, Arches National Park, Canyon Lands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Great Basin National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, North Grand Canyon National Park, Painted Desert, Petrified Forest National Park, Saguaro National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Redwood National Park, Crater Lake National Park, Olimpic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park, Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Two more days with loved ones, Wind Cave National Park, Needles, Mt. Rushmore, Crazyhorse, wildlife loop, 16A Iron Mt, Badlands National Park, Devil's Tower, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Voyagers National Park, 60 days on the road, 21 states. As Forest would say " I think I'll go home now " That will take 2 more d
There really are some majestic places in every state. The national parks are beautiful but the state parks are pretty great too. Each state has several of them.
I’ve only scratched the surface of our National Parks: Mt. Rainier, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia/King’s Canyon, Acadia, Everglades, Great Smoky Mountains. So many places, so little time. Lots of other great destinations that aren’t National Parks.
I live in a National Historic Park... The Adirondack Park in upstate NY. The reason it isn't designated as a National Park is because there is privately owned land within it, but it's bigger than all of the other National Parks. 6.1 Million acres. In fact, you could actually fit Yellowstone, Glacier, Yosemite and Great Smoky inside of it. IMHO, it's one of America's best kept outdoor/wilderness secrets. The High Peaks Region (Lake Placid area) is absolutely stunning and there's so much to do and see, year round. I never see any content creators do a reaction to it, but I know there are plenty of videos here on RUclips about the Park. I grew up in the South and moved to the Northeast when I got married, but my husband grew up hiking, skiing, Winter camping and just about everything else you can do in the Park. He's a 46er, which is someone who's climed all 46 of the peaks in the park... some of them he's done multiple times. I'm actually pretty happy to be raising our kids here.
I have been there too. It was March and the temperature were in the mid -70's yet the snow on the side of the roads were taller than my Ford Ranger. Truly beautiful.
Love Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite and Yellowstone. Want to see Acadia in Maine and Glacier in Montana. One park not mentioned that I love is Kings National Forest in CA. It’s the home of the redwoods and sequoias, the largest and tallest trees in the world. Just amazing to see.
I live in humboldt county in northern california and despite being born and raised here, i will never ever get tired of looking at our redwoods. the sense of awe you feel is indescribable.
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where you can't throw a rock without hitting a good hiking spot or neat view, and even by my standards Mt. Rainier really is breathtaking. The air up there almost feels magical, and it's absolutely teeming with life during wildflower season. Mt. Baker is also very cool, and nothing beats getting out on the lake on a calm day and seeing the mountain looming over you while being reflected perfectly on the water. Anywhere along the eastern half of the Columbia River is also worth checking out for the desert gorges, wind surfing, and stars, and there are locally grown fruit stands basically everywhere. The Hoh Rainforest has some of the biggest trees I've ever seen (haven't had a chance to see the Redwoods yet) and Pacific City has some marvelous sandy dunes and cliffside views of the ocean (but bring a jacket). Other cool places in the U.S. are anywhere really flat in the Great Plains (specifically Kansas), where you can fully take in just how far away the horizon is, Saguaro National Park in Arizona, full of the really big cacti, and the soft beaches of O'ahu (although tourism has really negatively impacted all of Hawai'i and I'd do some research beforehand if you plan to go). You can find basically every biome somewhere in the States, and I love that there are always new crazy and beautiful things to see
I live in Colorado, so most of the state is stunning. The most beautiful place I've seen is Rocky Mountain National Park. If you ever visit Denver, it'only an hour & a half away.
I've been to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and a number of other hot spots in the US, but I haven't been everywhere. I think my favorite so far was probably the scenic overlook at Crown's Point on the Columbia River gorge in Oregon, which is minutes from Multnomah Falls. Both are awesome.
Here in the Northeast, we're tripping over amazing natural wonders. Anywhere in Vermont, New Hampshire or Maine in Autumn will be stunning with the leaves on fire. Acadia National Park is, indeed, amazing and it's something everyone should visit. Lesser known are Watkins Glen and Letchworth parks (the latter known as the Grand Canyon of the East and for good reason) and many other parks. If you've ever seen The Last of the Mohicans, it takes place where I live in Upstate New York. The landscape really is truly amazing. As others have said, you can go anywhere in this country and find natural beauty. We know it, we appreciate it, and we encourage others to experience it!
I have been to a bunch of these and the beauty cannot be captured. I would agree that Zion, Acadia, and Grand Canyon are some of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen, but I would also add in Glacier Bay and the entire island of Maui in Hawaii. To answer your question about who put in the chains and stairs etc.: The National Park Service maintains these parks and each state has their own park service to maintain the state parks. A lot of the work with big trails was done between1933-1942 as part of the government's "New Deal" stimulus plan, where they hired 3 million young men into the "Civilian Conservation Corps" to build the infrastructure of the parks (cut down trees, place stones, level out paths, etc.)
Hey Adam - when you come to Vegas in April, you can always go to Moab, Zion, or Grand Canyon; each is only a few short hours of a car ride away. Or, you can always visit Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire; both are on the outskirts of Vegas.
I live 25 miles from the main entrance to Paradise less by bird as the road curves , probably 15-20 west of the Mt. Rainier . My view is nothing but tree tops and 3/4 of Mt Rainier. I'm close that I see it through cloudy days when others can't see it. My favorite hike is from the Hoh River through the rainforest up to Blue Glacier perfect 2 day hike with reserved camp spots.
I've been to Niagara Falls, Smokey Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, The Grand Tetons, Rocky Mountains, Grand Canyon and The Everglades. I have visited several other states and every state has beautiful places. There are many other places I would love to visit.
@@KumSwallaHarris Niagara Falls was stunning, especially from the Canadian side! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is only about 3 hours from Niagara Falls so we spent 2 days there and then went to the falls. It was a fun trip! I hope you can make it someday.
The Grand Canyon was almost a religious experience for me. Only God could have created such a natural magnificent place. The Smoky Mountains in the morning is just breathtaking. Also, Mt Rainer is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. Those are just my favorites out of literally thousands of glorious places in the USA. We are truly blessed here with nature in its variety. 🇺🇸
I've been to the grand canyon, man I went to canyonlands national park and "black canyon of the gunnison " and brother those 2 places were just as impressive 😂
I am in my 60's and still have 14 states on my list to visit. The Grand Canyon is the most awe inspiring place I have visited. The most beautiful coastline was the coast of Maine, seen from the top of Mount Cadillac in Acadia National Park. Every state I have been to has scenery that sets it apart from the rest. It is impossible to choose a favorite.
I've been to 8 out of the 10 plus many more throughout the 50 states. He didn't include Bryce Canyon, which is in the same area as Arches and Zion. Its one of my favorites.
Some of the most beautiful stuff I've seen in the US are the old growth forests of Western Oregon (though most of them have taken a hit with the fires of the past few years). Mountains covered in creeks with trees whose trunks are more than twice as wide as you are tall, and reach so high that, even on the sunniest day, everything is somewhat dim. Not the sort of dim where it's hard to see, but where it's easy on the eyes. Shelf mushrooms the size of a card table, lichen hanging from the branches, trees growing out of the remains of fallen trees, all nestled up to tall rocky cliffs along a coastline, where harsh winds blow, waves crash, and it gets cold enough that you need to put on warm clothes in the middle of Summer. Another place would be the Diamond Craters of Eastern Oregon. Enormous craters, apparently formed within the past 25,000 years, that are so huge that, when taking pictures of them, they barely appear to have any depth, despite being so deep that even in the most shallow craters, a leisurely walk into and out of one can leave you feeling a bit winded. Also, the Painted Hills are pretty cool. Not actually painted by people (at least, not the last time I was there), but named for the natural coloration of the hills. Also, it's a fossil site, so that's pretty neat.
I haven't been to the west aside from Arizona and California but didn't have a chance to see those great parks. However, being from the east I have been to the Great Smokey Mountains , Appalachian trail, and the Catskills and Adirondack mountains in NY.
I have been to all but six of our states and marvel at the unique beauty of each state. But I do have favorites. Grand Canyon is first on my list. It is spectacular beyond description. Second is the entire state of Utah. It has soaring mountains with fantastic skiing and snowboarding as well as other winter activities. It has a vast desert that is almost surreal and the amazing salt flats. Then there is the vast red rock country with its fantastic rock formations, multiple state and national parks and marvelous canyons. Utah has a piece of every possible environment on this planet except an ocean. Drive its scenic byways and you will discover aspen forests, tropical foliage, a swamp minus alligators and ancient dwellings.
If you're going to do southern Utah, I'd recommend taking about a month. That's if you're covering all the trails. Best to do it during the late fall or early spring to enjoy it without dealing with insane desert heat. Winter in Utah and Arizona can be questionable at times. If you do end up going in the summer: hydrate. Even when you think you aren't thirsty. Hydrate as much as possible. I cannot keep count of how many stories I hear of the most unprepared tourists to the areas become either complete goner or faint due to the heat.
@@AC-ni4gt Absolutely agree. Utah is hot with relentless sun during the summer. My husband's 26 year military career had us move to Utah three times. When he retired we stayed in that state for 16 years before moving to the Black Hills in South Dakota.
Mt Rainier! Highest prominence mountain in the US, beautiful, and absolutely gigantic (like half a day to drive around it.). Second place probably goes to Crater Lake because it's cool.
I live in the Smokies and they are beautiful. My favorite place that I have visited is Canyon de Chelly in Arizona, (it is not massive or commercial) it is a monument in the Navaho Nation. When we hiked down into the canyon we were passed by native residents that live down in the canyon in traditional hogan and raise sheep, and there are Anasazi ruins too!
I have two. In my state definitely Great Smoky Mountain national Park. In the country, I’m stuck between the Grand Canyon and the wildlife reserve in Monterey Beach California. If you do decide to go to the Grand Canyon. I highly suggest that you stay somewhere in the area within an hour 45 minute drive into the park before the sun rises. It was the first time I ever seen it and that was the first view I got was the sun coming up and slowly reviewing how actually huge it is. One of my top five experiences when it comes to vacations. I also have to say every park we went to in Hawaii was amazing but I think that’s a given.
Also, Adam, I sent you a email about a really great video for SEC football. It is about my Tennessee volunteers, but here’s something interesting that I think will put it in perspective for you with your recent trip to the US. Our stadium seats 101,915 people which is almost the average of how many people are in Disney World every day now imagine all those people are all across the park, in one stadium.
I've been to Alaska and Denali National Park. Mt. Denali is massive, towers over the rest of the range. (1963) I've been to Niagra Falls, both the American and Canadian side. Unfortunately I've not been to any of our big national parks. MT parents went to most of these parks in the 1930's before I came along. My dad would never ho back to places he had already been. I can't complain though because we all went to Europe and did a bus tour of 10 countries in 1960 and drove 11,000 + miles from New Jersey through N.Y. and across Canada and up to Alaska and back home through 11 more states. We just didn't vs top on the way home to take side trips. Both trips were 6 weeks. I was a very lucky young teeager. I never had the money or time to take my daughter on trips like that, but I did take her to see things more !locally to N.J. There is so much American history that was only a day or two away from home.
The Grand Canyon is one of my favorite places so far, as well as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota. Both are amazing to see but honestly listening to loons in the early morning right before sunrise with fog on the waters, it’s so nice.
They never talk about the beautiful Adirondack Park in my home state of New York! It’s 6.1 MILLION acres. Eight times larger than Yosemite! It’s absolutely stunning!
Think it's because it's not technically a National Park. Too much of it is privately owned, so it can't meet the qualifications to get that classification. It's an official National Historic Landmark though! Personally, I think it should at least get an honorary National Park title-especially since it's the largest park in these contiguous 48 states. But I may be biased since I grew up in the foothills.
We do have a beautiful country. Mount Rainier is incredible. The Redwood forest is unbelievable . I think my favorite if the Gifford Pinch of national park. Home to Mt Saint Helen. Lava Canyon in the park is incredible as well as the trail of 2 forest. Norway pass trail that overlooks spirit lake on into the crater of the volcano will leave you speechless.
Oh believe me, I do appreciate where I live! I live in a town with mountains and lakes, a national park with 140ºF/60ºC water coming out of the hillside right downtown and no entrance fee, a crazy history with gangsters, gamblers, and shootouts in the street! We have horse racing, lots of touristy things to do -- want to feed an alligator? Hot Springs, Arkansas, come on over, Adam! I'll show you around myself.
Okay Adam. You asked for it, and my favorite places I've ever visited: Anna Maria Islands, FL. And Amicalola Falls State Park. The white sands of Florida, it's truly beautiful! Unless you like the heat, don't go in the middle of the summer! *LOL!* Beginning or the end of the summer is best. As for Amicalola, the description: The park is home to Amicalola Falls, a 729-foot waterfall that is the highest in Georgia. There's a trail that crosses in front of it, and the falling of the water is so incredibly loud you can barely communicate with a friend standing next to you, as you feel the mist of the water on your face. It's such a breath taking place! I never want to leave when I'm standing there by the falls!
7:41 Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California Sublime. Honorable mentions: Goblin Valley State Park, Utah and anywhere out in the open desert of New Mexico at sunset.
Thanks to my Dad, I have visited 6 of these 10 national parks many years ago (+ many others not listed in this video, including one in my home state, Kentucky - Mammoth Cave). For me, I love Rocky Mountain National Park and Glacier National Park the best... but I do prefer mountains to beaches and other terrains, so "the most beautiful place" is going to be subjective for each person. Glacier National Park, I feel, was most impressive and beautiful because of how clear the water is. We went whitewater rafting there, and at one point, it was smooth water, and you could see the trout swimming near the bottom of the river at least 20 ft below (trout fishermen were along other areas of the river, so i guess the trout were hiding out in this calm area of water we came through, before hitting more rapids).
One of the most beautiful places I've ever been to: Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington state. It's like walking into a calendar photo. Incredible hiking and camping locations, beautiful lakes surrounded by mountains - the area is truly gobsmackingly gorgeous. Also in Washington, my favorite National Park is Olympic. There's so much to do and see there - beautiful beaches, waterfalls, rain forest, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and hot springs.
I try to go every year to big bend national park. I live in south Texas so for us it’s about a 10hr drive 😅 It’s never ending, you feel incredibly small, and we usually stay in alpine and go glamping, so we rent out a dome style airbnb and at night you can see the Milky Way basically 😅and all the stars (depends on the moon cycle) greater big bend is THE largest dark sky reserve recognized internationally, there’s basically zero light pollution and the sky at night during a new moon holy hell it’s incredible. It’s very dry out there though and you’re roughly 4,500 ft above sea level, but the scenery and wildlife is beautiful and there’s a ton of historic ghost towns in the outskirts of big bend and many other beautiful places like Marfa Terlingua Marathon and if you keep going you’ll hit El Paso
I live on the East Coast, so much of my lifetime I have been surrounded by water. This most beautiful National Park (for me) is Jockey's Ridge on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It's a pretty steep climb, but the whole thing is made out of sand. I've seen some of the most incredible sunsets there, because you can see both The Sound that separates the island from the mainland. Also, you can jump off the summit and land in the softest sand I have ever felt. The runner up for me is Okracoke National Seashore. The ocean is warm and clear. I highly recommend both sites. (I'd send you pictures, but I still don't have a clue as to how I could do that.
Watching this from my tent on the side of a mountain in Colorado. If you ever make it out this way, I'd love to show you around the American Southwest. Most beautiful place on Earth. I have a couple shorts of the view from my campsite...
I live about 2.75 hours away from Yosemite and under 2 hours to get to the Calaveras big trees. I do not live in the mountains but they do surround me and they are beautiful.
I have visited all the parks mentioned here. It’s very hard to pick the most beautiful because they are all awesome for different reasons. Probably I’d say the Grand Canyon is one of my favorites. Most of the pictures you see are of the south rim. But I loved hiking the north rim also. It goes down to the Havasupai Indian reservation and looks very different than what you expect in the Grand Canyon. Lots of forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Now you see why 80% of Americans don’t have a passport. Everything you could want is already here! I do appreciate this beautiful and diverse country. I feel very blessed to have been born here. I hope you get to see more of it.
I am blessed to live within 45 minutes of Zion National Park, 2 hours from Bryce Canyon and 2.5 hours of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. 20 minutes from Cedar Breakes National Monument. 😊
I adore your commentary. It's so colorful when you're freaked out about something. We do have an appreciation for our natural resources. I live right on the Ohio River and am surrounded by woods. We are in the very beginning of the Appalachian mountains and it's just insanely beautiful. I have a national park less than an hours drive from me called the Daniel Boone National Forest. I've been to a few hotsprings and if ya wanna talk blue waters, lake Tahoe or Crater Lake or amazingly beautifully blue. I have a picture of Crater Lake I took that shows it pretty well but it still doesn't do justice to the real Crater Lake. So Crater Lake would have to be my vote because you have snow into the summer months often times as well as mountains as it's a volcano. The second prettiest would be the US Virgin Islands. Stunningly beautiful. But Yosemite has the most places to discover and the beauty there is stunning. I grew up just 2 ½ hours from Yosemite so it has a special place in my heart because i still remember waking up to a bear ravaged camp when was only 5 or 6 years old. And i also went into labor 3 months early while hiking when pregnant with my son. It still didn't turn me off of spending as many weekends and day trips as possible. Now they've added bear proof storage containers to keep your food but back then they were just able to raid your camp. PS, if you stay in Yosemite, DO NOT leave ANY food in your car unless you want to see the raw power of a bear trashing your car and stealing your food. I've honestly been to so many national parks I've lost count. I loved the Grand Canyon but it can be scorching hot as is Death Valley. The cool thing about Death Valley is they have the "Painted Mountains" that you can see come alive when the sun is at just the right angle. We even have a national park in the US Virgin Islands and it has an underwater snorkeling trail you can follow around a smaller island just off St. Johns. It was so much fun i got second-degree sunburns from snorkeling that trail and diving down to the plaques that are embedded on the sea floor that give info. I swam with a huge sea turtle but gave the stingray a bit wider berth after the Steve Irwin disaster (RIP).
Most memorable visit ( two separate times) is Monument Valley , part of the Navajo Nation. Sunrise over the buttes is spectacular with sun rays bursting over the rocks in an explosive display. Also there is Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon, scared to native peoples. The multi colored walls wind through with sunlight hitting them at various angles and patterns of colors. A sacred experience demanding a second visit. Guides are informative and friendly. 😃
I am originally from California and as a child, some of my happiest memories of vacations all occurred at Yosemite. It is still my favorite spot in the world for its natural beauty and splendor. There are so many National Parks in the USA and all of them have their own unique charm and diversity. Until I was an adult ,I never thought of traveling abroad as there was just so much to see here. No I am interest in the historical places of other countries. Europe has such a rich collection of well-preserved, manmade creations, and artistry, that my much younger country can only be awed about. BTW: I believe this reviewer of the parks was intended to attract hikers and climbers.All the parks offer less strenuous forms of enjoyment too.
My wife and I do 2 trips a year to either a National Park, State Park or National Forest. Sometimes we do more than one. Grand Teton was one of our favorites. We stayed in Jackson Hole for 4 days and then drove up to Yellowstone for 5 days.
Live near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in michigan. The 63 national parks are just part of the over 400 sites in the park system and many are amazing.
I took my 8 year old daughter on a 17 mile hike at Glacier and upon arriving at Grinnell Glacier Outlook a guy from the Netherlands stopped us and said soak this moment in because he had traveled all over the world ( preceeded to list many places), and this is the most beautiful place i have ever seen. I got so much gp footage and I find myself longing for another adventure to Montanta to break up the simplicity of the Texas terrain in which I live. I've been to most of these listed and yes we are so lucky!
Most scenic place I have been? Sawtooth primitive area in central Idaho. You can see the northern part of that from Stanley, ID, but to see all of it you need to backpack and camp.
I love to drive through the steep hills and coulees of the Driftless area of southwestern Wisconsin. It has the highest concentration of Class A trout streams on the planet. Stunning bluffs and lakes...
The most idyllic setting I have ever seen is split. One place is the Great Smokey Mountains, specifically Round Mountain. One of the single most magical places I have ever been, and as peaceful and quiet as I have ever known a forest, with lovely brooks and mist hanging in wispy layers in the windless air. The other is the Cascade Mountains, in the Mt Jefferson Wilderness, and I couldn't say where exactly. There was a wide pond at the foot of a short waterfall with a good stream running away, deer, chipmunks, and good moss to camp on everywhere. We laid on the moss all night watching shooting stars.
My top favorites are Big Bend in Texas, Bryce Canyon in Utah, and Grand Canyon - we have been to about half the places on this list so far, and look forward to seeing them all.
There are too many to choose from and it depends on the season. The snow capped peaks of the Rockies in winter, the red rocks of UT in spring and summer, Antelope canyon, Arches.
I drove to The Rockies a few years ago, it was a 25-hour drive there... I stayed 2 days... and drove 25 hours back. You're correct it is right on my doorstep.
FYI (for those who don't know), Yellowstone and especially the Old Faithful area is a Super Volcano. " The Yellowstone Caldera, sometimes referred to as the Yellowstone Super volcano, is a volcanic caldera and super volcano in Yellowstone National Park. - Google"
I've been to the top of Mount Evans, which is kind of in the middle of no where in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. I've also been to the gorgeous Phoenix valley around Superstition Mountain. I've been to the Pacific Ocean coast in both Oregon and quite a few points up and down California. I've been to the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore and many other tourist kind of areas. My home state of Minnesota is the birthplace of the Mississippi River which is a pristine, natural area of old growth trees, separate lakes, etc. I've been to about 40 states so, I've seen quite a few different types of landscape. I always believed travel was an necessary education for my kids - my youngest son went to 38 states by the time he was 10.
Artist point in whatcom county Washington State, sunrise or sunset! Both Mount Shuksan, possibly the most beautiful single mountain on earth and the volcanic peak of Mount Baker can be seen from Artist Point. Artist point is where the outdoor and hunting scenes for the movie The Deer Hunter were filmed.
Retired 2 years ago. Took off from Maine (where Acadia is, done it tons of times) and drove first to Arizona where we did Sedona, Grand Canyon, The Petrified Forest... Up to Utah for Zion Nat'l Park, and Bryce Canyon. Drove back through Colorado over the Divide.. 7,500 miles round trip. Bucket list deal...
1:28 That edge looks pretty solid. If you start to add railings it would quickly become less solid. This isn't always true but in this case it looks much better to have something more solid to hold onto even if it's on the other side.
I love Glacier. It's the prettiest place I've been too. There' also the Great Smokey Mountains in my home state. There's also a casino just as the base of that park.
I'd have to say that Yellowstone, the Grand Teton and the Grand Canyon are my favorite places I've been to. I live in Arizona so I have been to the Grand Canyon a couple times and seen more and more of it each time I go.
It’s hard to say… I’ve been to some amazing places! Crater Lake, Yosemite, Redood NP, Zion, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Acadia, Smokies, Haleakala NP, Hawaii Volcanoes NP!
I live an hour from Yellowstone. Every year people come to visit silo of course we go to Yellowstone and the Tetons. The whole country is gorgeous. We have crossed the country a dozen times. I never get tired of seeing my country.
My husband and I went on a road trip to Tucson and then to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was so beautiful! You would love it because it's so southwestern and absolutely different and beautiful.
I only get 1 week off a year to ride. So at the end of October and the the beginning of November I ride my motorcycle around the Adirondacks and surrounding areas in upstate NY and VT . The fall colors are amazing and have peak color then. And I stay wherever.
My husband an I went Yosemite National park, very beutiful indeed but consider this when going: 1. Wild fires ( can have them anytime of the year therefore, they close the highways). 2. You will need to rent a car and gas is very expensive 3. Lots of driving with no Internet conection. We flew into Fresno and rented a car at the airport, they gave us a brand new Toyota Camry with 100 miles only and sunroof. It is a fun trip.
For me the most beautiful places I have been areb Grand Teton National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike up Long's Peak is absolutely AMAZING!
Most beautiful, Sequoia National park, Savannah Georgia, Okeefenokee Swamp, Pictured rocks in Michigan, Sleeping bear dunes park in MI as well. So many diff. places. I need a 30 list, but just a few that came to mind.
Tunnel View Yosemite. Even though we've seen the iconic picture a thousand times, seeing it in real life is so awe inspiring that it's hard to describe in words. IIt's the kind of beauty that takes your breath away.
Siesta key in Florida! Has the softest sand in the world. It's so soft that it squeeks like snow when you walk on it. The sand is so white that you could go "snow blind" if you dont wear sunglasses.
the US has 63 national parks, 2474 state parks with 6792 state park sub-units (a location preserved on account of its natural beauty, historic interest, or recreational potential). In California alone, there are 9 national parks, 280 state parks and 279 park sub-units. If I visited one every weekend, it would take me almost 11 years to see everything in just my state alone. .
An interesting park note: NY State has the largest park in the lower 48 states, it's Adirondack state park and is spectacular year-round with mountains, lakes, rivers, forests and all sorts of wildlife. Lake Placid which is a town within the Adirondack park has hosted two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980). For a sense of scale, Adirondack Park is roughly the size of Belgium!
Also in NY State is Niagara Falls State Park which is shared with Canada on the Northern side of Niagara Falls. This is one truly spectacular natural wonder. The Canadian side even has tunnels built in that allow you to actually stand beneath the falls and take in the enormity of the thunderous water cascading overhead. It's one of the natural wonders of the planet.
This was just national parks, the amount of STATE parks is truly amazing...
And they are just as incredible in most cases.
Thank you for reminding us to APPRECIATE where we live. I'm in the Pacific Northwest, born and raised, so I know that I take it for granted. I've been to all these places and it is unbelievably breathtakingly beautiful. You can't compare. It's like saying Which is better Apples or Oranges. Or Golden delicious apples or Honey Crisp apples. You CAN'T compare them. I have family that came across the US in covered wagons to settle in Utah, so I have a fondness for Utah. I also have family that came in colonial times so have an appreciation for that when I visit the east coast. Please come and visit the US sometime, but plan to make many trips or have an extended trip because there is so much to see. I love your channel, keep it up.
I live in California. The beauty is stunning and diverse. Snow capped mountains, giant redwoods, gorgeous beaches and coastline, rivers, lakes, deserts…we’ve got it all!
I grew up near Glacier National Park, went to university near Yellowstone, both are fantastic and beautiful in their own way. I've lived in Alaska, New York, and the West Coast since then and have family in Hawaii. It is kind of impossible to rank all of the beautiful places in North America, so it really depends on the kind of experience you want mountains, tropical beaches, arctic fjords, deserts, etc. There is so much diversity in landscapes, climate, culture, and outdoor amenities to choose from in the U.S. I personally love Glacier, Denali, Olympic, Red Woods, Zion, Grand Teton parks.
Columbia Falls? Whitefish?
@ amazing place! I lived inside Glacier for the past 3 summers, I was running all the restaurants on the west side of the park. Best thing I ever did was spend those 3 years there. It’s like a different planet, absolutely stunning and it never gets old.
@jschneider5500 I went to glacier last year. I have a newer mini van that doesn't come with a spare tire. The entire time I was petrified I was going to get a flat tire with no way to call anyone. Not to mention the grizzly bear danger signs that are everywhere 😂
@KumSwallaHarris I lived on a ranch growing up and we would get Grizzly bears coming through our land to eat apples from our orchard and it could be scary because they are so large and intimidating but I am probably more worried about mountain lions than bears. Bears are curious and will be aggressive if protecting cubs but dont really view humans as food (unless desperate). Lions on theother hand definitely view humans as prey and will stalk people. My mother was an ER and flight for life nurse who had to respond to more mountian lion attacks than bear maulings during her career.
I used to live in Alaska, and drove down the AlCan Highway when I moved to Oregon. I packed several full gas tanks on the car because of how few gas stations are located for long stretches and I went hours without seeing any other vehicles so I completely understand that feeling of isolation and worry when out of cell range or being near services. I think because I grew up in Montana, and spent all my free time hiking, rafting, snowboarding, ice fishing, etc. I was a little less cautious than was maybe wise because the animals and weather were such a part of my everyday life.
I'm glad you didn't have a breakdown and I hope you loved your time in the Flathead Valley!
@woodsea434 sounds like you grew up in the mountains. Lucky man. Take care brother
Whenever I truly need to get my head straight, I'll take a long drive down the back roads of this country, and enjoy the splendor that is to be found - in so many various forms.
Simple endless fields amd prairie lands are so calming. Or winding roads through the mountains.
And I don't care where you live, there's beauty to be found.
Road trip!!! I get the front passenger seat!!! 😆
Riding shotgun!!
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve (California) - Home of the Sequoia Redwood trees. Some of the trees were here before the pilgrims landed. Walking through them is amazing. You cannot hear the city noise and looking up through the branches is like looking at an open-air cathedral. You cannot even see the top of the trees they are so tall. Plus 30-minutes car ride away you are on the beautiful northern California coast. You can see nothing but the Pacific Ocean as far as the eyes can see.
My last names walker love seeing someone with the same last name, idk why lol
@@Mainelobsterman207 I know what you mean, you get this little jolt of recognition and excitement.
Bucket list..
I've gone camping in the redwood forest. It's beautiful. But I am in the pacific northwest, WE HAVE THE BEST WEATHER and lots of trees just like the he showed. But the redwood forest is beautiful. Oregon is totally beautiful as well.
I love the northwest.
@@fee4900 I love subfreezing temperatures🤡👍
Alaska has been some of the most beautiful country I've seen in the USA. The snowy mountains and other scenic views are absolutely breathtaking.
Alaska resident here. Yes!
I absolutely love living in Utah because the landscape is so diverse. Definitely a must-see when visiting the West. Also, check out the green and rainy sights of the Pacific Northwest. Multnomah Falls, the Hoh Rainforest, and the Oregon Coast are some of my favorite places on earth.
Ditto. I'd put it up as the prettiest state simply for the variety and the mighty 5 parks.
Same! Born and raised, and I'm in no hurry to move anywhere else for the land alone
As someone that lives in California sure I love the diversity of this state I absolutely love Utah when I visited. I feel like I could just get up and drive and everything is just so beautiful. Really want to go back
Multnomah Falls are on my bucket list. They look amazing.
Been living near Arches national part for the past decade and have gone there a few times a year. There is a lot of great places to see here more than just the 5 national parks because there are 'National Monuments' like Bears Ears or National Bridges and State Parks such as Valley of Goblins that's equally majestic. Really any recreational destination in the Colorado Plateau is a beautiful place to visit.
2021 we took a motorcycle ride.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park,
Serpent Mounds,
Gateway Arch National Park,
One short week in Steamboat springs
with loved ones,
Million dollar highway,
Great Sand Dunes National Park,
Mesa Verde National Park,
Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park,
Colorado National Monument,
Arches National Park,
Canyon Lands National Park,
Capitol Reef National Park,
Great Basin National Park,
Bryce Canyon National Park,
Zion National Park,
North Grand Canyon National Park,
Painted Desert,
Petrified Forest National Park,
Saguaro National Park,
Joshua Tree National Park,
Death Valley National Park,
Sequoia National Park,
Kings Canyon National Park,
Yosemite National Park,
Lassen Volcanic National Park,
Redwood National Park,
Crater Lake National Park,
Olimpic National Park,
Mount Rainier National Park,
North Cascades National Park,
Glacier National Park,
Yellowstone National Park,
Grand Teton National Park,
Rocky Mountain National Park,
Two more days with loved ones,
Wind Cave National Park,
Needles, Mt. Rushmore, Crazyhorse, wildlife loop, 16A Iron Mt,
Badlands National Park,
Devil's Tower,
Theodore Roosevelt National Park,
Voyagers National Park,
60 days on the road, 21 states.
As Forest would say " I think I'll go home now "
That will take 2 more d
There really are some majestic places in every state. The national parks are beautiful but the state parks are pretty great too. Each state has several of them.
I’ve only scratched the surface of our National Parks: Mt. Rainier, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia/King’s Canyon, Acadia, Everglades, Great Smoky Mountains. So many places, so little time. Lots of other great destinations that aren’t National Parks.
I live in a National Historic Park... The Adirondack Park in upstate NY. The reason it isn't designated as a National Park is because there is privately owned land within it, but it's bigger than all of the other National Parks. 6.1 Million acres. In fact, you could actually fit Yellowstone, Glacier, Yosemite and Great Smoky inside of it. IMHO, it's one of America's best kept outdoor/wilderness secrets. The High Peaks Region (Lake Placid area) is absolutely stunning and there's so much to do and see, year round. I never see any content creators do a reaction to it, but I know there are plenty of videos here on RUclips about the Park. I grew up in the South and moved to the Northeast when I got married, but my husband grew up hiking, skiing, Winter camping and just about everything else you can do in the Park. He's a 46er, which is someone who's climed all 46 of the peaks in the park... some of them he's done multiple times. I'm actually pretty happy to be raising our kids here.
For me, the most beautiful place I have seen was Crater Lake, Oregon at sunset. The colors were amazing!
I have been there too. It was March and the temperature were in the mid -70's yet the snow on the side of the roads were taller than my Ford Ranger. Truly beautiful.
Love Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite and Yellowstone. Want to see Acadia in Maine and Glacier in Montana. One park not mentioned that I love is Kings National Forest in CA. It’s the home of the redwoods and sequoias, the largest and tallest trees in the world. Just amazing to see.
One thing to remember. We the people are the curators of this Republic. We don't take kindly to anyone desecrating our national treasures
Great smokey mountains are beautiful.. we go through them from Ohio to Georgia.
I live in humboldt county in northern california and despite being born and raised here, i will never ever get tired of looking at our redwoods. the sense of awe you feel is indescribable.
The Grand Canyon is breathtaking ! Pictures don’t do it justice ! Some people get teary eyed when they first see it !
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where you can't throw a rock without hitting a good hiking spot or neat view, and even by my standards Mt. Rainier really is breathtaking. The air up there almost feels magical, and it's absolutely teeming with life during wildflower season. Mt. Baker is also very cool, and nothing beats getting out on the lake on a calm day and seeing the mountain looming over you while being reflected perfectly on the water. Anywhere along the eastern half of the Columbia River is also worth checking out for the desert gorges, wind surfing, and stars, and there are locally grown fruit stands basically everywhere. The Hoh Rainforest has some of the biggest trees I've ever seen (haven't had a chance to see the Redwoods yet) and Pacific City has some marvelous sandy dunes and cliffside views of the ocean (but bring a jacket).
Other cool places in the U.S. are anywhere really flat in the Great Plains (specifically Kansas), where you can fully take in just how far away the horizon is, Saguaro National Park in Arizona, full of the really big cacti, and the soft beaches of O'ahu (although tourism has really negatively impacted all of Hawai'i and I'd do some research beforehand if you plan to go). You can find basically every biome somewhere in the States, and I love that there are always new crazy and beautiful things to see
Having been to all of the parks mentioned so far, I would say Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Mt Rainier, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Zion
I live in Colorado, so most of the state is stunning. The most beautiful place I've seen is Rocky Mountain National Park. If you ever visit Denver, it'only an hour & a half away.
I've been to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and a number of other hot spots in the US, but I haven't been everywhere. I think my favorite so far was probably the scenic overlook at Crown's Point on the Columbia River gorge in Oregon, which is minutes from Multnomah Falls. Both are awesome.
Here in the Northeast, we're tripping over amazing natural wonders. Anywhere in Vermont, New Hampshire or Maine in Autumn will be stunning with the leaves on fire. Acadia National Park is, indeed, amazing and it's something everyone should visit. Lesser known are Watkins Glen and Letchworth parks (the latter known as the Grand Canyon of the East and for good reason) and many other parks. If you've ever seen The Last of the Mohicans, it takes place where I live in Upstate New York. The landscape really is truly amazing.
As others have said, you can go anywhere in this country and find natural beauty. We know it, we appreciate it, and we encourage others to experience it!
I have been to a bunch of these and the beauty cannot be captured. I would agree that Zion, Acadia, and Grand Canyon are some of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen, but I would also add in Glacier Bay and the entire island of Maui in Hawaii.
To answer your question about who put in the chains and stairs etc.: The National Park Service maintains these parks and each state has their own park service to maintain the state parks. A lot of the work with big trails was done between1933-1942 as part of the government's "New Deal" stimulus plan, where they hired 3 million young men into the "Civilian Conservation Corps" to build the infrastructure of the parks (cut down trees, place stones, level out paths, etc.)
Olympic National Park in Washington State is pretty f---in' amazing.
Hey Adam - when you come to Vegas in April, you can always go to Moab, Zion, or Grand Canyon; each is only a few short hours of a car ride away. Or, you can always visit Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire; both are on the outskirts of Vegas.
I live 25 miles from the main entrance to Paradise less by bird as the road curves , probably 15-20 west of the Mt. Rainier . My view is nothing but tree tops and 3/4 of Mt Rainier. I'm close that I see it through cloudy days when others can't see it.
My favorite hike is from the Hoh River through the rainforest up to Blue Glacier perfect 2 day hike with reserved camp spots.
I've been to Niagara Falls, Smokey Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains, The Grand Tetons, Rocky Mountains, Grand Canyon and The Everglades. I have visited several other states and every state has beautiful places. There are many other places I would love to visit.
I live in WNC and it is absolutely beautiful! The Blue Ridge Mountains, Pisgah National Forest,and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Haven't been to the first 3 you mentioned, been to the last 4. Would love to visit 😊
@@KumSwallaHarris Niagara Falls was stunning, especially from the Canadian side! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is only about 3 hours from Niagara Falls so we spent 2 days there and then went to the falls. It was a fun trip! I hope you can make it someday.
@@jaimetankersley8001 I've never been to NC, but I would love to someday!
The Grand Canyon was almost a religious experience for me. Only God could have created such a natural magnificent place. The Smoky Mountains in the morning is just breathtaking. Also, Mt Rainer is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. Those are just my favorites out of literally thousands of glorious places in the USA. We are truly blessed here with nature in its variety. 🇺🇸
@jonellamoore960, exactly--God in a split second, rather than the Colorado R. over millions and billions of years.
I've been to the grand canyon, man I went to canyonlands national park and "black canyon of the gunnison " and brother those 2 places were just as impressive 😂
I am in my 60's and still have 14 states on my list to visit. The Grand Canyon is the most awe inspiring place I have visited. The most beautiful coastline was the coast of Maine, seen from the top of Mount Cadillac in Acadia National Park. Every state I have been to has scenery that sets it apart from the rest. It is impossible to choose a favorite.
What about Nevada 😅 I've been through it a bit and the entire time I was so bored lol
I've been to 8 out of the 10 plus many more throughout the 50 states. He didn't include Bryce Canyon, which is in the same area as Arches and Zion. Its one of my favorites.
Some of the most beautiful stuff I've seen in the US are the old growth forests of Western Oregon (though most of them have taken a hit with the fires of the past few years). Mountains covered in creeks with trees whose trunks are more than twice as wide as you are tall, and reach so high that, even on the sunniest day, everything is somewhat dim. Not the sort of dim where it's hard to see, but where it's easy on the eyes. Shelf mushrooms the size of a card table, lichen hanging from the branches, trees growing out of the remains of fallen trees, all nestled up to tall rocky cliffs along a coastline, where harsh winds blow, waves crash, and it gets cold enough that you need to put on warm clothes in the middle of Summer.
Another place would be the Diamond Craters of Eastern Oregon. Enormous craters, apparently formed within the past 25,000 years, that are so huge that, when taking pictures of them, they barely appear to have any depth, despite being so deep that even in the most shallow craters, a leisurely walk into and out of one can leave you feeling a bit winded.
Also, the Painted Hills are pretty cool. Not actually painted by people (at least, not the last time I was there), but named for the natural coloration of the hills. Also, it's a fossil site, so that's pretty neat.
I haven't been to the west aside from Arizona and California but didn't have a chance to see those great parks. However, being from the east I have been to the Great Smokey Mountains , Appalachian trail, and the Catskills and Adirondack mountains in NY.
Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee I live about 90 miles from them! I have also been to the Grand Canyon and would love to go to Yellowstone!
I have been to all but six of our states and marvel at the unique beauty of each state. But I do have favorites. Grand Canyon is first on my list. It is spectacular beyond description. Second is the entire state of Utah. It has soaring mountains with fantastic skiing and snowboarding as well as other winter activities. It has a vast desert that is almost surreal and the amazing salt flats. Then there is the vast red rock country with its fantastic rock formations, multiple state and national parks and marvelous canyons. Utah has a piece of every possible environment on this planet except an ocean. Drive its scenic byways and you will discover aspen forests, tropical foliage, a swamp minus alligators and ancient dwellings.
If you're going to do southern Utah, I'd recommend taking about a month. That's if you're covering all the trails. Best to do it during the late fall or early spring to enjoy it without dealing with insane desert heat. Winter in Utah and Arizona can be questionable at times. If you do end up going in the summer: hydrate. Even when you think you aren't thirsty. Hydrate as much as possible. I cannot keep count of how many stories I hear of the most unprepared tourists to the areas become either complete goner or faint due to the heat.
@@AC-ni4gt Absolutely agree. Utah is hot with relentless sun during the summer. My husband's 26 year military career had us move to Utah three times. When he retired we stayed in that state for 16 years before moving to the Black Hills in South Dakota.
Mt Rainier! Highest prominence mountain in the US, beautiful, and absolutely gigantic (like half a day to drive around it.).
Second place probably goes to Crater Lake because it's cool.
I live in the Smokies and they are beautiful. My favorite place that I have visited is Canyon de Chelly in Arizona, (it is not massive or commercial) it is a monument in the Navaho Nation. When we hiked down into the canyon we were passed by native residents that live down in the canyon in traditional hogan and raise sheep, and there are Anasazi ruins too!
I have two. In my state definitely Great Smoky Mountain national Park. In the country, I’m stuck between the Grand Canyon and the wildlife reserve in Monterey Beach California. If you do decide to go to the Grand Canyon. I highly suggest that you stay somewhere in the area within an hour 45 minute drive into the park before the sun rises. It was the first time I ever seen it and that was the first view I got was the sun coming up and slowly reviewing how actually huge it is. One of my top five experiences when it comes to vacations. I also have to say every park we went to in Hawaii was amazing but I think that’s a given.
Also, Adam, I sent you a email about a really great video for SEC football. It is about my Tennessee volunteers, but here’s something interesting that I think will put it in perspective for you with your recent trip to the US. Our stadium seats 101,915 people which is almost the average of how many people are in Disney World every day now imagine all those people are all across the park, in one stadium.
I've been to Alaska and Denali National Park. Mt. Denali is massive, towers over the rest of the range. (1963) I've been to Niagra Falls, both the American and Canadian side. Unfortunately I've not been to any of our big national parks. MT parents went to most of these parks in the 1930's before I came along. My dad would never ho back to places he had already been. I can't complain though because we all went to Europe and did a bus tour of 10 countries in 1960 and drove 11,000 + miles from New Jersey through N.Y. and across Canada and up to Alaska and back home through 11 more states. We just didn't vs top on the way home to take side trips. Both trips were 6 weeks. I was a very lucky young teeager. I never had the money or time to take my daughter on trips like that, but I did take her to see things more !locally to N.J. There is so much American history that was only a day or two away from home.
The Grand Canyon is one of my favorite places so far, as well as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota. Both are amazing to see but honestly listening to loons in the early morning right before sunrise with fog on the waters, it’s so nice.
Northern California, Western Montana, Tennessee, Shenandoah Valley
They never talk about the beautiful Adirondack Park in my home state of New York! It’s 6.1 MILLION acres. Eight times larger than Yosemite! It’s absolutely stunning!
Think it's because it's not technically a National Park. Too much of it is privately owned, so it can't meet the qualifications to get that classification. It's an official National Historic Landmark though!
Personally, I think it should at least get an honorary National Park title-especially since it's the largest park in these contiguous 48 states. But I may be biased since I grew up in the foothills.
@ correct. It is a state park. The 47 peaks are all gorgeous!
We do have a beautiful country. Mount Rainier is incredible. The Redwood forest is unbelievable . I think my favorite if the Gifford Pinch of national park. Home to Mt Saint Helen. Lava Canyon in the park is incredible as well as the trail of 2 forest. Norway pass trail that overlooks spirit lake on into the crater of the volcano will leave you speechless.
Oh believe me, I do appreciate where I live! I live in a town with mountains and lakes, a national park with 140ºF/60ºC water coming out of the hillside right downtown and no entrance fee, a crazy history with gangsters, gamblers, and shootouts in the street! We have horse racing, lots of touristy things to do -- want to feed an alligator? Hot Springs, Arkansas, come on over, Adam! I'll show you around myself.
I live in Hot Springs and have my entire life. I live a couple of streets over from Oaklawn Park and one block off Central Ave.
@@prettybullet7728 That's my old neighborhood! I lived near the track for over 20 years.
Okay Adam. You asked for it, and my favorite places I've ever visited: Anna Maria Islands, FL. And Amicalola Falls State Park. The white sands of Florida, it's truly beautiful! Unless you like the heat, don't go in the middle of the summer! *LOL!* Beginning or the end of the summer is best. As for Amicalola, the description: The park is home to Amicalola Falls, a 729-foot waterfall that is the highest in Georgia. There's a trail that crosses in front of it, and the falling of the water is so incredibly loud you can barely communicate with a friend standing next to you, as you feel the mist of the water on your face. It's such a breath taking place! I never want to leave when I'm standing there by the falls!
7:41 Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California
Sublime.
Honorable mentions: Goblin Valley State Park, Utah and anywhere out in the open desert of New Mexico at sunset.
Thanks to my Dad, I have visited 6 of these 10 national parks many years ago (+ many others not listed in this video, including one in my home state, Kentucky - Mammoth Cave). For me, I love Rocky Mountain National Park and Glacier National Park the best... but I do prefer mountains to beaches and other terrains, so "the most beautiful place" is going to be subjective for each person.
Glacier National Park, I feel, was most impressive and beautiful because of how clear the water is. We went whitewater rafting there, and at one point, it was smooth water, and you could see the trout swimming near the bottom of the river at least 20 ft below (trout fishermen were along other areas of the river, so i guess the trout were hiding out in this calm area of water we came through, before hitting more rapids).
Shenandoah in VA is beautiful. I go there every fall for leaves & bears.
One of the most beautiful places I've ever been to: Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington state. It's like walking into a calendar photo. Incredible hiking and camping locations, beautiful lakes surrounded by mountains - the area is truly gobsmackingly gorgeous.
Also in Washington, my favorite National Park is Olympic. There's so much to do and see there - beautiful beaches, waterfalls, rain forest, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and hot springs.
I try to go every year to big bend national park. I live in south Texas so for us it’s about a 10hr drive 😅 It’s never ending, you feel incredibly small, and we usually stay in alpine and go glamping, so we rent out a dome style airbnb and at night you can see the Milky Way basically 😅and all the stars (depends on the moon cycle) greater big bend is THE largest dark sky reserve recognized internationally, there’s basically zero light pollution and the sky at night during a new moon holy hell it’s incredible. It’s very dry out there though and you’re roughly 4,500 ft above sea level, but the scenery and wildlife is beautiful and there’s a ton of historic ghost towns in the outskirts of big bend and many other beautiful places like Marfa Terlingua Marathon and if you keep going you’ll hit El Paso
Fall creek falls Tennessee I loved it there
I live on the East Coast, so much of my lifetime I have been surrounded by water. This most beautiful National Park (for me) is Jockey's Ridge on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It's a pretty steep climb, but the whole thing is made out of sand. I've seen some of the most incredible sunsets there, because you can see both The Sound that separates the island from the mainland. Also, you can jump off the summit and land in the softest sand I have ever felt. The runner up for me is Okracoke National Seashore. The ocean is warm and clear. I highly recommend both sites. (I'd send you pictures, but I still don't have a clue as to how I could do that.
I live next to Mt. Rainier and the park is very beautiful, especially with all the wild flowers
Watching this from my tent on the side of a mountain in Colorado. If you ever make it out this way, I'd love to show you around the American Southwest. Most beautiful place on Earth. I have a couple shorts of the view from my campsite...
I live about 2.75 hours away from Yosemite and under 2 hours to get to the Calaveras big trees. I do not live in the mountains but they do surround me and they are beautiful.
I have visited all the parks mentioned here. It’s very hard to pick the most beautiful because they are all awesome for different reasons. Probably I’d say the Grand Canyon is one of my favorites. Most of the pictures you see are of the south rim. But I loved hiking the north rim also. It goes down to the Havasupai Indian reservation and looks very different than what you expect in the Grand Canyon. Lots of forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Now you see why 80% of Americans don’t have a passport. Everything you could want is already here! I do appreciate this beautiful and diverse country. I feel very blessed to have been born here. I hope you get to see more of it.
Honeymooned at Glacier and did a helicopter tour. It’s the most amazing thing I have experienced. Going to the sun road is like a dream.
I am blessed to live within 45 minutes of Zion National Park, 2 hours from Bryce Canyon and 2.5 hours of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. 20 minutes from Cedar Breakes National Monument. 😊
I adore your commentary. It's so colorful when you're freaked out about something.
We do have an appreciation for our natural resources. I live right on the Ohio River and am surrounded by woods. We are in the very beginning of the Appalachian mountains and it's just insanely beautiful. I have a national park less than an hours drive from me called the Daniel Boone National Forest.
I've been to a few hotsprings and if ya wanna talk blue waters, lake Tahoe or Crater Lake or amazingly beautifully blue. I have a picture of Crater Lake I took that shows it pretty well but it still doesn't do justice to the real Crater Lake. So Crater Lake would have to be my vote because you have snow into the summer months often times as well as mountains as it's a volcano. The second prettiest would be the US Virgin Islands. Stunningly beautiful. But Yosemite has the most places to discover and the beauty there is stunning. I grew up just 2 ½ hours from Yosemite so it has a special place in my heart because i still remember waking up to a bear ravaged camp when was only 5 or 6 years old. And i also went into labor 3 months early while hiking when pregnant with my son. It still didn't turn me off of spending as many weekends and day trips as possible. Now they've added bear proof storage containers to keep your food but back then they were just able to raid your camp. PS, if you stay in Yosemite, DO NOT leave ANY food in your car unless you want to see the raw power of a bear trashing your car and stealing your food.
I've honestly been to so many national parks I've lost count. I loved the Grand Canyon but it can be scorching hot as is Death Valley. The cool thing about Death Valley is they have the "Painted Mountains" that you can see come alive when the sun is at just the right angle. We even have a national park in the US Virgin Islands and it has an underwater snorkeling trail you can follow around a smaller island just off St. Johns. It was so much fun i got second-degree sunburns from snorkeling that trail and diving down to the plaques that are embedded on the sea floor that give info. I swam with a huge sea turtle but gave the stingray a bit wider berth after the Steve Irwin disaster (RIP).
Yellowstone Park is in the caldera (center) of a supervolcano that is still fairly "active" as evidenced by the hot pools and bubbling mud "pots".
Most memorable visit ( two separate times) is Monument Valley , part of the Navajo Nation. Sunrise over the buttes is spectacular with sun rays bursting over the rocks in an explosive display. Also there is Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon, scared to native peoples. The multi colored walls wind through with sunlight hitting them at various angles and patterns of colors. A sacred experience demanding a second visit. Guides are informative and friendly. 😃
I am originally from California and as a child, some of my happiest memories of vacations all occurred at Yosemite. It is still my favorite spot in the world for its natural beauty and splendor. There are so many National Parks in the USA and all of them have their own unique charm and diversity. Until I was an adult ,I never thought of traveling abroad as there was just so much to see here. No I am interest in the historical places of other countries. Europe has such a rich collection of well-preserved, manmade creations, and artistry, that my much younger country can only be awed about.
BTW: I believe this reviewer of the parks was intended to attract hikers and climbers.All the parks offer less strenuous forms of enjoyment too.
I can never get over the natural beauty in the US. It makes it 1000 times more harder for me to leave. Especially where I live in the desert.
I love Matt and Nats' video of their Angels Landing climb! Great one to check out.
My wife and I do 2 trips a year to either a National Park, State Park or National Forest. Sometimes we do more than one. Grand Teton was one of our favorites. We stayed in Jackson Hole for 4 days and then drove up to Yellowstone for 5 days.
Live near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in michigan. The 63 national parks are just part of the over 400 sites in the park system and many are amazing.
I took my 8 year old daughter on a 17 mile hike at Glacier and upon arriving at Grinnell Glacier Outlook a guy from the Netherlands stopped us and said soak this moment in because he had traveled all over the world ( preceeded to list many places), and this is the most beautiful place i have ever seen. I got so much gp footage and I find myself longing for another adventure to Montanta to break up the simplicity of the Texas terrain in which I live. I've been to most of these listed and yes we are so lucky!
Most scenic place I have been? Sawtooth primitive area in central Idaho. You can see the northern part of that from Stanley, ID, but to see all of it you need to backpack and camp.
I love to drive through the steep hills and coulees of the Driftless area of southwestern Wisconsin. It has the highest concentration of Class A trout streams on the planet. Stunning bluffs and lakes...
The most idyllic setting I have ever seen is split. One place is the Great Smokey Mountains, specifically Round Mountain. One of the single most magical places I have ever been, and as peaceful and quiet as I have ever known a forest, with lovely brooks and mist hanging in wispy layers in the windless air. The other is the Cascade Mountains, in the Mt Jefferson Wilderness, and I couldn't say where exactly. There was a wide pond at the foot of a short waterfall with a good stream running away, deer, chipmunks, and good moss to camp on everywhere. We laid on the moss all night watching shooting stars.
My top favorites are Big Bend in Texas, Bryce Canyon in Utah, and Grand Canyon - we have been to about half the places on this list so far, and look forward to seeing them all.
There are too many to choose from and it depends on the season. The snow capped peaks of the Rockies in winter, the red rocks of UT in spring and summer, Antelope canyon, Arches.
I drove to The Rockies a few years ago, it was a 25-hour drive there...
I stayed 2 days...
and drove 25 hours back.
You're correct it is right on my doorstep.
FYI (for those who don't know), Yellowstone and especially the Old Faithful area is a Super Volcano. " The Yellowstone Caldera, sometimes referred to as the Yellowstone Super volcano, is a volcanic caldera and super volcano in Yellowstone National Park. - Google"
I've been to the top of Mount Evans, which is kind of in the middle of no where in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. I've also been to the gorgeous Phoenix valley around Superstition Mountain. I've been to the Pacific Ocean coast in both Oregon and quite a few points up and down California. I've been to the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore and many other tourist kind of areas. My home state of Minnesota is the birthplace of the Mississippi River which is a pristine, natural area of old growth trees, separate lakes, etc.
I've been to about 40 states so, I've seen quite a few different types of landscape. I always believed travel was an necessary education for my kids - my youngest son went to 38 states by the time he was 10.
I am so thankful everyday that my ancestors were brave enough to make the journey from Ireland to the US. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
Has anyone ever mentioned a season pass to ALL the national parks? Access is available through a government website. The pass is $80.
Artist point in whatcom county Washington State, sunrise or sunset! Both Mount Shuksan, possibly the most beautiful single mountain on earth and the volcanic peak of Mount Baker can be seen from Artist Point. Artist point is where the outdoor and hunting scenes for the movie The Deer Hunter were filmed.
Retired 2 years ago. Took off from Maine (where Acadia is, done it tons of times) and drove first to Arizona where we did Sedona, Grand Canyon, The Petrified Forest... Up to Utah for Zion Nat'l Park, and Bryce Canyon. Drove back through Colorado over the Divide.. 7,500 miles round trip. Bucket list deal...
You may be watching some of my favorites I've seen. Stay on a ranch, The Bar None. I mean 'Hey Dude' the end of Speedway headed toward Spud Rock.
1:28 That edge looks pretty solid. If you start to add railings it would quickly become less solid. This isn't always true but in this case it looks much better to have something more solid to hold onto even if it's on the other side.
Glacier park in Montana is gorgeous, but I do love Yellowstone. Thhere are so many lovely places to go. The great Smokie Mt. is also very pretty park.
I love Glacier. It's the prettiest place I've been too. There' also the Great Smokey Mountains in my home state. There's also a casino just as the base of that park.
Yellowstone lies over a super volcano. The caldera measures 70 x 45 kilometers. When that goes off next, a lot of vacations are going to be cut short.
I'd have to say that Yellowstone, the Grand Teton and the Grand Canyon are my favorite places I've been to. I live in Arizona so I have been to the Grand Canyon a couple times and seen more and more of it each time I go.
It’s hard to say… I’ve been to some amazing places!
Crater Lake, Yosemite, Redood NP, Zion, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Acadia, Smokies, Haleakala NP, Hawaii Volcanoes NP!
You didn't know the Rockies were that massive 😂 There are 48 peaks that are over 14,000 feet in Colorado alone.
I live an hour from Yellowstone. Every year people come to visit silo of course we go to Yellowstone and the Tetons. The whole country is gorgeous. We have crossed the country a dozen times. I never get tired of seeing my country.
My husband and I went on a road trip to Tucson and then to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was so beautiful! You would love it because it's so southwestern and absolutely different and beautiful.
I only get 1 week off a year to ride. So at the end of October and the the beginning of November I ride my motorcycle around the Adirondacks and surrounding areas in upstate NY and VT . The fall colors are amazing and have peak color then. And I stay wherever.
My husband an I went Yosemite National park, very beutiful indeed but consider this when going: 1. Wild fires ( can have them anytime of the year therefore, they close the highways). 2. You will need to rent a car and gas is very expensive 3. Lots of driving with no Internet conection. We flew into Fresno and rented a car at the airport, they gave us a brand new Toyota Camry with 100 miles only and sunroof. It is a fun trip.
I'm in the San Fran Bay Area, and have been to Zion, Arches, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon. Arches was by far my favorite.
The Grand Canyon use to be a ocean. The ocean went from Canada to Texas down the Midwest of North America.
For me the most beautiful places I have been areb Grand Teton National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike up Long's Peak is absolutely AMAZING!
Most beautiful, Sequoia National park, Savannah Georgia, Okeefenokee Swamp, Pictured rocks in Michigan, Sleeping bear dunes park in MI as well. So many diff. places. I need a 30 list, but just a few that came to mind.
Smoky mountains love from Tn.
Tunnel View Yosemite. Even though we've seen the iconic picture a thousand times, seeing it in real life is so awe inspiring that it's hard to describe in words. IIt's the kind of beauty that takes your breath away.
The Great Smokey Mountain National Park! I haven't gotten west yet.
Siesta key in Florida! Has the softest sand in the world. It's so soft that it squeeks like snow when you walk on it. The sand is so white that you could go "snow blind" if you dont wear sunglasses.