10 Best U.S. National Parks to Add to Your Bucket List
Get your wanderlust on and see the country by visiting these lesser-known but best U.S. national parks.
Founded in 1916, the National Park Service is one of the greatest American treasures. Currently, 59 national parks cover more than 85 million acres. Many of these parks are recognizable “bucket list” destinations — such as Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and more. However, there are many others you most likely have never heard of that are well worth adding to that list.
Want to discover some of the best U.S. national parks to learn about and see nature’s beauty? Read on.
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1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
Discover starry night skies and natural darkness like you’ve never seen them before. America’s National Parks, like the Sleeping Bear Dunes Park, are among some of the most impressive places to view the stars without as much light pollution.
2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Looking for easy hikes along one of the oldest mountain ranges in the U.S. (Blue Ridge Mountains)? Then consider the Shenandoah park located in central Virginia. It features Skyline Drive, a 105-mile drive through the park along which one can stop to enjoy vistas, camp, hike, and more.
3. Arches National Park, Utah
This visually stunning park features over 2,000 natural stone arches and other land formations that are full of color and texture — it’s a favorite among nature photographers. Enjoy the trails, from easy to difficult, revel in the sunsets, and more in this wonderland of rock.
4. Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
Not all of our natural treasures are above ground. Carlsbad Caverns features more than 119 caves below the Chihuahuan Desert formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone, leaving behind caverns of all sizes.
5. Fossil Butte, Wyoming
Fossil lovers should visit the Fossil Butte National Park in Wyoming. Home to some of the world’s best-preserved fossils, educational programs are abundant with fossils on display.
6. White Sands, New Mexico
The White Sands National Park in New Mexico is one of the best U.S. national parks you need on your bucket list. Considered one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the 275 square miles of sparkly white sands are something to see.
7. Assateague Island, Virginia
The wild horses of Assateague are a must-see. Descendants of domesticated animals, the feral horses of Assateague are a sight, and the park is one of the only places to experience wild horses in the US.
8. Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Many have heard of Cape Cod, but not many may know that there is a national park located on the cape. Experience the lovely coastal beauty of the cape by visiting the more than forty miles of beaches and marshes.
9. Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, Washington/Oregon
One of the best U.S. national parks you need on your bucket list is the Lewis and Clark park. Named after the famous explorers, the park combines history and the beauty of the Pacific rainforests into one glorious space. Explore both history and nature at this coastal park.
10. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, Hawaii
Established in 2000 for the preservation, protection, and interpretation of traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is another site that combines both history and nature. It features a 175-mile trail that highlights historical and cultural sites along with the natural beauty of Hawaii.
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