NATIONAL TREASURES: STATESIDE PARKS

NATIONAL TREASURES: STATESIDE PARKS

Sure we created a potential bucket list filled with exotic and breathtaking adventures to consider, but finding a good spot doesn’t have to include a passport. If you’re in the market for a fresh place in the states, these national parks are worthy of your consideration.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Set aside any preconceived notions of a national park. Olympic offers whitewater rapids that may require a white knuckle grip on your paddle. Next up you can feel free to do some cliff diving into clear water for another adrenaline rush. If you’re looking for something more tame, rent a paddleboard and splash around while watching for wildlife.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Two million people don’t visit this park per year for no reason. This park is packed with mountains, a sandy beach and shoreline, woodlands and lakes. Campers, hikers and even bicyclists won’t be disappointed in the view. And because this is Maine, you can also expect some good eats and of course some of the best lobster.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

The National Park Service actually gave this park the crown for the quietest park in the contiguous states. And although it may be serene, you can add some speed. This park offers 19,000 acres of dunes just waiting for you to go sand sledding and sandboarding.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Check out the amazing hoodoo landscape of red, orange and white rock in a scenic drive—or take it all in with an easy, moderate, strenuous or even overnight hike. If you get yourself a backcountry camping permit, you’ll easily enjoy the 7,500 visible stars.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Camping and hiking are a given for almost every national park, but Joshua Tree is a world-class popular destination for rock climbing and bouldering. The good news is this park offers climbing for all levels of difficulty, so go prepared to find your personal challenge within the 8,000 climbing routes.

Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Depending on the dare, you can see this park behind the wheel of a car, bike, or on foot. There are certain trails that wind around lava flows, deserts and rain forest. More than half of this park is designated as wilderness that can give you solitude and serious backpacking. As it turns out, national parks have the fun and flare you’re looking for all year round. These six trips are worth your time. Shout out to those who have already had a good time in America’s differing playgrounds. Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

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