Must-visit national parks in the USA

From coast to coast, the United States is home to an array of natural wonders. Since 1872, over 60 sites have been recognised and protected as part of the National Park System. Hit the road and take an epic cross-country trip – from the rainbow-ringed hot springs of Yellowstone to the rare wildlife of the Everglades, the USA’s most stunning national parks are worth the trip.

Yellowstone National Park, Montana & Wyoming

No list like this would be complete without mention of Yellowstone, the country’s first and most renowned national park. The area owes its striking mountainous landscape to volcanic activity. Over millennia, the forces underground sculpted beautiful canyons and immense waterfalls, and even burst above ground in the form of powerful geysers – the most famous of which is Old Faithful. The west entrance to Yellowstone has the best access to Old Faithful. We recommend the Evergreen Motel, which blends rustic, alpine charm with all the comforts of home.

Yosemite National Park, California

The dramatic granite mountains and towering sequoia trees throughout Yosemite are some of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. The landscape had such a profound impact that it inspired the nation to protect the land and create the National Park System. To this day, explorers from around the world come to hike Yosemite’s forest trails and climb staggering rock faces. Immerse yourself in nature when you stay at the Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite. These cosy cabins are nestled in the forest and feature a pool, jacuzzi and plenty of great hiking options close by.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Wander the vibrant geological structures of Bryce Canyon National Park for a surreal outdoors experience. The landscape is defined by natural amphitheatres and structures called hoodoos: striking, rocky towers that jut out of the earth and into the sky. The rocks throughout this area are defined by their distinctive colours, a bright blend of reds, oranges and white – reaching their most incredible hues at sunset. The Panguitch House is brimming with charm and serves guests homemade breakfast before a day of long canyon hikes.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon isn’t just a national park, it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Grand Canyon was carved into the landscape over millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River. It offers unparalleled vistas and well-maintained hiking trails for all experience levels. The Holiday Inn Express combines comfort with unbeatable access. It’s a short drive to both the airport and the park gates, and sits right on the bus route if you’d prefer to hop a ride into the park.

Everglades National Park, Florida

Spanning over 1.5 million acres, Everglades National Park is the largest of all 62 National Parks and brings in a million visitors each year. The landscape is an expansive network of wetlands and mangroves that are home to unique and endangered species like native panthers, crocodiles, and manatees. The most fun way to explore the Everglades is on an airboat – a watercraft propelled by a huge fan. For those who want to explore both the Everglades and the Florida Keys, the Fairway Inn is perfectly located at the junction leading to both.

*Destinations featured were selected based on the endorsement score for “nature” located in the US.