National parks in the United States are not only beautiful and awe-inspiring, but they also play a crucial role in conservation and recreation. These protected areas are home to diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and stunning landscapes. They provide a sanctuary for plants and animals, as well as a place for people to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities. In this article, we will take a look at the five largest national parks in the US, each with its own unique features and attractions.
As you’d expect, many of the largest national parks are in Alaska!
5. Death Valley National Park, California
Size: 3.4 million acres
Established: 1994
The largest national park outside of Alaska, Death Valley National Park is over one million acres larger than the next-biggest park in the lower 48 (Yellowstone). Located in California, the park is known for its extreme temperatures and unique desert landscapes. One of the unique features of Death Valley National Park is its Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in North America.
Despite its harsh environment, Death Valley National Park offers a range of activities for visitors. Hiking and backpacking are popular ways to explore the park’s desert landscapes and take in the stunning views. The park also offers opportunities for stargazing, bird watching, and off-roading. With its unique desert landscapes and extreme temperatures, Death Valley National Park provides a one-of-a-kind experience.
4. Katmai National Park, Alaska
Size: 3.6 million acres
Established: 1980
Katmai National Park is located in southern Alaska and covers nearly 3.7 million acres. The park is known for its volcanic landscapes, including the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, which was formed by a volcanic eruption in 1912. One of the unique features of Katmai National Park is its large population of brown bears, which can be seen fishing for salmon in the park’s rivers.
Visitors to Katmai National Park can enjoy a range of activities and recreation opportunities. Fishing is a popular activity in the park, with several rivers and lakes teeming with salmon. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. With its volcanic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Katmai National Park provides a unique and unforgettable experience.
3. Denali National Park, Alaska
Size: 4.7 Million acres
Established: 1917
Denali National Park is located in Alaska and is home to the highest peak in North America, Mount Denali. It’s also the most famous of Alaska’s National Parks, and one of the most accessible due to its relatively close proximity to Juneau.
The park covers over 4.7 million acres and is known for its stunning landscapes, including tundra, glaciers, and mountains. One of the unique features of Denali National Park is its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and moose.
Visitors to Denali National Park can enjoy a range of activities and recreation opportunities. Hiking and backpacking are popular ways to explore the park’s trails and take in the breathtaking views. The park also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, mountaineering, and dog sledding. With its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, Denali National Park offers a truly unique and memorable experience.
2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
Size: 7.5 million acres
Established: 1980
Gates of the Arctic National Park is another vast wilderness located in Alaska. It is the second largest national park in the United States, covering over 7.5 million acres. The park is known for its rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and untouched wilderness. One of its unique features is that it has no roads or trails, making it one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the country.
Despite its remote location, Gates of the Arctic National Park offers a range of activities for adventurous visitors. Backpacking and hiking are popular ways to explore the park’s vast wilderness. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. With its untouched landscapes and lack of human development, Gates of the Arctic National Park provides a true wilderness experience.
1. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
Size: 8.3 million acres
Established: 1980
Located in Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States, covering an area of over 8 million acres. It’s over 43,000 times larger than the smallest national park, Gateway Arch! This vast wilderness is home to towering mountains, glaciers, and rivers. One of the park’s unique features is the Wrangell Mountains, which include nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States. Mount St. Elias, the second highest peak in the country, is also located within the park.
Visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park can enjoy a wide range of activities and recreation opportunities. Hiking and backpacking are popular ways to explore the park’s rugged terrain and take in the breathtaking views. The park also offers opportunities for mountaineering, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With its remote location and vast wilderness, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park provides a true escape into nature.