The USA is known for its impressive national parks, which offer an immense variety of landscapes, animal species and natural wonders. The largest of these parks impress with their sheer size and the pristine wilderness they preserve. Here are the ten largest national parks in the U.S. that delight nature lovers and adventurers alike.
1. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska – 53,321 km²
The Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the USA and is located in southern Alaska. The park includes spectacular glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes. Visitors can experience hikes, glacier tours and wildlife observations here. With its rugged, untouched wilderness, the park is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.
2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska – 30,448 km²
The Gates of the Arctic National Park is located north of the Arctic Circle and is one of the most remote national parks in the USA. It offers an unspoiled Arctic wilderness with tundra, mountains and rivers. There are no roads or marked hiking trails, so visitors are completely on their own. The park is a dream destination for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.
3. Denali National Park, Alaska – 19,186 km²
Denali National Park is home to Denali, the highest mountain in North America at 6,190 meters. The park impresses with its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose and caribou. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery along the only park road or venture into the wilderness on hikes. Denali is a symbol of Alaska’s untamed nature.
4. Katmai National Park, Alaska – 14,877 km²
Katmai National Park is famous for its brown bears and the impressive Brooks Falls, where visitors can watch the bears salmon fishing. The park is also home to the Valley of the Ten Thousand Smoke Plumes, a unique volcanic landscape. Kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular activities here. Katmai offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural wonders.
5. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada – 13,650 km²
Death Valley National Park is the hottest and driest national park in the United States. The spectacular desert landscape includes sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful rock formations. Visitors can explore highlights such as Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and Zabriskie Point. Despite the extreme conditions, the park is a place full of beauty and unique experiences.
6. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska – 13,044 km²
Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its imposing glaciers and fjord-like coastline. The park is a paradise for kayakers and boaters who want to enjoy the spectacular landscapes from the water. Wildlife sightings, including whales, sea otters, and eagles, are another highlight. The untouched nature makes Glacier Bay an unforgettable experience.
7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho – 8,983 km²
Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the world and is known for its geothermal wonders such as geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The famous Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring attract millions of visitors every year. In addition to the geological attractions, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including bison, wolves, and bears. Yellowstone is a symbol of the protection and preservation of nature.
8. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska – 6,758 km²
Kobuk Valley National Park is known for its huge sand dunes that rise in the middle of the Arctic tundra. The Kobuk River meanders through the park and is a popular spot for canoeing. Visitors can also watch the migration of the caribou that pass through the area every year. The combination of desert and arctic wilderness makes the park unique.
9. Everglades National Park, Florida – 6,105 km²
Everglades National Park protects one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world. The area is known for its mangroves, swamps, and abundant wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and rare bird species. Visitors can explore the Everglades by airboat, kayak or hike. The park is an important habitat and a fascinating destination for nature lovers.
10. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – 4,926 km²
The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. The spectacular gorge was sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years and offers breathtaking views. Visitors can hike along the rim or down into the gorge, take boat tours on the river, or take guided tours. The Grand Canyon is a must-see for any nature lover.
