Everybody and their aunt already has a Facebook album dedicated to their trip to the Grand Canyon. Not to take away from its splendor; it’s absolutely breathtaking.
However, for today, we would like to switch it up. There are many lesser-known western National Parks that are just as special to the appreciative eye.
Read ahead to learn more about some of the most beautiful national parks in the US.
Six Western National Parks You Need to See
Here are six of the best National Parks in the US that represent the west. They are great options for a visit!
A quintessential west coast national park, this gem of Washington state has it all.
There are not many places in the world, let alone the USA, where you can enjoy mountains, forests, lakes, and the ocean in one place.
You can hike in the magical Hoh Rainforest, the largest temperate rainforest in the country.
If you know Mesa Verde is Spanish for ‘green table’, you are ready for a middle school-level Spanish class.
Jokes aside, Mesa Verde, located in Colorado, is home of the Ancestral Puebloan Cliff Dwellings.
These structures were essentially carved from the cliff well over 500 years ago. The cultural and anthropological importance is immeasurable. Thus, the area has National Park status and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This park offers some of the stranger curiosities for travelers. Located among the desert badlands, the Petrified Forest consists of the remains of ancient trees that underwent a process known as petrification.
This chemical process resulted in the preservation of logs that were living with the dinosaurs.
The resulting ‘stone’ is beautiful but don’t be tempted to steal a piece. This can result in legal penalties and an unbreakable curse.
Pinnacles National Park is one of the most unique US National Parks. Road trip enthusiasts must add it to their itineraries. Located in California, it gets its name from the tall rock formations that characterize its surreal landscape.
This park features many natural rock formations that are the result of multiple volcanoes that overflowed with lava about 23 million years ago. Those lava flows slid around and became the unique structures that populate this park. This park is primarily for hikers and climbing enthusiasts with trails that will satisfy families looking for light hikes as well as adventurers that are looking for more strenuous trails. Check the park website for overnight options- since reservations are required at this time.
This is another California national park you might not have heard of but is more than worth the trip.
It is home to at least one of each of the four types of volcanos found on Earth, making it a science buff’s dream.
You can also enjoy the lakes, bubbling mud pits, and a large trail network.
It’s hard to find a more special place than the Channel Islands. Perhaps, its relative obscurity adds to its uniqueness.
It consists of an archipelago of tiny islands featuring idyllic hidden beaches sheltered by sheer cliffs. It is also home to many types of endemic wildlife and a massive underwater cave.
A Park for Every One
We believe everyone should get out there and find their favorite park! You can support these parks by visiting them, making donations, and promoting awareness.
Most importantly, we encourage you to make plans to go see these amazing natural treasures. Exploring the east? Check out our list of the Best East Coast National Parks.
