10 of the US National Parks’ Most Iconic Landmarks. How Many Have You Checked Off?

There are so many national parks in America that it’s almost impossible to see everything. Within some of these national parks are famous landmarks that have become synonymous with their respective parks and are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on you. 

After road-tripping to more than 28 national parks, from jaw-droppingly deep canyons to gushing geysers, these are the 10 most iconic landmarks you need to experience firsthand. So, how many have you visited so far? 

1. Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

There’s no denying that the Grand Canyon is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. This massive canyon stretches for 277 miles and can reach up to 18 miles wide and a mile deep. The dramatic colors and layers of rock result from millions of years of geological activity, making it a natural wonder that took Mother Nature’s handiwork to create. 

Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

• Hike one of the most challenging hikes in America, the Rim to Rim Trail, which crosses the canyon from north to south.
• Take a scenic helicopter tour for a birds-eye view of this natural masterpiece.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset from one of the designated viewing points 
• Stargaze at one of the darkest skies in America.

2. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

If you’ve ever heard of Yellowstone National Park, chances are you’ve also heard of Old Faithful. This powerful geyser erupts regularly every 44 to 125 minutes and is known for its predictable and impressive eruptions, reaching up to 180 feet in height. The eruptions can last anywhere from a few minutes to over five minutes long.

Things to Do at Old Faithful

• Watch an eruption from one of the viewing areas 
• Explore other geysers, hot springs, and mud pots in the Upper Geyser Basin 

3. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California

Half Dome is easily one of the most recognized mountains in the country. This granite dome rises nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and roughly 8,800 feet above sea level. The distinctive shape, resembling a giant dome cut in half, has made it a favorite among hikers and rock climbers.

Half Dome isn’t just famous for its unique shape; it’s also renowned for the exhilarating hike to its summit, which includes a challenging cable route. 

Things to Do at Half Dome

• Hike the Half Dome Trail: This strenuous hike is not for the faint of heart and requires a permit. The 14- to 16-mile round trip involves a challenging ascent, including a final 400-foot climb using cables. The breathtaking panoramic views from the top make every step worth the effort.
• Rock Climbing: For experienced climbers, Half Dome presents a thrilling challenge. The most famous climbing route, the Northwest Face, is considered one of America’s classic big-wall climbs.
• Visit Glacier Point: If hiking the Half Dome isn’t on your agenda, look out from Glacier Point for a great perspective of Half Dome and the surrounding Yosemite Valley.

4. Delicate Arch, Arches National Park, Utah

Delicate Arch is perhaps the most notable natural feature in Arches National Park. At 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, this free-standing arch perched on the edge of a sandstone fin stands against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. The arch’s graceful curves and striking form have made it a symbol of the state of Utah, even appearing on license plates. 

Positioned in a desert setting, Delicate Arch is especially captivating at sunrise and sunset. The hike to the arch leads through slick rock and scrubland.

Things to Do at Delicate Arch

• Hike to Delicate Arch: This 3-mile round-trip hike will take you through stunning red rock formations and culminate in an up-close view of Delicate Arch.
• Visit at Sunrise or Sunset: Visit during sunrise or sunset when the arch’s colors are fiery.

5. Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah

Angels Landing is one of Zion National Park’s most thrilling and popular hikes. This narrow ridge stands at 1,488 feet above the canyon floor. The final half-mile of the hike involves a steep, narrow trail with chains anchored into the rock for safety. The stunning vistas you get from the top of Angels Landing make the arduous trek worth every step.

Things to Do at Angels Landing

• Hike the Angels Landing Trail: Requiring a permit, this 5-mile round-trip hike is not for those afraid of heights. The final section, known as “Walter’s Wiggles” and “The Spine,” involves a challenging ascent with chains for support.
• Ride the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: For those who prefer a more leisurely option, take a scenic drive through Zion Canyon for views of Angels Landing and other impressive monuments.

6. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and one of the most photographed features in Yellowstone National Park. The sheer size of the spring measures 370 feet in diameter.

With a remarkable rainbow-like array of colors, ranging from deep blue in the center to fiery reds and oranges at the edges, this point of interest owes its hues to various species of heat-loving bacteria living in the cooler areas of the spring. 

Things to Do at Grand Prismatic Spring

• View the spring from above: For a bird’s eye view of the Grand Prismatic Spring, take the short hike up from the Fairy Falls trailhead. This is open only in summer. 
• Visit Midway Geyser Basin: Take a walk around the boardwalks of Midway Geyser Basin, where you can see other colorful geysers and hot springs.

7. Crater Lake, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, measuring 1,943 feet at its deepest point. The surrounding cliffs rise up to 2,000 feet above the strikingly pure lake water.

Formed over 7,700 years ago by the collapse of the volcanic Mount Mazama, its shimmering blue waters are fed entirely by rain and snowfall, making it one of the clearest lakes in the world. 

Things to Do at Crater Lake

• Take a boat tour: Take a boat tour around the perimeter of the caldera to get an up-close look at the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
• Hike or bike Rim Drive: Ride along the 33-mile Rim Drive for viewpoints of the lake and trails.
• Visit Wizard Island: Take a boat tour to this small island in the middle of Crater Lake. There, you can hike to the summit of the cinder cone volcano.

8. General Sherman Tree, Sequoia National Park, California

The General Sherman Tree is the largest living tree on Earth by volume. This giant sequoia is immense, standing at a towering 275 feet and boasting a base circumference of 102 feet. Aside from its size, its incredible age is estimated to be around 2,200 years old. This ancient behemoth has witnessed millennia of natural history, making it a symbol of longevity and resilience.

Things to Do at Sequoia

• Take a photo: Snap a picture of this impressive tree.
• Explore Giant Forest: Walk through Giant Forest to see other giant sequoias.

9. Clingmans Dome, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Clingmans Dome is the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, standing at an impressive 6,643 feet. This celebrated feature has unmatched 360-degree views that stretch over 100 miles on clear days, encompassing parts of Tennessee, North Carolina, and even Georgia.

What makes Clingmans Dome really cool is its one-of-a-kind observation tower that gets you an awesome view of the vast mountain ranges and misty canopy below.

Things to Do at Clingman’s Dome

• Walk the observation tower: Take the half-mile trail from the parking area to reach the observation tower for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.

10. Mount Denali, Denali National Park, Alaska

Mount Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, is the tallest and toughest peak to summit in North America, standing at a staggering 20,310 feet. The mountain is steeped in cultural significance to the native Koyukon people. Within the vast expanse of Denali National Park, this massive granite behemoth’s sheer size and isolation make it a symbol of wilderness and adventure. 

Things to Do at Mount Denali

• Hike the Savage River Loop Trail: Take a scenic loop hike for close-up views of Mount Denali.
• Explore the park on a bus tour: Consider taking a guided bus tour to cover more ground and learn about the area.
• Climb to the summit: For experienced climbers, reaching the top of Mount Denali is a dream come true. However, only highly skilled mountaineers with proper training and equipment should attempt this challenging feat. 

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