These Breathtaking Videos Celebrate the Beauty of the National Parks
Take a journey through America's best idea.
For the last couple of years, the folks at More Than Just Parks have been working on a project with the mission "to share the wonders of our national parks with as many people as we can, thereby ensuring their continued protection and enjoyment for generations to come." We can't think of a better cause nor a better project to share today, on the the Centennial of the National Park Service. Take a break from whatever you're working on to appreciate the beauty of the national parks and help us celebrate 100 years of adventures in our public lands. After you watch, you'll be ready to see it for yourself, so we've included a few of our favorite adventures from each park so you can start planning your trip now.
1. Zion National Park
From the highest peaks of its towering walls to the deep and narrow slot canyons, Zion is home to endless adventures. A diverse collection of plants and animals and an array colors make this one of the most unique landscapes on the planet.
2. Redwood National and State Parks
You won't find trees this tall anywhere else in the world, but there's much more to this park than it's namesake. The vast prairies, winding rivers, and rugged coastline will inspire you to return before too long.
- Hike to Tall Trees Grove, Redwood NP
- Hike through Lady Bird Johnson Grove in Redwood NP
- Backpack Redwood National and State Parks
3. Grand Teton National Park
The peaks of Grand Teton National Park seem to rise straight out of the forested valley with no hint of foothills, making it some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country.
- Explore Jenny Lake
- Photograph the Grand Teton at the Snake River Overlook
- Camping at “The Observatory”
4. Badlands National Park
The combination of rugged landscape, wildlife, and solitude that you'll find when exploring Badlands National Park put this at the top of the list of under-the-radar parks in America.
- Drive through Badlands National Park
- Backcountry Camp off the Fossil Trailhead, Badlands NP
- Hike the Badlands' Notch Trail
5. Joshua Tree National Park
It'd be difficult to find terrain that compares to the out-of-this-world rock formations that make up Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers, rock climbers, and campers flock to this desert adventure heaven to spend a night under it's dark skies.
- Camp next to Joshua Tree’s Arch Rock
- Check out the Cholla Cactus Garden at Sunrise or Sunset
- Camp at Hidden Valley in Joshua Tree
6. Olympic National Park
With over 70 miles of coastline, rugged snow capped mountains, and old-growth temperate rainforests, there is an adventure for every explorer in Olympic National Park.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Smoky is America's most visited national park and for very good reason. It's rolling hills, amazing fall foliage, and historic culture of Southern Appalchia bring visitors from far and wide.
- Hike the Chimney Tops
- Hike to Mount LeConte - Cliff Tops via Rainbow Falls Trail
- Hike the Little River Trail to Backcountry Campsite #30
8. Acadia National Park
Home to the tallest mountain on the Atlantic coast, a rugged and rocky sea shore, and iconic lighthouses, Acadia is one of the best places to bring the family for the weekend and sink into a sunset over the water.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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