02
Arches National Park Utah Park Size: 76,679 acres #44 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.51 million #21 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: 2,000+ - documented natural stone arches.
Arches National Park Utah Park Size: 76,679 acres #44 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.51 million #21 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: 2,000+ - documented natural stone arches. Nature / Story Number: 306 ft - approximate span of Landscape Arch. Can You Believe It? The park has the densest concentration of natural stone arches on Earth. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 2,000+ Documented natural stone arches.
03
Badlands National Park South Dakota Park Size: 242,743 acres #28 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.14 million #26 most visited National Park Since: 1978 Wow Number: 37 - 28 million years - age range of its famous Oligocene fossil record.
Badlands National Park South Dakota Park Size: 242,743 acres #28 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.14 million #26 most visited National Park Since: 1978 Wow Number: 37 - 28 million years - age range of its famous Oligocene fossil record. Nature / Story Number: ~1 inch/year - estimated erosion rate of the formations. Can You Believe It? The landscape is changing fast enough that geologists estimate today's badlands could largely erode away in roughly another 500,000 years. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 37 - 28 MILLION YEARS Age range of its famous oligocene fossil record.
04
Big Bend National Park Texas Park Size: 801,162 acres #14 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 568,104 #38 most visited National Park Since: 1944 Wow Number: 450+ - bird species recorded.
Big Bend National Park Texas Park Size: 801,162 acres #14 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 568,104 #38 most visited National Park Since: 1944 Wow Number: 450+ - bird species recorded. Nature / Story Number: 1,295 - plant species. Can You Believe It? A desert park supports more bird species than many entire U.S. states. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 450+ Bird species recorded.
05
Biscayne National Park Florida Park Size: 172,971 acres #35 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 486,567 #41 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~95% - of the park is water.
Biscayne National Park Florida Park Size: 172,971 acres #35 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 486,567 #41 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~95% - of the park is water. Nature / Story Number: 4 - main ecosystem types: mangrove, bay, keys and reef. Can You Believe It? For most visitors, the real park begins after you leave the parking lot and get onto or into the water. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~95% Of the park is water.
06
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Colorado Park Size: 30,780 acres #56 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 250,086 #50 most visited National Park Since: 1999 Wow Number: 2,250 ft - height of the Painted Wall.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Colorado Park Size: 30,780 acres #56 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 250,086 #50 most visited National Park Since: 1999 Wow Number: 2,250 ft - height of the Painted Wall. Nature / Story Number: ~48 miles - length of the Black Canyon carved by the Gunnison River. Can You Believe It? Some sections are so narrow and deep that direct sunlight reaches the bottom only briefly each day. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 2,250 FT Height of the painted wall.
07
Bryce Canyon National Park Utah Park Size: 35,835 acres #52 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.97 million #16 most visited National Park Since: 1928 Wow Number: 200+ - freeze-thaw cycles can occur in a typical year.
Bryce Canyon National Park Utah Park Size: 35,835 acres #52 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.97 million #16 most visited National Park Since: 1928 Wow Number: 200+ - freeze-thaw cycles can occur in a typical year. Nature / Story Number: 8,000 - 9,000 ft - approximate elevation range of the main developed rim area. Can You Believe It? Bryce is not technically a canyon; its amphitheaters are carved into the edge of a high plateau. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 200+ Freeze-thaw cycles can occur in a typical year.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
08
Canyonlands National Park Utah Park Size: 337,598 acres #24 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 796,057 #29 most visited National Park Since: 1964 Wow Number: 4 - distinct districts divided by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Canyonlands National Park Utah Park Size: 337,598 acres #24 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 796,057 #29 most visited National Park Since: 1964 Wow Number: 4 - distinct districts divided by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Nature / Story Number: 337,598 acres - of mesas, canyons, fins and river corridors. Can You Believe It? The districts may look close on a map, but there are no roads directly connecting them inside the park. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 4 Distinct districts divided by the colorado and green rivers.
09
Capitol Reef National Park Utah Park Size: 241,904 acres #29 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.39 million #22 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: ~100 miles - length of the Waterpocket Fold.
Capitol Reef National Park Utah Park Size: 241,904 acres #29 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.39 million #22 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: ~100 miles - length of the Waterpocket Fold. Nature / Story Number: 241,905 acres - protected along Utah's long geologic wrinkle. Can You Believe It? One giant fold in Earth's crust gives the entire park its backbone. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~100 MILES Length of the waterpocket fold.
10
Carlsbad Caverns National Park New Mexico Park Size: 46,766 acres #51 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 410,778 #46 most visited National Park Since: 1930 Wow Number: 119+ - known caves in the park.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park New Mexico Park Size: 46,766 acres #51 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 410,778 #46 most visited National Park Since: 1930 Wow Number: 119+ - known caves in the park. Nature / Story Number: 8.2 acres - approximate floor area of the Big Room. Can You Believe It? The famous show cave is only one part of a much larger underground landscape. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 119+ Known caves in the park.
11
Channel Islands National Park California Park Size: 249,561 acres #27 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 227,186 #51 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 5 - islands protected by the national park.
Channel Islands National Park California Park Size: 249,561 acres #27 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 227,186 #51 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 5 - islands protected by the national park. Nature / Story Number: 145+ - species found nowhere else in the world. Can You Believe It? Isolation turned these islands into a small evolutionary laboratory off the California coast. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 5 Islands protected by the national park.
12
Congaree National Park South Carolina Park Size: 26,693 acres #57 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 287,833 #49 most visited National Park Since: 2003 Wow Number: 75+ - tree species in the floodplain forest.
Congaree National Park South Carolina Park Size: 26,693 acres #57 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 287,833 #49 most visited National Park Since: 2003 Wow Number: 75+ - tree species in the floodplain forest. Nature / Story Number: 26,693 acres - protected in one of the Southeast's great old-growth forests. Can You Believe It? Some of the tallest known examples of their species grow here because floods bring water and nutrients instead of simply destroying the forest. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 75+ Tree species in the floodplain forest.
13
Crater Lake National Park Oregon Park Size: 183,224 acres #34 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 632,242 #36 most visited National Park Since: 1902 Wow Number: 1,943 ft - maximum depth, deepest lake in the United States.
Crater Lake National Park Oregon Park Size: 183,224 acres #34 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 632,242 #36 most visited National Park Since: 1902 Wow Number: 1,943 ft - maximum depth, deepest lake in the United States. Nature / Story Number: ~7,700 years - since Mount Mazama's collapse formed the caldera. Can You Believe It? No major rivers flow into or out of the lake; rain and snow are its main water sources. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 1,943 FT Maximum depth, deepest lake in the united states.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
14
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Ohio Park Size: 32,607 acres #55 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.03 million #11 most visited National Park Since: 2000 Wow Number: 125+ miles - of hiking trails.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Ohio Park Size: 32,607 acres #55 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.03 million #11 most visited National Park Since: 2000 Wow Number: 125+ miles - of hiking trails. Nature / Story Number: 19.5 miles - Towpath Trail inside the park. Can You Believe It? One of America's most urban national parks sits between Cleveland and Akron. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 125+ MILES Of hiking trails.
15
Death Valley National Park California Nevada Park Size: 3.41 million acres #6 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.32 million #24 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: -282 ft - Badwater Basin elevation, lowest point in North America.
Death Valley National Park California Nevada Park Size: 3.41 million acres #6 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.32 million #24 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: -282 ft - Badwater Basin elevation, lowest point in North America. Nature / Story Number: 134 degrees F - world-record air temperature measured at Furnace Creek in
1913
Can You Believe It?
Can You Believe It? Within the same park, Telescope Peak rises more than 11,000 feet above Badwater Basin. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER -282 FT Badwater basin elevation, lowest point in north america.
16
Denali National Park Alaska Park Size: 6.08 million acres #3 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 543,300 #39 most visited National Park Since: 1917 Wow Number: 20,310 ft - height of Denali, North America's highest peak.
Denali National Park Alaska Park Size: 6.08 million acres #3 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 543,300 #39 most visited National Park Since: 1917 Wow Number: 20,310 ft - height of Denali, North America's highest peak. Nature / Story Number: 6.08 million acres - park and preserve landscape. Can You Believe It? A single mountain rises about 18,000 feet from its base, giving Denali extraordinary vertical relief. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 20,310 FT Height of denali, north america's highest peak.
17
Dry Tortugas National Park Florida Park Size: 64,701 acres #48 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 89,355 #56 most visited National Park Since: 1992 Wow Number: ~99% - of the park is water.
Dry Tortugas National Park Florida Park Size: 64,701 acres #48 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 89,355 #56 most visited National Park Since: 1992 Wow Number: ~99% - of the park is water. Nature / Story Number: ~16 million - bricks used to build Fort Jefferson. Can You Believe It? The national park is about 70 miles west of Key West and has no road connection. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~99% Of the park is water.
18
Everglades National Park Florida Park Size: 1.51 million acres #10 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 778,198 #31 most visited National Park Since: 1947 Wow Number: ~6 ft - approximate average elevation.
Everglades National Park Florida Park Size: 1.51 million acres #10 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 778,198 #31 most visited National Park Since: 1947 Wow Number: ~6 ft - approximate average elevation. Nature / Story Number: 1.51 million acres - of wetlands, mangroves, pinelands and coastal ecosystems. Can You Believe It? One of America's largest national parks is almost completely flat. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~6 FT Approximate average elevation.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
19
Gates of the Arctic National Park Alaska Park Size: 8.47 million acres #2 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 14,923 #62 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 0 - roads inside the park.
Gates of the Arctic National Park Alaska Park Size: 8.47 million acres #2 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 14,923 #62 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 0 - roads inside the park. Nature / Story Number: 0 - maintained trails. Can You Believe It? At more than 8.4 million acres, visitors navigate one of America's largest roadless wilderness landscapes largely on their own. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 0 Roads inside the park.
20
Gateway Arch National Park Missouri Illinois Park Size: 193 acres #63 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.21 million #15 most visited National Park Since: 2018 Wow Number: 630 ft - height of the Gateway Arch.
Gateway Arch National Park Missouri Illinois Park Size: 193 acres #63 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.21 million #15 most visited National Park Since: 2018 Wow Number: 630 ft - height of the Gateway Arch. Nature / Story Number: 630 ft - width from leg to leg. Can You Believe It? Its height and width are exactly the same, giving the monument its elegant geometry. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 630 FT Height of the gateway arch.
21
Glacier Bay National Park Alaska Park Size: 3.28 million acres #7 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 740,044 #32 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 1,000+ - glaciers in the greater park landscape.
Glacier Bay National Park Alaska Park Size: 3.28 million acres #7 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 740,044 #32 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 1,000+ - glaciers in the greater park landscape. Nature / Story Number: 3.28 million acres - of mountains, ice, rainforest and marine waters. Can You Believe It? Where a massive glacier filled the bay a few centuries ago, visitors now travel through a long marine fjord. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 1,000+ Glaciers in the greater park landscape.
22
Glacier National Park Montana Park Size: 1.01 million acres #12 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.14 million #10 most visited National Park Since: 1910 Wow Number: 700+ miles - of hiking trails.
Glacier National Park Montana Park Size: 1.01 million acres #12 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.14 million #10 most visited National Park Since: 1910 Wow Number: 700+ miles - of hiking trails. Nature / Story Number: 1.01 million acres - of Rocky Mountain terrain. Can You Believe It? The Continental Divide cuts through a park famous for alpine lakes, wildlife and glacier-carved valleys. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 700+ MILES Of hiking trails.
23
Grand Canyon National Park Arizona Park Size: 1.20 million acres #11 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.43 million #4 most visited National Park Since: 1919 Wow Number: 277 miles - length of the Colorado River through the canyon.
Grand Canyon National Park Arizona Park Size: 1.20 million acres #11 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.43 million #4 most visited National Park Since: 1919 Wow Number: 277 miles - length of the Colorado River through the canyon. Nature / Story Number: up to 18 miles - maximum canyon width. Can You Believe It? A viewpoint can be only a few miles from the opposite rim as the crow flies but hundreds of road miles away. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 277 MILES Length of the colorado river through the canyon.
24
Grand Teton National Park Wyoming Park Size: 310,044 acres #25 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.80 million #8 most visited National Park Since: 1929 Wow Number: 13,775 ft - elevation of Grand Teton.
Grand Teton National Park Wyoming Park Size: 310,044 acres #25 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.80 million #8 most visited National Park Since: 1929 Wow Number: 13,775 ft - elevation of Grand Teton. Nature / Story Number: ~7,000 ft - rise of the Teton Range above Jackson Hole. Can You Believe It? The range has almost no foothills, which is why the mountains appear to leap directly from the valley. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 13,775 FT Elevation of grand teton.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
25
Great Basin National Park Nevada Park Size: 77,180 acres #43 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 161,210 #54 most visited National Park Since: 1986 Wow Number: 4,000+ years - age reached by some Great Basin bristlecone pines.
Great Basin National Park Nevada Park Size: 77,180 acres #43 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 161,210 #54 most visited National Park Since: 1986 Wow Number: 4,000+ years - age reached by some Great Basin bristlecone pines. Nature / Story Number: 13,063 ft - elevation of Wheeler Peak. Can You Believe It? Some living trees here were already ancient before many famous civilizations reached their peak. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 4,000+ YEARS Age reached by some great basin bristlecone pines.
26
Great Sand Dunes National Park Colorado Park Size: 149,023 acres #36 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 432,498 #44 most visited National Park Since: 2004 Wow Number: 741 ft - height of Star Dune from base to summit.
Great Sand Dunes National Park Colorado Park Size: 149,023 acres #36 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 432,498 #44 most visited National Park Since: 2004 Wow Number: 741 ft - height of Star Dune from base to summit. Nature / Story Number: 30 sq miles - approximate area of the main dunefield. Can You Believe It? North America's tallest dunes sit directly beneath high Rocky Mountain peaks. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 741 FT Height of star dune from base to summit.
27
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee North Carolina Park Size: 522,427 acres #19 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 11.53 million #1 most visited National Park Since: 1934 Wow Number: 19,000+ - species documented in the park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee North Carolina Park Size: 522,427 acres #19 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 11.53 million #1 most visited National Park Since: 1934 Wow Number: 19,000+ - species documented in the park. Nature / Story Number: 30 - salamander species. Can You Believe It? Scientists believe many thousands of additional species may still be undocumented in this biodiversity hotspot. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 19,000+ Species documented in the park.
28
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Texas Park Size: 86,367 acres #42 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 206,423 #52 most visited National Park Since: 1972 Wow Number: 8,751 ft - elevation of Guadalupe Peak, highest point in Texas.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Texas Park Size: 86,367 acres #42 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 206,423 #52 most visited National Park Since: 1972 Wow Number: 8,751 ft - elevation of Guadalupe Peak, highest point in Texas. Nature / Story Number: ~260 million years - age of the ancient fossil reef forming much of the range. Can You Believe It? Texas's highest summit is built from the remains of a Permian-age marine reef. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 8,751 FT Elevation of guadalupe peak, highest point in texas.
29
Haleakalā National Park Hawaii Park Size: 33,489 acres #54 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 853,711 #27 most visited National Park Since: 1961 Wow Number: 10,023 ft - summit elevation.
Haleakalā National Park Hawaii Park Size: 33,489 acres #54 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 853,711 #27 most visited National Park Since: 1961 Wow Number: 10,023 ft - summit elevation. Nature / Story Number: ~30,000 ft - approximate rise of the volcano from the ocean floor to summit. Can You Believe It? Most of this enormous shield volcano is hidden beneath the Pacific Ocean. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 10,023 FT Summit elevation.
30
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Park Size: 344,812 acres #23 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.88 million #18 most visited National Park Since: 1916 Wow Number: 13,680+ ft - elevation span from sea level to Mauna Loa's summit area.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Park Size: 344,812 acres #23 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.88 million #18 most visited National Park Since: 1916 Wow Number: 13,680+ ft - elevation span from sea level to Mauna Loa's summit area. Nature / Story Number: 2 - iconic active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Can You Believe It? The park protects landscapes from tropical coast to high volcanic desert. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 13,680+ FT Elevation span from sea level to mauna loa's summit area.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
31
Hot Springs National Park Arkansas Park Size: 5,554 acres #62 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.49 million #14 most visited National Park Since: 1921 Wow Number: 47 - thermal springs traditionally identified on Hot Springs Mountain.
Hot Springs National Park Arkansas Park Size: 5,554 acres #62 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.49 million #14 most visited National Park Since: 1921 Wow Number: 47 - thermal springs traditionally identified on Hot Springs Mountain. Nature / Story Number: ~143 degrees F - average temperature of the emerging thermal water. Can You Believe It? The area was federally protected in 1832, decades before Yellowstone became the first national park. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 47 Thermal springs traditionally identified on hot springs mountain.
32
Indiana Dunes National Park Indiana Park Size: 16,268 acres #59 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.63 million #13 most visited National Park Since: 2019 Wow Number: 15 miles - of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Indiana Dunes National Park Indiana Park Size: 16,268 acres #59 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.63 million #13 most visited National Park Since: 2019 Wow Number: 15 miles - of Lake Michigan shoreline. Nature / Story Number: 1,100+ - native plant species recorded in the park. Can You Believe It? A relatively small park ranks among the most botanically diverse units in the National Park System. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 15 MILES Of lake michigan shoreline.
33
Isle Royale National Park Michigan Park Size: 571,790 acres #18 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 29,091 #60 most visited National Park Since: 1940 Wow Number: ~450 - islands in the Isle Royale archipelago.
Isle Royale National Park Michigan Park Size: 571,790 acres #18 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 29,091 #60 most visited National Park Since: 1940 Wow Number: ~450 - islands in the Isle Royale archipelago. Nature / Story Number: 45 miles - approximate length of the main island. Can You Believe It? One of the least-visited national parks requires a ferry, seaplane or private boat just to reach it. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~450 Islands in the isle royale archipelago.
34
Joshua Tree National Park California Park Size: 795,156 acres #15 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.93 million #12 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: 2 - desert ecosystems meet here: Mojave and Colorado.
Joshua Tree National Park California Park Size: 795,156 acres #15 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 2.93 million #12 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: 2 - desert ecosystems meet here: Mojave and Colorado. Nature / Story Number: 40+ ft - height mature Joshua trees can reach. Can You Believe It? The park's namesake tree thrives mainly in the higher, cooler Mojave portion of the park. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 2 Desert ecosystems meet here: mojave and colorado.
35
Katmai National Park Alaska Park Size: 4.09 million acres #4 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 34,479 #59 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~2,200 - brown bears estimated in the park and surrounding ecosystem.
Katmai National Park Alaska Park Size: 4.09 million acres #4 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 34,479 #59 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~2,200 - brown bears estimated in the park and surrounding ecosystem. Nature / Story Number: 40 sq miles - approximate size of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes ash-flow landscape. Can You Believe It? One of the world's great bear-viewing destinations was originally protected because of a colossal volcanic eruption. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~2,200 Brown bears estimated in the park and surrounding ecosystem.
36
Kenai Fjords National Park Alaska Park Size: 669,650 acres #17 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 425,369 #45 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~700 sq mi - size of the Harding Icefield.
Kenai Fjords National Park Alaska Park Size: 669,650 acres #17 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 425,369 #45 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: ~700 sq mi - size of the Harding Icefield. Nature / Story Number: nearly 40 - glaciers flowing from the icefield. Can You Believe It? A single icefield feeds a maze of glaciers that descend toward both land and sea. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~700 SQ MI Size of the harding icefield.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
37
Kings Canyon National Park California Park Size: 461,901 acres #21 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 779,791 #30 most visited National Park Since: 1940 Wow Number: 267 ft - height of the General Grant Tree.
Kings Canyon National Park California Park Size: 461,901 acres #21 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 779,791 #30 most visited National Park Since: 1940 Wow Number: 267 ft - height of the General Grant Tree. Nature / Story Number: 461,901 acres - of giant sequoia groves and deep Sierra wilderness. Can You Believe It? The park combines some of the world's biggest trees with one of the deepest canyon landscapes in North America. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 267 FT Height of the general grant tree.
38
Kobuk Valley National Park Alaska Park Size: 1.75 million acres #9 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 7,786 #63 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 25 sq mi - approximate area of the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes.
Kobuk Valley National Park Alaska Park Size: 1.75 million acres #9 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 7,786 #63 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 25 sq mi - approximate area of the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. Nature / Story Number: 1.75 million acres - of roadless Arctic wilderness. Can You Believe It? Huge sand dunes sit above the Arctic Circle, a combination that feels geographically impossible. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 25 SQ MI Approximate area of the great kobuk sand dunes.
39
Lake Clark National Park Alaska Park Size: 4.03 million acres #5 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 19,778 #61 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 42 miles - approximate length of Lake Clark.
Lake Clark National Park Alaska Park Size: 4.03 million acres #5 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 19,778 #61 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 42 miles - approximate length of Lake Clark. Nature / Story Number: 2 - active volcanoes dominating the Cook Inlet side: Redoubt and Iliamna. Can You Believe It? The park brings together volcanoes, turquoise lakes, salmon rivers and coastal brown-bear habitat. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 42 MILES Approximate length of lake clark.
40
Lassen Volcanic National Park California Park Size: 106,589 acres #40 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 504,777 #40 most visited National Park Since: 1916 Wow Number: 4 - major volcano types found in or around the park landscape.
Lassen Volcanic National Park California Park Size: 106,589 acres #40 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 504,777 #40 most visited National Park Since: 1916 Wow Number: 4 - major volcano types found in or around the park landscape. Nature / Story Number: 10,457 ft - elevation of Lassen Peak. Can You Believe It? Few places let visitors compare plug dome, shield, composite and cinder-cone volcanoes in one compact region. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 4 Major volcano types found in or around the park landscape.
41
Mammoth Cave National Park Kentucky Park Size: 72,042 acres #46 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 660,734 #34 most visited National Park Since: 1941 Wow Number: 426+ miles - surveyed cave passages and growing.
Mammoth Cave National Park Kentucky Park Size: 72,042 acres #46 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 660,734 #34 most visited National Park Since: 1941 Wow Number: 426+ miles - surveyed cave passages and growing. Nature / Story Number: 72,042 acres - of surface and underground landscape. Can You Believe It? The world's longest known cave system is still being mapped. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 426+ MILES Surveyed cave passages and growing.
42
Mesa Verde National Park Colorado Park Size: 52,485 acres #49 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 463,130 #43 most visited National Park Since: 1906 Wow Number: ~5,000 - known archaeological sites.
Mesa Verde National Park Colorado Park Size: 52,485 acres #49 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 463,130 #43 most visited National Park Since: 1906 Wow Number: ~5,000 - known archaeological sites. Nature / Story Number: ~600 - cliff dwellings. Can You Believe It? The park protects a cultural landscape shaped by generations of Ancestral Pueblo people, not merely a collection of spectacular buildings. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~5,000 Known archaeological sites.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
43
Mount Rainier National Park Washington Park Size: 236,382 acres #30 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.64 million #20 most visited National Park Since: 1899 Wow Number: 14,410 ft - summit elevation.
Mount Rainier National Park Washington Park Size: 236,382 acres #30 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.64 million #20 most visited National Park Since: 1899 Wow Number: 14,410 ft - summit elevation. Nature / Story Number: 25 - major named glaciers. Can You Believe It? The mountain holds more glacial ice than any other peak in the contiguous United States. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 14,410 FT Summit elevation.
44
National Park of American Samoa National Park American Samoa Park Size: 8,257 acres #61 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 43,258 #58 most visited National Park Since: 1988 Wow Number: 3 - main islands with park lands: Tutuila, Ofu and Taʻū.
National Park of American Samoa National Park American Samoa Park Size: 8,257 acres #61 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 43,258 #58 most visited National Park Since: 1988 Wow Number: 3 - main islands with park lands: Tutuila, Ofu and Taʻū. Nature / Story Number: 8,257 acres - official NPS park acreage. Can You Believe It? This is the only U.S. national park south of the equator. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 3 Main islands with park lands: tutuila, ofu and taʻū.
45
New River Gorge National Park West Virginia Park Size: 72,405 acres #45 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.96 million #17 most visited National Park Since: 2020 Wow Number: 876 ft - height of the New River Gorge Bridge above the river.
New River Gorge National Park West Virginia Park Size: 72,405 acres #45 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.96 million #17 most visited National Park Since: 2020 Wow Number: 876 ft - height of the New River Gorge Bridge above the river. Nature / Story Number: 3,030 ft - bridge length. Can You Believe It? One of America's newest national parks wraps around one of its most recognizable engineering landmarks. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 876 FT Height of the new river gorge bridge above the river.
46
North Cascades National Park Washington Park Size: 504,781 acres #20 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 46,925 #57 most visited National Park Since: 1968 Wow Number: 300+ - glaciers in the park complex.
North Cascades National Park Washington Park Size: 504,781 acres #20 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 46,925 #57 most visited National Park Since: 1968 Wow Number: 300+ - glaciers in the park complex. Nature / Story Number: 504,781 acres - of rugged Cascade wilderness. Can You Believe It? The region has the greatest concentration of glaciers in the contiguous United States outside Alaska. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 300+ Glaciers in the park complex.
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Olympic National Park Washington Park Size: 923,046 acres #13 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.58 million #9 most visited National Park Since: 1938 Wow Number: 73 miles - of protected wilderness Pacific coastline.
Olympic National Park Washington Park Size: 923,046 acres #13 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 3.58 million #9 most visited National Park Since: 1938 Wow Number: 73 miles - of protected wilderness Pacific coastline. Nature / Story Number: ~95% - of the park designated wilderness. Can You Believe It? One national park contains glacier-capped mountains, temperate rainforest and wild ocean coast. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 73 MILES Of protected wilderness pacific coastline.
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Petrified Forest National Park Arizona Park Size: 221,390 acres #31 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 315,951 #48 most visited National Park Since: 1962 Wow Number: ~225 million years - age of much of the petrified wood.
Petrified Forest National Park Arizona Park Size: 221,390 acres #31 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 315,951 #48 most visited National Park Since: 1962 Wow Number: ~225 million years - age of much of the petrified wood. Nature / Story Number: 221,390 acres - of fossils, badlands and desert. Can You Believe It? Trees that once grew near ancient river systems are now stone scattered across an Arizona desert. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~225 MILLION YEARS Age of much of the petrified wood.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
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Pinnacles National Park California Park Size: 26,686 acres #58 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 343,208 #47 most visited National Park Since: 2013 Wow Number: ~23 million years - age of the volcanic rocks.
Pinnacles National Park California Park Size: 26,686 acres #58 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 343,208 #47 most visited National Park Since: 2013 Wow Number: ~23 million years - age of the volcanic rocks. Nature / Story Number: ~195 miles - distance parts of the old volcanic field have moved along the San Andreas Fault system. Can You Believe It? The rocks began forming far to the south and rode tectonic motion to their present location. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~23 MILLION YEARS Age of the volcanic rocks.
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Redwood National Park California Park Size: 139,091 acres #39 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.20 million #25 most visited National Park Since: 1968 Wow Number: nearly 380 ft - height of the tallest known coast redwoods.
Redwood National Park California Park Size: 139,091 acres #39 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.20 million #25 most visited National Park Since: 1968 Wow Number: nearly 380 ft - height of the tallest known coast redwoods. Nature / Story Number: 139,091 acres - in the federal national park boundary. Can You Believe It? The tallest living trees on Earth can rise higher than a 30-story building. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER NEARLY 380 FT Height of the tallest known coast redwoods.
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Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado Park Size: 265,918 acres #26 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.17 million #6 most visited National Park Since: 1915 Wow Number: 12,183 ft - highest point on Trail Ridge Road.
Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado Park Size: 265,918 acres #26 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.17 million #6 most visited National Park Since: 1915 Wow Number: 12,183 ft - highest point on Trail Ridge Road. Nature / Story Number: 60+ - mountain peaks above 12,000 feet. Can You Believe It? A paved road carries ordinary passenger cars into true alpine tundra. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 12,183 FT Highest point on trail ridge road.
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Saguaro National Park Arizona Park Size: 92,800 acres #41 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 847,749 #28 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: 40+ ft - height large saguaros can reach.
Saguaro National Park Arizona Park Size: 92,800 acres #41 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 847,749 #28 most visited National Park Since: 1994 Wow Number: 40+ ft - height large saguaros can reach. Nature / Story Number: 150+ years - lifespan of many mature saguaros. Can You Believe It? A cactus may spend decades growing before producing its first arm. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 40+ FT Height large saguaros can reach.
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Sequoia National Park California Park Size: 404,063 acres #22 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.38 million #23 most visited National Park Since: 1890 Wow Number: ~52,500 cu ft - trunk volume of the General Sherman Tree.
Sequoia National Park California Park Size: 404,063 acres #22 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.38 million #23 most visited National Park Since: 1890 Wow Number: ~52,500 cu ft - trunk volume of the General Sherman Tree. Nature / Story Number: 275 ft - height of General Sherman. Can You Believe It? The world's largest known living single-stem tree by volume is not the tallest or the widest; its extraordinary size comes from combining both. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~52,500 CU FT Trunk volume of the general sherman tree.
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Shenandoah National Park Virginia Park Size: 200,454 acres #33 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.68 million #19 most visited National Park Since: 1935 Wow Number: 105 miles - length of Skyline Drive.
Shenandoah National Park Virginia Park Size: 200,454 acres #33 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 1.68 million #19 most visited National Park Since: 1935 Wow Number: 105 miles - length of Skyline Drive. Nature / Story Number: 500+ miles - of hiking trails. Can You Believe It? A long ridge-top road gives access to hundreds of miles of Blue Ridge hiking within easy reach of major East Coast cities. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 105 MILES Length of skyline drive.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Dakota Park Size: 70,447 acres #47 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 729,893 #33 most visited National Park Since: 1978 Wow Number: 3 - main park units.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Dakota Park Size: 70,447 acres #47 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 729,893 #33 most visited National Park Since: 1978 Wow Number: 3 - main park units. Nature / Story Number: 70,447 acres - of North Dakota badlands and prairie. Can You Believe It? The park is split into separate landscapes rather than one continuous block of land. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 3 Main park units.
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Virgin Islands National Park U.S.
Virgin Islands National Park U.S. Virgin Islands Park Size: 15,041 acres #60 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 471,074 #42 most visited National Park Since: 1956 Wow Number: ~60% - of St. John protected by the national park. Nature / Story Number: 15,041 acres - of park land and water. Can You Believe It? A tropical beach vacation and a national park experience occupy the same small Caribbean island. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~60% Of st. john protected by the national park.
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Voyageurs National Park Minnesota Park Size: 218,223 acres #32 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 206,326 #53 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: ~40% - of the park is water.
Voyageurs National Park Minnesota Park Size: 218,223 acres #32 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 206,326 #53 most visited National Park Since: 1971 Wow Number: ~40% - of the park is water. Nature / Story Number: 500+ - islands across its interconnected lakes. Can You Believe It? In Voyageurs, boats play the role that cars do in most national parks. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~40% Of the park is water.
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White Sands National Park New Mexico Park Size: 146,344 acres #38 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 659,742 #35 most visited National Park Since: 2019 Wow Number: 275 sq mi - size of the world's largest gypsum dunefield.
White Sands National Park New Mexico Park Size: 146,344 acres #38 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 659,742 #35 most visited National Park Since: 2019 Wow Number: 275 sq mi - size of the world's largest gypsum dunefield. Nature / Story Number: 146,344 acres - inside the national park boundary. Can You Believe It? The brilliant dunes are gypsum, not ordinary quartz sand, so they stay surprisingly cool compared with many desert sands. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 275 SQ MI Size of the world's largest gypsum dunefield.
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Wind Cave National Park South Dakota Park Size: 33,971 acres #53 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 606,258 #37 most visited National Park Since: 1903 Wow Number: ~95% - of the world's known boxwork formations are found here.
Wind Cave National Park South Dakota Park Size: 33,971 acres #53 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 606,258 #37 most visited National Park Since: 1903 Wow Number: ~95% - of the world's known boxwork formations are found here. Nature / Story Number: 33,971 acres - of cave and mixed-grass prairie landscape. Can You Believe It? A park famous underground also protects bison, prairie dogs and one of America's remaining mixed-grass prairies. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~95% Of the world's known boxwork formations are found here.
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Wrangell - St.
Wrangell - St. Elias National Park Alaska Park Size: 13.18 million acres #1 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 108,840 #55 most visited National Park Since: 1980 Wow Number: 13.18 million acres - largest U.S. national park and preserve. Nature / Story Number: 6× - roughly Yellowstone's acreage. Can You Believe It? A single Alaska park is larger than several U.S. states. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 13.18 MILLION ACRES Largest u.s. national park and preserve.
Keep this guide open while comparing routes, seasons, and the small park markers that help each stop stay distinct.
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Yellowstone National Park Wyoming Montana Idaho Park Size: 2.22 million acres #8 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.76 million #3 most visited National Park Since: 1872 Wow Number: 500+ - active geysers.
Yellowstone National Park Wyoming Montana Idaho Park Size: 2.22 million acres #8 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.76 million #3 most visited National Park Since: 1872 Wow Number: 500+ - active geysers. Nature / Story Number: 10,000+ - hydrothermal features. Can You Believe It? More than half of the world's active geysers are concentrated in one national park. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 500+ Active geysers.
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Yosemite National Park California Park Size: 761,748 acres #16 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.28 million #5 most visited National Park Since: 1890 Wow Number: 2,425 ft - total drop of Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite National Park California Park Size: 761,748 acres #16 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.28 million #5 most visited National Park Since: 1890 Wow Number: 2,425 ft - total drop of Yosemite Falls. Nature / Story Number: 800+ miles - of hiking trails. Can You Believe It? The famous Yosemite Valley occupies only a tiny fraction of a park dominated by wilderness. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER 2,425 FT Total drop of yosemite falls.
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Zion National Park Utah Park Size: 147,243 acres #37 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.98 million #2 most visited National Park Since: 1919 Wow Number: ~2,000 ft - height of some Navajo Sandstone canyon walls.
Zion National Park Utah Park Size: 147,243 acres #37 largest of the 63 2025 Recreation Visits: 4.98 million #2 most visited National Park Since: 1919 Wow Number: ~2,000 ft - height of some Navajo Sandstone canyon walls. Nature / Story Number: 16 miles - approximate full length of The Narrows route through Zion Canyon. Can You Believe It? The park's most famous canyon can be experienced from the bottom, walking directly through the Virgin River. THE NUMBER TO REMEMBER ~2,000 FT Height of some navajo sandstone canyon walls.
