In the USA, the diversity of the National Park System is reflected in the contrast between very different landscapes and experiences. It comprises 433 units, which together cover more than 85 million acres. They span all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the US territories. For trip planning, this scale is a reason to base your choices on specific destinations: a scenic drive, a long-distance trail, walks along the canyon and cultural attractions appeal to different interests. First consider what kind of experience you want to define your trip.

Scenic Drive and Long-Distance Trail

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive connecting Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are 382 overlooks along the road, offering views of the surrounding area. The two figures highlight different aspects of the route: its length describes the connection between the national parks, while the overlooks focus on views along the road. This makes for a different kind of trip than a destination centered on hiking.

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a public footpath that stretches for more than 2,100 miles along the ridgelines of the Appalachian Mountains between Maine and Georgia. Information is available on how to get there on foot, by car, bus, train or plane. The travel options and the footpath itself therefore answer different planning questions: one concerns how to get to the trail, the other the experience on the trail. This lets you compare a scenic road route with overlooks and a long hiking route based on their genuinely different focuses.

Hikes at the Grand Canyon

At the Grand Canyon, the Rim Trail and Bright Angel Trail offer two different points of reference for planning. The Rim Trail extends from the Village area to Hermits Rest and offers easy walks with peaceful views of the inner canyon. Bright Angel Trail offers day hikes of up to 12 miles round trip. The comparison is therefore between the route and character of the walks on one hand and a stated round-trip distance for day hikes on the other. When choosing a hike, these specific features can help you assess the plan you have in mind.

Yosemite: Valley and Sequoia Grove

Yosemite Valley is known for its impressive waterfalls, meadows, cliffs and unusual rock formations. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias has a different focus: it is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to more than 500 mature sequoias. The valley thus represents a combination of different landscape features, while the grove offers a clearly defined natural theme centered on its sequoias. Choosing between such attractions lets you shape your trip around the landscape that interests you most.

Monuments and Interactive Cultural Sites

The history and culture of the USA can also be experienced in different ways. The Statue of Liberty is accessible by ferry and was designated a National Monument in 1924. Since ferry services and ticket details can change, check the relevant information before your visit. This keeps the monument’s historical context separate from the practical questions of taking the ferry.

In Washington, DC, the Discovery Center at the National Archives Museum offers hands-on, interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. It is designed as a permanent visitor experience. Alongside landscapes, hiking trails and a designated National Monument, this gives you the option of a place offering interactive experiences at the National Archives Museum.

Choose a Starting Point for Your Trip

When visiting a destination whose National Park System spans 50 states, the District of Columbia and the US territories, choosing specific destinations is a useful first step. Decide whether a scenic drive, a hike, a particular landscape or a cultural site will be the deciding factor for your trip.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, District of Columbia, New Jersey, Delaware, Montana, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Nevada, Missouri, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Hawaii, California, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New England, New York, Utah, Nebraska, Vermont, Kansas, Iowa, Michigan, South Dakota, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, Maine, Idaho, Oregon, Minnesota, Washington, North Dakota, Alaska, Arkansas, Tennessee, Connecticut, Wyoming.

For the broader travel overview: North America.