The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and its National Parks stand as both a celebration and protection of nature's beauty. Every year, millions head out to explore these majestic spaces—each unique, each a treasure. From steaming geysers to towering cliffs, these parks offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here’s an in-depth look at ten iconic U.S. National Parks, their histories, their standout features, and why they continue to captivate millions. Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone, the first National Park, was established in 1872. It’s often referred to as the birthplace of the National Park movement. President Ulysses S. Grant sought to protect the park’s geothermal marvels, unique wildlife, and vast wilderness from commercial exploitation. This park offers over 2 million acres of adventure. Witness the awe-inspiring Old Faithful geyser, roam through steaming hot springs, and try to spot grizzly bears, bison, and wolves. There’s also something magical about swimming near river hot springs, like the Boiling River. Yellowstone contains more than half the world’s geothermal features—over 10,000 of them! It also sits on top of a supervolcano, creating the park’s dramatic, otherworldly landscapes. Over 4.9 million people explored Yellowstone in 2021, confirming its place as a global icon. Yosemite National Park. Yosemite became a national park in 1890, though President Lincoln had previously signed it into protected state ownership during the Civil War. Its focus has always been safeguarding Yosemite Valley and its stunning granite cliffs, including the world-renowned Half Dome and El Capitan. If you love waterfalls, Yosemite is paradise. Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America! Visitors can hike hundreds of trails, climb iconic rock faces, or gaze up at ancient sequoia trees like Mariposa Grove's Grizzly Giant. Famous naturalist John Muir was instrumental in Yosemite’s creation as a National Park. His writings painted Yosemite as a sanctuary worth protecting. This California gem saw over 3.6 million visitors in 2021. Grand Canyon National Park. Declared a National Park in 1919, the Grand Canyon’s colossal, colorful chasm stood as a national treasure long before Theodore Roosevelt called it “the one great sight which every American should see.” Whether you stick to the South Rim's panorama or descend into the depths of the Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail, the sheer