It’s been called “America’s best idea”—and its relevance is more timely than ever. There are now 424 parks in the nationally maintained system—more than 85 million acres spanning coast to coast, across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories. In 2021, there were 297.1 million recreational visitors to American national parks, proving that these spaces are indeed for the people to appreciate and enjoy. From the oldest

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America’s national parks are more popular than ever, drawing record numbers of visitors every year. This special issue is a celebration of these parks, representing the best of the geographic and biological diversity of the far-flung U.S. park system. Packed with extraordinary photographs (as well as intriguing data and detailed descriptions), these pages serve not only as a guide to the parks’ individual charms, but also as an appreciation

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A journey into the dramatic depths of one of our great natural wonders, the Grand Canyon National Park. America's most popular Western park, this geological marvel has no equal upon Earth. Its immense and humbling beauties possess both awesome scale and surprising intimacy. Weather, seasons, and even time of day alter its rainbow of colors in an ever-changing tapestry that delights the senses, from the rock formations to the Colorado River. Portrays...

The "geologic staircase" of the Southwest includes the Bryce Canyon, Zion, Glen Canyon, Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Parks. A rugged, arid region, encompassing parts of Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, the Colorado Plateau is home to these geographically close, but utterly unique, landmarks.

The Appalachian Mountain range stretches more than 2000 miles from Alabama to Newfoundland, and is one of the most diverse natural areas in North America.

Yosemite National Park embraces nearly 1,200 square miles located near the Sierra Mountains in California. One of the world's pre-eminent scenic wonders. Encompasses mountains, tranquil valleys, roaring rivers, mist-enshrouded waterfalls and groves of giant sequoias - the largest living things on Earth. Enjoy the sights of the massive granite shapes of Half Dome, El Capitan and Cathedral Rock, plus Bridal Veil, Vernal and Yosemite Falls and the sounds...

At Denali National Park visitors come to see Mt. McKinley, the spectacular scenery and wildlife on the 60 mile drive into the Denali Backcountry Lodge. A journey to Denali by rail on the Alaska Railroad gives travelers the opportunity to relax and enjoy the passing scenery of the rugged Alaskan wilderness. Ferries on the Alaska Marine Highway System bring visitors north from Bellingham, WA to a variety of ports along the Inside Passage.  Sitka is...

Explores Yellowstone National Park, including activities such as llama trekking, wolf watching, and geyser gazing.

"A virtual tour of Denali National Park and Preserve, with chapters devoted to the history of this Alaska region, history of the park, plant and animal life, environmental problems facing the park, and activities in the area"--Provided by publisher.