Just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a land bursting with cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, fields of wildflowers, and quiet wooded hollows. With over 200,000 acres of protected lands that are haven to deer, songbirds, and black bear, there's so much to explore. Take a hike on one of the many trails through the park, relax in a quiet meadow, or have a picnic lunch with a view. You can also drive the scenic Skyline Drive for stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Shenandoah National Park, you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Glacier National Park is one of the most stunning places on earth. A true showcase of Mother Nature's grandeur, the park is home to melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Swiftcurrent Lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the world's greatest drives. Scenic boat tours are also a great way to take in the sights. For those who love to hike, the Grinnell Glacier is a must-see before it's gone forever. The Hidden Lake Trail is also a great option for those looking for some stunning photos. No matter what you choose to do, Glacier National Park is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal and geologic features. Within Yellowstone's 2.2 million acres, visitors have unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife in an intact ecosystem, explore geothermal areas that contain about half the world’s active geysers, and view geologic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Grand Teton National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the western United States. The park encompasses the Teton mountain range, the Grand Teton peak, and the valley known as Jackson Hole. It’s a popular destination in summer for mountaineering, hiking, backcountry camping and fishing. The Grand Teton is the tallest mountain in the park, and offers incredible views of the surrounding area. There are over 200 miles of trails to explore in the park, and you can float down the Snake River in a canoe or kayak. The Grand Teton National Park is a serene and beautiful place, and is well worth a visit.

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. A giant chasm that was carved out over millions of years by the Colorado River, it's one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world. The park is located on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, and there are many opportunities to learn about their history and culture. There are also many activities to enjoy at Grand Canyon National Park, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and more. Grand Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, so there's always something to do!

It takes center stage every four years for the inauguration of US Presidents, but "America's Front Yard" draws millions of visitors all year round. It's a place that honors presidents, remembers the sacrifices of our war veterans and acts as home base to the world's largest research and museum complex, the Smithsonian Institution. Whether it's a nighttime visit to the Lincoln Memorial, a spring picnic among the cherry blossoms surrounding the Jefferson Memorial or a daylong visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, a visit to the National Mall is always one to remember.

The Gettysburg National Military Park (GNMP) was established in 1895 as a way to protect and interpret the landscape of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. The GNMP properties include most of the Gettysburg Battlefield, many of the battle's support areas during the battle (e.g., reserve, supply, and hospital locations), and several other non-battle areas associated with the battle's "aftermath and commemoration", including the Gettysburg National Cemetery and Soldier's National Monument. The park has more wooded land than in 1863, and the National Park Service has an ongoing program to restore portions of the battlefield to their historical non-wooded conditions, as well as to replant historic orchards and woodlots that are now missing.

Follow the paths where native Paiute people and Mormon pioneers walked. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience wilderness in a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present day adventures.

The Stewart Lee Udall Department of the Interior building in Washington, DC, is the home office of the National Park Service.

Antietam National Battlefield commemorates the Civil War battle that occurred on September 17, 1862. Situated on fields among the Appalachian foothills near the Potomac River, the battle resulted in over 23,000 casualties. The battlefield is one of the best-preserved of all Civil War battlefields. A driving tour is an easy way to take in many of the sights.

Capitol Reef National Park, the least-visited of Utah’s "Mighty Five", is located in Utah's south-central desert in an area historically inhabited by several Indigenous peoples, including the Southern Paiute, Ute, and Navajo tribes. Its prominent feature, the Waterpocket Fold, showcases dramatic rock formations, while petroglyphs and historic orchards add cultural significance. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike along stunning trails, and stargaze in its International Dark Sky Park. Capitol Reef is a nature lover's paradise, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and history.

Big Bend National Park is a place of big skies, big views, and big adventures. The Santa Elena Canyon Trail offers visitors the chance to experience the park's 1500-foot-high stone walls up close. For those looking to relax, the 105-degree hot springs are the perfect place to soak away your cares. And don't miss the Fossil Discovery Center, where you can see a giant pterosaur, the largest flyer ever. Birdwatching is also a popular activity at Rio Grande Village, and sunset seekers will want to hike to Window View for one of the best views in the park. Finally, don't forget to canoe along the Rio Grande at Santa Elena Canyon for an unforgettable experience.