Most scenic national parks
From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the lush forests of the Great Smoky Mountains, the United States is home to some of the most scenic national parks in the world. Each park showcases the diverse and breathtaking landscapes that make up the country's natural beauty, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures.
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One of the most scenic national parks in the United States is Yosemite National Park in California. Known for its iconic granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Another stunning park is Glacier National Park in Montana, featuring pristine alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the park's famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a must-see destination, with its awe-inspiring vistas and deep, colorful canyons carved by the Colorado River. Each of these national parks offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making them some of the most scenic and beloved destinations in the country.
REIView AllREI - Outdoor gear retailer with focus on sustainability and community.
PatagoniaView AllPatagonia - Vast, rugged, remote region in southern Argentina and Chile.
The North FaceView AllThe North Face - Outdoor clothing and equipment brand.
Columbia SportswearView AllColumbia Sportswear - Outdoor apparel and equipment brand.
National Geographic StoreView AllNational Geographic Store - Explore the world through unique and educational products.
LL BeanView AllLL Bean - Outdoor apparel and equipment retailer with a classic aesthetic.
BackcountryView AllBackcountry - Remote wilderness area for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Outdoor VoicesView AllOutdoor Voices - Athletic apparel brand focused on recreational activities.
Eddie BauerView AllEddie Bauer - Outdoor clothing and gear retailer with a focus on quality.
Arc'teryxView AllArc'teryx - High-performance outdoor clothing and gear brand.
Most scenic national parks
1.
REI
REI, or Recreational Equipment, Inc., is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation. The company offers a wide range of outdoor gear and clothing for activities such as hiking, camping, cycling, and climbing. REI also provides outdoor classes and trips, as well as gear rentals and equipment repair services. With a focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship, REI is committed to promoting outdoor recreation and conservation efforts. Founded in 1938, the company operates as a consumer cooperative, with millions of members who share in its profits and have a say in its governance.
Pros
High-quality outdoor gear- member dividends
- expert advice.
Cons
Limited physical locations- slightly higher prices.
2.
Patagonia
Patagonia is a sparsely populated region at the southern end of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile. It is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and grasslands. The region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, climbing, and wildlife viewing. Patagonia is also home to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park and the southern end of the Andes mountain range. Its remote and rugged beauty makes it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Pros
- Sustainable practices
- high quality outdoor gear
- commitment to environmental activism.
Cons
- Expensive products
- limited variety
- may not be accessible to all consumers.
3.
The North Face
The North Face is an American outdoor recreation product company that specializes in outerwear, footwear, and equipment. Founded in 1966, The North Face has become a well-known and respected brand in the outdoor industry, producing high-quality and durable products for hiking, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities. The company is known for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, using recycled materials and ethical supply chain practices. The North Face is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers seeking reliable, functional, and stylish gear for their outdoor pursuits.
Pros
- High-quality outdoor gear
- innovative technology
- stylish designs.
Cons
- Expensive
- some products may not be suitable for extreme conditions.
4.
Columbia Sportswear
Columbia Sportswear is an American company that specializes in outdoor apparel and equipment. Founded in 1938, the company offers a wide range of products for outdoor enthusiasts, including jackets, pants, shirts, footwear, and accessories. Known for its innovative technologies, such as Omni-Heat and Omni-Tech, Columbia Sportswear is committed to creating high-quality, functional, and stylish gear for all types of outdoor activities. With a focus on performance and durability, the brand has become a trusted name in the outdoor industry, making it a popular choice for adventurers and athletes worldwide.
Pros
- High-quality outdoor gear
- innovative designs
- durable materials.
Cons
- Expensive prices
- limited color and style options
- some products may be heavy.
5.
National Geographic Store
The National Geographic Store is a retail destination that offers a wide range of products inspired by the iconic brand. From books and magazines to clothing and outdoor gear, the store showcases items that celebrate the spirit of exploration, conservation, and education. Customers can find unique and high-quality merchandise that reflects the passion for adventure and the natural world that National Geographic is known for. The store also features educational toys, home decor, and travel accessories that appeal to nature enthusiasts and curious minds of all ages.
Pros
- High-quality
- educational products; support for conservation efforts.
Cons
- Limited selection; higher prices than other retailers.
6.
LL Bean
LL Bean is a well-known American retail company specializing in outdoor and casual apparel, as well as equipment and accessories. Founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean, the company has built a reputation for its high-quality products and top-notch customer service. LL Bean is best known for its iconic Bean Boot, a waterproof and durable footwear option that has become a staple for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its clothing and footwear, LL Bean also offers a range of outdoor gear, including camping equipment, fishing gear, and hunting supplies. The company also operates a popular catalog and online retail business.
Pros
- High-quality outdoor apparel
- lifetime guarantee
- sustainable practices.
Cons
- Higher prices
- limited style options.
7.
Backcountry
Backcountry refers to remote and undeveloped areas that are typically accessed by hiking, skiing, or other non-motorized means. These areas are often characterized by rugged terrain, pristine natural beauty, and a lack of amenities or infrastructure. Backcountry enthusiasts seek out these areas for the challenge and solitude they offer, as well as the opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form. Activities in the backcountry can include camping, backpacking, rock climbing, and backcountry skiing, and it often requires a higher level of skill, preparation, and self-sufficiency compared to more accessible outdoor areas.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of backcountry gear and clothing.
Cons
- Prices can be higher than other outdoor retailers.
8.
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices is an activewear brand that focuses on promoting a balanced and active lifestyle. Founded in 2013, the company aims to inspire people to get moving and embrace the joy of recreational activities. Their clothing and accessories are designed for both performance and everyday wear, with a focus on comfort, functionality, and style. Outdoor Voices encourages inclusivity and diversity, and their products are made with sustainable and eco-friendly materials. The brand is known for its vibrant and fun color palette, and their mission is to make exercise and outdoor activities more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Pros
- High-quality activewear
- sustainable practices
- inclusive sizing.
Cons
- Higher price point
- limited product range.
9.
Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer is an American outdoor clothing and gear retailer that was founded in 1920. The company is known for its high-quality, durable and functional products designed for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Eddie Bauer offers a wide range of clothing and gear for men, women, and children, including outerwear, activewear, footwear, and accessories. The brand is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, incorporating eco-friendly materials and production methods into its products. Eddie Bauer has established itself as a trusted and reliable source for outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable and stylish gear for their adventures.
Pros
- High-quality outdoor gear
- stylish designs.
Cons
- Expensive
- limited selection for non-outdoor clothing.
10.
Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx is a Canadian outdoor clothing and sporting goods company known for its high-performance, technical apparel and equipment. Founded in 1989 in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Arc'teryx has become a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals seeking durable, versatile gear. The company is known for its innovative designs, attention to detail, and commitment to using the highest quality materials. Arc'teryx's products are designed to withstand the harshest conditions, from extreme alpine environments to everyday outdoor activities, making them a go-to brand for adventurers and athletes around the world.
Pros
- high-quality
- durable outdoor gear; innovative design; excellent performance.
Cons
- expensive; limited color options; not widely available.