Visiting a national park on your BridgeUSA program is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of the United States. Each park is different, offering beautiful views, fun outdoor activities, and a chance to explore American landscapes. If you are part of Spirit Cultural Exchange, visiting a national park is a great way to experience something new during your cultural exchange program in the US.
Whether you are working on the East Coast or West Coast, there are amazing national parks nearby. Below are some of the national parks you should visit on each coast.
East Coast Parks:
Acadia is located in the northeastern state of Maine. It has rocky coastlines, tall forests, and beautiful ocean views. You can hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain, walk along the shore, or rent a bike and ride the park’s special roads. It is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors.
This is one of the most popular national parks you should visit in the United States. It has rolling mountains covered in trees and fog, many waterfalls, and lots of animals like deer and black bears. You can go hiking, camping, or take a scenic drive through the park. If you are working in the southern part of the East Coast, this park is a great choice.
Shenandoah is located just a few hours from Washington, D.C. It has peaceful forests, wildflowers, and nice views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Skyline Drive is a popular road that runs through the park and is beautiful in every season. There are many short hiking trails, which are perfect for a weekend trip.
Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida and is very different from other parks. It is made up of wetlands, slow-moving water, and grassy swamps. You can take a boat tour, walk on boardwalk trails, or even ride an airboat to see alligators, birds, and other animals. The Everglades are warm year-round, so it is a great place to visit during the winter months if you are on exchange in Florida or nearby.
West Coast Parks:
Yosemite is one of the most famous national parks you should visit in the US. It has tall waterfalls, giant cliffs, and ancient sequoia trees. You can hike to the top of Yosemite Falls, take photos of Half Dome, or walk through the peaceful meadows in the valley. If you are on exchange in California, Yosemite is a must-see.
This park is in the northwest part of the country and is very unique. It has mountains, rainforests, and beaches all in one place. You can explore snowy peaks, walk through green forests, and visit the Pacific Ocean. If you are working near Seattle, this is a perfect park for a weekend trip.
Although not right on the West Coast, the Grand Canyon is close enough to visit if you are in the western US. It is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world. The canyon is over a mile deep and offers amazing views, especially at sunrise or sunset. You can hike partway into the canyon or simply enjoy the view from the top.
Sequoia National Park is home to some of the largest trees in the world. The giant sequoia trees are so wide that you can walk through tunnels carved into them. The park also has mountains, caves, and beautiful forest trails. One of the most famous trees, the General Sherman Tree, is considered the largest tree on Earth by volume. If you are staying in California, this park is a peaceful and one of the more awe-inspiring national parks you should visit.
For more information on national parks and how to plan a trip to one, click here.