US National Parks: Beauty Inside Our Borders

If you are not sure you want to venture anywhere outside the US this year but are looking for a vacation of discovery and beauty look no further than the US National Parks. As they are starting to reopen across the country you may want to consider these 62 treasures and all they offer those that visit. A few years ago when I hit a milestone birthday I added to my #travel bucket list all of these parks. A lofty goal (hoping for at least 20) no doubt but I was sad that I have only been to 1 of these gems.

Having attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville my first trip to the Great Smoky National Park was years ago but the beauty of the park was breathtaking. I did not grow up in an “outdoorsy“ lets go camping kind of family but this made a lasting impression. Recently I returned after I sent my first child off to college to help ease my way in to my first chick flying the nest and it was no less breathtaking than the first time I arrived. Here are a few pictures from that trip and would encourage you to put on your bucket list if you have not been, if you live close by or have an itch to make visiting these parks a priority in your travels in the coming years. The Great Smoky National Park straddles North Carolina and Tennessee both with tons of natural beauty.

[📸: The Pink Soapbox- Great Smoky National Park]

The parks are scattered amongst several states and US territories. I would highly recommend a beautiful book “Lonely Planet’s National Parks of America” that takes you on a very picturesque journey including a detailed suggested itinerary and what to expect at each park. Although, it was published in 2016 so the last few parks that have been added are not included.

It also gives suggestions for where you can stay and if they recommend backpacking, cycling or other activities. Each park is meticulously detailed with the types of wildlife you may encounter and a history lesson on the origins of the park along with random facts that would be helpful in planning your newest adventure to some of the most amazing looking places to take your family or travel to with friends.

[📸: The Pink Soapbox- book collection]

Next up on my list, Congaree National Park in South Carolina which is not too far from my house. After over 20 years of living in the Carolinas I can hardly believe I have never been or taken my kids as they were growing up. I‘m looking forward to the canoeing, board walking and the Inn (hotel) recommended along with catching a glimpse of an eastern box turtle and the other wildlife unique to this park. Happy Trails!!!

XO & #StayCurious