The Best National Parks on the East Coast

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Everyone knows parks like Yellowstone, but do you know any National Parks on the East Coast? These are our picks for the best National Parks on the East Coast!

While there are a ton of national parks across the United States, a lot of the popular ones tend to be further away from the east coast. In fact, many people are shocked to find how many great national parks there are along the east coast. If you are looking for a great place to visit on the east coast, you’ve got to check out these national parks.

Related: Tips For Visiting National Parks

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is Maine’s only national park and also one of the first ones to show up on the east coast. It is great for coastal views as well as a great view of whale-watching from Bar Harbor. There are great hikes to be had on this trail as well as driving options for those who aren’t into hiking.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The smoky fog that hovers over the mountains makes this park a must-see for the view alone. It has one of the most biodiverse landscapes of all the national parks and is one of the few that doesn’t have an admission fee. There are over 800 miles of hiking trails and a great way to enjoy some solitary bliss.

Shenandoah National Park

High in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find this little slice of scenery. You’ll find aged trees, diverse wildlife, and the park’s famous Skyline Drive all while you come in. The fall foliage is amazing in the fall months and there are plenty of hikes and sights to keep you entertained when you visit. This is a great park to visit in the fall months or early summer.

Mammoth Cave National Park

If you are interested in caves, this is a great park to visit! This national park is home to the largest cave system in the entire world! You can see over 400 miles of caves and other underground passages that will give you an experience that a tour just can’t describe! You can take a variety of guided tours or head out of the caves and into the forest.

Congaree National Park

Located in South Carolina, this is home to the largest area of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeast. You will find a ton of waterborne wildlife here from alligators to otters and this place is a swampy paradise! There are plenty of places to hike and go birdwatching all in this water wonderland.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

The river that runs through this national park is one of the oldest in the entire world! It is estimated that the age of this river is 360 million years old! While this is one of the newest national parks, it is still home to some pretty impressive views and old landmarks. While the main draw to this national park is the river, you can also find a bunch of great hiking trails with a beautiful lake view.

These national parks are perfect for an east coast road trip or whatever reason you have for adventuring to the other side of the U.S.

The Best National Parks on the East Coast