America’s National Parks are the jewel in its crown, with over 400 of them spread across an incredible 84 million acres. As the National Park Service celebrates its 100th anniversary, we’re sharing four of our favourites, all of them within easy reach of a cruise port.
Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Only a handful of cruise lines are permitted to cruise the pristine waters of Glacier Bay National Park and you’re in for a treat if yours is one of them. This is Mother Nature at her finest and wildlife including humpback whales, black bears and bald eagles all call the area home. Its 3.3 million acres sure have a habit of reminding us just how small we are in the grand scheme of things.
Yosemite National Park, California
If your USA cruise takes you to San Francisco, a road trip to Yosemite National Park is a must. The Golden City is the perfect starting point for exploring a park famous for its vast valleys, countless waterfalls – including Yosemite Falls, the highest in North America – and forests of giant redwood trees that dwarf those who walk beneath them.
Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Haleakalā National Park is known for its raw lunar landscape, subtropical rainforest and crashing waterfalls, but it is the 10,000ft dormant volcano, Mount Haleakalā, which is its star attraction. As the highest point on the island of Maui, the summit has become world-famous for its awesome sunrise and sunset views. The scenic journey from the port of Lahaina to the National Park is as gripping as the park itself, so opt for a window seat!
Acadia National Park, Maine
Nowhere are the colours of fall brighter than in Acadia National Park. This area of Maine’s rugged coastline provides a concentrated snapshot of everything we associate with New England, from the whitewashed.
