National parks are special in many ways, approximately 15% of the world’s land and 8% of its water is protected. National parks protect areas of the natural world that provide a unique opportunity for relaxation, research and of course, the preservation of wildlife and other natural resources for future generations.

Here are 5 most scenic national parks around the world

1. Banff National Park

Canada’s oldest and most scenic national park is located in southwest Alberta. Wander along the more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails in Banff National Park or take a picturesque drive along the Icefields Parkway for jaw-dropping views of waterfalls and glaciers.

2. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is the jewel in Montana’s crown. The sprawling 1 million-acre park, named after glacial remnants believed to be 7,000 years old, offers breathtaking mountainous views on all sides.

3. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite, which is around 170 miles east of San Francisco, is home to many breathtaking natural gems. Some of Yosemite’s most popular attractions include its scenic landscapes, such as the well-known Tunnel View and Valley View outlooks and its famous landmarks, such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

4. Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s biggest and most well-known national parks, and it’s situated in the Northern Territory. Thousands of rock art that portray stories of the region’s traditional owners can be seen at some of Australia’s oldest rock art sites, Kakadu, a place rich in Indigenous culture.

5. Vatnajökull National Park

One of the biggest and most well-known national parks in Iceland is Vatnajökull National Park. It is home to one of Europe’s biggest glaciers, which covers more than 8,000 square kilometres. The park is a well-liked location for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers due to its amazing landscape, which includes rugged glaciers, towering hills and picturesque lakes.

TOPICS: National parks