The natural beauty and diversity of America’s parks are treasures that many of us cherish. However, as our earth faces climate change, environmental challenges, and the impact of human activity, these parks are increasingly at risk. It’s essential to visit them now to appreciate their beauty and ensure they remain for generations to come. Here are 18 American parks you should consider visiting before it’s too late!
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant glaciers. Unfortunately, these glaciers are rapidly melting due to climate change. Witness these icy wonders soon, before they become a distant memory.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unique desert environment and iconic Joshua trees. Rising temperatures in the region threaten the survival of these trees, making it crucial to explore this otherworldly landscape while you can,
Sequoia National Park/Kings Canyon National Park, California
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in California face air quality challenges. Emissions from nearby coal power plants and wildfires have led to declining air quality. Witness the majesty of giant sequoias soon and witness the true majesty of these incredible trees.
Yellowstone National Park, Montana
Yellowstone, America’s first national park, faces multiple threats. Overcrowding, rising temperatures, and the increased frequency of wildfires pose significant challenges to this unique ecosystem. Visit now to experience its geysers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is grappling with invasive plant species, declining air quality, and the impact of nearby coal power plants and wildfires. Explore the ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological wonders before they’re further imperiled.
Dinosaur National Monument, Utah-Colorado
Dinosaur National Monument, straddling the border of Utah and Colorado, faces air quality issues. Pollutants from nearby sources threaten the park’s unique fossil beds and ancient rock art. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these historical treasures.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area struggles with invasive water species that disrupt its delicate ecosystems. Visit this stunning desert landscape and its mesmerizing waterways before these invasive species cause irreparable damage.
Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park is a popular destination known for its natural arches and red rock formations. Overcrowding is affecting the park’s ecosystem and visitor experience. Go there while you can still enjoy its natural wonders in relative tranquility.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic national parks, faces pollution and threats from construction projects. Be sure to visit this natural wonder before these issues compromise its pristine beauty.
Big Thicket National Preserve, Texas
Big Thicket National Preserve in Texas is grappling with saltwater pollution and invasive species that harm its diverse ecosystems. Explore its unique habitats, including swamps and forests, before these challenges become more pronounced.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is experiencing the effects of hot temperatures, pollution, and irresponsible recreation. The delicate ecosystems and sandy shores need your protection. Visit to appreciate their natural beauty before further damage occurs.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, faces air quality challenges due to pollution and nearby industrial activity. View the park’s stunning landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna while the air remains relatively clean.
Appalachian Trail
Yes, we know this is a trail, not a park. The Appalachian Trail, one of the world’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, runs through six national parks, eight national forests, and two national wildlife refuges.
The AT is seeing its trail towns disappearing due to various factors. Hike through this natural wonder and connect with its rich history before these communities vanish for good.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina is vulnerable to hurricanes and rising sea levels. Check out this dynamic coastal environment and unique maritime forests before it faces more significant challenges.
The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys, known for their vibrant coral reefs, are experiencing coral bleaching due to warming seas. Dive into these underwater wonders and witness the vibrant marine life before the coral reefs deteriorate further.
Florida Everglades
The Florida Everglades are under threat from invasive species such as Burmese Pythons, Green Iguanas, and Walking Catfish that disrupt the region’s delicate balance. Explore this unique wetland ecosystem before it undergoes more profound changes.
Crystal River, Florida
Crystal River is famous for its opportunities to swim with gentle manatees. However, debates about the impacts of this activity on the manatees’ well-being are ongoing. Visit and make responsible choices like using an ethical tour company to teach you how to interact with these incredible creatures correctly.
Biscayne National Park, Florida
Biscayne National Park in Florida faces overfishing, pollution, and irresponsible recreation. View the park’s underwater coral reefs and appreciate the vibrant marine life before these issues take a more significant toll.
Concluding At-Risk American Parks
America’s parks are at risk from various environmental and human-induced challenges. Visiting these parks allows you to appreciate their natural beauty and supports their conservation efforts.
Please take the opportunity to explore these 18 American parks before it’s too late to experience their grandeur and protect them for future generations.
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Hi! We are Jenn and Ed Coleman, and together we are Coleman Concierge. It is our goal to inspire you to get out, expand your world, and to seek adventure, even in your own backyard.
