America, the Beautiful. Or so the famous 1893 poem goes. There's nowhere that declaration rings more true than in America's national parks. These protected lands, from coast to coast, safeguard and showcase untamed wilderness with awe-inspiring beauty and diverse wildlife ecosystems.

　　Today, there are more than 400 sites in the National Park Service, including 63 major parksfrom America's first national park (Yellowstone) to dramatic landscapes carved by ancient forces. When adventure calls, turn to this list of some of the country's best national parks. (Pro tip: Grab an America theBeautiful pass, which gets you year-round access to all the parks. You'll be glad you did as you hike beneath towering redwoods, camp out under a blanket of stars, and witness the unspoiled natural beauty.

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