Can’t-miss parks in 5 Western U.S. states

By Pat Henderson
November 16, 2020

The U.S. National Park Service manages 419 individual sites, which are classified in 19 different categories ranging from national parks to military parks to national historical parks. Here is a look at five of the states in the American West that boast a who’s who of spectacular sites.


New Mexico's Bandelier National Monument

10 national monuments in New Mexico

New Mexico is home to 10 national monuments, which represents the second-highest total in that category of any U.S. state. Check out these special places that showcase the state’s mix of cultural and natural history.

To see the full article, click here.


Oregon's Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park (Photo by Discover Klamath/larryturnerphotography.com)

The national parks of Oregon

Oregon has a nearly endless array of intriguing destinations and attractions, including a solid list of National Park Service-managed sites. Here is a look at five of those places, which offer a look at the state’s natural beauty and its role in the history and development of the U.S. West.

To see the full article, click here.


Colorado National Monument

Diverse options in Colorado’s iconic parks

Three of Colorado’s national park sites—Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado National Monument, and Great Sand Dunes National Park—highlight different sides of the state’s varied landscapes and beautiful terrain.

To see the full article, click here.


Mount Rainier Railroad in Washington
Mount Rainier Railroad (Photo by Allens Photographic)

3 Evergreen State gems

From historical forts and trails of legendary explorers to mountainous landscapes, Washington is home to 15 National Park Service sites. As they roam the Evergreen State, travelers can check out these special places, including its big three: Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades national parks.

To see the full article, click here.


Mesa Arch in  Utah's Canyonlands National Park

Utah delivers red-rock dreams

NTA’s Bob Rouse recaps a memorable 6-day, 5-park tour in Utah that kept the focus on the southern part of the state. The itinerary hit all the highlights, and the red-rock scenery was endlessly fascinating.

To see the full article, click here.


Top photo: Sunset at Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park
Photo by National Park Service/Patrick Myers

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