5 Oldest National Parks in the United States

In this article, we are going to look at the 5 oldest national parks in the United States. If you want to read more about the oldest national parks in America and check out our detailed analysis, you can go to 20 Oldest National Parks in the United States.

5. Crater Lake National Park

Date Established as Park: May 22, 1902

Crater Lake National Park, in southern Oregon, ranks among the 5 oldest national parks in the United States. The park encompasses Crater Lake, a remnant of Mount Mazama, and the surrounding peaks and evergreen forests. Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the US, lies inside a caldera that was created when Mount Mazama collapsed more than 7,000 years ago following a major eruption.

4. Mount Rainier National Park

Date Established as Park: March 2, 1899

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state is one of the oldest national parks in the US. Mount Rainier, the highest point in the Cascade Range, is an active volcano and one of the most glaciated peaks in America. Mount Rainier National Park, best known for its geologic and glacial features, protects over 97% of its area as wilderness under the National Wilderness Preservation System.

3. Yosemite National Park

Date Established as Park: October 1, 1890

Yosemite National Park in California ranks among the top 3 on our list of the oldest national parks in the United States. The park is world-famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, ancient giant sequoias, mountains, meadows, glaciers, and a large wilderness. Yosemite National Park boasts some of the best views and hiking trails.

2. Sequoia National Park

Date Established as Park: September 25, 1890

Sequoia National Park in California ranks second on our list of the oldest national parks in the US. Featuring forested mountainous terrain, the park is best known for its giant sequoia trees, including the famous General Sherman tree. Sequoia National Park is home to some of the largest trees in the world.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Date Established as Park: March 1, 1872

Yellowstone National Park tops our list of the 20 oldest national parks in the United States. It is also widely regarded as the oldest natural park in the world. Located mainly in the northwest corner of Wyoming and extending into Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a unique national park that offers a myriad of marvels, ranging from the impressive Yellowstone Grand Canyon to a diverse array of wildlife, including buffalos, grizzly bears, and wolves.

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