I would say national park hype is pretty high right now. We just had the one hundredth anniversary of the National Park Service, and everyone who has ever been to a National Park posted a picture on Instagram (myself included). This hype is justified, because even though these pictures look incredible, they can't even begin to capture the majesty of God's creation that's held in these places. Prepare yourself, because this is basically just a huge toast to the National Parks.

My Favorite

Ok so this first part is obviously subjective, and not super well-informed, as I have only been to a few of the parks. That being said, my favorite park that I have been to was Zion National Park, located in southeastern Utah. The moment we entered the park, my breath was gone. I was immediately blown away by the views and the sheer awe of the beauty around me. You're in a canyon, and hikes are up on plateaus that create the park, but that description can't fully explain how you feel. You're surrounded by beautiful cliffs and soaring heights everywhere you turn.

My Top Five To See

Here are the five parks I want to see the most, that I haven't been to, yet.

1 - Yosemite National Park (eastern edge of California)

2 - Glacier National Park (northern edge of Montana)

3 - Denali National Park and Reserve (200 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska)

4 - Grand Teton National Park (northwestern corner of Wyoming)

5 - Badlands National Park (southwestern South Dakota)

From both pictures and what I have been told by friends, these parks will completely blow you away. Pictures alone astound me.

Tips for When You Go

These are just some general tips for when you are planning to visit a national park.

1 - You should have an idea of what you want to do when you go.

Parks will have endless hikes and lookouts and a lot of other opportunities offered, so you want to at least have a general idea of things you'd like to do.

2 - Be aware of conditions.

These parks can have extreme weather situations, and they will also have traffic rules or guidelines that could surprise you. Know what to expect when you go.

3 - Don't just stick to the lookouts.

Yes you will still see some amazing sights. You'll probably see most of the super popular photos and such. But sometimes you need to take time to hike to a spot to really get to some amazing views and scenery. Plan on spending some time whererever you go.

4 - Don't litter.

Seriously, it sounds dumb, but it's important. These are amazing, pristine, natural locations, and they have be kept clean. It's so easy to not litter or make a mess.

5 - Don't be an idiot.

Also sounds simple, but likewise super important. Some hikes will be incredibly high up. Don't be an idiot and push yourself or someone else beyond what's safe. I'm all for getting on outcroppings for views and such, but be careful. Also, don't mess with wildlife. They are cute and amazing creatures, but they can also be dangerous. You could also unintentionally harm them. Just don't touch or feed them.

Whatever park you decide to visit, I'm sure it will blow you away. Have a respect for the wilderness we all appreciate, and have fun.