Best National Parks in the World, 19-21

This one is a doozy! As time goes on we see how enjoyable it is to learn about all these great places to visit and the majesty that is Mother Earth! Especially for the Star Seekers…

19. Guilin and Lijiang, China

Photo Credit to Jéan Béller

In southern China, Guilin unfolds as a mesmerizing tapestry of ethereal landscapes. Renowned for its iconic karst formations, winding rivers, and lush hills, Guilin stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. The Li River, graced by limestone peaks like the Elephant Trunk Hill, offers a picturesque journey during the Li River cruise. Within the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, illuminated stalactites and stalagmites create a subterranean wonderland, adding to Guilin’s allure.

Photo Credit to Kevin Leonearz

In southwestern Yunnan province, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang beckons with ancient charm. Cobblestone streets weave through Dayan Ancient Town, revealing traditional Naxi architecture and meandering canals. Landmarks like Mu’s Mansion and the iconic Black Dragon Pool showcase Lijiang’s rich history. Cultural diversity thrives in Dongba script, traditional Naxi music, and the intricate murals of Baisha Village.

Photo Credit to Sokoudom Ung

Guilin and Lijiang, each a unique jewel in China’s landscape, offer a harmonious blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Guilin mesmerizes with its karst wonders, while Lijiang enchants with its historical allure. Together, they invite travelers to explore the diverse tapestry of China’s landscapes and traditions, where every vista and cobblestone street tells a tale of nature’s grandeur and human history.

Photo Credit to William Zhang

20. Glacier, Montana, USA

Nestled in Montana’s Northern Rockies, Glacier National Park is a testament to untamed beauty, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Spanning a million acres, the park unfolds with glacier-carved peaks, crystalline lakes, and vast wilderness.

Photo Credit to Hendrik Cornelissen

The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road weaves through a natural tapestry, offering access to wonders like the majestic Grinnell Glacier and alpine meadows. Reflective lakes such as McDonald and Saint Mary enhance the grandeur, while the Many Glacier region enchants with its valleys and rugged mountains.

Photo Credit to David Banning

Beyond nature’s canvas, the park preserves cultural heritage in historic lodges like the Many Glacier Hotel, echoing a bygone era of mountain hospitality. Diverse ecosystems harbor grizzly bears, mountain goats, and elusive predators, providing wildlife enthusiasts a spectacle against the backdrop of towering peaks and serene lakes.

Gateway towns like Whitefish and West Glacier offer a warm embrace, providing accommodations and services for those exploring the park. Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park beckons wanderers to immerse themselves in pristine wilderness, witness wildlife diversity, and be captivated by enduring beauty etched into glacier-carved landscapes.

Photo Credit to Justin Kauffman

21. Jasper, Canada

Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park stands as a pristine wilderness, a testament to the breathtaking landscapes that have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Established in 1907, this national park in Alberta, Canada, encompasses over 4,200 square miles of rugged mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

Photo Credit to Michael Brandt

Jasper captivates visitors with the iconic Icefields Parkway, a scenic highway winding through a corridor of towering peaks, glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. The Columbia Icefield, a colossal expanse of ice straddling the Continental Divide, is a remarkable centerpiece, offering opportunities for guided glacier walks and awe-inspiring vistas.

Photo Credit to Caleb White

The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a haven for wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, and bighorn sheep. Maligne Lake, the largest glacial-fed lake in the park, is renowned for its azure waters and the iconic Spirit Island. Visitors can explore the network of hiking trails, from the accessible Athabasca Falls to challenging routes like the Skyline Trail.

Jasper’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage is evident in Dark Sky Preserve status, making it one of the world’s largest accessible dark sky preserves. This designation ensures minimal light pollution, providing a celestial spectacle for stargazers.