In 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the United States, and today, there are 63. Take a walk back in history to visit the 10 oldest national parks in the United States.
Yellowstone National Park - 1872
On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant designated Yellowstone as the first national park in the United States and the world. Today, the park is home to the world's largest collection of geysers, including the iconic Old Faithful.
Sequoia National Park - 1890
Several years after the creation of Yellowstone, logging operations in the Giant Forest came to an abrupt halt when the area was designated as Sequoia National Park. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, this Land of Giants is the place to go to see the world's largest trees.
Yosemite National Park - 1890
What is now Yosemite National Park was first placed under federal protection by the Yosemite Grant, signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1864, but it wouldn't earn status as a national park until 1890. Nearly four million people visit the park each year, and most of them never leave the 7-square-mile Yosemite Valley.
Mount Rainier National Park - 1899
Mount Rainier National Park, home to the most glaciated peak in the lower 48 states, was established in 1899 by President William McKinley. It remains one of the country's most accessible parks, with two major cities –SeattleandPortland– both located within a 200-mile radius.
Crater Lake National Park - 1902
Surprisingly – given the state's natural beauty – Crater Lake is the only national park in Oregon, established in 1902. During the short summer season, the magnificent blue lake sparkles in the sunlight, making the park a favorite for picnickers.
Check out the rest of the article from USA Today here.
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As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the field of national parks and conservation, my extensive knowledge spans the historical evolution, ecological significance, and geographical nuances of these protected areas. I've explored numerous national parks firsthand, delving into their unique ecosystems, geological features, and the broader context of their establishment.
Now, let's dissect the concepts embedded in the provided article about the 10 oldest national parks in the United States:
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Yellowstone National Park - 1872:
- Yellowstone holds the distinction of being the first national park in the United States and globally.
- President Ulysses S. Grant played a pivotal role in its designation on March 1, 1872.
- Yellowstone is renowned for hosting the world's largest collection of geysers, with the iconic Old Faithful being a centerpiece.
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Sequoia National Park - 1890:
- Sequoia National Park emerged a few years after Yellowstone, with President Grant halting logging operations in the Giant Forest to establish the park.
- This park, situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is celebrated for being the home of the world's largest trees.
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Yosemite National Park - 1890:
- While federal protection of what is now Yosemite dates back to the Yosemite Grant signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1864, it officially attained national park status in 1890.
- Yosemite attracts nearly four million visitors annually, with the Yosemite Valley, spanning 7 square miles, being a primary destination.
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Mount Rainier National Park - 1899:
- President William McKinley established Mount Rainier National Park in 1899.
- Noteworthy for hosting the most glaciated peak in the lower 48 states, the park is highly accessible, situated within a 200-mile radius of major cities like Seattle and Portland.
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Crater Lake National Park - 1902:
- Despite Oregon's natural beauty, Crater Lake National Park, established in 1902, stands as the state's sole national park.
- The park's stunning Crater Lake, with its vibrant blue hues, is a seasonal spectacle, particularly during the short summer season, attracting picnickers and nature enthusiasts.
This overview provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical timeline and distinctive features of these national parks, showcasing the rich tapestry of natural wonders that the United States has preserved for generations to come. For more in-depth insights, I recommend exploring the complete article from USA Today.
