Have you ever pondered the question: what are America’s most beautiful state parks? It is a challenging question. After all, beauty is subjective.
BonusFinder.com set out to answer this very question. How did they do it? Simple, by summing each park’s three most commonly used hashtags. Julie and I have been to a few of these and concur that they should be on the list. Let’s see if your favorite park made it.
Based on the intriguing study, these are the ten most Instagrammed state parks.
10. Waimea Canyon State Park, HI
137,085 Hashtags
Affectionately called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon State Park is a sight to behold. Its deep gorge is adorned with vibrant reds and greens, creating a mesmerizing landscape. The namesake canyon, stretching 14 miles and reaching depths up to 3,600 feet, is a testament to the power of nature. Guests can enjoy various lookouts with panoramic views over the stunning canyon and hiking trails leading to tucked-away treasures.
9. Chimney Rock State Park, NC
140,755 Hashtags
Nestled 25 miles southeast of Asheville, Chimney Rock features a 315-foot freestanding rock spire proudly adorned with the American flag. The spot overlooks Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge, some of the state’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Other highlights include the 404-foot waterfall, Hickory Nut Falls, and a unique view of Chimney Rock and the valley below from a rock overhang called the Opera Box.
8. Deception Pass State Park, WA
142,887 Hashtags
Spanning the gap between Whidbey Island and Fildalgo Island, Deception Pass features a pair of iconic bridges crossing rugged ocean cliffs and tranquil, mysterious old-growth forests. The park is renowned for its panoramic views and legendary sunsets. Popular activities include hiking, beachcombing, tide-pooling, and birding.
7. Starved Rock State Park, IL
156,740 Hashtags
Along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park showcases vertical walls of moss-covered sandstone and rain-fed waterfalls along its 18 canyons. The canyons, formed by glacial meltwater, are surrounded by tree-covered sandstone bluffs. Tranquil, wooded trails lead to waterfalls and spectacular overlooks. Icefalls form in the canyons in winter, making it a popular destination for experienced ice climbers.
6. Silver Falls State Park, OR
163,324 Hashtags
Silver Falls State Park is Oregon’s largest state park, covering over 9,000 acres. The park is widely considered the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system due to its breathtaking waterfalls and misty forests. Silver Falls is renowned for its Trail of Ten Falls, which takes hikers on a moderate 7.2-mile hike through a dense forest along a rocky canyon. On the famous trail, hikers get the rare opportunity to walk behind a waterfall.
5. Smith Rock State Park, OR
215,864 Hashtags
Smith Rock nestles in central Oregon’s High Desert, featuring rugged landscapes of rocky spires, cliffs, and canyons along the Crooked River’s northern edge. The park is synonymous with climbing and is the iconic image of the state’s central region. Smith Rock offers excellent hiking and mountain biking even if you do not enjoy bouldering and rock climbing. Guests can also bask in the scenic views of deep river canyons.
4. Emerald Bay State Park, CA
232,091 Hashtags
Emerald Bay snugs up against the surreal Lake Tahoe, an oasis of crystal-clear turquoise water shimmering against the backdrop of soaring mountains. Park highlights include the gushing Eagle Falls and Vikingsholm, a 38-room stone castle. Many guests want a close view of the water with legendary clarity. While the park has trails along the coast, the best way to do that is by paddling or going on a boat tour.
3. Watkins Glen State Park, NY
246,677 Hashtags
Watkins Glen sits just south of Seneca Lake, one of the eleven Finger Lakes in Upstate New York. The area is famous for its wineries and waterfalls, and Watkins Glen is one of the best places to experience them.
Visitors will discover 19 waterfalls along a trail that brushes 200-foot cliffs and goes over, under, and behind waterfalls. Hikers will also experience stone bridges and tunnels along the journey, making it one of the country’s most beautiful and rewarding hikes. Afterward, with a short drive, guests can sip wine and enjoy views of sprawling vineyards along Seneca Lake.
2. Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, HI
264,401 Hashtags
Kauai Island’s Na Pali Coast is one of the world’s most recognizable and beautiful coastlines. It spotlights towering sea cliffs and deep, narrow valleys that collide with the sea. The lush paradise also has coursing streams, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, and rugged trails. Sea turtles, dolphins, and whales inhabit the region’s waters.
1. Hocking Hills State Park, OH
352,942 Hashtags
Hocking Hills nestles in the rolling hills of southeast Ohio and comprises seven hiking areas, offering everything from a stroll to a challenging trek. The park features sandstone cliffs, recess caves, peaceful forests, and mesmerizing waterfalls. With varied terrain, unique rock formations, and breathtaking views, the hikes yield rewarding experiences. The park’s fall foliage is outstanding, and winter can bring stunning beauty through icicles and frozen waterfalls.
Plan Your State Park Adventures
Is your favorite park one of our most Instagrammed state parks? Congratulations if your park made the list. If not, I hope the list inspires you to plan a new adventure. Either way, let’s appreciate our state parks and never stop exploring.
Featured image credit: KennethKeifer via Deposit Photos
