Semesters abroad are a popular way to get to know studying outside of Germany and to experience the country and its people. Many students choose a city in the USA for their semester abroad and are lucky enough to discover the other side of the world. Of course, if you ever cross the Atlantic, you want to experience something and your bucket list will be long. In addition to eating burgers and seeing New York or LA, what you definitely shouldn't miss as a student and outdoor fan during your semester abroad in the USA are the historic US national parks on the west and east coasts of the country. For the 100th anniversary, we have put together a list of the top 10 US national parks for you, so that in addition to beer pong and sightseeing, you can also immerse yourself in the country's nature.
Source: Hertz
#1 Joshua Tree National Park
In southeastern California you can marvel at the infamous Yucca brevifolia, better known as Joshua trees, after which this US national park is named. Nestled in two desert areas and even larger than Rhode Island, this park is a must-see during your semester abroad. For the climbing fans among the American students: Rock climbing is the “specialty” of the park!
#2 Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Located in southeastern Nevada and northwestern Arizona, this US national park impresses with its impressive lake landscape. Nature fans can swim, boat, fish or visit the famous Hoover Dam to their heart's content.
#3 Valley of Fire State Park
Spice up your semester abroad experience by impressing us with stories from this really interesting US national park: The red Aztec sandstone formations, which were created in the dinosaur age, will be an experience that you won't soon forget. It goes without saying that this park is the oldest in Nevada.
#4 Death Valley
The Desert Valley in California is both the lowest and the hottest and driest area in North America – hence the name “Death Valley”. If you really want to work up a sweat and get incredible landscape impressions while studying in the USA, this is your place to be!
#5 Sequoia National Park
In the southern Sierra Nevada you can marvel at the largest trees in the world - the General Sherman Trees. If you dare to climb Mount Whitney, you can be proud of yourself - you are 4,421 meters above sea level.
#6 Yosemite National Park
Also located in the Sierra Nevada is this US national park, which is best known for its impressive granite cliffs, clear streams and waterfalls , and huge groves of giant sequoia trees. This is a must-have during your semester abroad!
#7 Dry Tortugas National Park
West of Key West you can marvel at this US national park during your study stay in the USA. Tropical bird species breed here, colorful coral reefs can be viewed, and there are also one or two legends about sunken shipwrecks and treasures...
#8 Everglades
The tropical wetlands in southern Florida attract numerous visitors to the boats every year to catch a glimpse of a crocodile and marvel at the impressive water landscape. Make your semester abroad perfect with this experience!
#9 Big Cypress National Preserve
One of America's first National Preserves is located in southern Florida and as part of the Everglades. Here you can see alligators, orchids, poisonous snakes and much more - from a distance! – observe and spice up your studies in the USA a bit.
#10 Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
Located in Jacksonville, Florida, this Preserve consists of a vast expanse of wetlands, waterways, and historic areas.
2016 is a good year for all outdoor fans among American students: The National Parks Service of the USA is celebrating its 100th anniversary, which means that admission to all parks is free on several days this year! Don't hesitate for long - start your semester abroad experience as a student in the USA.
Hiking in the 10 most beautiful US national parks
