There's no time like spring to get out and explore nature's wonders. Lush vegetation and blooming flowers invite outdoor enthusiasts to stunning landscapes that seem to pop out of a fairytale. With the cold winter months gone, now's the perfect time to enjoy some of America's best-kept secrets, including spending time with some of the country's iconic wildlife.

America is endowed with numerous nature-viewing opportunities, most of which can be found within the National Parks system. For animal lovers looking to enjoy viewing wildlife in its natural habitat, the following 10 national parks guarantee the best possible experiences this spring.

10 Yosemite National Park, California

Backpacking in Yosemite National Park, California

California boasts some of the best places with the ideal climate in the US, making it an oasis of springtime bliss. One of its most remarkable attractions is Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This natural wonderland of lush meadows and granite cliffs offers travelers numerous opportunities to explore and observe some of the most diverse wildlife on the continent. Its forests are home to black bears, mule deer, bobcats, and coyotes. Hikers will also marvel at spectacular waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

  • Pro tip: For some of the best views in the park, visitors can take a hike to Glacier Point and explore the vast valley below.
  • Entrance fee: $35 per car for a 7-day pass

9 Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Photo 34486647 Kwiktor | Dreamstime.com
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

For adventure seekers interested in uncovering Wyoming's best-kept secrets, there's no better spot to start with than Grand Teton National Park. Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton is renowned for its incredible mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park's iconic backdrop of snow-covered peaks makes it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts to explore in the springtime. Animal lovers should look out for bald eagles, bears, bison, elk, moose, and wolves. There are also plenty of other activities to enjoy in the park, such as fishing, backpacking, and mountaineering.

Related: Montana Vs. Wyoming: Which State Deserves Your Attention, According To Reddit

8 Acadia National Park, Maine

a hiker standing on a cliff in acadia national park, maine

One of the top 10 destinations in Maine, Acadia National Park is a magnificent coastal paradise with some of the most stunning mountain views in the country. Home to a wide array of wildlife, including whales, harbor seals, and porpoises, this national park off the coast of Maine offers travelers a unique way of exploring nature's wonders. Park visitors can also expect to spot bald eagles and peregrine falcons. The park is great for hikes and also boasts several biking trails.

7 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Photo 117351352 © Tang Man | Dreamstime.com
Bear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One the top 10 visited national parks in the US, Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans across two states-Tennessee and North Carolina. This protected area offers travelers a unique combination of lush woodlands that are perfect for spotting bears, raccoons, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer. In the springtime, visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of wildflowers in bloom.

  • Pro tip: For the best views, visitors can take a hike to Clingmans Dome on one of the park's scenic trails.
  • Entrance fee: $5 per vehicle for a 1-day pass

6 Everglades National Park, Florida

Nesting birds and chicks in the Everglades National Park in Florida, USA
Photo by sterlinglanier Lanier on Unsplash
Nesting birds and chicks in the Everglades National Park in Florida, USA

There's no better way to crown spring break in Florida than a visit to the wetland wonderland of Everglades National Park. Located in south Florida, this subtropical paradise offers travelers a unique opportunity to observe some of the state's most diverse wildlife. Visitors can expect to spot alligators, manatees, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Bird watchers will also get a chance to observe some of the park's more than 360 bird species, such as owls and herons. Other activities include fishing, canoeing, and camping.

5 Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Photo 150188679  Brenda Denmark | Dreamstime.com
Scenic View of the Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 

This incredible park in northern Colorado is an absolute must-see for nature lovers in the springtime. As its name implies, Rocky Mountain National Park offers visitors a unique chance to explore some of the state's most spectacular mountains and alpine tundra. While hiking one of its trails, visitors can expect to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and other incredible wild creatures. Visitors can take a leisurely drive around the park via Trail Ridge Road to take in some of its most captivating views.

Related: From Denver To Aspen: 10 Best Springtime Destinations In Colorado

4 Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Yellowstone National Park

Spanning three states, Yellowstone National Park is known for its spectacular geothermal features, such as its famous hot springs and geysers. Its most famous geyser, Old Faithful, is a must-see in the springtime. Animal lovers can also spot bears, bison, and wolves in their natural habitat. A visit to the Grand Prismatic Spring and Yellowstone Lake also provides visitors with a unique way to take in the park's stunning scenery.

3 Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park, Utah

Located in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park is surrounded by some of the country's most breathtaking canyons and cliffs. Park visitors can take a unique and thrilling hike through its famous Narrows or climb the park's towering cliffs to get some of the best views in the region. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including mountain lions, foxes, and California Condors. Park visitors can check out Hidden Canyon for a chance to spot some of the park's more elusive creatures.

2 New River Gorge National Park And Preserve, West Virginia

The New River Gorge Bridge at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
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The New River Gorge Bridge at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

This unique national park is perhaps best known for its namesake New River Gorge Bridge—one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. It also holds the distinction of being America's newest national park. In addition to its stunning views, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer visitors a chance to explore some of West Virginia's most incredible wildlife. The park is home to at least 65 species of mammals, including white-tailed deer, beavers, opossums, and raccoons.

  • Entrance fee: Free

1 Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Photo 30686823 © Beatrice Preve | Dreamstime.com
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 

Grand Canyon National Park needs no introduction. Located in northern Arizona, this iconic park offers travelers a chance to explore one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. The park's North and South rims are known for their awe-inspiring views. Animal lovers can expect to spot desert creatures like coyotes, squirrels, and lizards during their visit. Park visitors can also enjoy activities such as camping, rafting, and hiking.