10 Wild Lands for Lovers

Love is an adventure. And so, too, is the time we spend on our spectacular public wild lands. In honor of Valentine's Day, we present you with 10 public lands that capture the spirit of Cupid in one way or another. Some of these lands have features that remind us of love, while others are great places to take your sweetie.

And worth noting, there couldn't be a better time to explore America's lovely wild lands, especially because Valentine's Day falls on President's Day weekend when our national parks will be offering free entrance!

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is known to be one of the most beautiful places in America to tie the knot, and in winter it is especially magical. Visiting couples can ice skate in the valley, ski at Badger Pass, or snowshoe through a breathtaking Sequoian forest.

2. Joshua Tree National Park, California

This park showcases the beautiful marriage of the Mojave and Colorado deserts. Like a couple, each desert has its unique qualities and their combination invites an even greater diversity of life. Joshua Tree is a world-class destination for climbing, a recreational activity that often takes two. Rock lovers may spy this heart-shaped rock, which has been sculpted by winds and water over millions of years. Starry-eyed lovers will enjoy Joshua Tree's exquisitely glittering dark skies at night.

3. Three Creek Lake, Deschutes National Forest, Oregon

This heart-shaped lake is nestled in Oregon's Deschutes National Forest. Three Creek Lake is located in a glacial cirque, a bowl-shaped valley near mountains. It is a popular fishing destination during the warmer months. In the winter, couples can enjoy sledding, snowshoeing and cross country skiing on the scenic Three Creek Nordic Trails.

4. San Bernardino National Forest, California

San Bernardino National Forest boasts a gorgeous overlook at Heart Rock. An easy hike leads visitors to a 20-foot waterfall, but the location is named for a special heart-shaped hole in a nearby boulder. There's plenty of romantic inspiration here!

5. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai'i

Hawai'i is a dream for those looking for a warmer Valentine's Day. The beauty of these islands is indisputable, from enchanting sunsets over the Pacific Ocean to steamy volcanic formations to the tropical ‘Apua wilderness. It's no surprise that newlyweds often choose to celebrate their love by heading to its wild shores.

6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Cuyahoga is a place for bird lovers - and bird-loving couples. Those who love history will also enjoy vintage train rides through this scenic valley. From May to October, bikers can ride the train after riding a one-way path through this popular park.

7. Browns Canyon, Colorado

For the adventurous couple, Browns Canyon can't be beat. As Colorado’s premier rafting destination, it's also a great place to cook a fish before setting up camp. The recent monument designation of Browns Canyon makes this place even sweeter!

8. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion is one of America's most stunning national parks in winter. Wilderness lovers can hike or snowshoe through red-rock canyons sprinkled with white snow. A quiet night in a rustic cabin may be the perfect way to unwind together at day's end.

9. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah is ideal for couples seeking to escape the stress of the city for the weekend. It hosts one of America's most spectacular scenic drives and one of the best sections of the legendary Appalachian Trail, so it's no wonder it's one of the top national parks for weddings. There are also plenty of historical destinations in this area of Virginia - a state that indeed claims to be for lovers. 

10. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia's beautiful winter landscape is the perfect place to find peace and quiet. Backcountry skiing will transport lovers through serene scenery, offering them plenty of time alone together. Acadia also boasts lots of unique adventures like dog sledding, ice fishing and even winter camping, so it is a great place for couples to try something new.