When it comes to tropical paradise, many people imagine pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation. But what if we told you that there are two national parks in the US that embody all of these qualities and more? That’s right, we’re talking about Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park. These two parks offer a unique combination of natural beauty, historic significance, and recreational opportunities that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust.
Dry Tortugas, situated 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, is a cluster of seven small islands that are surrounded by some of the clearest waters in the world. This park is famous for its historic Fort Jefferson, a massive brick structure that was once used as a military prison. Visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to the park, where they can snorkel, swim, or kayak in the turquoise waters, or simply relax on the white sand beaches.
Virgin Islands National Park, on the other hand, is located on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. This park is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, including Trunk Bay, which is known for its underwater snorkeling trail. The park also features lush rainforests, tropical wildlife, and historic sugar plantation ruins. With so much to see and do, Virgin Islands National Park is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and beach bums alike.
So, which one will you choose? The historic charm of Dry Tortugas or the tropical beauty of Virgin Islands? The choice is yours. But one thing’s for sure, both of these national parks are worth a visit, and we’re here to help you decide which one is right for you.
Hiking Trails in Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are two of the most spectacular national parks in the country, offering unique experiences to visitors. Both offer excellent hiking trails, but each park has its own unique features.
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in Florida and is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. The park’s hiking trails are relatively easy, with well-maintained paths and beautiful views of the surrounding waters. The Fort Jefferson Trail is one of the easiest hikes, offering a flat path that takes visitors past the historic Fort Jefferson. Another popular trail is the Garden Key Trail, which takes visitors to the site of a former garden, now overgrown with lush tropical vegetation.
On the other hand, Virgin Islands National Park is located in the U.S. Virgin Islands and offers a more challenging hiking experience. The park’s trails are steep and rocky, with uneven terrain and challenging inclines. The Annenberg Trail is one of the hardest hikes in the park, with a steep ascent to the top of Bordeaux Mountain. Despite the challenge, the views from the top are worth the effort, with panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the Caribbean Sea. The Reef Bay Trail is another popular trail, offering a scenic hike through the lush tropical rainforest to the site of an ancient petroglyph.
In conclusion, both Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park offer exceptional hiking experiences, each with its own unique features. Whether you are seeking an easy, scenic hike or a challenging, strenuous climb, these parks have something to offer for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Dry Tortugas National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Jefferson Loop | 804.67 | 0.9144 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Virgin Islands National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind Canyon Trail | 804.67 | 16.764 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Caprock Coulee Loop | 6115.492 | 159.7152 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Painted Canyon Nature Trail | 1770.274 | 78.9432 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Petrified Forest Trail | 16415.268 | 253.8984 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| Maah Daah Hey Trail | 229009.082 | 4614.9768 | Hard | point to point | 4.5 |
| Lower Paddock Creek Trail | 11587.248 | 127.7112 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Buck Hill Trail | 643.736 | 16.764 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Ridgeline Nature Trail | 1126.538 | 33.8328 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Coal Vein Trail | 965.604 | 4.8768 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Buckhorn Trail | 19633.948 | 324.9168 | Hard | loop | 4.6 |
Wildlife in Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are two unique parks with different wildlife. Dry Tortugas is located in the Gulf of Mexico, while Virgin Islands is located in the Caribbean Sea. Dry Tortugas is known for its diverse bird population, including pelicans, frigate birds, and terns that can be seen flying high in the sky. The park is also home to numerous species of sea turtles, including the green turtle, loggerhead turtle and hawksbill turtle. Additionally, Dry Tortugas is a great place to see dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat.
On the other hand, Virgin Islands National Park is best known for its diverse marine life, including a variety of fish, coral, and other sea creatures. Visitors can take a snorkeling or diving trip to see many of these species up close. The park is also home to a number of different bird species, including the brown pelican, frigate bird and the masked booby. Land animals in the park include mongooses, iguanas, and a variety of bats. The park is also home to a number of different plant species, including cacti, palm trees and mangroves.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Dry Tortugas National Park | Virgin Islands National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| American Robin | American Robin |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Great Horned Owl |
| Northern Flicker | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Merlin | Northern Flicker |
| Barn Swallow | Merlin |
| Savannah Sparrow | Barn Swallow |
| Great Blue Heron | Savannah Sparrow |
| Hermit Thrush | Great Blue Heron |
| American Kestrel | American Kestrel |
| Song Sparrow | Bald Eagle |
| European Starling | Song Sparrow |
| Northern Pintail | European Starling |
| Green-Winged Teal | Northern Pintail |
| American Pipit | American Wigeon |
| Swainson’s Thrush | Green-Winged Teal |
| Killdeer | Swainson’s Thrush |
Mammals
| Dry Tortugas National Park | Virgin Islands National Park |
|---|---|
| House Rat | Coyote |
| American Beaver | |
| Muskrat | |
| Big Brown Bat | |
| Bobcat | |
| Striped Skunk | |
| Little Brown Bat | |
| Deer Mouse | |
| Raccoon | |
| Porcupine | |
| Silver-Haired Bat | |
| Hoary Bat | |
| Red Fox | |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | |
| House Mouse | |
| Mountain Lion | |
| Mink | |
| Mule Deer | |
| Gray Wolf | |
| Long-Legged Myotis | |
| Long-Eared Myotis | |
| Badger | |
| Snowshoe Hare | |
| North American River Otter | |
| Masked Shrew |
Reptiles
| Dry Tortugas National Park | Virgin Islands National Park |
|---|---|
| Bullsnake | |
| Racer | |
| Rattlesnake | |
| Sagebrush Lizard | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Hernandez’s Short-Horned Lizard |
Amphibians
| Dry Tortugas National Park | Virgin Islands National Park |
|---|---|
| Northern Leopard Frog | |
| Tiger Salamander | |
| Woodhouse’s Toad | |
| Plains Spadefoot |
Fish
| Dry Tortugas National Park | Virgin Islands National Park |
|---|---|
| Longnose Sucker | |
| Green Sunfish | |
| Bluegill | |
| Flathead Minnow | |
| Golden Shiner | |
| Carp/European Carp | |
| Northern Pike | |
| Burbot | |
| Longnose Dace | |
| Channel Catfish | |
| Black Bullhead | |
| Creek Chub |
Beautiful Landscapes in Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico and is famous for its stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters. Visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to the park and explore its seven islands, including Fort Jefferson. The park is also home to an abundance of marine life and bird species, as well as beautiful coral reefs and turquoise waters.
On the other hand, Virgin Islands National Park is located in the Caribbean and is famous for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can hike to famous overlooks like the Bordeaux Mountain Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, which provides a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. The park is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with a variety of coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore.
Things To-Do and Activities in Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the US, offering unique experiences to visitors. Dry Tortugas, located off the coast of Florida, is a remote island chain known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing are the most popular activities here, and visitors can also take a ferry or seaplane to Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century military fortress.
In comparison, Virgin Islands National Park, located in the US Virgin Islands, is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches and lush vegetation. Hiking, kayaking, and sailing are popular activities, as well as snorkeling and scuba diving in the park’s coral reefs. Visitors can also tour historic plantations and visit the park’s visitors center to learn about the history and culture of the Virgin Islands.
Both parks offer unique experiences that attract visitors from around the world. Whether you are looking for a remote island getaway or a tropical escape, Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park have something to offer everyone.
Best Time to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are both tropical destinations that offer unique experiences to visitors. When it comes to weather, both parks offer warm temperatures and sunny skies for much of the year, but there are some key differences to keep in mind when deciding when to visit.
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Florida Keys and is known for its warm and sunny weather year-round. The park experiences its hottest temperatures from June to September, with average temperatures ranging from 80-90°F (27-32°C). However, this time of year is also the park’s rainy season, so visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
In contrast, Virgin Islands National Park is located on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. The park experiences its warmest temperatures from December to May, with average temperatures ranging from 80-90°F (27-32°C). The park is also drier during these months, making them the best time of year to visit. However, visitors should be aware that the park is located in the hurricane belt, so there is a greater risk of storms from June to November.
In conclusion, both Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park offer warm and sunny weather for much of the year, but there are some key differences in terms of temperature and precipitation. Visitors to Dry Tortugas should plan their trip for the cooler months from October to May to avoid the rainy season, while visitors to Virgin Islands should plan their trip for the dry months from December to May to avoid the hurricane season.
Family Friendliness of Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are two very different destinations, with unique features, activities, and attractions. When it comes to family-friendliness, both parks offer a range of activities that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. However, each park has its strengths and weaknesses.
Dry Tortugas National Park is located off the coast of Florida and is known for its stunning coral reefs, abundant marine life, and historic Fort Jefferson. This park is a great option for families who enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. The park also offers a variety of educational programs for children, including ranger-led tours and educational talks.
Virgin Islands National Park, on the other hand, is located on the island of St. John and is famous for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and clear blue waters. This park is an excellent choice for families who enjoy water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The park also offers a range of educational programs and guided hikes, allowing visitors to learn about the unique ecology and history of the region.
In conclusion, both Dry Tortugas National Park and Virgin Islands National Park are family-friendly destinations that offer a variety of activities and educational opportunities. However, families who enjoy water activities and tropical landscapes may prefer Virgin Islands National Park, while families who enjoy exploring history and marine life may prefer Dry Tortugas National Park.