Scuba Diving in America’s National Parks

When you think of national parks, incredible landscapes often come to mind. However, many national parks also boast beautiful underwater “trails” where the flora and fauna are as spectacular as those on land.

Yellowstone National Park

Celebrated for its majestic geysers, Yellowstone National Park also offers a unique underwater experience. At 390ft (119 m) deep and spanning 125 square miles (324 km), Yellowstone Lake is one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes. The water here ranges from cold to scalding hot, creating fascinating vertical spires. Popular dive sites include West Thumb Geyser Basin, Firehole River at Mystic Falls, and the bubbling gases at Mary Bay, described by divers as “swimming through champagne.”

Redwood Forest National Park

While the towering trees of Redwood Forest National Park are a sight to behold, the underwater scenery is equally stunning. A dive boat trip to the pristine shoreline of Gold Bluffs Beach leads you to the best diving sites, filled with underwater cliffs, sea lions, and perhaps even a shark. On calmer days, Wilson Creek Beach offers easy shore diving, and freshwater divers can explore the underwater gorge of Smith River.

Glacier Bay National Park

Diving in Glacier Bay National Park reveals a breathtaking subaquatic landscape. Although summer dives might offer warmer temperatures, it’s wise to dive from mid-May to June or September through October. Throughout these periods, you can expect to encounter rockfish, nudibranchs, and vibrant marine life, particularly at South Marble Island, where you can observe anemones and crabs with visiting pods of humpback whales.

Glacier National Park

Often confused with Alaska’s Glacier Bay, Glacier National Park in Montana is a hidden gem for divers. Lake McDonald features an underwater still life at the Lake Treasures dive site, where old farm implements rest in sand. You can also “hike” through submerged forests at Sprague Creek and see the remnants of the Gertrude, a stern paddle-wheeler scuttled in 1918.

Apostle Islands National Seashore

For those intrigued by wreck diving, the Apostle Islands National Seashore offers numerous sites. After obtaining a permit at park headquarters in Bayfield, Wisconsin, you can explore 22 islands filled with historical shipwrecks. Notable sites include the Lucerne, a 195ft schooner, and the Sevona, which lies in shallow waters perfect for divers from small watercraft.

Grand Teton National Park

Located just north of Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park features Jenny Lake, once a popular spot for divers. Today, it offers crystal-clear waters, an ancient submerged forest, and diverse fish populations. Equipment rental is available at Grand Teton’s boating center, where you can prepare for a tranquil diving experience.

Olympic National Park

With its diverse ecosystems, Olympic National Park offers a unique blend of diving experiences, from saltwater to freshwater. The Hood Canal near Puget Sound is perfect for watching marine creatures, while Lake Crescent is renowned for its exceptional visibility and vibrant aquatic life.

Acadia National Park

Considered a challenging dive destination, Acadia National Park is ideal for advanced divers. The extreme tides and cold waters of Maine present challenges but reward brave divers with spectacular dive sites. Discover colorful marine life at Little Hunters Beach or head to the remote waters of Acadia’s Schoodic Peninsula for hidden underwater treasures.

This guide presents unique opportunities for divers, showcasing the stunning underwater worlds within America’s national parks. Experience the untamed beauty waiting beneath the surface with iBestTravel.