For many people, visiting the incredible Galápagos Islands off the coast of mainland Ecuador is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list trip. Famed for its biodiversity, ancient giant tortoises, outstanding conservation, and snorkeling opportunities, it's a paradise for lovers of the natural world. Scientists have long heralded the Galápagos as the standard for conservation, and for good reason.

However, getting to the Galápagos Islands isn't easy, and it isn't cheap. For many, it seems out of reach. However, there is a stunning U.S. national park that's being called the Galápagos of the U.S. Known for its incredible biodiversity, hiking trails, snorkeling opportunities, and hard-to-reach status, it certainly matches the Galápagos on a number of key features.

Channel Islands National Park, t

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