Alberta-Montana-British Columbia: Waterton-Glacier "Crown of the Continent" Region
Score: 67

These adjoining national parks along the U.S.-Canada border feature "excellent" environmental practices, including public bus service and enlisting neighboring ranchers in conservation efforts. But park officials can't stop the "atrocious" development along the western approach nor the melting of glaciers due to global warming.

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"Level of conservation and protection of parks is excellent. Most development is concentrated in a few portals and is contained. Peripheral development is generally of good quality. Public transport in Glacier Park is excellent. Seasonal stress is significant but well managed. The tourism season is short, and wildlife is very well protected."

"Great open space and wonderful landscapes with integrated communities. Good collaboration along the U.S.-Canada border for management of the landscape."

"Area well-protected, although climate change is having an impact on the original raison d'etre of the park."

"Parks Canada and local efforts to manage tourism impacts in Waterton Lakes NP seem to be helping keep the area intact. The outlook for sustainability is good."