Get ready to explore some of America’s most stunning natural sights. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, an iconic view, or a peaceful escape, these 17 destinations across the U.S. will give you an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
An iconic natural wonder, the Grand Canyon is known for its colorful landscape and overwhelming size. The National Park Service says the “Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world.” Whether you’re into hiking, rafting, or fancy seeing it from above on a helicopter tour, it has something to offer everyone.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
As well as the world’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, Yellowstone has over 10,000 geothermal highlights to explore, including hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. When you’re in the park, look out for bison, bears, wolves, and elk, which you may be lucky enough to see in their own habitats.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite has a lot to see, including the granite cliffs of El Capital and Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. While you’re in the park, head to Tunnel View and Glacier Point for some iconic views over the valley, waterfalls, and highlands.
Niagara Falls, New York
On the border of the USA and Canada, Niagara Falls is an impressive site. Visit the USA says there are three falls to see, including “Horseshoe Falls (almost 51 meters tall), American Falls (53.6 meters tall), and Bridal Veil Falls (53.6 meters tall).”
Sequoia National Park, California
The giant redwoods in this Californian national park are breathtaking. Make sure you don’t miss seeing the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree by volume in the world. You can also make your way into the Crystal Cave, where you’ll be able to see some impressive stalagmite and stalactite formations.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali is the tallest mountain in North America, and the national park offers amazing views of the peak. Bus tours and hiking trails make it easy to get around, and you might spot grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, and Dall sheep on your adventures through the Alaskan wilderness.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
This famous slot canyon was formed by water and wind over millions of years. Lonely Planet recommends that the “lighting conditions are best around mid-morning between April and September, but the other months bring smaller crowds and a more intimate experience.”
Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they give visitors a chance to explore the largest tropical wilderness in the USA. Airboats are a fantastic way to see the waters, where you’ll skim across the surface, looking out for wildlife such as the American alligator.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
There are well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other structures throughout the Great Smoky Mountains Park that give visitors an idea of how early Appalachian settlers would have lived in the area. There are also great walking trails and scenic views, especially from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park has over 2,000 natural stone arches to see, including the famous Delicate Arch. The desert has a variety of hiking and driving trails to explore, and if you stay the night, you can enjoy some of the darkest skies in the U.S.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake was formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama and is now the deepest lake in the United States, with stunning deep blue waters to admire. Visitors can also head to Wizard Island, a cinder cone at the center of the lake.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Visit this national park to explore the remains of ancient glaciers and the turquoise glacial lakes that have been left behind. To get the full experience, drive or take the shuttle along the Going-to-the-Sun road, a scenic route that takes you right through the heart of the park.
Acadia National Park, Maine
According to Visit Maine, “Whether you’re interested in visiting Acadia National Park for fall foliage, winter skiing, spring fishing or summer hikes, it’s the perfect outdoor playground.” This coastal national park offers views of rocky shorelines, and you can even paddle out around the islands to see the mountains from the water.
Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Perfect for hiking and camping, this park has designated trails and camp areas to keep you safe and show you some of the best spots. The sandstone formations throughout the Valley of Fire are over 150 million years old, and they are an impressive, vibrant red color.
Big Sur, California
Highway One has amazing views of the rugged California coastline meeting the Pacific Ocean and is a must-drive route if you are in this area. In the park, you’ll find impressive redwood forests where you can walk among some of the tallest trees on earth.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Views of Bryce Canyon are best caught at sunrise or sunset, when the rock formations glow in vibrant oranges and reds for an amazing sight. If you’re there for sunset, make sure you stay for nightfall to see the stars in the clear night skies.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park has a diverse range of habitats and ecosystems, and you’ll be able to explore areas such as desert scrubland and forests. For those who are good with heights, Angel’s Landing is well worth it for some of the most famous views in American national parks.
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