Lifestyle
America’s Most Stunning Landscapes: 15 Natural Wonders Worth the Visit
By Jake Beardslee · March 17, 2024
Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Utah is a sanctuary of massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, from the easy riverside walks to the challenging Angels Landing hike, providing something for everyone. Zion's unique landscape of narrow canyons and towering cliffs make it a premier destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Fineas Anton/Unsplash
Monument Valley
Monument Valley, straddling the Utah-Arizona border, showcases massive sandstone buttes that dominate the barren desert landscape. This iconic American West landscape, part of the Navajo Nation, offers visitors a glimpse into a vast, untouched natural world. The 17-mile scenic drive within the Monument Valley Tribal Park provides up-close views of these striking formations. Nik Shuliahin 💛💙/Unsplash
Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier, standing tall in Washington's landscape, is not only the highest peak in the Cascade Range but also one of America's most epic natural landmarks. With millions flocking to Mount Rainier National Park each year, this majestic mountain offers a range of activities from challenging hikes to serene views accessible to all visitors. The park's diverse ecosystem and stunning wildflowers during July and August add to its charm, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts​. Andrew S/Unsplash
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, is a picturesque cascade found in the Columbia River Gorge. Easily accessible and a short drive from Portland, the falls attract visitors with its accessible viewpoints and the iconic Benson Bridge, which provides a stunning vantage point for photography. The best time to visit is in spring when the water flow is at its peak, offering a spectacular display of natural beauty. James Forbes/Unsplash
Crater Lake
Crater Lake, the result of a cataclysmic volcanic eruption over 7,000 years ago, is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the most pristine globally. Oregon's only national park, Crater Lake National Park, draws visitors with its vivid blue water, breathtaking vistas, and activities like hiking, swimming, and boat tours to Wizard Island. Driving around the rim offers panoramic views of this natural wonder. Dan Meyers/Unsplash
Arches National Park
Utah's Arches National Park is world-renowned for its over 2,000 natural stone arches, with Delicate Arch being the most iconic. This landscape of contrasting colors, landforms, and textures is best viewed at sunrise or sunset, offering photographers and nature lovers spectacular sights. The park's accessibility allows visitors to explore its beauty through hikes or scenic drives. Intricate Explorer/Unsplash
Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) in the world, presents a natural amphitheater of breathtaking beauty. Located in southern Utah, Bryce Canyon offers trails like the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop, which allow visitors to wander among these stunning formations. The park's high elevation makes for cool summer weather, ideal for exploring. Ellis Dieperink/Unsplash
White Sands National Monument
White Sands National Monument in New Mexico is an ethereal landscape of glistening white gypsum dunes, the largest of its kind in the world. The dunes are constantly changing, creating a dynamic and surreal environment. Visitors can explore the dunes on foot, by sledding, or even during a full moon, offering a unique desert experience​. Anchor Lee/Unsplash
Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska is a land of towering fjords, glaciers, and temperate rainforests. With over 1,000 glaciers, the park offers opportunities for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and glacier tours. The immense beauty and remote wilderness of Glacier Bay make it a must-visit for those seeking solitude and adventure in nature​. Frank Thiemonge/Unsplash
Redwood National and State Parks
Home to the tallest trees on earth, Redwood National and State Parks in California offer a chance to walk amongst giants. These ancient redwoods provide a window into the past and a refuge for diverse ecosystems. The parks' trails lead visitors through serene forests, where the quiet and grandeur of these towering trees can be fully appreciated. Emma Watson/Unsplash
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a rare opportunity to witness the power of creation, with KÄ«lauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, at its heart. The park's diverse landscapes range from lush rainforests to volcanic craters and deserts, providing a unique environment for hiking, camping, and exploration. The dynamic nature of the park means that every visit can offer a new and exciting experience. Cedric Letsch/Unsplash
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, straddling the border between the United States and Canada, is a spectacle of nature's power. The falls' immense water flow and beauty attract millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the falls are at their most vibrant​. Sergey Pesterev/Unsplash
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone, the first national park in the world, is a wonderland of geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mudpots. The park's vast landscapes also support a diverse range of wildlife, making it a premier destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Meina Yin/Unsplash
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, offers breathtaking views that inspire awe and reflection. This immense chasm, carved by the Colorado River, showcases the power of nature and the passage of time. Visitors can explore the canyon's rim, hike into its depths, or raft its rapids, experiencing its grandeur from various perspectives​. Ken Cheung/Unsplash
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine, blends ocean, mountains, and forests into a stunning natural landscape. The park's trails and carriage roads offer access to rugged coastline, serene woodland, and mountain summits. Acadia's beauty changes with the seasons, from the vibrant fall foliage to the serene snow-covered winter landscape, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers​. Trevor Hayes/Unsplash