The U.S. has it all, from stunning natural parks to breathtaking mountain ranges, whether you’re a backpacker, photographer, or nature enthusiast. There are incredible natural wonders to visit all across America, and we’ve listed 17 of the best of them for your next trip.
The Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon has to be one of the most famous natural landmarks in the U.S. This natural rock formation is a geological wonder and offers fantastic views from Mather Point. According to the National Park Service, the canyon averages 4,000 feet deep for its 277 miles.
Yellowstone National Park
The first national park in the world, Yellowstone hosts the famous geyser Old Faithful and is home to a number of wildlife, including elk, bison, and grizzly bears. It’s the number one choice for hikers, campers, and those who want to enjoy a stunning piece of nature.
Niagara Falls
On the border between the U.S. and Canada is the most famous waterfall group in the world. Many dream of visiting it at some point in their lives! Known for its iconic height and powerful waters, you can enjoy a Maid of the Mist boat ride here.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is one of the most popular choices for rock climbers due to its impressive cliffs. It’s also famous for its gigantic sequoia trees and stunning waterfalls. Hikers can visit sites such as El Capitan and Half Dome, and, of course, it’s the perfect spot for photographers.
The Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains spreading across Tennessee and North Carolina are a wonder to behold, thanks to their misty blue tips. They’re the perfect place for a scenic drive, with Newfound Gap Road being a popular choice. You can also enjoy hiking and visiting the nearby historic homesteads.
Glacier National Park, Montana
National Geographic explains how the glaciers that gave this park its name have been shaping it for over two million years. The beautiful icy landscape is also home to an array of wildlife, and there’s the perfect scenic mountain road—Going to the Sun—to take it all in.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
This impressive national park offers a golden vista of tall, thin rock formations, best viewed at sunrise or sunset. The national park offers perfect viewpoints to take it all in, including Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point. You can also do a bit of stargazing.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is the highest peak in North America. The vast wilderness in this incredible national park will have you catching your breath! It’s also the perfect place to view wildlife, as well as to go mountaineering or even dog sledding.
The Everglades, Florida
The Everglades are known for being the largest natural tropical location in the U.S. Their river and grassland are home to a range of wildlife, including alligators and manatees. You can visit safely on an airboat tour or even go kayaking.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
The best way to explore Antelope Canyon is with a guided tour. This way, you can navigate its narrow passageways and learn more about the canyon’s stunning colors. The wave-like rock formations in this natural wonder are famous, especially when the light beams hit.
Monument Valley
Another red desert in both Arizona and Utah is Monument Valley, with its famous red sandstone pillars. This natural location is so iconic that it has been used in many movies and TV shows, with IMDb listing Forrest Gump and 2001: A Space Odyssey as two of the most famous ones.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
As the name suggests, this incredible natural wonder houses the deepest lake in the U.S., created by a collapsed volcano. The lake itself offers beautiful, clear waters, and you can expect stunning views across the park. Hiking and boat tours are popular activities.
Redwood National and State Parks, California
This national park has the tallest trees in the world: immense coastal redwoods, perfect for a hike or even to set up camp next to. You can enjoy a scenic drive through the Avenue of the Giants and take in the majestic wonders of these ancient forests.
Arches National Park, Utah
This stunning national park gets its name from over 2,000 natural stone arches found here, including the most famous, Delicate Arch. Its epic landscape offers rich red rock and unique formations, all of which make for a magical visit. It’s ideal for a spot of photography or a relaxing drive.
The Badlands, South Dakota
The Badlands offer something a little more rugged and remote, with unique rock formations and dramatic views. According to Britannica, the Badlands are also known for their extensive fossil finds, which include the three-toed horse and saber-toothed tiger.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Home to the stratovolcano Mount Rainier, this national park offers a glacial retreat with diverse ecosystems and plenty of outdoor activities, no matter the weather. Even with the icy white peak, you can still enjoy its beautiful wildflower meadows below.
The Wave, Arizona
Our final natural wonder requires a permit to visit due to its sheer popularity and the need to protect its delicate condition. The Wave reveals intricate rock formations that offer stunning colors and a unique, if not surreal, experience.
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