From the rugged mountain climbs of Boulder to the jagged coastlines of the Northeast, the US is home to mind-blowing beautiful, natural vistas. The majestic landforms and the dramatic seascapes are best experienced up close. America is such a big country, and one of the best ways to experience its legendary nature is by sampling different locations.
Whether on a five-mile flirtatious hike through an evergreen forest or by the crushing flow of a cascading waterfall, these US natural sites provide a perfect getaway if you seek solitude away from the busy demands of modern life. You will experience the cuddling nature of the dramatic, glacial valleys of Yosemite and the jealously protected parks that are a haven for an astonishing array of wildlife. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, there are enough natural destinations in the US to satisfy your unrelenting curiosity.
Over the river and through the woods, life is sweeter, hiking and exploring some of the best-kept travel secrets. This article explores eight must-see places in the United States for nature lovers.
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon Arizona is a steep-sided landscape perched in the northwest corner of Arizona. The canyon is carved by the Colorado River and is considered among the world’s natural wonders. The nature site is home to the massive expanse of gorges, Rim trails on the South Rim, and the remote North Rim covered in snow most of the time.
More than five million visitors flock to this place to enjoy hiking tours that take you to the bottom and the incredible views from various vantage points. For an unforgettable experience, plan for full-day itineraries in the park.
2. Yellowstone National Park
Located primarily in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park has the distinction of being the world’s first national park. The park was founded in 1872 and has remained one of the most popular national parks in the USA, attracting millions of visitors yearly.
Yellowstone National Park is home to hundreds of animal species and dramatic canyons, among many others. The expansive park is a 3,500-square-mile wilderness recreation center covering three different states. A trip to the world’s oldest park can keep you busy as you witness the drama of the natural world unfold.
3. Eugene, Oregon
Nestled near the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers confluence, Eugene, Oregon, is famous for its picturesque foothills and verdant lowlands. The beautiful fem forests provide enchanting views for those who don’t want to stretch beyond the city limits. Here you will find natural splendor at its bests. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail is a perfect cycling spot for bikers.
4. Great Smoky Mountains
A gorgeous natural gem, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most-visited national park in the USA. The range rises along the Tennessee/North Carolina border, stretching over 500,000 acres. If you are visiting the park for the first time and want a vintage view of the cascading waterfall, start from Gatlinburg. Plan a hike through one of the park’s famous paths, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience.
This gorgeous natural gem is known for its plant and animal life diversity and provides breathtaking wildflower walks and over 150 Smoky Mountain trails. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the show from all angles.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park
In the north-central region of Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers majestic views from all fronts. You’ll come across wildlife roaming the valleys, and there are beautiful mountains that provide visitors with the most incredible outdoor adventures on the planet. Rocky Mountain National Park attracts thousands of tourists worldwide.
If photography is your thing, the national park provides an excellent environment close to the most amazing natural scenes. Animal lovers flock here to discover rarely-mentioned animals.
6. Niagara Falls
Located along the US-Canada boundary, Niagara has an awe-inspiring scenery. From guided hikes to thrilling attractions, there are enough natural sceneries for everyone. You’ll find three waterfalls that gush into the waiting river. A visit to this park is an adventure-packed experience. Niagara Gorge provides a perfect opportunity for the daring to experience the power of the Falls from the Hurricane Deck.
If all you want to see here are the powerful cascades with some of the most extensive water flows in the world, you should stay here longer. The miles of hiking trails provide a perfect opportunity to explore nature. Don’t leave without exploring the roar. Jump into the Maid of the Mist boat and experience an enthralling tour in Niagara Falls. If time allows, grab your passport and cross to the Canadian side that boasts more natural beauty.
7. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp is the first underwater park in the USA. The Coral reef state park is in Florida, and many people flock here to marvel at the beautiful coral reefs. If you have never sailed on a boat, try the one at John Pennekamp. Tourists use a glass bottom boat to enjoy the beauty that lies under those coral reefs.
Extreme sports lovers have the opportunity to canoe on mangrove-lined waterways.
8. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, has dramatic Appalachian views frequently shrouded in a tranquil bluish fog because of its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Balsam Nature Trail’s hiking path leads through a balsam fir forest to Mount Mitchell’s peak, the highest point east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet.
The approximately 60-mile Blue Ridge Scenic Loop offers access to some of the most beautiful locations nearby, such as Pisgah National Forest, from the luxury of a car for people who wish to explore stunning views without physical effort.
Plan a Visit to Some of The Most Visited Nature Destinations.
The best way to appreciate America’s stunning landforms is up close. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience it all inside the US borders, whether on a tranquil trek through an evergreen forest or by the gushing water of a tumbling waterfall. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind traveling experience.
