Every U.S. state boasts its own slice of natural paradise. From soaring mountains and cascading waterfalls to serene beaches and mysterious caves, each state offers a unique outdoor escape. Whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking solitude or planning a fun family outing, this list has something for everyone. Let’s embark on a virtual road trip through 50 awe-inspiring nature getaways across the country.
1. Alabama: Little River Canyon National Preserve
Often called the ‘Grand Canyon of the East,’ this 15,000-acre preserve atop Lookout Mountain features a deep canyon carved by the Little River over millennia. Visitors can admire towering rock cliffs and waterfalls and even enjoy some whitewater paddling. A scenic drive along AL-176 reveals plenty of overlooks for family-friendly views into the gorge.
2. Alaska: Denali National Park
Home to Denali (Mount McKinley), which soars to 20,310 feet, this park offers one of the most awe-inspiring mountain vistas in the world. Vast tundra plains spread below the snowy peaks, teeming with wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, and caribou. Whether you hop on a park bus tour or hike a trail, you’ll experience untamed wilderness under the gaze of ‘The Great One’ (Denali’s Athabascan name).
3. Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona’s natural wonder hardly needs an introduction. The Grand Canyon’s immense red and orange layers stretch 277 miles, creating sunsets and panoramas that defy description. Hike along the rim or descend into the canyon on epic trails – either way, this iconic chasm is a must-see that will take your breath away.
4. Arkansas: Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag)
Tucked in the Ozark National Forest, this rocky outcrop (shaped like a hawk’s beak) juts high above a lush valley. It’s one of Arkansas’s most photographed spots, especially in fall when the hardwood forest below explodes with color. Hike the moderate trail to Whitaker Point for a stunning overlook, and stick around after dusk for brilliant stargazing in this designated Dark Sky area.
5. California: Yosemite National Park
California’s crown jewel, Yosemite wows visitors with its giant sequoia groves, thundering waterfalls, and towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. Stroll through the peaceful Mariposa Grove among ancient sequoia trees, or hike to Bridalveil Fall’s misty base. From family-friendly valley floor trails to challenging backcountry hikes, Yosemite offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for all ages.
6. Colorado: Maroon Bells
Near Aspen, the Maroon Bells are two 14,000-foot peaks reflected perfectly in Maroon Lake, creating one of the most postcard-perfect mountain scenes in America. Photographers and hikers flock here at sunrise to catch the pink alpenglow on the Bells. Several hiking trails, from easy lakeside strolls to longer hikes into the alpine wilderness, let you soak in Colorado’s high-country beauty alongside wildflower meadows and maybe a moose or two.
7. Connecticut: Kent Falls State Park
This tranquil park in the Litchfield Hills features a series of tiered waterfalls cascading through a wooded gorge. A short hiking trail (with steps) leads to the top of the falls, rewarding you with panoramic views of the lush Connecticut countryside. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, a gentle hike, and cooling off in the mist of the picturesque waterfalls – a hit with both families and solo nature lovers.
8. Delaware: Cape Henlopen State Park
Where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic, Cape Henlopen offers a scenic blend of beaches, rolling sand dunes, and coastal pine forests. You can swim or sunbathe on miles of undeveloped beach, bike the trails through dunes, or climb old World War II observation towers for a unique view. Nature centers and birdwatching opportunities (this is a migratory bird hotspot) make it a family-friendly coastal escape.
9. Florida: Everglades National Park
The Everglades is a vast subtropical wilderness unlike any other, often called the “River of Grass.” This World Heritage Site protects a mosaic of swamps, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies teeming with wildlife. Take an airboat ride or kayak through quiet mangrove tunnels to spot alligators, manatees, and wading birds. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., the Everglades offer a wild escape where you can truly explore nature’s untamed side.
10. Georgia: Tallulah Gorge State Park
One of the East’s most spectacular canyons, Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep, cutting through Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. A rim trail leads to overlooks with jaw-dropping views of the gorge and its six waterfalls roaring below. Adventurous visitors can descend a staircase and a suspension bridge into the gorge (permit required) for a closer look. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just enjoying a picnic with a view, Tallulah Gorge delivers big scenery.
11. Hawaii: Nā Pali Coast, Kauai
The Nā Pali Coast is Hawaii’s coastline at its most dramatic: 3,000-foot verdant cliffs plunging into the Pacific, laced with waterfalls and secluded beaches. Accessible only by boat, helicopter, or a challenging hike (the Kalalau Trail), this remote coast rewards the effort with jaw-dropping vistas. Sail or kayak beneath cathedral-like cliffs, or trek through tropical valleys to campsites by the sea – however you experience Nā Pali, its pristine beauty is 100% worth it.
12. Idaho: The Palouse
In the northwestern part of the state, Idaho shares the Palouse region with Washington. Undulating hills of fertile loess soil spread out like a patchwork quilt of green and gold. In spring, the hills turn a vivid green that looks almost otherworldly. Scenic country roads and overlooks (like Steptoe Butte just over the border) let you take in this dreamy agricultural landscape. Photographers will love the gentle curves and changing colors of the Palouse, a peaceful rural escape perfect for a leisurely drive or bike ride.
13. Illinois: Starved Rock State Park
A surprising oasis of canyons and waterfalls in the Prairie State, Starved Rock sits along the Illinois River about 90 minutes from Chicago. Hike the park’s network of trails to find 18 sandstone canyons, many with waterfalls that flow in spring or after rains. Lush forests line the bluffs, which offer sweeping views over the river. In winter, adventurous souls can even try ice climbing on frozen falls here. With abundant wildlife and year-round natural beauty, it’s no wonder this park is an Illinois favorite.
14. Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park
Who knew Indiana has beaches? Along Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes NP protects 15 miles of sandy shore backed by tall dunes and oak savannas. Climb Mount Baldy, a 126-foot “living dune” that shifts a few feet each year, or stroll the easy beach trails to hunt for beach glass. In summer, families enjoy swimming in the lake’s gentle waves, while birdwatchers explore inland marshes. It’s even possible to catch a surfable wave here on a windy day – a Midwestern beach escape with a twist.
15. Iowa: Maquoketa Caves State Park
Beneath the cornfields lies a hidden world of caves in eastern Iowa. Maquoketa Caves SP features 13 caves connected by hiking trails through lush forest. Wander the handicapped-accessible boardwalk into Dancehall Cave (a massive, cathedral-like cave), or don a headlamp and crawl through smaller passages for a bit of spelunking adventure. Above ground, scenic overlooks and a campground invite you to make a day (or weekend) of exploring these unique limestone caverns.
16. Kansas: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Once, a vast sea of tallgrass prairie covered the heartland. Today, less than 4% of that original prairie ecosystem remains, and this preserve in the Kansas Flint Hills protects a beautiful piece of it. Rolling hills dotted with wildflowers and prairie grasses wave in the breeze, and a herd of bison roams freely as a reminder of the plains’ wild past. Hike the gentle trails or take a guided tour to learn about prairie ecology. In spring and summer, the Tallgrass Prairie comes alive with color and birdsong – a peaceful, wide-open escape.
17. Kentucky: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the South,’ Cumberland Falls is a mighty 68-foot waterfall that spans 125 feet across the Cumberland River. Surrounding the falls is a forested state park offering hiking, camping, horseback riding, and even whitewater rafting opportunities. Visit on a clear night during a full moon and you might witness the rare ‘moonbow,’ a nighttime rainbow formed in the mist of the falls – one of the only places in the Western Hemisphere where this phenomenon regularly occurs.
18. Louisiana: Atchafalaya Basin
Welcome to America’s largest swamp, a mysterious world of cypress-tupelo swamps draped in Spanish moss. The Atchafalaya Basin, west of the Mississippi, is a haven for wildlife from alligators to snowy egrets. Paddle a kayak or take a swamp tour boat through bayous and backwaters to truly immerse yourself in this Cajun country landscape. Don’t forget to sample local Cajun food in nearby towns like Breaux Bridge or Lafayette after a day in the swamp – the Basin’s cultural heritage is as rich as its wild landscape.
19. Maine: Acadia National Park
Maine’s coastal gem, Acadia NP packs mountains, ocean, and lakes into one stunning park on Mount Desert Island. Drive up Cadillac Mountain for sunrise (the first rays to hit the U.S. most of the year), or bike the historic carriage roads that weave past lakes and forests. Photogenic lighthouses and rugged granite cliffs line the shoreline. Don’t miss Sand Beach, a postcard-perfect stretch of sand nestled between rocky headlands and crystal-clear, chilly waters of the Atlantic.
20. Maryland: Assateague Island National Seashore
This barrier island shared with Virginia is famous for its wild ponies that roam the beaches and salt marshes. Camp right by the dunes (listening to ocean waves at night) or spend the day swimming and beachcombing on the wide sandy shores. Kayaking through the quiet bays and marshes is a treat – you might paddle alongside ponies wading in the water or spot herons and ospreys hunting for fish. Assateague’s blend of beach fun and wildlife viewing makes it a unique seaside escape.
21. Massachusetts: The Berkshires
Western Massachusetts offers a bucolic mountain escape known as the Berkshires, long beloved by New Englanders. These rolling hills and hardwood forests are idyllic year-round, but especially brilliant in autumn when fall foliage peaks. Scenic byways like the Mohawk Trail wind through charming towns and past farms, lakes, and hiking trailheads. Beyond the natural beauty, you’ll find cultural gems (music and art festivals abound in summer), making the Berkshires a well-rounded retreat for both nature and culture lovers.
22. Michigan: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Hugging Lake Superior’s southern shore, Pictured Rocks is a 15-mile stretch of multicolored sandstone cliffs rising above clear blue water. Take a boat tour or kayak to marvel at rock formations like Chapel Rock and Lover’s Leap, where mineral stains paint the cliffs in orange, green, and blue hues. There are also beaches and 100+ miles of trails through forests and dunes. For an unforgettable night, camp at Twelvemile Beach where you can fall asleep to the sound of waves on the lake’s shore.
23. Minnesota: Voyageurs National Park
A water lover’s paradise, Voyageurs NP is a maze of interconnected lakes and waterways along the Canadian border. Rent a canoe or houseboat to explore scenic lakes like Kabetogama and Rainy Lake, dotted with pine-covered islands. In summer, paddle to a secluded campsite accessible only by water and enjoy fishing or swimming under the long northern sunsets. Come winter, the park is equally magical – frozen lakes become highways for snowmobiles or cross-country skis, and the lucky might catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
24. Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway
For a scenic drive through history and nature, the Natchez Trace can’t be beat. This 444-mile parkway follows an ancient travel corridor from Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN, used by Native Americans and early settlers. The Mississippi portion winds through cypress swamps, rolling hills, and hardwood forests, offering beautiful pull-offs and picnic spots. You can hike short trails to historic sites and waterfalls, cycle down a stretch of the smooth road, or simply cruise leisurely while enjoying some of Mississippi’s prettiest scenery from your car.
25. Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka State Park
A grab-bag of natural wonders awaits at Ha Ha Tonka, perched above the Lake of the Ozarks. Here you’ll find caves, sinkholes, natural bridges, a large spring, and even the ruins of a 1900s stone castle overlooking the lake. Trails and boardwalks lead to highlights like the castle ruins (a photographer’s favorite) and the turquoise waters of Ha Ha Tonka Spring. It’s easy to spend a full day hiking, picnicking, and imagining you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale landscape in the Missouri hills.
26. Montana: Glacier National Park
Montana’s Glacier NP is a rugged alpine wonderland nicknamed the ‘Crown of the Continent.’ Jagged peaks, clear mountain lakes, and active glaciers fill the landscape. Drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road for an overview – it hugs mountainsides and crosses the Continental Divide with thrilling views at every turn. Or hit the trails: over 700 miles of hiking paths lead to glacial valleys, wildflower meadows, and high overlooks. With wildlife from mountain goats to grizzlies, Glacier showcases the very best of the Rocky Mountains’ pristine nature.
27. Nebraska: Scotts Bluff National Monument
Rising about 800 feet above the North Platte River, Scotts Bluff was a landmark for pioneers on the Oregon Trail and remains an impressive sight on the prairie. You can drive (or hike) to the top of the bluff for panoramic views of Nebraska’s vast plains and the distant Badlands formations. Walking trails and a visitor center bring to life the human history here, complete with replica wagons. Surrounding the bluff are protected mixed-grass prairies where you might spot prairie dogs and mule deer – a quiet Great Plains escape with a dose of history.
28. Nevada: Lake Tahoe
Straddling the Nevada–California border, Lake Tahoe is famed for its astonishingly clear, blue water set against the Sierra Nevada mountains. The Nevada side of Tahoe offers beautiful state parks like Sand Harbor, where you can swim, kayak, or just relax on a sandy cove amid giant boulders in the water. In winter, Nevada’s ski resorts above Tahoe boast world-class slopes with lake views. From summer boating to winter skiing, Lake Tahoe is a year-round natural playground – and don’t forget to simply enjoy the views of that crystal-clear alpine lake that formed during the Ice Age.
29. New Hampshire: The White Mountains
Covering about a quarter of New Hampshire, the White Mountains are the rugged heart of New England’s outdoor adventures. Drive the Kancamagus Highway for superb vistas or take the historic cog railway up Mount Washington, the Northeast’s tallest peak. In summer, families can enjoy easy hikes to waterfalls or even ride alpine slides at Attitash for a fun mountain view. Come fall, the foliage is legendary – reds, oranges, and golds blanket the hills. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, skiing, or just leaf-peeping from a cozy cabin, the Whites provide a perfect nature escape in any season.
30. New Jersey: Cape May
At the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is a charming seaside town known for its Victorian architecture and pristine beaches. Nature lovers flock here too – especially birdwatchers, as Cape May is one of the East Coast’s prime spots for migratory birds (and even monarch butterflies). Relax on broad sandy beaches that are among the best-kept in the state. You can also visit Cape May Point State Park, climb the lighthouse, or explore nearby salt marshes by kayak. With boutique B&Bs and seafood eateries nearby, Cape May is equal parts romantic retreat and family beach vacation.
31. New Mexico: White Sands National Park
New Mexico’s newest national park (designated in 2019) is a dazzling desert of pure white gypsum sand dunes. These otherworldly dunes cover 275 square miles, creating wave-like patterns that are perfect for hiking, sand-sledding, or simply marveling at the stark beauty. Visit in morning or evening when the sun is gentle and the dunes glow in shades of pink and gold. The gypsum sand is cool to the touch (even in heat) and so fine that walking it feels like powdery sugar. It’s a surreal, family-friendly sandbox – kids love sledding down the soft dunes, while photographers won’t want to leave as the shadows grow long.
32. New York: Letchworth State Park
Often called the ‘Grand Canyon of the East,’ Letchworth State Park in western New York boasts a 17-mile gorge carved by the Genesee River, with three major waterfalls cascading through it. Lush forests line the cliffs, and 66 miles of trails offer hiking for all levels, including routes to scenic overlooks and along the river. You can even take a hot air balloon ride over the gorge for a bird’s-eye view. Come in autumn to see the waterfall-draped canyon framed by brilliant fall foliage – or in winter, when portions of the falls freeze into stunning ice sculptures. It’s an all-season gem for nature lovers.
33. North Carolina: The Outer Banks
This string of barrier islands along North Carolina’s coast is a beach lover’s dream and a place steeped in history. Drive NC Highway 12 and ferry between islands to explore pristine beaches, towering sand dunes, wild horses, and historic lighthouses. Climb up the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (one of the tallest in the U.S.), walk along the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park (the largest sand dune on the East Coast), or simply enjoy swimming and surfing in the Atlantic. With charming villages and maritime forests in between beach stops, the Outer Banks offers a laid-back coastal escape perfect for families and solo wanderers alike.
34. North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
North Dakota’s Badlands provide a stunning backdrop for this park named after the conservation-minded president. Here, colorful striped canyons and buttes stretch to the horizon, offering sweeping vistas of one of the last stretches of Northern Great Plains wilderness. A 36-mile scenic loop drive takes you past prairie dog towns and grazing bison (prepare for the occasional ‘bison traffic jam’ on the road!). Hike the trails to experience the quiet beauty of wild prairies and painted deserts, virtually unchanged since Roosevelt himself ran a cattle ranch here and found inspiration in the land’s rugged solitude.
35. Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park
A natural playground in southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills is known for its waterfalls, recess caves, and dense hemlock forests. Trek the Gorge Trail to Old Man’s Cave, a large recess cave behind a waterfall, or descend into the mossy depths of the Rock House cave. The park’s trails lead to striking features like Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, each an easy walk that kids can manage. In summer, go boating or fishing on nearby lakes; in autumn, enjoy vivid foliage; and in winter, frozen falls create a fairy-tale scene. With cabins and campgrounds available, Hocking Hills makes for a rejuvenating weekend escape.
36. Oklahoma: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Oklahoma isn’t all plains – the ancient Wichita Mountains rise in the southwestern part of the state, surrounded by a 59,000-acre wildlife refuge. This rugged landscape of granite hills, prairie, and lakes is home to bison, prairie dogs, longhorn cattle, and elk, which you might spot roaming as you hike or drive through. Climb to the top of Mount Scott via a paved road for panoramic views of the refuge. There are also numerous trails leading to secluded lakes, rock climbing spots, and wildflower meadows. It’s a serene slice of the Old West where the buffalo still roam – perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife photography.
37. Oregon: Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake will leave you speechless with its intense deep-blue water and remarkable clarity. Formed in the caldera of an ancient volcano, it’s the deepest lake in the U.S. (1,943 feet) and is fed only by rain and snow. The Rim Drive around the lake offers many overlooks where you can gaze down at the sapphire waters and Wizard Island (a cinder cone island). Hiking trails take you through fragrant pine forests to viewpoints or down to the lake shore at Cleetwood Cove (where you can even take a dip if you can brave the cold!). In winter, the park turns into a snowy wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Few places match Crater Lake’s pure, tranquil beauty.
38. Pennsylvania: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Straddling the Pennsylvania–New Jersey border, the Delaware Water Gap is a verdant river gorge carved by the Delaware River as it cuts through the Appalachian Mountains. With 70,000 acres of protected land, it’s an adventure hub: go fishing, kayaking, or canoeing on the calm river, hike to waterfalls like Raymondskill Falls (PA’s tallest), or lounge on one of the river’s sandy beaches in summer. The Appalachian Trail even passes through here, offering sweeping views from Mount Minsi and Mount Tammany on either side of the Gap. Easily accessible yet feeling worlds away, it’s a refreshing nature escape for East Coasters.
39. Rhode Island: Mohegan Bluffs (Block Island)
Block Island, off the Rhode Island coast, offers a dramatic vista at Mohegan Bluffs – 150-foot clay cliffs dropping to a secluded beach on the Atlantic. Climb down the wooden staircase (over 100 steps) to reach the rocky shore, where you can beachcomb and admire the towering bluffs from below. From the clifftop, the views of endless ocean are phenomenal, especially at sunset. The nearby Block Island Southeast Lighthouse perched above the cliffs had to be moved inland due to erosion, a reminder of the ocean’s power. Mohegan Bluffs is an ideal spot for a quiet picnic with a view, and it truly feels like an escape – reachable only by ferry or small plane, Block Island moves at a slower, more peaceful pace.
40. South Carolina: Hunting Island State Park
A barrier island near Beaufort, Hunting Island is a lowcountry gem with 5 miles of uncrowded beaches, a historic lighthouse, maritime forests, and marshes. Stroll Boneyard Beach, where bleached driftwood trees create an eerie, beautiful landscape by the surf. Climb the 19th-century Hunting Island Lighthouse (when open) for panoramic ocean views. The park also has a nature center, saltwater lagoon, and fishing pier – plenty to keep families entertained. Despite being South Carolina’s most popular state park, it feels surprisingly tranquil, with ocean breezes and forest trails offering a cool respite on a hot Southern day.
41. South Dakota: Badlands National Park
Entering the Badlands feels like stepping onto another planet. Rusted buttes, sharp spires, and striped rock formations stretch across the horizon in stunning patterns. Stop at Yellow Mounds Overlook to see rainbow-colored hills, or walk the Fossil Exhibit Trail to learn about prehistoric creatures whose fossils are found here. Wildlife thrives in this rugged land too – watch for bighorn sheep on the cliffs and bison grazing on the mixed-grass prairie. With its surreal landscapes and fossil beds, Badlands NP offers a family-friendly adventure that’s both educational and awe-inspiring.
42. Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
America’s most-visited national park straddles the Tennessee–North Carolina border and is famous for its misty mountain vistas, diverse wildlife, and Appalachian heritage. With 800+ miles of trails, you can hike to waterfalls like Laurel Falls, wander through old-growth forests, or drive Newfound Gap Road for stunning overlooks. Don’t miss Cades Cove, an idyllic valley where you can often spot black bears and deer, and tour historic log cabins. Whether you pitch a tent under starry skies or rent a cozy cabin, the Smokies offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun from tubing mountain streams to catching fireflies on a summer night.
43. Texas: Hamilton Pool Preserve
Just outside Austin lies a Hill Country treasure – a jade-green natural pool beneath a cavernous limestone grotto, fed by a 50-foot waterfall. Hamilton Pool was formed when an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago, creating a unique swimming hole. In the summertime, visitors (by reservation) can swim in the cool waters surrounded by fern-draped cliffs. A short hike leads from the parking area through lush juniper woods and canyon walls until you suddenly emerge at this stunning emerald oasis. It’s an idyllic spot to escape Texas heat – just arrive early or off-peak, as only a limited number of people are allowed in at a time to protect this fragile gem.
44. Utah: Bryce Canyon National Park
Nowhere else on Earth will you find a landscape quite like Bryce Canyon, famed for its otherworldly hoodoos – tall, thin rock spires formed by erosion. Stroll along the rim at sunrise to watch the maze of red, orange, and pink pinnacles light up in the sun’s glow. For a closer look, hike down into the canyon on the Queens Garden or Navajo Loop trail, where you’ll wind between these whimsical rock ‘pillars.’ The experience is magical, as if wandering through a forest of stone. By night, Bryce’s remote location makes it a stargazing paradise – the park even hosts an annual Astronomy Festival with telescopes and expert guides to help visitors enjoy exceptional dark skies.
45. Vermont: Lake Willoughby
Often compared to a fjord or a Swiss lake, Lake Willoughby is a crystal-clear glacial lake bordered by steep mountain cliffs in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Locals lovingly call it ‘America’s Lucerne’ for its resemblance to the lakes of Europe. The water is incredibly clear and cold, great for a summer swim or kayaking along the forested shores. Hike the trails in nearby Willoughby State Forest for overlooks of the lake (Mount Pisgah’s trails offer dramatic clifftop views). Wildlife is abundant – keep an eye out for loons on the water, trout below the surface, or even peregrine falcons soaring above the cliffs. It’s a tranquil spot that invites relaxation and reflection amid Vermont’s natural beauty.
46. Virginia: Natural Bridge State Park
Tucked in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is an astonishing 215-foot tall natural limestone arch that has wowed visitors for centuries. Natural Bridge was even owned by Thomas Jefferson for a time, as he was so impressed by this geologic wonder. Today, you can walk a gentle trail under the bridge (carved out by Cedar Creek) and along a scenic canyon to Lace Falls, a pleasant waterfall at the trail’s end. The bridge itself, surrounded by thick forest, feels almost hidden until you’re suddenly beneath it – an awe-inspiring sight. Kids and adults alike will be amazed at this rock formation, and the park’s Monacan Indian exhibit and nightly lighting of the bridge add extra interest to your visit.
47. Washington: Hoh Rain Forest (Olympic National Park)
Washington’s Olympic Peninsula harbors one of the few temperate rainforests in the U.S. Enter the Hoh Rain Forest and you’ll be surrounded by moss-draped trees and lush ferns, where every surface is covered in green. Stroll the Hall of Mosses trail to feel like you’re in a fairy tale, with old-growth Sitka spruces and maples cloaked in hanging moss. The forest receives over 12 feet of rain a year, creating an enchanting, dripping world that’s also incredibly quiet – in fact, the Hoh Valley contains one of the quietest spots in the continental U.S. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk grazing in the clearings. Just a short drive away, you can go from rainforest to wild Pacific beaches or alpine peaks, showcasing Olympic National Park’s unmatched diversity.
48. West Virginia: New River Gorge National Park
America’s newest national park (designated in 2020) is West Virginia’s adventure playground, known for the New River – ironically one of the world’s oldest rivers. The park’s centerpiece is the New River Gorge Bridge, a massive steel arch spanning the canyon. Below, the New River offers 53 miles of premier whitewater rafting and kayaking with rapids ranging from family-friendly to extreme. Rock climbers flock to the gorge’s sandstone cliffs, which feature over 1,400 established climbing routes. Even if you’re not an adrenaline junkie, you can enjoy spectacular views from trails on the rim (try Long Point Trail) or take a scenic drive down into the gorge. With its mix of Appalachian mountain scenery and outdoor thrills, New River Gorge NP is a wild and wonderful escape in the Mountain State.
49. Wisconsin: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Off the northern tip of Wisconsin in Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands are a group of 21 islands famous for their sea caves and historic lighthouses. In summer, you can kayak along the red sandstone cliffs of Devils Island or Sand Island to explore caves carved by the waves. In winter, when conditions are right, those same caves turn into glittering ice cathedrals, as waterfalls and spray freeze into giant icicles and sheets of ice. Visitors can sometimes even walk over the frozen lake to enter these ice caves (a bucket-list experience if the ice is solid). Camping, sailing, and lighthouse tours are other popular activities in the Apostles. It’s a refreshing mix of maritime history and natural beauty on America’s greatest lake.
50. Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park
Last but certainly not least, Yellowstone is an epitome of ‘breathtaking escape.’ As the world’s first national park, it remains one of the most spectacular, with geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and grand landscapes. Watch Old Faithful geyser erupt in a plume of steam and boiling water, and marvel at Grand Prismatic Spring’s rainbow-colored hot spring waters. The park’s vast expanse includes roaring waterfalls at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, serene valleys where bison and elk graze, and forests where you might glimpse a wolf or bear. With countless trails and boardwalks, you can experience everything from volcanic mud pots to alpine lakes. Every acre of Yellowstone offers something worth seeing – if you can visit in winter, you’ll find frosted landscapes, fewer crowds, and chances to see wildlife against the snow. Yellowstone truly is a capstone to the natural wonders found in every corner of the United States.
