You’ve always wanted to visit the USA and explore its natural wonders but you don’t really know where to start your journey? Well, if that’s the case, just stay with us and keep on reading! Here are the top six natural wonders you must see in the USA, so check out our list and start planning your trip right away!
Natural wonder #1: Death Valley, California
Death Valley is at the top of our must-visit list for a good reason. This is just a section of the Mojave Desert in California, and what is particularly interesting about it is that it’s the lowest, hottest, and driest place in the US. It truly is a land of extremes that lies in the below-sea-level basin. This place is one of the wildest American gems, and you know what? It’s quite different from any other national park you’ll find in the US. Over a million people visit Death Valley each year, and even though the weather conditions are extremely challenging, there are still so many activities you can enjoy. From climbing, hiking, and cycling to abseiling and horseback riding, possibilities are truly infinite. If you’re a huge fan of Star Wars, you should visit Death Valley as the epic Episode IV movie was filmed there!
Natural wonder #2: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous travel destinations among tourists from all over the globe. This place encompasses 446 km of the Colorado River and the surrounding uplands. This canyon is 1.6 km deep and up to 29 km wide, which makes it one of the most breathtaking places in the US. Millions of years of geologic history can be seen in its layered bands of colorful rocks. Did you know that Grand Canyon National Park is open for 24 hours? That’s right, which means that you can visit it literally whenever you want. This tourist attraction will never fail to disappoint you, so make sure to visit its West Rim first. It’s particularly popular among tourists because of its famous Skywalk. This is a spectacular platform with transparent sides that offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the canyon!
Natural wonder #3: Niagara Falls, New York
Although Niagara Falls is situated on the border between the US and Canada, it certainly is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders. It comprises three waterfalls that merge together to process a volume of 150,000 gallons of water per second over the rocky precipice. Niagara Falls is 176 meters tall, and experts claim that it has been carved by the movement of ice during the Ice Age. If you want to explore this outstanding wonder of nature at its best, you should take a boat trip. It’s the only way to experience the power and noise of water up close, which is highly recommended when visiting this unique place. Did you know that this shared natural wonder produces around 4.9 million kilowatts of electricity? That’s enough to power 3.8 million homes, which just shows its incredible power!
Natural wonder #4: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park for a good reason. It welcomes over 11 million people every year, and it’s probably because of its amazing hiking trails, beautiful meadows and rivers, and gorgeous nature in general. When visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can do whatever you want – hike, go white water rafting, and even indulge in wildlife spotting. It’s also a fantastic place for cycling, but be sure to opt for the best mountain bikes that will make your experience much more enjoyable. As for the animals you can see here, there are deer, coyotes, bobcats, and black bears. Spring is the best season to visit, so keep that in mind if you want to see stunning fields filled with vibrant wildflowers!
Natural wonder #5: Hubbard Glacier, Alaska
Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. It is situated off the coast of Yakutat – 320 km northwest of Juneau. Needless to say, this natural wonder definitely lives up to its reputation simply because it’s completely breathtaking. This glacier is almost over 120 km long and 11 km wide. Also, it flows directly into Disenchantment Bay where it meets the North Pacific Ocean. Of course, you can’t reach this natural wonder by car. You’ll have to do it either by a private boat or a cruiser. A scenic flight-seeing tour that allows you to see Hubbard Glacier from the air is also a good idea. Many people describe it as a sleeping giant, even though it has been quite active in the past. It had two major surges in the last 30 years; however, you don’t have to worry as the glacier isn’t surging now!
Natural wonder #6: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Last but certainly not least, there is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that encompasses a cluster of gorgeous tropical islands. Everyone knows that Hawaii is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, and you know what? It surely has to offer something for everyone! Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to Mauna Loa – the world’s largest volcano. This is one of five volcanoes located on Hawaii’s Big Island that stands over 13,000 feet above sea level. Even though it’s an active volcano, the last time Mauna Loa erupted was in 1984. If you want to experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at its best, you should opt for a guided tour. This will allow you to understand the geographical aspect of the park and its exciting history. Give it a try and you won’t regret it!
As you can see, there are so many breathtaking natural wonders you should see in the USA. These six are the most amazing ones, so put them on your must-visit list and you’ll do a great job. Just stick to our tips and start planning an unforgettable trip you’ll remember for a lifetime!