10 of the most remarkable natural wonders in the USA

The USA is home to stunning biodiversity, featuring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.

Across the 50 states, you'll find extraordinary natural landmarks, from arid desert playas and plateaus to towering mountain ranges capped with glaciers, expansive grasslands once inhabited by millions of bison, lush tropical rainforests, active volcanic regions, and frigid polar tundra.

Numerous awe-inspiring natural wonders in the USA are now safeguarded by the National Park Service (NPS). These protected areas also serve as sanctuaries for a diverse range of wildlife, from blind fish in the shadowy depths of Mammoth Cave to the majestic grizzly bears in Denali National Park. Spanning from coast to coast and beyond, here’s our selection of the USA's most astonishing natural marvels.

1. Redwood National and State Parks, California

The tallest trees on the planet thrive along the misty Northern California coastline. Redwoods can soar to 379 feet, surpassing the height of the Statue of Liberty, and can live for up to 2,000 years. Nearly half of the remaining ancient redwoods, untouched by logging, are safeguarded within the Redwood National and State Parks.

Planning tip: To embark on the 4.5-mile Tall Trees Trail, you must secure a reservation online in advance.

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

At a depth of a mile, with widths reaching up to 18 miles and extending over 275 miles in length, nothing in the USA compares to this immense chasm in terms of sheer awe. Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon offers a thrill, but to truly grasp its magnificence, venture all the way down to the roaring Colorado River.

Planning tip: For a quieter experience, head to the North Rim of the canyon, which attracts far fewer visitors than the South Rim. However, keep in mind that the North Rim is seasonal; all visitor services and roads are closed to vehicles from December 1 to May 14.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Renowned conservationist and nature writer John Muir referred to Yosemite as nature's cathedral. Standing beneath the majestic granite giants like El Capitan and gazing at Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, you'll understand his sentiment. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yosemite features distinctive geological formations sculpted by glaciers and is home to an array of rare wildlife in California's rugged Sierra Nevada.

Planning tip: The waterfalls in Yosemite Valley reach their peak flow in late spring, making it a quieter time to explore the park compared to the summer rush.

4. Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls comprises not just one, but three stunning waterfalls that flow along the US-Canada border between New York and Ontario: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. While they may not be the tallest in the USA, their sheer water flow is unmatched globally. Experience the refreshing mist up close on a Maid of the Mist boat tour.

Planning tip: The Canadian side of the falls offers more natural beauty, so remember to bring your passport for border crossings.

5. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the USA and a marvel of unique geology and wildlife. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve boasts the largest collection of geysers and hydrothermal features in the world, including hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles. Keep an eye out for bison herds freely grazing along the park's main roads.

Planning tip: Visiting during early fall can help you avoid the largest crowds, but be ready for chilly overnight temperatures and the possibility of snowfall.

6. Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

On Hawaiʻi, the Big Island, Kilauea Volcano has been continuously erupting since 1983, making it one of the longest ongoing volcanic eruptions in the world. Nowhere else in the country can you witness the creation of new land like at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to Hawaiian lore, the fiery lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater is believed to be the residence of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes.

Planning tip: Visit the park website for updates on eruptions and current conditions for viewing lava.

7. Denali National Park, Alaska

In the native Koyukon Athabaskan language, it translates to 'the high one,' aptly describing Denali as North America's tallest peak at 20,310 feet. Dominating the surrounding wilderness, it is actually taller than Everest when measured from its base. Climbers first reached the south summit in 1913, a challenge now attempted by over a thousand adventurers each year.

Planning tip: Flightseeing tours are available from Healy, located to the northeast of the park, and from Talkeetna, a railroad town approximately 150 miles south of Denali National Park.

8. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Nestled in America’s heartland, Mammoth Cave holds the title of the world’s longest cave system. Nearly 400 miles of subterranean passageways have been explored (and counting) within this limestone karst cave network, shaped by flowing underground rivers. Experience uniquely formed stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating speleothems on a lantern-guided cave tour.

Planning tip: Make sure to bring a sweater or jacket, as the cave’s temperature averages 54°F (12°C).

9. Monument Valley, Arizona

It’s likely that the iconic landscapes featured in classic Hollywood Westerns were filmed in Monument Valley, where striking sandstone buttes soar up to 1,000 feet above the desert floor. Currently, the valley serves as a Navajo tribal park. For an unforgettable experience, consider joining a guided horseback tour to gain a true sense of scale.

Planning tip: The Navajo Nation follows Mountain Standard Time (MST), but unlike the rest of Arizona, it observes Daylight Saving Time (DST).

10. Acadia National Park, Maine

Nestled along the windswept, tide-kissed Atlantic coast, Acadia is a maritime gem. Be sure to hike up Cadillac Mountain (1,530 ft), the highest peak on the Atlantic seaboard. If you reach the summit for sunrise, you can proudly say you were among the first in the USA to witness the dawn that day. For equally breathtaking views, visit during autumn for stunning fall foliage.

Planning tip: Consider renting bicycles in Bar Harbor or bringing your own to enjoy the park without cars.