The United States’ Top 10 Natural Attractions: An Exploration
The United States is a geographical paradise, boasting a plethora of natural marvels and landscapes. This great nation encompasses a diverse range of features from mountains, canyons, deserts, to lakes and rivers. If you’re planning a journey through America, here are the top 10 natural attractions that you simply cannot miss.
The United States’ Natural Marvels
Exploring the diverse natural scenery of the United States is an adventure in itself. The country’s national parks and natural wonders demonstrate nature’s impressive craftsmanship. While it may not be feasible to visit every spectacle, these ten natural attractions are sure to leave you in awe.
The Immensity of Death Valley
Located in the arid desert region spanning Arizona and Nevada, Death Valley is one of the most extreme yet stunning locations in the United States. Encompassing 1.3 million hectares of barren landscapes punctuated by yucca plants and rugged rock formations, this wild beauty offers an entirely different perspective on America’s national parks. Despite the harsh environment, Death Valley offers a plethora of adventurous activities to those who dare, such as hiking, climbing, horseback riding, and cycling.
The Grandeur of the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, with its vast, plunging canyon, is one of the planet’s most notable natural wonders. Each year, over 5 million visitors are awed by the park’s sheer size and serene beauty. The South Rim is accessible year-round, while the North Rim is closed during winter. The West Rim is particularly popular as it features the Skywalk, a clear platform that extends over the canyon, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
The Florida Everglades: A Watery Wilderness
The Florida Everglades, a vast network of wetlands, waterways, and subtropical forests, offers a unique natural wonder teeming with wildlife and adventurous activities.
The Everglades are home to over 200,000 alligators, making an airboat ride through the wetlands an exciting prospect. Additionally, the area provides a habitat for bird species, marine mammals such as dolphins and manatees, and the elusive Florida panther.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Tropical Splendor
Hawaii is more than just beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is also home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the world’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa. Guided tours of the park offer insights into its fascinating geological composition, history, and unique features like black sand beaches and massive calderas.
The Great Lakes: Majestic Bodies of Water
The Great Lakes, a collection of five vast bodies of water, straddle the border between the US and Canada. Together, Lakes Erie, Ontario, Michigan, Huron, and Superior form the planet’s largest freshwater surface. The Great Lakes provide an ideal base for hiking and boating and are home to various mammals, including black bears and moose.
Monument Valley: A Glimpse into the Past
Monument Valley, located on the Utah/Arizona border, offers a step back in time with its untouched, arid landscape and clear, blue skies. Key geographical highlights include The Mittens, John Ford’s Point, and the Three Sisters.
Niagara Falls: A Water Marvel
Niagara Falls, located on the US-Canada border, is a natural marvel. The three waterfalls combine to create a spectacle with a volume of 150,000 gallons of water per second.
Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone National Park
Old Faithful Geyser, the centerpiece of Yellowstone National Park, attracts tourists globally with its predictable and impressive eruptions. Yellowstone National Park offers other attractions such as the Yellowstone Caldera, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Yellowstone Lake.
Mississippi River: America’s Water Highway
The Mississippi River, one of the world’s longest rivers, spans ten states. A Mississippi Gateway cruise provides a relaxing way to traverse the river and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A Hiker’s Paradise
As America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains offer an array of hiking trails, mesmerizing meadows, rivers, and waterfalls.
The United States is home to a breathtaking array of natural wonders. So when you plan your holiday, be sure to include as many of these natural wonders of the USA as you can.