The United States is home to a huge variety of landscapes and unique natural formations, each representing different geological and ecological events throughout the country’s history. The national park system preserves many of these grand natural wonders, but finding them among the millions of square miles of protected land can be difficult.

While no national park can be narrowed down to a single attraction, these unique formations represent the wide variety of natural beauties to be found throughout the deserts, forests, and islands of the United States. Whether visitors are picking stops for a National Park Road Trip or simply looking for an afternoon outing to go with their current plans, these natural wonders are a must for every traveler.

UPDATE: 2023/06/02 20:39 EST BY AARON SPRAY

More Excellent Natural Wonders Of The United States

The United States stretches from the frozen waters of the Arctic in Alaska to the tropics. It is a massive country filled with some of the world's most stunning natural wonders. This list was updated and expanded with more of the magnificent natural wonders in the country that everyone should have on the bucket list.

14 Half Dome - Yosemite National Park, California

Mountains and granite dome in Yosemite Valley
Half Dome, Yosemite National Park. California

Standing nearly 5,000 feet above the UNESCO World Heritage Site below, Half Dome is a magnificent site in an already impressive national park. The massive granite structure cuts through the dense forest below, making it impossible to miss for anyone venturing through the park. For those not content to look up at the sheer face of the dome feature, a strenuous 10 to 12-hour hike along the dome side is accessible for those with a permit. With an elevation gain of 4,800 feet, this hike is not for the unprepared. Those hoping to enjoy the one-of-a-kind views at the summit will also have to ascend approximately 400 feet of cable ladders attached to the face. Thankfully, whether looking up from the forest or down from the summit, every aspect of Half Dome and Yosemite National Park is truly picturesque.

Half Dome Hike:

  • Distance: 14–16 miles
  • Duration: 10–12 hours
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Permit Required: Yes
  • Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle

13 Crater Lake - Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A view of Crater Lake in Oregon, USA, from between the green treees
Photo by Varadh Jain on Unsplash
A view of Crater Lake in Oregon, USA, from between the green treees

The deepest lake in the United States and one of the deepest in the world, the deep blue of Crater Lake begs to be enjoyed. At nearly 2,000 feet deep at its deepest points, the lake is fed by the snow melt of the mountains that frame this unique volcanic crater lake. Simply standing alongside the road is enough to take in the sheer size of this lake, but those hoping to get up close can also swim or boat in designated areas. Tours are also available for those hoping to venture out to Wizard Island in the middle of the lake, and hikes around the perimeter give everyone the opportunity to spread out and enjoy the clear water that fills the remains of this ancient volcano.

  • Entrance Fee: $30/vehicle

Related: 10 Amazing Facts About Crater Lake You Probably Didn't Know

12 Mauna Loa - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Mauna Loa volcano, Big Island, Hawaii
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Mauna Loa volcano, Big Island, Hawaii

While purposely visiting one of the most active volcanoes in the world may not seem like the ideal getaway, the views in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park make it worth the uncertainty. There are two active volcanoes in the park, including Mauna Loa, which is the largest active volcano known anywhere in the world. From the seafloor to its summit, Mauna Loa stands taller than Mount Everest at 30,000 feet, with 13,681 feet standing above sea level. Visitors hoping to see this massive feature in full can take the Mauna Loa Scenic Drive or hike the rugged Mauna Loa hike over the volcanic rock to the still bubbling summit.

  • Entrance Fee: $30/vehicle

11 Old Faithful - Yellowstone National Park, Montana

The Upper Geyser Basin at Yellowstone National Park
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The Upper Geyser Basin at Yellowstone National Park with the Old Faithful Inn in the background

One of nearly 500 geysers in the sprawling Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful is by far the most famous feature, and for good reason. This large geyser has earned its place at the top of many Yellowstone itineraries in part because of its consistency, erupting every 35 to 120 minutes on average, shooting water 90 to 184 feet in the air each time. Its popularity also means that accessing the Geyser is easier than many other natural wonders, with a less than one-mile loop taking visitors right to the best views. Guests can learn even more about Old Faithful, its neighboring geysers, and the world's first national park at the nearby Old Faithful Visitor Center or Old Faithful Inn, turning this special feature into an all-day adventure.

  • Entrance Fee: $20/person OR $35/vehicle

Related: Old Faithful: The Ultimate Guide To Timing The Perfect Visit

10 Mammoth Cave - Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

impressive formations inside Luray Caverns

Photo by Ravi Palwe on Unsplash

 
impressive formations inside Caverns

Those not afraid of enclosed spaces can venture into the world's longest-known cave system hiding under Kentucky. Mammoth Cave, the central attraction of Mammoth Cave National Park, is at least 400 miles long, although some figures estimate there could be 600 more miles waiting to be explored. The cave's massive length means that there are exploration options for every age and ability level. Guests to the park can purchase tour tickets, with each tour having a different main attraction and theme. Multiple Cave routes are available, with varying lengths, difficulties, and accessibility options, so that anyone can enjoy these underground Caverns.

  • Entrance Fee: FREE
  • Cave Tour Fee: $8/person

9 Denali - Denali National Park And Preserve, Alaska

The Nenana River in Denali National Park, Alaska on a sunny day
Photo by Bryson Beaver on Unsplash
The Nenana River in Denali National Park, Alaska on a sunny day

Those hoping for a grand view would struggle to find a better Vista than the highest peak in America. Hidden in the six million acres of Denali National Park and Preserve, Denali mountain stands above the land at 20,310 feet above sea level. Those without a permit to climb the summit can still enjoy the magnificence of the mountain landscape year-round along the numerous park trails. Winter is the prime time to snowshoe through the land, while spring and summer invite wildflowers and wildlife of all sizes to accompany travelers on their exploration of this wild land.

  • Entrance Fee: $15/person

Related: 10 Things To Do In Denali Park (Besides Hiking)

8 Gypsum Sands - White Sands National Park, New Mexico

White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA
Photo by Joonyeop Baek on Unsplash
White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA

White sand beaches are a favorite among travelers but land-locked New Mexico may not be where most go looking for them. Thanks to expanses of white Gypsum deposits, the White Sands National Park can provide exactly that escape. The snowy white landscape offers over 100 square miles of outdoor exploration. Hiking trails of varying lengths, bike paths, and picnic areas all get visitors into the heart of the landscape, while the Visitor Center offers more background about the unusual geography of the area. Guests who need more than a day to take on the landscape can also reserve one of the backcountry campgrounds available.

  • Entrance Fee: $15/person OR $25/vehicle

7 Shark Valley - Everglades National Park, Florida

Aerial view of the water, forest, and swamps of the Florida Everglades at sunset
ocudrone/ Shutterstock
Aerial view of the water, forest, and swamps of the Florida Everglades at sunset

As the largest subtropical wilderness in America, Everglades National Park has more to enjoy than could possibly be done in a single visit. Among the must-see attractions is Shark Valley, a hub of hiking trails, tram tours, and bicycle routes. The Shark Valley Visitor Center adds to the overall experience with a park video and educational displays, while the Observation Tower along the paved route offers a special view for those who venture down the trail. All of these come together to offer some of the best views of turtles, birds, and, of course, the famous American Alligator to be found anywhere in Everglades National Park.

  • Entrance Fee: $15/person OR $30/vehicle

Related: Here's Everything You Can Experience In A Day At Everglades National Park

6 Delicate Arch - Arches National Park, Utah

Double Arch in Arches National Park
Photo by trail on Unsplash
Double Arch in Arches National Park

Home to no less than five National Parks, the Southern Utah landscape is filled with a variety of desert landscapes and rock formations. While each geographically unique area is worth a visit, one has become so iconic it is the State's license plate image. The Delicate Arch in Arches National Park stands 46 feet high from the ground to the inner Arch, making it the largest freestanding arch in a park of more than 2,000 such formations. While the state icon is difficult to see from the main road, several short walks to viewing points offer ideal views. A short walk gives viewers a clear view about one mile out from the Arch, while a moderate three-mile out-and-back hike takes guests right to the base of this beautiful structure.

  • Entrance Fee: $15/person OR $30/vehicle

Related: 5 In 5: Visit Utah's 'Mighty 5' National Parks In Five Days

5 General Sherman Tree - Sequoia National Park, California

General Sherman Tree In Sequoia National Park
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General Sherman Tree In Sequoia National Park

The Giant Redwoods of Sequoia National Park are world-famous thanks to their size and age, which can exceed 3,000 years. A giant among giants, General Sherman, is the largest tree in the world. Believed to be around 2,200 years old, the monstrous redwood stands 275 feet tall and is 36 feet across its base, with its largest branches measuring six feet in diameter. Those who want to feel how small they are next to this unique tree can take one of two routes, walking the half-mile Main Trail or hopping aboard the accessible park shuttle. And while forest fires have devastated the redwood forests in recent years, General Sherman has fortunately been protected and spared from the flames, ensuring future generations can continue to be inspired by this ancient giant.

  • Entrance Fee: $20/person OR $35/vehicle

4 Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls Canada
Photo by Vince Veras on Unsplash
Niagara Falls in Canada

Niagara Falls is shared with Canada as it straddles the international border between the United States and Canada. Niagara Falls is the largest waterfall in North America and is a must for anyone visiting Upstate New York (and Canada's Ontario). Take the time to explore the magnificent falls from both the Canadian and American sites - it is a very different experience.

  • Admission: Free

3 Monument Valley, Arizona

Monument Valley with U.S. Route 163
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Monument Valley with U.S. Route 163

Monument Valley is arguably the most iconic setting of the American Southwest. The region is famous for its buttes and romantic Old West feel. It was helped become famous from the 'running scene' from the movie Forrest Gump. Monument Valley is part of the Najavo Nation (the largest Indian reservation in the United States) and much of it is open to the public - guided tours are required for parts of it.

  • Admission: Free (Road Trip)

2 Lake Tahoe, Nevada & California

Secret Cove Lake Tahoe
Photo by Tim Peterson on Unsplash
Secret Cove in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake on the continent of North America. Lake Tahoe is one of the premier tourist destinations in the winter and is frightfully beautiful. The lake straddles the state line of California and Nevada (predictably there are casino resorts on the Nevadan side). Lake Tahoe is a great place for hiking, camping, boating, and enjoying the serenity of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

  • Admission: Free

1 Mount Shasta, Northern California

Mount Shasta and Heart Lake
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Mount Shasta and Heart Lake

Mount Shasta is arguably the crowning jewel of far Northern California - although it is not the only stunning volcano in the American West (e.g. Mount Rainier and Mount St Helens are also picturesque). Mount Shasta dominates the area around it and is the perfect place for camping. It is also a great place to discover stunning lava tube caves.

  • Admission: Free