The majestic landforms and spectacular seascapes of the United States are best experienced up close. Those who seek solitude away from the hectic demands of modern life can find it in the rolling forests of Jackson, New Hampshire, or in the spectacular glacial valleys of Yosemite. Whether it’s a leisurely hike through an evergreen forest or along the waters of a waterfall, outdoor enthusiasts can have it all within the borders of the United States.
From the rugged mountain climbs of Boulder, Colorado, to the expansive coastal vistas of Bar Harbor, Maine, here are eight must-see places in the United States for nature lovers.
Key West, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States, is made up of several tropical savannah islands in the Florida Keys archipelago, including the island of Key West. Visitors to Key West can take in the city’s aquatic beauty as they approach Overseas Highway, a 113-mile stretch of highway that begins in Miami and connects islands throughout the Keys.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be impressed by the nearby Dry Tortugas Island, which is home to sea turtles like hawksbills and loggerheads, and bird species like the sooty tern and masked booby. The Key West Botanical Society is another must-visit destination for nature lovers, featuring flora native to the region and is the only frost-free subtropical botanical garden in the continental United States.
Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Boulder is enveloped by gorgeous scenery and is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Located just outside the city, Eldorado Canyon State Park hosts mountain climbers and hikers alike, with hundreds of climbing routes and a variety of hiking trails past steep canyon walls, mysterious caves, and evergreen-lined streams. Boulder also boasts stunning natural rock formations, like the magnificent 20-foot-tall Royal Arch in Chautauqua Park.
