From dreamy deserts and legendary lakes to captivating caverns and canyons, all 50 states (and Washington, D.C.) in the U.S. have some breathtaking (and Instagram-able) landmarks.
Sure, the more popular attractions and national parks boast millions of visitors each year, but there are some stunning hidden gems across the country, too. While they may not get as much attention on social media, we can promise they're totally worth the visit, along with the usual favorites like Grand Canyon and Yosemite (we couldn't leave them off the list!).
Looking for inspiration for your next adventure? From Maine to Washington, check out this state-by-state guide featuring 51 of the U.S.'s most beautiful sights.
READ MORE: 7 Most Beautiful Fly Fishing Destinations In the World
Alabama: Noccalula Falls
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This 90-foot cascading waterfall descends over the Lookout Mountain ledge in Gadsden, Alabama. Noccalula Falls Park offers a pretty walk on a scenic winding pathway, accompanied by stunning views of a botanical garden and natural rock formations. After a day's hike on the nature trail, campers and families can enjoy an overnight stay at the park's 120-site campground.
Alaska: Denali National Park and Preserve
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Alaska is surrounded by beauty in every direction. Totaling six million acres, Denali National Park is one of the state's top nature destinations.
Hiking or hunting here begins in a low taiga forest that leads you through a high alpine tundra and frosty mountains. This park has miles of wild land with a plethora of animals. Fun fact: Denali also contains the tallest mountain peak in North America.
Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park
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Famously known as one of the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon needs no introduction. It's located in Northern Arizona and is one of the most visited parks in America, boasting millions of visitors each year.
Overall, this park has 217 miles of blissful scenery. The Colorado River flows right through it and you'll also find Havasu Falls nestled in the canyon. From rafting to hiking, there's plenty to see and do.
Arkansas: Whitaker Point
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This Arkansas hiking trail is a photographer magnet. Located in the Buffalo River area, Whitaker Point (also known as Hawksbill Crag) is a doable hike for beginners.
The journey to the crag, which is the giant rock that sticks out of the bluff, is pretty short. It starts down the hill and leads you to a stream and waterfall on your way to the crag. Depending on which direction you take after crossing the stream, you can get nice views of the Upper Buffalo Wilderness area. Reaching the final destination is quite rewarding, as the crag gives hikers a bird's-eye view of the stunning tree-covered Arkansas valley underneath.
California: Yosemite National Park
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Located in the heart of Sierra Nevada in central California, Yosemite National Park is one of those rare national treasures that you should visit at least once in your life.
It features three separate waterfalls, iconic glaciers, deep valleys, high cliffs, ancient giant sequoias and granite rock formations that display a glowing reddish-orange hue at sunset. Yosemite Falls peaks at 2,425 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. It's also the country's third national park, with millions of hikers and campers visiting each year.
FYI, if you're planning an overnight camping trip or hike up the half dome, you'll need a wilderness permit for both activities.
Colorado: Garden of the Gods
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The awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods is a geological gem in the state of Colorado. This public park is complete with orange sandstone rocks, clear blue skies, enchanting flora and fauna, and views of a snow-capped Pikes Peak.
Visitors to this national park can venture through by foot, vehicle, bike, or Segway. There's much to do at this park, including fun activities like rock climbing and horseback riding. Prepare to be blown away by the movie set-like views.
The once privately owned park is now free and open to the public—and the City of Colorado Springs intends to keep it that way forever. It's no wonder why this place attracts nature lovers in droves.
Connecticut: Talcott Mountain State Park
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Named after the Talcott Family, Talcott Mountain State Park is one of the most popular attractions in Connecticut. Hikers will instantly fall in love with the trail that takes you through Talcott Mountain and other attractive sights.
Indulge in magnificent views of the Connecticut landscape, hike with wildlife, and partake in birdwatching. You can even see the historic Heublein Tower once you reach the mountaintop, which overlooks the scenic Farmington River Valley.
Delaware: Alapocas Run State Park
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Alapocas Run State Park is nestled in the heart of Wilmington, located right off the I-95. Don't be surprised if you fall in love with this Delaware beauty at first sight.
Journey through lush fields and forestry on the scenic Alapocas Woods trail. Head to the area's serene rock-climbing area for a climb. Stop by the historic Blue Ball Barn, which now showcases the extraordinary Delaware Folk Art Collection. If you have kids, take them to the Can-Do playground, Delaware's first-ever Boundless Playground designed for children of all abilities.
Florida: The Florida Keys
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Snorkel and swim with vibrant tropical fish in the sparkling turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. Have an unforgettable fishing experience on one of the many available fishing charters and grub on some of the yummiest fresh-catch seafood you'll ever taste.
Georgia: Gibbs Gardens
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People flock to Gibbs Gardens for its wealth of colorful scenery. The world-class garden sits on 376 acres of lush botanicals. It houses one of the nation's largest ferneries and features hundreds of plants, from native azaleas to dogwoods and mountain laurels.
Inside the garden is a previously-built English manor house with stunning European architecture. The view from the house is one like no other, facing whimsical trees, vast daffodil gardens, and near-distance views of the north Georgia mountains.
Hawaii: Akaka Falls State Park
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This unforgettable getaway leads you through a self-guided tour of some of Hawaii's most beautiful tropical landscapes, scenic vista points, and cascading waterfalls. This hiking trail overlooks the free-falling Kahuna and gigantic (442 feet!) Akaka Falls. As an added plus, the trailhead is an easy find near the parking lot.
Idaho: Sawtooth Mountains
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The Sawtooth Mountains, part of the Rocky Mountains in central Idaho, offer a ton of activities from hiking and fishing to kayaking and rafting. The heavenly mountain landscape has 57 peaks and the park features 400 glacier lakes. Its elevation at the summit of Thompson Peak is 10,751 feet, which offers quite a spectacular view.
Illinois: Shawnee National Forest
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Visit the Shawnee National Forest between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers in Southern Illinois. Consisting of six ecological regions, explore the 289,000 acres of strikingly beautiful geography overlooking the rolling Shawnee Hills, which features stunning canyons, wetlands and oak-history forests. Don't be surprised if you have more than a few animal sightings in this forest.
Indiana: Cataract Falls
Our top pick in Indiana is none other than Cataract Falls. As Indiana's largest waterfall, Cataract Falls features two sets of waterfalls cascading at 86 feet. The upper falls take a 20-foot plunge while the lower falls plunge at 18 feet. While there, you'll be able to experience a serene hike to the sound of these whimsical waterfalls.
Iowa: Maquoketa Caves State Park
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Words can't describe the beauty of Maquoketa Caves State Park. You'd just have to grab your hiking shoes and explore the six-mile trail for yourself, featuring views of a scenic forest, gigantic bluffs, and splendid geologic formations. It was one of Iowa's first state parks introduced in the 1860s and a highly coveted attraction for hikers and picnickers.
Kansas: Monument Rocks
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As one of the eight wonders of Kansas, Monument Rocks and Chalk Pyramids has 80 million years of history. It became a National Natural Landmark in 1968 but formed during the Cretaceous Period. The park is located in western Kansas near the US-83. You can even see it from the highway. Sitting on private range land, the sedimentary Niobrara Chalk formations reach up to 70 feet tall. It's open to the public during daylight hours, but you can't visit the Chalk Pyramids at night.
Kentucky: Mammoth Cave National Park
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Mammoth Cave National Park is a national park located in west-central Kentucky. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. The national park features staggering rolling hills, deep river valleys, and the longest-known cave system in the world. Aside from exploring its diverse selection of plants and wildlife, Mammoth Cave visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities that include camping, hiking, kayaking, fishing, stargazing, and more.
Louisiana: Audubon Park
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Audobon Park is a lovely green space located in historic uptown New Orleans. In Louisiana, it's a go-to spot for recreation lovers. Enjoy tranquil exercise on the scenic 1.8-mile jogging path, take a dip in the lagoon, gather with family for a sheltered picnic, or let your children tire themselves out at the kid's playground. The urban oasis has a lot to offer, including soccer fields, tennis courts, and a community swimming pool.
Maine: Acadia National Park
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Acadia National Park takes up nearly 50,000 acres of Mount Desert Island, which is Maine's largest island off the North Atlantic coast. This crown jewel is surrounded by astounding sights like the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut. The hiking trails, motor roads, and coastlines run for miles and miles.
Maryland: Weverton Cliffs
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The stunning cliffside known as Weverton Cliffs is located along the Appalachian Trail. Loved by many hikers and runners, the out-and-back trail to the Knoxville, Maryland cliffside runs for 1.9 miles. As you can see from the photo, the top view overlooks the spectacular Potomac River. The moderately challenging hike takes average visitors over an hour to complete. It's a little steep, so beginner hikers should take caution.
Massachusetts: Cape Cod
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The Cape Cod National Seashore offers amazing views of the Massachusetts peninsula. As a popular vacation destination, the 40-mile sandy beach juts into the Atlantic Ocean with historic Route 6A in its path. Just recently, Route 6A achieved National Scenic Byway status. Visitors are free to partake in various recreational activities along the coastline, like whale watching which happens from mid-April to October.
Michigan: Porcupine Mountains State Park
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Located in Michigan's upper peninsula is the beloved Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. It has 60,000 acres of land and is the largest state park in Michigan. From hiking through the 35,000-acre forest to fishing on Lake of the Clouds and the Presque Isle River corridor, "The Porkies" is a destination for endless fun. This park also has two stunning waterfalls: Manabezho and Manido Falls.
Minnesota: Split Rock Lighthouse
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Split Rock Lighthouse overlooks the incredibly stunning Lake Superior and has a reputation as one of Minnesota's top landmarks. Getting to Split Rock begins with a self-guided tour through scenic Minnesota State Park, which is truly one for the books. It's no wonder this is of the most visited attractions in the state.
Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park
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Tishomingo State Park is a scenic starlet in the state of Mississippi. Resting on the foothills of the Appalachian, the picturesque park was named after Chickasaw nation leader Chief Tishomingo. (It's been confirmed as a former home to the Paleo Indians who previously occupied the area. Needless to say, this place has a lot of history that dates back to 7000 B.C.) You're bound to see plenty of huge rock formations, fern-filled crevices, massive moss-blanketed boulders, and colorful wildflowers. Either hike by foot or take a drive through the park via the Natchez Trace Parkway, famous for its scenic views.
Missouri: Onondaga Cave State Park
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Big history buff? Take an in-depth tour of Onondaga Cave State Park. Nestled underground, this natural wonder features stunning views of tall stalagmites, dripping stalactites and active flowstones. There's plenty to do at this National Natural Landmark, from fishing to canoeing. You can even catch panoramic views of the Meramec River near the park's Vilander Bluff Natural area.
Montana: Glacier National Park
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Glacier National Park is one of Montana's most prized possessions, with over 700 miles of awe-inspiring trails. The park is part of a larger preserved ecosystem known as the "Crown of the Continent." Enjoy magnificent scenery complete with Alpine meadows, glacially carved valleys, monumental lodges and chalets, and the state's famous Going-on-the-Sun Road. It's no surprise it attracts millions of visiting adventurers each year.
Nebraska: Toadstool Geologic Park
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Located in northwestern Nebraska, Toadstool Geological Park is open year-round to the public. It exhibits a one-of-a-kind geological phenomenon, consisting of multiple eroded clays and sandstone formations that emulate the shape of toadstools. Explorers can choose from three hiking trails all beginning at the campground's trailhead, including the three-mile Bison trail. The Great Plains Trail, in particular, takes you through breathtaking grasslands and badlands. Visitors may also find animal fossil deposits that date back over 30 million years. For overnight visitors, the campground has six sites with a plentiful amount of picnic tables.
Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park
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History buffs will instantly fall in love with the Valley of Fire State Park, complete with 40,000 acres of fiery Aztec sandstones that happen to be sand remnants from the Jurassic Period. The park's petrified trees and petroglyphs have also been around for 2,000 years. It's truly a world-renowned destination! For a complete experience, stop by the Nevada-based Visitor Center for varying exhibits on ecology, geology, and more.
New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway
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Kancamagus Highway takes you through a 34.5-mile scenic byway along Northern New Hampshire's Route 112, intersecting through the White Mountain National Forest. Nicknamed "The Kanc," the highway sits on historical Indian land and provides unbelievable views of the White Mountains, Rocky Gorge, and Swift River. Its fall foliage viewing area also happens to be one of the country's best. For hikers who prefer to enjoy the scenery on foot, countless trails pass through the White Mountain National Forest and overnight travelers can also camp out at the campground.
New Jersey: Paterson Great Falls
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The lovely Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is located centrally at the country's first planned industrial city. This gem overlooks miles of exquisite scenery, including historic buildings and raceways. Visitors also gravitate to Paterson Great Falls to learn stories of founding father Alexander Hamilton, who founded Paterson, New Jersey. While there, you'll also hear roars from one of the nation's largest waterfalls: Paterson Waterfall.
New Mexico: White Sands National Park
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These pearly white sands steal the spotlight in New Mexico's Chihuahuan Desert. Nestled at the center of the Tularosa Basin, White Sands National Park deserves an honorable mention as one of the world's greatest wonders. The desert boasts 275 square miles of wave-like dunes filled with sparkling gypsum sand and is recognized as the globe's biggest gypsum dune field. The plants and wildlife sightings here are just as incredible.
New York: Whiteface Mountain Steps
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Whiteface Mountain's Stairway Ridge Trail is a literal stepping stone to the top of New York's fifth-tallest mountain. Located in Upstate New York, this historic staircase has been around since the early 1930s and overlooks Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid. The top also has coin-operated binoculars for extended views.
Read More: The Most Beautiful Mountains in New York to Hike, Drive, and Visit
North Carolina: Hanging Rock State Park
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North Carolina residents and visitors are in for a treat with Hanging Rock State Park, which boasts trails perfect for hiking, biking and even bridling. The biggest reward is the stunning mountain, waterfall, and cave views from the park's hanging rock. The Instagram-worthy scenery is sure to take your breath away.
North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of North Dakota's most treasured finds. Fun fact: Former president Theodore Roosevelt used to hunt bison in Dakota Territory, inspiring the park's name. While navigating the park's trail, you can navigate the same adventurous path that Roosevelt once walked. The rugged landscape has an abundance of scenic plant and wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects.
Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park
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Hocking Hills State Park nested in Southeastern Ohio is actually an award-winning state park with international acclaim. Nature lovers can hike the trail year-round and in all four seasons. The scenic hike is complete with roaring waterfalls, fascinating cliffs, and enchanting hemlock-shaded gorges.
Oklahoma: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
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Oklahoma's famous Wichita Mountains overlook the stunning prairie located in southwest Oklahoma, which doubles as a wildlife sanctuary. The mixed-grass prairie and preservation site totals close to 60,000 acres, featuring freshwater lakes and pretty granite mountain views. It's home to hundreds of species of wildlife, including Rock Mountain elk, bison, and longhorn.
Oregon: Crater Lake
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Ever wondered where you can find America's deepest waters? It's the Oregon's Crater Lake. The pristine blue waters sit pretty on the Cascade Mountain Range. Visitors can choose from several different activities while there, from hiking to boat tours.
Pennsylvania: Delaware Water Gap
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The Delaware Water Gap has a premier landscape like no other. You seriously can't beat the strikingly gorgeous view of this 40-mile beauty, known as the East Mississippi's longest free-flowing river. The Pennsylvania destination is filled with rich cultural history and offers four seasons of fun recreational activities, including hunting, paddling, and fishing.
Rhode Island: Newport Cliff Walk
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Rhode Island locals can't get enough of Newport Cliff Walk and tourists understand why when they make it up here. The 3.5-mile pathway offers a serene stroll with panoramic views of the ocean and vintage Gilded-age mansions, complete with a pleasurable sea breeze.
South Carolina: Hunting Island State Park
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Hunting Island in South Carolina welcomes of millions of visitors annually to experience its pristine beaches and saltwater lagoons. The beaches take up five miles of the park and provide a habitat for land and sea wildlife. Additionally, the island's marsh and maritime forest areas cover thousands of acres. You can also check out the historic Hunting Island lighthouse built in 1859.
South Dakota: Badlands National Park
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The Badlands National Park is famous for its monumental geologic deposits and some of the grandest fossil beds in the world. South Dakota's stony sensation attracts thousands of global visitors each year. Most come for the 244-acre mixed-grass prairie, which is home to many bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.
Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains
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Ranging from Tennessee to North Carolina, the iconic "Smokies" is a hiker's heaven. You'll also find a diverse selection of animal and plant life, like its infamous population of black bears.
Texas: Big Bend National Park
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The isolated mountain range known as Big Bend hides out in Far West Texas. Its picturesque scenery consists of desert surroundings, blooming cacti, and canyons decorated in ancient limestone. Home to more than 100 bird species, bird watchers will take delight in this bird sanctuary.
Utah: Bryce Canyon National Park
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Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah has the largest concentration of Hoodoos on Earth. This geological gem sits elevated on a high plateau atop the Grand Staircase. Views of marvelous red rocks, pink cliffs, and miles-long vistas will have you gasping for air.
Vermont: Jenne Farm
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The northeastern state has so many walkable places with enjoyable views, including Jenne Farm located off Route 106. Featuring a combination of natural and manmade scenery, there are a ton of images of this heavily photographed farm online. The best time to catch the "golden hour" views is before sunrise, especially during the fall season.
Read More: 5 Best Hikes in the Northeast
Virginia: Shenandoah National Park
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This national park has one of the best scenic trails in Virginia filled with cascading waterfalls and fields of wildflowers. Enjoy an aesthetically pleasing hike through its ravishing deciduous forest.
Washington: Hoh Rainforest
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If you've ever wanted to see anything close to an enchanted forest in real life, check out the Hoh Rainforest in Washington State. The Hall of Mosses Trail, an iconic loop that takes you through old-growth forest and features a grove of maple trees draped with abundant club moss, will have you at a loss for words.
Washington, DC: Cherry Blossom Festival
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If you like the sight of blooming cherry blossoms in the spring, then you don't want to miss Washington D.C.'s annual cherry blossom festival. Fun fact: The National Cherry Blossom Festival commemorates the March 27, 1912 gift of Japanese cherry trees from the mayor of Tokyo City.
West Virginia: Babcock State Park
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If you ever get the chance, visit the iconic Babcock State Park in West Virginia. It's where you'll find the legendary Glade Creek Grist Mill. The historic site has amazing scenery that spans 4,000 acres.
Wisconsin: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
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Apostle Islands National Lakeshore comprises a stretch of shoreline and 21 islands at the northern tip of Wisconsin, on Lake Superior. It showcases some of the best views of Lake Superior's sparkling turquoise water. Set sail on the lake or hike the surrounding islands.
Wyoming: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
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The phenomenal Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is the first large canyon on the Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. The canyon is approximately 24 miles long and between 800 and 1,200 feet deep. A number of trails and walkways wind along the rims and down partway into the canyon for you to take in the spectacular scenery.
