Mother nature has produced some remarkable scenery in America’s West. From spectacular rock formations and deep canyons to sparkling waterfalls, geysers and lakes, there’s a wide variety of breathtaking natural wonders for you to see.
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon National Park truly is a sight to behold. Carved through the rocks of the Colorado Plateau over millions of years, the canyon is more than 1.6 kilometres (1 mile) deep and 16 kilometres (10 miles) wide, revealing billions of years of geological history.
Tip: Savour a sunset or sunrise at one of the most beautiful places in the world!
Monument Valley
One of the most majestic and most photographed landscapes on the planet, Monument Valley overwhelms, not just in beauty but also in size. Located in Arizona’s Navajo Nation, this great valley is filled with red sandstone masterpieces that tower from 120 metres to 300 metres and are framed by bright blue skies and scenic, rolling white clouds.
Tip: Learn about the local Navajo culture and the Dineh (people) who call this area home.
Arches National Park
With more than 2000 natural sandstone arches and formations, including the Balanced Rock, Park Avenue and Delicate Arch, there’s plenty to be seen in this Utah National Park.
Custer State Park
Formed in 1897, Custer State Park is the second-largest state park in America. Its 73,000 breathtaking acres are home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, mountain goats, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, wild turkeys and elk.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Standing as a shrine of democracy, the epic sculpture that is Mount Rushmore depicts the faces of four exalted American presidents who symbolise the nation’s rich history, rugged determination and lasting achievement.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Crazy Horse Memorial was built in honour of the fearless Sioux Indian chief, whose fame is derived from the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Tip: Take the time to learn about the sculpture, his family and the future of the project.
Devils Tower National Monument
Wyoming’s Devils Tower National Monument was established as America’s first national monument by Teddy Roosevelt in 1906. The spectacular rock formation and the surrounding countryside are home to a myriad of plant and animal life, and Native Americans consider the area a place for renewal.
Yellowstone National Park
Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first national park. There’s much to be explored in this beautiful park. See the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Fountain Paint Point. Be sure to remain on the lookout for some of the park’s wildlife that can include moose, bison, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, wolves, bears, fox, coyote and beaver.
Grand Teton National Park
Just south of Yellowstone is Grand Teton National Park. The park’s world-renowned scenery attracts more than 4 million visitors per year. Here, you can see the beautiful glacier-fed Jenny Lake and stroll along the shore.
Bryce Canyon National Park
At Bryce Canyon National Park you’ll discover a breathtaking landscape full of pinnacles of stone and colours that defy the imagination.
Tip: Bryce is one of the best places to view stars because of its remote location and lack of pollution. On some nights, more than 7500 stars a visible.
Zion National Park
With its dramatic landscape of canyons and soaring cliffs, you will be in a constant state of awe at Zion National Park. See fantastic rock structures and some unbelievable scenic beauty.
Interested in exploring America’s Great Parks for yourself? Check out the Globus tours that explore the National Parks and Western USA here.
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