You could spend a lifetime exploring the most beautiful places in America, as exciting as they are diverse. In one corner of the United States, you’ll find temperate rainforests and rocky beaches; then just travel south to encounter white-sand deserts and the grandest of canyons. Or head to New England, where forested mountains and farmlands dazzle far beyond leaf-peeping season. And don’t forget about Hawaii and Alaska, two treasure troves of natural beauty that encourage folks to explore beyond the contiguous US.
Whether you’re looking for nature’s greatest hits or hidden gems that take a little digging to find—or you simply want to plan your next great cross-country road trip—this list of the 50 most beautiful places in America is sure to inspire.
This gallery was last published in July 2019. It has been updated with new information.