Top 10 Most Scenic States in the U.S.

From the icy glaciers of Alaska to the white-sand beaches of Florida, our country is home to stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. Each state is beautiful on its own, but some feature a plethora of awe-inspiring natural wonders, dramatic landscapes, and iconic state and national parks, making them heaven for nature lovers.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up the 10 states where Mother Nature has truly outdone herself, taking into consideration must-visit national parks, coastlines, scenic drives, mountain ranges, and much more.

California

Nature’s bounty is on full display in the Golden State. With 280 state parks and nine national parks—the most out of all 50 states—California’s beauty and natural diversity are unrivaled. You can be soaking up vitamin D on a golden sand beach along the Pacific Coast, watching the sunset over the magical yuca palms of Joshua Tree National Park, exploring the Mojave Desert, taking a dip in a hot spring, or hiking lava beds in the northeast, all without leaving the boundaries of the state.

Alaska

The famous naturalist and “father of the national parks” John Muir stated that “to the lover of pure wildness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.” This sentiment rings true. With eight national parks, including the breathtaking Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska’s beauty will leave anyone full of appreciation for Mother Nature. Add to that the dense forests, glaciers, and rugged coastline of Glacier Bay National Park, and you get a good idea of why the Last Frontier state is on the wishlist of many travelers.

Utah

Utah has long been a favorite destination for outdoor and winter sports enthusiasts flocking here to enjoy the state’s snow-capped mountains and world-class resorts. The Beehive State offers a wealth of natural treasures from the ancient rock formations at Arches National Park to the expansive Bonneville Salt Flats. All these features will captivate your mind and leave you speechless.

Colorado

While it is correct to say that Colorado’s landscape is dominated by its towering peaks—the state is home to an impressive 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet—it is also home to diverse attractions at lower altitudes. From the mysterious Caves of the Winds to the stunning Garden of the Gods with its red-rock formations, Colorado’s natural beauty certainly qualifies it as one of the most scenic states in the country.

Hawaii

Hawaii may be one of the smallest states in the country, but it packs quite the visual punch. The eight major islands of the Hawaiian archipelago offer miles of pristine, picture-perfect beaches with white, yellow, orange, red, black, and even green sand. Lush rainforests, volcanic craters, expansive valleys, picturesque waterfalls, and striking canyons create a natural paradise.

Arizona

One look at the Grand Canyon is enough to convince you that Arizona is an extraordinary place. While this national park, with its 1,904 square miles of layered red rock formations, turquoise waterfalls, and snaking streams, is the state’s main draw, there are plenty of other natural gems to explore. The majestic smooth shapes of Antelope Canyon, Sedona’s red rocks, the Sonoran Desert’s giant saguaros, and the ancient “plant fossils” of petrified wood in the Petrified Forest contribute to Arizona’s unique natural landmarks.

Washington

With 124 state parks, three national parks (Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park, and Olympic National Park), and countless hidden natural gems, Washington certainly deserves a spot on your travel wishlist. Hike through the enchanting Hoh Rain Forest with its fairy tale-like landscape of moss-covered conifers, descend underground in Ape Caves, or marvel at the sheer beauty and grandeur of Mount St. Helens and the stunning viewpoints along the Pacific coast.

Wyoming

It’s simple to see why Wyoming ranks among the most beautiful states in the country. The Equality State offers mind-boggling vistas, not just with its stunning mountain landscapes. If you’ve laid eyes on the bright colors that make up the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, you already understand its beauty. Additionally, the idyllic scenery, picturesque mountains, and pristine lakes of Grand Teton National Park will leave you dreaming with your eyes open.

Massachusetts

What Massachusetts lacks in drama, it compensates with dreamy ocean vistas and lush mountainscapes. The state is home to the scenic Berkshires region and the beautiful Connecticut River Valley—two major fall foliage destinations—as well as numerous state parks and wildlife refuges. The crown jewel of Massachusetts is Cape Cod National Seashore, one of only ten national seashores in the country and a favorite vacation spot for generations of Americans.

Florida

With its sun-drenched beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida has become the quintessential vacation destination. Ocean lovers relish its dreamy stretches of sand and vibrant coral reefs, while the Everglades stand out as a World Heritage Site and home to the largest tropical wilderness in the country, teeming with unique wildlife and countless endangered species.