When most people think of America’s great outdoor destinations, National Parks get all the glory. But did you know there are more than 130 National Monuments across the country, many of them just as stunning, less crowded, and easier to explore?
These remarkable places protect everything from ancient cliff dwellings to surreal rock formations, massive redwoods, and even hidden desert canyons. So pack your hiking gear and camera and get ready for a fabulous adventure. Don’t forget your America the Beautiful Pass, you can use it for National Monuments along with all National Parks.
Learn more: American the Beautiful Pass
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Here’s your guide to 20 incredible U.S. National Monuments that deserve a top spot on your bucket list.
West Coast Wonders
1. Muir Woods National Monument, California
Just north of San Francisco, Muir Woods is a peaceful forest filled with towering coastal redwoods. Strolling beneath these giants feels almost magical, especially in the morning fog. The park requires parking reservations, but the short drive and easy trails make this one of California’s most accessible nature escapes. It can get cool in the shade, so don’t forget your jacket.
2. Giant Sequoia National Monument, California
This monument protects 33 groves of the largest trees on Earth, the giant sequoias. Two main sections (north and south) offer scenic trails through meadows, granite cliffs, and forests that make you feel tiny in comparison. It’s a perfect alternative to the busier Sequoia National Park.
3. Devils Postpile National Monument, California
Marvel at towering 60 ft. columns of basalt rock so symmetrical they look manmade. Afterward, take the short hike to Rainbow Falls, a 101-foot cascade surrounded by mist and sunlight. This is one of California’s most underrated natural wonders.
4. Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming
Rising dramatically from the plains, Devils Tower is a sacred site and one of America’s most recognizable landmarks. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just photographing it at sunrise, it’s an unforgettable experience.
5. Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
This bizarre volcanic landscape feels like you’ve landed on another planet. Hike across black lava fields, climb cinder cones, and explore lava tubes underground. The views are out of this world, literally.
Southwest Gems
6. Hovenweep National Monument (Utah/Colorado)
Discover six ancient Puebloan villages scattered across a rugged desert mesa. Stone towers and cliff dwellings have stood here for centuries, offering a window into the ingenuity of early Native peoples.
7. Bears Ears National Monument, Utah
This sacred landscape is home to stunning red-rock canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and cultural heritage sites. It’s a powerful place to hike and reflect, it’s rich in both natural and spiritual beauty.
8. Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
Home to three massive sandstone bridges, this monument is a dream for photographers and hikers. These formations of bridges are just amazing. It’s also an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the clearest stargazing in the U.S.
9. Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, Utah
Remote, rugged, and full of surprises, from waterfalls to slot canyons, this massive monument invites adventure. Every hike feels like discovering a secret corner of the Southwest. Make sure you stop at Lake Powell while you’re here.
10. Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah
A high-altitude amphitheater of glowing red rock, Cedar Breaks is like a smaller, quieter Bryce Canyon. At 10,000 feet, it offers panoramic views and some of the most incredible night skies in the country.
11. Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Utah
Accessible by boat or backcountry hike from Lake Powell, this massive natural bridge is one of the largest in the world. It’s also a sacred site for several Native tribes, an awe-inspiring symbol of nature’s artistry. Please respect this sacred site.
12. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona
Located within the Navajo Nation, this breathtaking canyon combines ancient cliff dwellings, vibrant red cliffs, and rich living culture. Guided tours reveal a deep connection between the land and its people. This is one of my favorite National Monuments. The Navajo guides are wonderful!
13. Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
Nicknamed the “Wonderland of Rocks,” this place feels like a natural sculpture garden. Hike through towering stone spires and balanced rocks that seem to defy gravity. This is a photographer’s paradise. It amazes me that these rocks have been balancing for hundreds of years.
14. Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona
This five-story ancient dwelling was carved high into a limestone cliff over 1,000 years ago. It’s one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the Southwest and a fascinating glimpse into ancient life.
15. Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico
With its jagged peaks and dramatic desert backdrop, this monument is a haven for hikers and history lovers. You’ll find old mining camps, volcanic formations, and trails with panoramic views. I think these are fascinating cactus.
16. Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico
Explore ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs carved into volcanic rock. You can even climb wooden ladders into preserved homes. This combination of archaeology and natural beauty makes Bandelier unforgettable and absolutely beautiful.
17. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, New Mexico
Deep in Gila National Forest, these ancient cave dwellings are tucked into the cliffs above a quiet canyon. A scenic drive and short hike make visiting this spot feel like a true adventure. If you love history, this is a bucket list must!
Midwest Marvel
18. Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota
Descend into one of the longest cave systems in the world, glittering with calcite crystals and colorful formations. Above ground, explore forest trails in the scenic Black Hills for a full day of discovery. If you don’t like tight spaces, this one may not be for you. Be sure to bring a jacket, it can get cool in the cave.
East Coast Beauties
19. Fort Frederica National Monument, Georgia
Step back in time on St. Simons Island at the remains of an 18th-century British fort. With moss-draped oaks, colonial ruins, and coastal scenery, this monument blends Southern charm with American history. It makes you appreciate how they protected the country all those years ago.
20. Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine
Nestled in northern Maine’s wilderness, this is one of the newest and most peaceful monuments in the U.S. Go hiking, kayaking, or simply soak up views of Mount Katahdin. This is the northern end of the Appalachian Trail. This is a true outdoor lover’s dream.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve already checked off a few National Parks from your list, it’s time to explore the lesser-known National Monuments. They’re quieter, often easier to visit, and every bit as breathtaking, from the towering redwoods of California to the ancient dwellings of New Mexico.
So next time you’re planning a road trip, add a few of these to your itinerary. You might just find your new favorite place in America. If you want some help planning your road trip, check out roadtrippers.com. We’ve used this app, and we found some great places to eat and interesting roadside attractions we probably would’ve missed. If you use code BTR5QTP, you can save $5.
We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.