Many travelers spend days planning the perfect National Park vacation, but once they’ve checked off the park’s most famous sights, they often wonder what to do next. The answer may be right next door. National Forests are some of America’s best-kept outdoor secrets, offering stunning scenery, scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and far fewer crowds than many National Parks.

From glacier-carved mountains and towering waterfalls to red rock canyons and ancient forests, these National Park and National Forest pairings give you the best of both worlds.

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Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest, Washington

Explore Washington’s Most Diverse Landscapes

Surrounding Olympic National Park, Olympic National Forest encompasses more than 632,000 acres of rainforests, mountain ridges, rivers, and coastal landscapes. Visitors can enjoy over 270 miles of hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and scenic drives.

Inside Olympic National Park, you’ll find an incredible mix of ecosystems, from rugged Pacific coastline and temperate rainforests to alpine peaks. Popular activities include hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and waterfall chasing.

Where to Stay

Stay at the historic Lake Quinault Lodge or choose from numerous campgrounds throughout both the park and forest.

Glacier National Park and Flathead National Forest, Montana

Glacier Views Without the Crowds

Located just south of Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest covers 2.4 million acres of pristine wilderness filled with lakes, rivers, mountains, and more than 2,000 miles of trails.

Glacier National Park is famous for its alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, historic lodges, and the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road. With more than 700 miles of trails, it’s one of America’s premier hiking destinations.

Where to Stay

Both the park and forest offer excellent camping opportunities, while Glacier’s historic lodges provide a memorable national park experience.

Grand Canyon National Park and Kaibab National Forest, Arizona

Beyond the Rim

Kaibab National Forest surrounds much of Grand Canyon National Park and offers spectacular canyon views, scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife with significantly fewer visitors.

Grand Canyon National Park remains one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, featuring breathtaking overlooks, scenic drives, and hiking opportunities on both the North and South Rims.

Where to Stay

The Kaibab Lodge is a fantastic option for visitors exploring the North Rim and North Kaibab National Forest. The south rim offers multiple choices for lodging including the historic El Tovar Hotel.

Travel Tip: Some areas in the north affected by recent wildfires may remain closed. Always check current conditions before your trip.

Yosemite National Park and Sierra National Forest, California

Giant Sequoias, Waterfalls, and Mountain Views

Bordering Yosemite’s southern edge, Sierra National Forest offers granite peaks, deep canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and some of the world’s largest giant sequoias.

Yosemite National Park is known for iconic landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and expansive wilderness areas that attract visitors from around the globe.

Where to Stay

Choose from Yosemite’s historic lodges and campgrounds, or enjoy camping and outdoor recreation within Sierra National Forest.

Yellowstone National Park and Custer Gallatin National Forest, Montana

Wildlife, Wilderness, and Fewer Crowds

With six mountain ranges and more than three million acres of public land, Custer Gallatin National Forest offers exceptional wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.

Yellowstone National Park features geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and bears. Old Faithful is a must-see iconic geyser.

Where to Stay

Yellowstone offers nine lodging options and numerous campgrounds. Custer Gallatin provides campgrounds, cabins, and peaceful backcountry escapes.

Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest, Wyoming

Mountains as Far as the Eye Can See

Bridger-Teton National Forest features mountain lakes, scenic byways, wildlife viewing, and over 3.4 million acres of outdoor adventure.

Next door, Grand Teton National Park showcases some of America’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Popular destinations include Jenny Lake, Colter Bay, and the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve.

Where to Stay

Campgrounds and lodges are available throughout both destinations. Reservations are highly recommended during peak season.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Fishlake National Forest, Utah

Hoodoos and Hidden Mountain Lakes

Fishlake National Forest is home to Utah’s largest natural mountain lake, excellent fishing, waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and scenic mountain landscapes.

Bryce Canyon National Park features the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos, towering rock spires that create one of the most unique landscapes in America. The first 3 miles into the park brings you Bryce Amphitheater where you will see many of the hoodoos.

Where to Stay

Fishlake offers dozens of campgrounds, while Bryce Canyon provides historic lodging and campground options.

Zion National Park and Dixie National Forest, Utah

Red Rock Beauty Without the Crowds

Dixie National Forest delivers stunning red rock formations, scenic drives, mountain viewpoints, fishing, and hiking opportunities that rival nearby National Parks. From the top of Powell Point you can see three different states.

Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience the tall, stretching walls of a narrow slot canyon. Enjoy the scenic drive or river trip through the canyon. Zion National Park captivates visitors with towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and unforgettable canyon views.

Where to Stay

Choose from Zion Lodge, historic cabins, campgrounds, or camping opportunities throughout Dixie National Forest.

Pro Tip: Use a dash camera when doing the scenic drives to get great pictures and videos.

Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest, Colorado

Colorado’s Ultimate Mountain Escape

Surrounding much of Rocky Mountain National Park, Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest offers alpine lakes, mountain trails, scenic drives, and access to Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans). Drive the highest paved road in North America to the summit and make a stop at Echo Lake.  

Rocky Mountain National Park features over 350 miles of trails, breathtaking alpine scenery, and incredible wildlife viewing.

Where to Stay

Campgrounds are available throughout both destinations, though lodging options inside the park are limited.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee

Endless Scenic Drives and Waterfalls

Cherokee National Forest contains over 700 miles of trails, scenic mountain drives, rivers, waterfalls, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park, known for its rolling mountain vistas, historic sites, waterfalls, and wildlife and scenic drives.

Where to Stay

The national forest offers more than 30 campgrounds, while the park provides multiple camping options throughout the Smokies.

Badlands National Park and Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota

Prairies, Peaks, and Presidential History

Black Hills National Forest offers scenic drives, wildlife viewing, historic mining sites, and easy access to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.

Badlands National Park protects colorful rock formations, fossil beds, and mixed-grass prairie landscapes filled with wildlife. Driving the scenic routes are the best way to enjoy the park and see the bison and other wildlife.

Where to Stay

The forest features numerous campgrounds and historic cabin rentals, while Badlands offers limited lodging and camping.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars for better viewing of wildlife. These digital binoculars are great for pictures.

North Cascades National Park and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington

One of America’s Most Underrated Mountain Destinations

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest stretches from ancient forests and deep river valleys to alpine peaks and the shores of Lake Chelan. From the rugged peaks of the Cascade Mountains to the tranquil shores of Lake Chelan, from water activities, waterfalls and scenic drives there is something for everyone.

North Cascades National Park is home to more than 300 glaciers, jagged mountain peaks, waterfalls, and some of the most dramatic scenery in the Pacific Northwest. Explore jagged peaks crowned by glaciers. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you occupied here.

Where to Stay

Numerous campgrounds and lookout cabins are available in the forest. Lodging options near the park are limited, making nearby gateway towns an excellent base camp.

Final Thoughts: Double the Adventure on Your Next Road Trip

Why choose between a National Park and a National Forest when you can experience both?

These incredible pairings offer the iconic scenery of America’s National Parks alongside the quieter trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing found in nearby National Forests. Together, they create the perfect combination of bucket-list attractions and hidden gems.

On your next road trip, consider adding a neighboring National Forest to your itinerary. You’ll discover fewer crowds, more opportunities to explore, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in America.

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.

The post 12 National Park and National Forest Combinations You Need on Your Bucket List appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Whether you want a luxury spa weekend in Arizona, a glamping escape near Moab, or a peaceful desert retreat in Death Valley, these resorts combine scenic beauty with laid-back outdoor experiences. Many also sit near some of the best dark sky destinations in the country, making them ideal for stargazing vacations.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on any of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

Here are 16 beautiful desert resorts in the U.S. where you can swim, unwind, and enjoy the magic of the desert.

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa – Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico

Located between the Rio Grande and the Sandia Mountains, this New Mexico resort blends desert scenery with cultural experiences and resort-style amenities. Guests can enjoy outdoor pools, horseback riding, golf, biking trails, and relaxing spa treatments while surrounded by peaceful high desert views.

One of the best things about Tamaya is how easy it is to enjoy the outdoors without needing strenuous hikes. The property has miles of walking and biking paths that wind through cottonwood groves and desert landscapes. At night, the open skies make a perfect backdrop for casual stargazing.

Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder Resort – Santa Fe, New Mexico

Set on 587 acres north of Santa Fe, Buffalo Thunder combines resort amenities with incredible mountain and desert views. The property features indoor and outdoor pools, a golf course, spa, walking trails, casino, and an impressive collection of Pueblo artwork throughout the resort.

Because the resort sits away from city lights, evenings are surprisingly good for stargazing. The desert air and higher elevation often create crystal-clear skies where stars seem endless. Head to the outdoor pool or golf course for the best star gazing.

Amangiri Resort – Canyon Point, Utah

Amangiri is one of the most iconic luxury desert resorts in the Southwest. Hidden among the mesas and canyons of southern Utah, the resort is famous for its dramatic pool wrapped around a natural rock formation.

The peaceful setting is ideal for travelers looking for quiet desert beauty, short scenic walks, spa experiences, and incredible sunsets. With almost no surrounding light pollution, the night skies here are spectacular.

Nearby, Camp Sarika offers luxury tented pavilions with private plunge pools for travelers who want a glamping-style experience with the same stunning scenery.

Read Next: Best Time to Visit Dark Sky Parks for Stargazing

ULUM Moab- Moab, Utah

ULUM Moab blends luxury glamping with the red rock scenery of southern Utah. The safari-style tents feel upscale and comfortable while still giving guests a close connection to the outdoors. Indulge in rejuvenating experiences such as yoga, massages in a striking cave sanctuary, hot and cold dipping pools, and sound bath meditation.

This resort is especially appealing for stargazers. Low lighting, astronomy programs, fire pits, and guided night sky experiences make it one of the best dark sky resort stays near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Short walks around camp are easy, while nearby parks offer scenic drives and quick viewpoint stops for travelers who prefer lighter outdoor adventures.

Pro Tip: Be sure to bring your telescope for the best viewing of dark skies. We really like this travel telescope from Gskyer. It has its own travel bag and phone adapter.

Red Mountain Resort – Ivins, Utah

Near Snow Canyon State Park, Red Mountain Resort is a favorite for wellness-focused travelers who want pools, spa treatments, guided hikes, and beautiful red rock scenery.

The area offers plenty of easy scenic walks, making it ideal for visitors who want outdoor experiences without exhausting hikes. Wide desert skies and quiet evenings also create excellent conditions for stargazing after sunset.

Enchantment Resort – Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by Sedona’s towering red rocks, Enchantment Resort feels completely immersed in the landscape. Located in Boynton Canyon, the resort offers pools, spa services, scenic walking trails, and incredible canyon views.

The resort is also known for its astronomy programs. Guests can join telescope viewing sessions with astronomers and see planets, galaxies, star clusters, and the moon under Sedona’s dark desert skies.

ADERO Scottsdale Resort – Scottsdale, Arizona

ADERO Scottsdale is one of the best Scottsdale resorts for travelers who want easy access to desert scenery and stargazing without leaving the Phoenix area completely behind.

The resort features pools, hot tubs, spa, tennis, pickleball courts, and nearby beginner-friendly desert trails. Since the property sits within a Dark Sky Community, guests can also enjoy telescope experiences and astronomy events.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain – Marana, Arizona

Nestled in the Tortolita Mountains near Tucson, this Sonoran Desert resort combines luxury with outdoor adventure. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a waterslide, golf, hiking trails, and spa treatments.

Short scenic walks are easy to find right outside the resort, while the quiet desert setting makes evenings ideal for relaxing under the stars.

Boulders Resort and Spa – Scottsdale, Arizona

Boulders Resort is famous for its massive granite rock formations scattered across the Sonoran Desert landscape. The resort offers several pools, including adults-only spa pools, plus golf, walking paths, and astronomy experiences.

Evening activities include moon viewing, stargazing sessions, and dinners under the stars. The scenic walking trails around the boulder formations are easy and incredibly photogenic.

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North- Scottsdale, Arizona

This North Scottsdale resort combines luxury casitas, desert views, and peaceful surroundings with easy access to outdoor adventures. Enjoy the spa, swim with views of the surrounding mountains or play a round of golf.

Guests can enjoy telescope-based stargazing events, resort pools, and nearby short hikes around Pinnacle Peak. The high desert scenery feels surprisingly remote despite being close to Phoenix.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring a bag for your wet swimsuit. You’ll one to take one last dip before you leave and having a waterproof bag is great.

Castle Hot Spring Resort – Morristown, Arizona

Hidden in the Bradshaw Mountains north of Phoenix, Castle Hot Springs is one of Arizona’s most unique desert wellness resorts. Natural hot springs, desert pools, spa treatments, and farm-to-table dining create a peaceful retreat atmosphere.

The remote canyon setting keeps light pollution low, making this a fantastic place for soaking in hot springs beneath a sky full of stars.

Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa – Tucson, Arizona

Miraval Arizona sits on more than 400 acres of Sonoran Desert near Tucson. Known for wellness experiences, the resort offers spa treatments, fitness classes, pools, meditation programs, and scenic walking paths.

The quieter Catalina foothills location also provides much better stargazing than most city hotels.

Tanque Verde Ranch – Tucson, Arizona

Tanque Verde Ranch delivers a classic Arizona ranch experience with horseback riding, hiking, and mountain scenery near Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest. Relax with a yoga class, spa treatment or in a cozy cabana at the pool.

You can take a Falconry class or enjoy archery. The list of activities goes on and on. Guests can choose easy desert walks or simply relax by the pool before enjoying wide-open desert skies at night.

Read More: 18 Dark Sky Parks in the United States for Unforgettable Stargazing

White Stallion Ranch – Tucson. Arizona

Located beside Saguaro National Park, White Stallion Ranch combines Western charm with resort comforts. Amenities include a heated pool, hot tub, spa, movie theater, horseback riding, and guided desert hikes. There’s even a petting zoo!

Its location away from major city lights also makes it ideal for peaceful evenings under the stars. Saguaro National Park is a certified an Urban Night Sky Place meaning you can see lots of stars and night animals.

La Casa del Zorro Resort & Spa – Borrego Springs, California

This historic desert resort offers casita-style accommodations with Most Casitas offer private pools or hot tubs and separate living room. Enjoy peaceful grounds and easy access to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Join a yoga class or head to the spa for a day of pampering.

Its remote setting and low light pollution create fantastic stargazing conditions, while nearby scenic areas allow for short walks and relaxed desert exploration.

Pro Tip: Be sure to have plenty of water when hiking in the desert. This travel water bottle is fun if you’re going to some National Parks.

Oasis at Death Valley – Death Valley National Park, California

The Inn at Death Valley is one of the most iconic desert hotels in the country. Its spring-fed pool, relaxing spa, palm-lined grounds, and sweeping desert views create a dramatic oasis in one of the harshest landscapes in North America.

The Inn is part of the Oasis complex at Death Valley where you can also stay at The Ranch or Fiddler’s Campground all with access to the pool.

Death Valley is internationally known for exceptional dark skies, making this one of the best destinations in the U.S. for stargazing. Death Valley is a gold tier (highest rating) Dark Sky Park. Short walks are easy to plan from the Furnace Creek area, including paved and low-effort routes that suit guests who want scenery without a long hike.

Final Thoughts

The American Southwest is filled with desert resorts that make it easy to slow down and enjoy the landscape. Whether you want luxury spa treatments in Sedona, glamping near Moab, hot springs under the stars in Arizona, or peaceful evenings in Death Valley, these resorts offer some of the best desert experiences in the country.

The best part? You do not need to be an intense hiker to enjoy these destinations. Many of these resorts combine beautiful scenery, easy outdoor access, incredible pools, relaxing spas and unforgettable night skies all in one place.

The post 16 Stunning Desert Resorts in the U.S. for Relaxation, Stargazing & Easy Scenic Walks appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

If you’re craving unique U.S. travel experiences, these places deliver something unforgettable. They’re the kind of spots that make you stop mid-sentence and say, “Wait… this is actually in the United States?”

Whether you’re planning a road trip, building a bucket list, or just looking for something wildly different, these otherworldly destinations prove you don’t need a passport to feel like you’ve left the planet.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

Unusual Landscapes That Feel Otherworldly

These destinations are dramatic, mysterious, and downright hard to believe.

Devils Tower, Wyoming

Rising dramatically from the plains, Devils Tower National Monument looks almost engineered rather than naturally formed. Its massive vertical columns glow at sunrise and sunset, creating an eerie, almost spiritual atmosphere.

Rising 867 feet above the plains, Devils Tower National Monument is one of the most iconic and mysterious rock formations in the U.S. It’s one of those places you ask how it is possible that nature could create this. The park is open 24/7.

Alabama Hills, California

Set against the Sierra Nevada, Alabama Hills is a landscape of arches, boulders, and rugged rock formations. Add in views of Mount Whitney, and it feels like a movie set, literally.

One of the most popular drives is Movie Road, where many Western movies and TV shows were made. The rugged wonderland of the Alabama Hills offers numerous natural arches to explore, many of which look as though they lead to a cave. Unusual and dramatic, you don’t except this landscape in the US.  Alabama Hills is open 24/7, but summer can get really hot, so try to go in spring or fall.

Pro Tip: Always be sure to bring water with you, even is temperatures seem cool, you can get dehydrated.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park lives up to its name with fiery red sandstone that seems to glow under the desert sun. Ancient petroglyphs and wave-like formations make it feel like another planet entirely.

The bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops nestled in gray and tan limestone make this park one of the most unique in the US. It’s one of our favorite parks to visit. The park is open year-round, but some of the hiking trails are closed in summer due to the heat.

Pro Tip: Be sure you take a camera when you visit these amazing places, you’ll want to look back on the pictures often. If you’re looking for a new camera, we really like our Kodak PixPro. Not only does it take great pictures, but it takes nice videos.

Garden of the Gods, Colorado

Towering red rock formations rise dramatically in Garden of the Gods, set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. There are gaps between the spires making it seem like the spires are reaching for the sky.

Massive sandstone fins and spires create a landscape that feels both ancient and other worldly. It’s bold, dramatic, and surprisingly accessible. The park is open 5 AM to PM daily.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The flowing sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon twist and glow as beams of sunlight filter through narrow openings. It’s easily one of the most photogenic, and surreal, places in the U.S. You can only visit Antelope Canyon with a Navajo tour guide.

The natural artistry of the slot canyons makes you wonder how these could be from this planet. They are mysterious and beautiful. Antelope Canyon is like no other place on earth.

The Wave, Arizona

Located in the Paria Canyon–Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, The Wave looks like a painted masterpiece. It’s curved rock layers create flowing patterns that appear to be frozen waves.

Visiting The Wave requires a strenuous 6.4-mile hike. Access is limited by permit, but if you get one, it’s unforgettable.

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, New Mexico

Alien-like rock formations define Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. These rock formations rise from the desert floor in shapes that resemble alien sculptures or distant planets. Erosion has created hoodoos, thin spires, and balanced stones that appear almost impossible in their design.

 Hoodoos and strange shapes pop up across the desert, making it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. You are free to walk through this area on your own, but BLM does recommend bringing a GPS with you as it is easy to get lost. Open year round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit.

Pro Tip: Taking a tour with a Navajo guide is your best bet here for not missing anything.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Layered rock formations and fossil-rich terrain make Badlands National Park feel prehistoric. Add bison roaming freely and you feel like you stepped back in time.

 These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. The colors alone are enough to stop you in your tracks. As you drive through the park you’ll be taken in by the dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. The park is open 24/7.

Pro Tip: If you want to get pictures from a distance, try these digital binoculars that have a camera for great shots.

Natural Sandscapes That Don’t Feel Real

These places take “sand” to a whole new level. Not your typical brown sand for sure.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Like a mirage, dazzling white sand dunes shimmer in the tucked-way Tularosa Basin in southern New Mexico. The bright white gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park look more like snow than sand.

Travelers exploring White Sands National Park often hike across the dunes, sled down soft slopes, or photograph the striking contrast between the white sand and blue sky.  It’s surreal, blindingly beautiful, and perfect for sledding. The park is open 7 AM to Sunset daily.

Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats are one of Earth’s most unique landforms. The salt flats are about 12 miles long and 5 miles wide and are comprised mostly of sodium chloride, or table salt. Stretching endlessly toward the horizon, the Bonneville Salt Flats create mirror-like reflections especially after rain.

Travelers often visit for photography, racing events, or simply to experience the unusual landscape. Visitors enjoy the surreal experience of walking over a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. It’s minimal, stark, and wildly photogenic. Open year round.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Utah

Yes – pink sand is real. Rippling arcs of rust-colored sand welcome you as you enter Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Contrasted by blue skies, juniper and pinion pines, and steep red cliffs you feel like you’re on another planet.

 Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers a colorful twist on desert landscapes, with dunes perfect for exploring, off-roading and of course photography. Park is open daily during daylight hours.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Towering dunes meet alpine peaks at Great Sand Dunes National Park, creating one of the most unexpected landscapes in the country. It features the tallest sand dunes in North America rising against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The dunes are the centerpiece in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, and alpine lakes.

Visitors can hike or sandboard down the towering slopes while mountain peaks frame the horizon. Once at the bottom of the dunes head to Medano Creek and splash around a bit. The contrast between dunes and alpine mountains creates a striking visual experience. The park is open 24/7 but spring and fall are the best times to visit.

Caves, Craters, and Wild Natural Wonders

These destinations feel like stepping into another world – literally.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Descend into Carlsbad Caverns National Park and you’ll find massive underground chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and enormous chambers. Visitors descend into caverns that stretch for miles beneath the desert landscape

Bonus: the bat flights are unforgettable. May through September join the Brazilian free-tailed bats as they make their nightly trip outside the cave for food.

Lost Sea Adventure, Tennessee

At The Lost Sea Adventure, you can actually take a boat ride on America’s largest underground lake. Not your average day trip.

After walking deep underground, visitors board glass-bottom boats that glide across crystal-clear water. Trout swim below while massive rock walls disappear into darkness above. With the cave all around you while floating on this beautiful lake you truly feel you’re in another world. Open daily 9 AM to 5 PM.

Ruby Falls, Tennessee

Hidden inside Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls features a glowing 145-ft.  underground waterfall that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Ruby Falls is reached by elevator, descending 260 feet into Lookout Mountain before walking through a cave passage to the waterfall. The lights reflecting off the falls in vibrant colors will take your breath away. Open daily 8 AM to 8 PM.

Thor’s Well, Oregon

Thor’s Well looks like the ocean is draining straight into the earth. Located along Oregon’s rugged coastline, this former sea cave collapsed due to erosion, creating a dramatic natural sinkhole.

Visit during high tide for the most dramatic effect but keep your distance. Rogue waves don’t care about your Instagram shot. It’s dramatic and a little intimidating. Parking lot is small but you can go anytime during daylight hours.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

The impossibly blue water of Crater Lake National Park sits inside a collapsed volcano, creating one of the most striking landscapes in the country. Fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA. The lake is beautiful, but the real eye catcher is the crater in the middle of it.

Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range. This park is open 24/7, however from November to April snow can make getting around difficult.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

With glaciers, wildflower meadows, and a towering volcano, Mount Rainier National Park feels more like the Swiss Alps than the Pacific Northwest.

Mount Rainer is an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers. Like Crater Lake, Mount Rainier is open all year, but the snow closes the roads making summer and fall the best time to visit.

Final Thoughts

The United States is way more diverse and way more surprising than most people expect. These destinations prove you don’t need to travel across the world to find landscapes that feel completely unreal.

If you’re looking to shake up your travel routine, skip the usual stops and head somewhere that makes you question what planet you’re on. Because honestly… those are the trips you remember.

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.

The post 15 Stunning U.S. Destinations That Feel Like Another Planet appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.