Best USA Destinations for Nature Lovers

Something about nature just makes you breathe deeper, relax your shoulders, and become present. The sights, smells, and textures of landscapes have done everything over the periods of time from allowing people to fall in love to inspiring art as well as providing much-needed escapes from our industrialized cities. 

Now when most of us think about vacation, we usually picture sitting poolside at a fancy hotel, drinking out of a coconut or pineapple, but during the time of COVID-19, an escape into nature could literally be just what the doctor ordered.

In my opinion, the best way to optimize a good ole’ fashion nature trip is to make it a road trip. That might have you thinking, “What about gas?” or “Can I insure my friend’s car in case we have to switch drivers?” Once you iron out the details of who, what, where, and when, getting to see the sights will be well worth the planning.

Whether you’re looking to spend just one a day or several weeks away, there are a variety of natural locations nearby that can give us an amazing getaway experience that will leave you wondering why you didn’t think of this before 2020. 

And for you nature lovers that were already trying to get through to the rest of us on how wonderful nature could be, hopefully, a few places on this list can get added to your bucket list of nature exploration.

#1 – Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas isn’t what you expected to see here, right? Although Vegas is known for its flashing lights, clubs, and shows, one way to enjoy this heavily sought-after vacation destination is by going past the strip. 

Nevada is filled with astonishing desert landscapes that provide unique photo-ops, water and land views, and almost everything between. Where you ask? Well, Lake Mead, darling. 

Flashy nightlife isn’t all Vegas has to offer. At Lake Mead, you can experience camping, boating, hiking, history, and even amazing eats. There is even a Junior Rangers program for kids to learn about nature and historical aspects of how Lake Mead came to be. 

As it is only 45 minutes away from the strip, Lake Mead provides a unique opportunity to tailor your trip to be as outdoorsy as you do or don’t want to be. There is truly something for everyone in this vacation package, and with so much to explore this location will keep you coming back.

#2 – Sedona, Arizona

 

 

Chances are you have a friend on Instagram whose most liked picture is them in this exact spot with a semi-spiritual caption. The hype is there for a reason. That part of themself your friend claims to have found there? They probably did. Sedona is a magical place that gives visitors a sense of wonder and fulfillment unlike any other. 

In these unprecedented times, needing a sense of wellness isn’t uncommon, and a road trip to these red rock beauties can offer the peace of mind we all seek. 

Sedona is native to the Yavapai-Apache nation and is historically seen as a hotspot for an energy vortex meaning that the amount of energy that radiates from the landscape is amplified. This makes Sedona not only a popular hiking destination but also a perfect place for the most luxurious spas you can visit on the west coast.

From hiking wonders, jeep tours, arts and crafts, and wine trails, Sedona will certainly be a transcendent experience.

#3 – Grand County, Utah

Arches National Park has peaks and depths that make you feel as if you’re on another planet, and if you make it to Elephant Butte, which is 5,653 feet high, you almost are. With each season comes beautiful sights and can make the same trail feel brand new, but with over 2,000 acres in the park, there’s no shortage in options. 

This nature destination can be for all types of explorers from the calm to the adventurous with all of the various activities offered. You can rock climb, go horseback riding, canoe down the Colorado River, and stargaze while camping on one of their many camping sites. 

The beautiful natural stone arches are what make this park famous. With the stones creating architecture that will inspire you to reach new heights. With scenic views like this, it’s a wonder why Utah isn’t a more popular tourist destination.

#4 – Lake Lanier County, Georgia

Lake Lanier is one of the many astonishing nature destinations in Georgia. Georgia is a seasonal state that between the humid heat and treacherous rains brings blooms like no other. Everyone needs to experience Georgia for not only the barbeque but the views.

Lake Lanier will make anyone wish they were born and living in Southern Belle fashion once they start reading about the brushes, cruises, golf courses, hiking, zipline, and waterparks. The best part is that the lake is only a 40-minute drive to the city of Atlanta.

There are beautiful scenic river trails to hike and plenty of programs for kids. Even during a family vacation, some time apart can ensure that everyone leaves with happy memories. With some of the South’s best eateries around family dinners will be easy to find, or you can even enjoy a campfire-style meal while camping the lake. 

This is a place where you can enjoy all of the life that water, forests, wildlife, and all of the organic features that Earth has to offer. 

Nature Lovers and City Slickers Unite

You don’t need to find a five-star hotel to enjoy a vacation. Whether you’re already a nature lover or just beginning to dip your toes in, from sea to shining sea, America has some of the most beautiful national parks and recreations in the world. 

Often times we forget what’s in our own backyard (or sky!), and we think that the further and wider we go, the better the adventure. But the truth of the matter is that what’s near is longing for our attention and appreciation.

On my backpacking journeys, I used a lot of cars, owning three (Northern Ireland, England, Australia) and hiring a brave few more. I often used sites such as the car insurance comparison site, CarInsuranceComparison.com. Hopefully I will go backpacking again when the COVID situation eases.