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Sunset along California’s Big Sur coastline
ADOBE STOCK
Beyond the Postcard:
America’s Wildest Wonders
Framed by oceans and graced with deep forests, soaring mountains, vast deserts, sparkling rivers and mysterious swamps, the United States is a land of remarkable natural beauty. Wild but accessible, these five iconic sites have enchanted visitors for centuries.
By Katie McElveen
West
Highway 1, Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, California
Big Sur, California
Big Sur is often called the most dramatic stretch of coastline in the world, and it’s easy to see why: For 90 miles, between Monterey and Hearst Castle, the Pacific Ocean crashes against the base of the San Lucia Mountains, leaving beaches, caves and sheer cliffs in its wake.
How to see it: On Jan. 14, 2026, U.S. Highway 1 reopened to traffic after a three-year closure, giving drivers once again the thrill of taking on the roadway’s twists, turns and dramatic views. There are also trails to hike, either along the coast or into the forests of giant redwood trees.
Southwest
Monument Valley, Arizona
Monument Valley, Utah
Set on the border of Arizona and Utah, Monument Valley awes with majestic sandstone buttes and mesas that decorate the desert floor as far as the eye can see. The three most famous formations—East Mitten Butte, West Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte—form a triangle of almost surreal beauty, particularly at dawn and sunset, when they glow as if lighted from within.
How to see it: Self-guided Valley Drive meanders through the monument-strewn landscape for 17 miles and is the most efficient way to take in the scene. Hikers can trek the Wildcat Trail, which circles West Mitten Butte. For a deeper exploration, Navajo-guided tours on foot, horseback or van take you into areas off limits to independent travelers.
Midwest
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
Named for a mother bear searching the waters of Lake Michigan for her two cubs, these huge sand formations tower more than 400 feet above the shoreline. They were formed by glaciers advancing and receding over the last 2 million years. Sleeping Bear Dunes received the National Lakeshore designation in 1970.
How to see it: For sheer wonder, it’s hard to beat a boat tour of the bluff-lined shore; afterward, hop onto the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and peer into an infinity of blue from the top of the largest dunes east of the Mississippi.
Southeast
Tourists enjoy an airboat tour of Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park, Florida
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 1.5 million-acre wetland is home to animals, such as manatees, Florida black bears and elusive panthers. It’s also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist. Birdwatchers revel in sightings of osprey, roseate spoonbills, wood storks and other species.
How to see it: With their unique ability to zoom over shallow, marshy water, airboats are a terrific way to go deep into the Everglades. Even better, since they do not have underwater propellers, they avoid injuring wildlife. There are also multiuse trails, kayak and boat tours, boardwalks, and a tram that transports visitors to an observation tower.
Northeast
This steep drive offers stunning views on the way up to the top of Mount Washington.
Mount Washington State Park, New Hampshire
The crown jewel of the White Mountains (and the tallest peak in the Northeast), Mount Washington rises more than 6,000, giving visitors a view of forested hills, rocky balds and, on a clear day, five states and Canada. Winds here have been clocked at 231 mph—a world record.
How to see it: There are three ways to get to the top of Mount Washington. The Mount Washington Cog Railway has been chugging up the mountain since 1869 and is the most atmospheric. An auto road opened in 1861 and is said to be America’s oldest man-made tourist attraction. Or, Die-hard hikers can climb the 8.4-mile round-trip Tuckerman Ravine Trail, which can take a full day.
To experience some of America’s natural wonders, talk to a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent and enjoy AAA Member savings on hotel accommodations and stackable savings on Hertz car rentals.
Resort Spotlight | Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Hotel
Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Hotel
VENTANA BIG SUR
Experience rustic luxury and tranquil comfort at Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Hotel set amid the scenic beauty of California’s Pacific Coast. Wake to sweeping ocean or forest views then rejuvenate at Spa Alila, where nature-inspired treatments promise deep relaxation.
Enjoy a swim in the heated outdoor pool or unwind in the sauna and hot tub. Savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes at The Sur House, perched above the sea, or grab hand-crafted pizza and gelato from Surstream in the redwoods. Hiking, bike rides and creative workshops are just a few of the inspiring activities offered. AAA Members can save up to ten percent and earn World of Hyatt points with every AAA booking, making this escape both rewarding and memorable.
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