Scenic Marvels: Exploring USA's Scenic Treasures
Scenic Marvels: Exploring USA's Scenic Treasures
Kenzie
Explore scenic coastal views, vibrant cherry blossoms, majestic canyons, bewildering parks, and serene lakeshores across the United States of America. Save this guide to your library for easy access and inspiration.
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Discover destinations so ethereal they feel unreal until seen firsthand. This map of scenic spots lets you curate your own USA travel bucket list. I continually update this list based on personal visits, ensuring each spot is worth exploring.
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Scenic Markers by State
California
Pirates Cove, California
@LiveWandering
Park at Pirate's Beach Cove Parking lot and hike down to the smuggler's cave for scenic views away from the beaches and traffic.
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Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
@LiveWandering
I visited these dunes for a private photoshoot and the photos were incredible! The blue sand with the blue sky during golden hour created a beautiful background for photos!
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Avila Beach
@LiveWandering
This is a great little beach town worth visiting, especially in the summer months.
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West Beach
@LiveWandering
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La Jolla
@LiveWandering
I was lucky enough to stay with my friend at her parents' home located two streets away from the beach. The view, sunsets, and beach were all incredible. I felt refreshed after staying there for a week.
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Sunset Cliffs, California
@LiveWandering
Park in the city lot coastal viewing for a less busy view of the sunset cliffs. 3980 Lomaland Dr San Diego, California
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Washington
The Quad - University of Washington
@LiveWandering
This may not seem like a strong starting point but the Quad at the University of Washington has beautiful trees that make you feel like you're in a Hallmark movie when they blossom in the spring.
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Nevada
Seven Magic Mountains
@LiveWandering
Bring lots of water and sunscreen. There is a dirt parking lot and a short walk to the sculptures. There is no shade. No parking fees. Dogs are allowed on leashes and owners must pick up after them.
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Utah
Zion National Park
@LiveWandering
Zion is on my bucket list to visit again one day. I only walked through the park for about an hour before I had to leave for the next part of the road trip. I wish we had stayed in the area but we had made previous plans. Absolutely loved the energy of Zion and will be visiting again to experience many of the trails first-hand.
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Inspiration Point Bryce Canyon, Utah
@LiveWandering
Bryce Canyon has free parking available. I recommend viewing it at sunrise and parking at the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater Parking Lot.
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Double Arch, Utah
@LiveWandering
In Arches National Park, follow a short trail from the Windows parking lot to this double-arch geological structure. With good shoes and sunny weather, people can climb up under the second arch to take photos. Be careful of the drop-off!
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North Arch Window, Utah
@LiveWandering
One of the most scenic views is near the Windows in Arches National Park.
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Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
@LiveWandering
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Sedona
@LiveWandering
I'm eager to travel back here as I was 14 the last time I visited. Sedona is a very balanced and grounded place that keeps me wanting to revisit its energy.
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Colorado
Garden of the Gods
@LiveWandering
Try to arrive earlier during peak seasons because the main parking lot only has 200 spots. There is overflow parking but considering it's free this is a hot spot for tourists and locals to visit.
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Hanging Lake
@LiveWandering
Hike 2,000 ft to reach the top where you can view a beautiful waterfall. Take a break before the waterfall trail and soak in the peaceful environment that surrounds Hanging Lake.
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St. Mary's Glacier, Colorado
@LiveWandering
Beautiful in the winter and summer seasons depending on what kind of nature you want to hike in. Let it be snow or wildflowers.
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Roxborough Park
@LiveWandering
You need a state park pass or pay the daily parking fee. Pets and bikes are not allowed in the park.
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Michigan
Frankenmuth
@LiveWandering
This charming town brings European architecture to the US and the wow-factor is there when you see it in person. I absolutely love Frankenmuth but that may have to do with my childhood; when I was a little girl we visited a German gift shop in this town. When I laid my eyes on an artisan nutcracker for the first time, I fell in love and started collecting nutcrackers ever since.
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Silver Lake Sand Dunes
@LiveWandering
Leashed pets are allowed in all areas other than the designated swim beach. Restrooms are available at the beach house. There is a vehicle permit fee.
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Minnesota
Lutsen Mountains
@LiveWandering
Four mountains and 95 runs--this is the most diverse ski area in northern Minnesota.
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Gooseberry Falls State Park, Minnesota
@LiveWandering
Park in the Gooseberry Falls parking lot near the visitor center. It has free parking and designated places for dogs. Take the paved path beyond the visitor center to the upper and lower falls.
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Caribou Falls State Wayside
@LiveWandering
A quick hike from the parking lot leads you to a staircase that descends to the base of the waterfall. Hikers can also see the top of the waterfall with beautiful views of Lake Superior.
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North Shore
@LiveWandering
Lake Superior is like the ocean. You have to see it at least once and drive the northern shore from Duluth to Canada at least once in your lifetime. It's a feat in nature that isn't replicated anywhere else in the world.
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Iona's Beach Scientific & Natural Area (SNA)
@LiveWandering
No permit or parking fees are required. The sunrise in September was an ethereal experience, to say the least. View my reel on Instagram to see the footage.
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Wisconsin
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
@LiveWandering
There is a parking fee but no permit is required to do the hike. They also have kayak tours which I recommend instead of navigating Lake Superior on your own. Lake Superior is known to change weather patterns quickly and guides will know the safest places to tour.
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New York
Ithica Falls, New York
@LiveWandering
Park on Lake St. and head out on the short trail to the falls for an amazing view.
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South Carolina
Burkes Beach, South Carolina
@LiveWandering
Park at this or one of Hilton Head Island's other hidden beaches to enjoy a less crowded sun rise.
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Georgia
River Street Savannah Georgia
@LiveWandering
If you're like me and you aren't a fan of humidity then don't visit the southern East Coast from early fall to late spring because the water in the air is almost unbearable. However, Savannah still has her southern charm of beautiful fountains, draping trees, and a riverwalk overlooking the boats chartering on the river.
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Florida
St. Augustine, Florida
@LiveWandering
Sit on the historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Fort while eating a picnic and looking out over the ocean and St. Augustine.
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Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
@LiveWandering
All of Walt Disney World's parks hold pleasing visuals that put smiles on guests' faces when first taking in the aesthetics but Animal Kingdom has natural elements that add a unique and magical splendor to the park.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kenzie
Hey there! I’m Kenzie, inspiring your ongoing journey through life’s wonders—from breathtaking hikes and stunning waterfalls to captivating sunrise views, trendy cafes, salt cave massage rooms, serene beaches, and luxe lodging worldwide. Join me in exploring urban gems and natural escapes as I curate guides blending adventure with tranquility.
**About Me**
My journey began with a life-changing trip to Costa Rica during college, sparking a passion I pursued through hospitality studies and my own travel blog. As a digital nomad, I've explored the United States and immersed myself in Australian culture, blending urban adventures with nature escapes in my guides.
**Where I Have Lived**
🏞️ Duluth, MN
🌆 Twin Cities, MN
🏝️ Hilton Head Island, SC
🌇 Brisbane, QLD, Australia
🎢 Kissimmee/Orlando, FL - Disney College Program
🌅 San Luis Obispo, CA
🏰 St. Augustine, FL
**Who My Guides Are For**
🌿 Adventure enthusiasts looking for breathtaking hikes
🌊 Nature lovers seeking serene beaches and waterfalls
🌅 Sunrise, sunset, and star chasers
☕️ Trendy cafes and unique cultural experiences
🌿 Wellness and spa seekers
🏨 Travelers seeking luxe lodging experiences
🐶 **Occasional** pet-friendly & accessibility info
**Who My Guides May NOT Be For**
❌ Budget travelers
❌ Backpackers seeking hostels
❌ Extreme off-the-grid experiences
❌ Bar hopping enthusiasts
❌ Restaurant/City gurus
❌ Fishing aficionados
❌ Campers/RVs/Glampers
**Start with My Free Guides**
It showcases my favorite scenic destinations across the United States, perfect for open-minded travelers seeking inspiration. Follow my journey and subscribe for updates on new itineraries and guides as I travel.
**Why I Am On Thatch**
I'm here to share my passion for travel and wellness. My goal is to inspire viewers to experience places I filmed for my Reiki nature videos firsthand by providing curated guides and itineraries. Through my work, I aim to reconnect people with the beauty of nature and inspire transformative journeys.
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