If you’re looking for towering pine forests, bubbling hot springs and thundering falls, there’s no region more iconic than North America. With views so spectacular they stop you in your tracks – the grand vistas of North America are arguably some of the best in the world. From delicious culinary experiences to culture enriching moments, you’ll soon find it’s the awe-inspiring scenery that leaves the most indelible imprint on your journey in North America. We’ve highlighted our 5 must see views across North and Central America, to give you a taster of what you can tick off the bucket list.
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
Arguably the most monumental view in Arizona (though competition is undoubtedly fierce), the view over Horseshoe Bend of the Colorado River has to be seen to be believed. Even the most stunning image fails to do justice to the sheer scale and power of this river as it makes its way round the towering rock walls. The rock here is rich with minerals, giving the landscape its shimmering, multi-coloured hue.
On our Western Explorer trip, we enjoy an exhilarating walk at Horseshoe Bend for an amazing view of the Colorado River. Delving into the magic and myths of the rich Native America Culture across The Navajo Tribal Lands of Monument Valley you’ll discover wavelike sandstone passages where ethereal beams of light guide your path.
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone
The largest hot spring in the USA, and third largest spring in the world, the other-worldly sight of Yellowstone’s bubbling geysers are sure to leave a lasting impression. Surrounded by kaleidoscopic colours ranging from burnt orange to turmeric yellow and deep green, all with the dramatic flair of steam rising from its pure blue surface, it’s one of the most photogenic sights in the world that attracts over 4 million people a year – and as luck would have it, we know the perfect viewpoint to get the best view of its scale.
During our Yellowstone Wildlife Trails enjoy an exhilarating exploration into the world’s first-ever national park and hit the boardwalk at Mammoth Hot Springs to visit its various geothermal pools and hike for the most spectacular panoramic of the Grand Prismatic Spring – in all its vibrant glory.
Wrangell-St Elias National Park, Alaska
It’s impossible to go wrong when it comes to grand views here. Alaskan scenery is simply awe-inspiring, delivering stunning scenery whichever way you turn, and the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St Elias is renowned for it. Practically the size of Switzerland, and an estimated six times bigger than Yellowstone National Park, there’s no shortage of stunning vistas to drink in.
From spotting Alaska’s “Big Five”: Caribou, Dall Sheep, Moose, Grizzly Bears and wolves in the foothills of Mount Denali to hiking around the Root Glacier admiring its carved ice shapes, our Alaska, Wildlife & Wilderness adventure is perfect for anyone with a love for the great outdoors.
Lake Louise, Canada
Surrounded by fragrant forests, glaciers and the hulking majesty of the towering Rocky Mountains, Lake Louise’s shimmering emerald waters are one of the best views you’ll see in Canada, whatever angle you’re standing at. Our Canadian Rockies Wilderness Walk gives you three nights to sit back and enjoy the views over this stunning alpine lake. For the most memorable experience, we recommend staying up a little later to enjoy the ultimate sundowner as the sun goes down over the mountainous backdrop.
Yosemite National Park
There’s no better feeling than exploring the wilderness of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure that is Yosemite National Park. From seeing striking rainbows sprays along the Vernal Fall to taking in one of the most famous views towards El Capitan and Bridalveil with Half Dome in the background, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to grand views that span over this iconic 3,000km stretch of land on our Yosemite trips. However, you can’t leave this breathtaking park without wandering under some of the largest trees on earth – the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove. On this adventure, we learn how these trees contribute to Yosemite’s unique ecosystem.
When it comes to grand views, our United States trips deliver in every possible way, Not only do they offer a breadth of awe-inspiring vistas, but also moments that will leave an indelible imprint on your memory. If you’re thinking of planning a trip to America in 2022, take a look at our collection of trips here.
