Studies show us that spending time in nature improves our mental health and overall well-being.
According to the Japanese scientists study, adults who spent a three-day, two-night trip in forest areas had increased “natural killer” (NK) activity that indicated stronger immune function. (NKs are a type of white blood cell with antibacterial and antifungal properties that helps kill damaging cells in the human body.) Further, the immune-boosting effects of NKs are partially attributed to phytoncides, aromatic compounds emitted by plants and trees.
Perhaps even more surprisingly, these health benefits lasted beyond 30 days after the trip ended. These impressive results suggest that spending a weekend in nature each month can support long-term immunity.
Luckily, the United States has many breathtaking natural attractions. Framed by Atlantic and Pacific oceans, from deserts to lush forests, sky-scraping mountains to beautiful valleys, there are many diverse landscapes across the country.
If you want to have your mind blown, visit these top 10 breathtaking natural attractions in the USA.
Horseshoe Bend-Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
One of the most photographed natural wonders in the Southwest, Horseshoe Bend is truly a breathtaking natural masterpiece. It has quickly become so popular that it has secured its spot among the top things to do in Page.
Grand Teton National Park
Part of the Rocky Mountain Range, Grand Teton is the most stunning Wyoming's destination. The park boasts more than 200 miles of hiking trails. You can watch wildlife including bison, elk, moose, bears and bighorn sheep.
In addition, Jenny Lake Scenic Drive and Signal Mountain Summit Road are two spectacular scenic drives.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, the clear, cobalt blue lake is a year-round destination for nature lovers. It's truly one of the most inspiring places on Earth.
Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona
Monument Valley is one of the most beautiful, serene, and unusual places in the world. It will leave you totally speechless with its breathtaking panoramas of wide-open desert, dotted with the remnants of eroded orange sandstone formations.
Niagara Falls
Magnificent, powerful, beautiful, stunning, surreal, and hypnotic! You will be totally impressed by Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. It is a great location for rainbows which are made when the sunlight reflects off the Niagara Falls mist.
Luray Caverns, Virginia
Visit Luray Caverns, the largest caverns in the eastern United States, to feel unearthly experience. This Natural Landmark noted for the variety of formation and unsurpassed natural color. From well-lighted, paved walkways explore cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high, filled with towering stone columns and crystal-clear pools.
St. Elias National Park, Alaska
St. Elias National Park and Preserve is the largest U.S. national park, it equals six Yellowstones, with peaks upon peaks and glaciers after glaciers. This spectacular park includes Mount St. Elias, which, at 18,008 feet, is the second highest peak in the United States.
Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park is one of the most popular in all of the west, containing the highest concentration of natural sandstone arches in the world. The park includes more than 2,000 arches, with scenic drives and short hikes highlighting these impressive formations.
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park
The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park is the largest hot spring in the United States, and the third largest in the world. It's hard to believe its rainbow colors. The spring was first officially described by Ferdinand Hayden, the leader of Hayden Expedition in 1871.
He wrote: "Nothing ever conceived by human art could equal the peculiar vividness and delicacy of color of these remarkable prismatic springs. Life becomes a privilege and a blessing after one has seen and thoroughly felt these incomparable types of nature's cunning skill."
Everglades, Florida
The Everglades is the largest remaining subtropical wilderness in the United States. It is home to alligators, flamingos, manatees and more. This bustling ecosystem is a special opportunity to view wildlife, but from a distance.
