As you can imagine, ranking the most beautiful states in America is no easy task.
In This Post
My husband and I are avid travelers and have visited every single state in the country.
We’ve had the opportunity to swim with sea turtles in Hawaii, summit mountains in Washington and sip wine at the base of the ancient Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina.
Through it all, we found ourselves impressed by the beauty of our country.
Though daunting, we felt compelled to try and rank the most beautiful states in the USA based on firsthand experience (a nearly impossible task, if you ask me).
But listen, someone had to do it.
While you read the article below keep in mind that this is our personal list of the most beautiful states in America, not everyone will feel the same way!
With that said, let’s jump right in. 😉
If You Only Get One Trip This Year
If someone pinned me down and said pick three, here’s what I’d actually book. Utah first, and go now that Arches dropped its timed-entry requirement for 2026, no app, no 7am scramble for a slot. Drive the Mighty 5 in September or October, once the desert heat breaks and the light turns gold on the sandstone. Second, Vermont, timed to the last week of September into the first week of October, when the state’s own foliage tracker shows color moving south through the Green Mountains. Third, Hawaii, but go in the fall, after summer prices drop and before the holiday crowds land, and budget an extra line item for the Green Fee that’s been tacked onto every hotel and cruise stay since January.
Everyone else on this list can wait. Skip Washington until Sunrise Road reopens, half of Rainier’s best day hikes start from that parking lot and it’s been closed to cars since an August wildfire, with no return date posted as of this month. Skip Montana too, not because Glacier isn’t worth it (it always is), but because the park swapped vehicle reservations for a ticketed shuttle and a three hour parking clock at Logan Pass this year, and I’d rather let a full season of visitors work out the kinks before I plan a trip around it. Everything else on this list still earns its spot. It just doesn’t earn first pick in 2026.
Most Beautiful States in America
#15. Florida
Florida is the flattest state in the country, but what it lacks in mountainous terrain it makes up for in miles of sandy beaches, fascinating marshes, intriguing wildlife and staggering sunsets.
Head to Everglades National Park to experience the splendid and wild beauty of southern Florida. Soak in the 1.5-million acre wetlands filled to the brim with coastal mangroves, marches, turtles, manatees and alligators.
Another option is to spend a weekend at Ocala National Forest, where you can see stout manatees during the winter months. Hop aboard a kayak and explore the majestic beauty or take a swim in the inviting turquoise waters of Silver Glen Springs.
If you’re into cities and nightlife, head to Miami or Orlando where the music is loud and the drinks pour freely. And if you’re into a calmer pace, drive to Key West where the white sand beaches demand relaxation.
Verdict. Go in winter, dry season, when the marsh isn’t an oven and the wildlife actually shows itself. Everglades entry runs $35 a vehicle in 2026, and non-US visitors 16 and up now owe an extra $100 unless they’re carrying an annual pass, so budget for that if you’re bringing friends from abroad. Otherwise, still worth it for the gators alone.
#14. Maine
It seems like the secret is out. Everyone that visits knows that Maine is one of the most beautiful states in America (largely thanks to Acadia National Park, which attracts 2.7 million visitors annually).
Folks are drawn to the rocky beaches, colorful towns and lighthouses that pepper the coast. Base yourself in Portland, Maine to have access to some of the best restaurants in the country (the seafood is unbelievably good) and great accommodations.
If you’d like a quick breakdown of the best things to do in Portland, Maine, read this helpful post I wrote a few months back.
Another awesome stop you shouldn’t miss is Bar Harbor, Maine. Especially in the autumn when the entire landscape is transformed by vibrant fall foliage.
For those that love rugged landscapes and wild nature, Maine is easily one of the most beautiful states in America.
Verdict. Go in fall for foliage, or go at sunrise in summer if Cadillac Mountain is the goal, just book the road reservation first. Acadia now requires a $6 vehicle reservation for Cadillac Summit Road from May 20 through October 25, booked online only, and it does sell out. Skip the summit chase if you can’t plan two weeks ahead. Portland’s seafood is worth the trip on its own.
#13. North Carolina
Ripe for exploration, North Carolina is seldom mentioned as a beautiful US state, so imagine my surprise when I visited for the first time and felt like I discovered a gem.
Picturesque undulating mountains cascade down from the middle of the state to the east giving way to sweeping beach fronts.
Asheville is my favorite city in the state being gently perched into the mountains with unbelievable fall color and often painted scenery. While I personally prefer the mountainous area of the state, home to the famous Great Smoky Mountains and part of the Appalachians, it’s not hard to imagine why other folks are drawn to the coast.
Home to the world famous site of the first flight, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina’s Outer Banks are renowned for their massive beaches (big enough for flight!).
If you live on the East Coast then you have no excuses not to visit this state’s diverse beauty and experience North Carolina for yourself.
Verdict. Go now, no real 2026 catch here beyond the parking tag the Smokies introduced a few years back ($5 a day, $15 a week, $40 a year, required for any stop longer than 15 minutes), which still catches people off guard who remember the park as fee-free. Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway are open and gorgeous most of the year. Go for fall color if you can swing it, but don’t skip it for lack of a season.
#12. Vermont
Vermonters know how good they have it, made evident by the fact that Vermont is considered the second most active state in the country.
Locals are giddy to explore the natural wonders at their doorsteps and enjoy the landscapes year-round, long after the leaf-peeping crowds leave for the season.
But fair warning, wandering the charming New England towns will make you tempted to buy a vacation home along Lake Champlain in no time.
My favorite cities to explore are Burlington, Stowe and Woodstock. Visit during autumn to see why New England is such a hot spot for fall color, it’s beautiful beyond measure.
Verdict. Go now, or more precisely, go in the next two to three weeks. Vermont’s own foliage tracker has the Northeast Kingdom at peak color as of mid-September 2026, with the Green Mountains and Capital Region catching up through early October. Go later than that and you’re driving through bare trees and a lot of regret.
Further Reading: 10 Festive Things to Do in Vermont in the Fall
If you’re driving up specifically for the leaves, my Vermont fall road trip itinerary has the exact route I’d drive, and this rundown of Vermont fall foliage mistakes to avoid will save you a wasted afternoon.
#11. Alaska
Alaska is remote (making it inherently expensive), which is a pity because most folks don’t get an opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful states in America.
Heck, When my husband and I visited Alaska last summer we found ourselves in a constant state of sticker shock, it’s expensive!
Regardless, we were keen to enjoy our trip because between the flights, transportation and hotels we knew we wouldn’t be able to afford visiting Alaska often.
That detail aside, allow me to share with you that Alaska is truly show-stopping. The expansive vistas, draw dropping glaciers, towering mountains and epic wildlife viewing made me feel like I was in a movie.
I don’t want to deceive you though, the land is vast and wild and preparation is key. Visiting Alaska requires meticulous planning, but the effort is worth it because the state will take your breath away. You absolutely must see it at least once in your life, a cruise might be a good way to go!
Verdict. Go in summer, and book the Denali bus early. Reservations for the park road bus system open December 1 of the year before your trip, and the good slots go fast. Entry itself is cheap, $15 a person. Getting there and staying there is not. Budget accordingly and go anyway.
#10. Arizona
Alright, I feel like I should provide a disclaimer here: any state that houses the epic Grand Canyon would show up on this list.
The Grand Canyon is so beautiful that it’s known to make folks cry when they see if for the first time. So I ask, how could I not include this spectacle on this list?!
But the Grand Canyon isn’t the only thing that steals the show, Arizona if full of gorgeous landscapes. Pay a visit to Saguaro National Park, Petrified Forest National Park or Monument Valley and you’ll know exactly what I mean.
If you’re more of a city person, Arizona has you covered in that department too. Phoenix is a great place to explore, especially during the mild winter months when most of the country is offering freezing temperatures.
Another favorite city of mine is Sedona, which is engulfed by the dramatic red rock landscape Arizona is best known for. You’ll find ample outdoor recreational opportunities and great restaurants to end the evening with, it’s a win-win for all.
Verdict. Go anytime the crowds allow, but bring a card, not cash. Grand Canyon entrance stations no longer accept cash and the fee sits at $35 a vehicle. Non-US visitors now owe the extra $100 surcharge too, unless they’re holding an annual or America the Beautiful pass. Still the one state on this list I’d never talk anyone out of visiting.
#9. Wyoming
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, there’s no better place to go than the least populated state in America. Just don’t head straight for the national parks, because crowds are all but guaranteed there.
It’s comical that the least populous state in the country is also home to the second most visited national park, Yellowstone National Park.
And as much as I love Yellowstone National Park, it’s Grand Teton National Park that steals the show for me.
The iconic jagged peaks at Grand Teton National Park is why I consider Wyoming to be one the most beautiful states in the USA.
If you want to avoid the crowds, head to the neighboring national forest, Bridger Teton National Forest, which offers all the alpine beauty without the hordes of tourists.
Verdict. Go in September, after the summer traffic thins and before the passes ice up. Grand Teton’s fee held steady at $35 a vehicle for 2026, though non-US visitors now pay the extra $100 unless they’re holding a pass. Skip peak July if crowds bother you even a little, Yellowstone next door gets the worst of it.
#8. Montana
I think Glacier National Park is quite possibly the prettiest national park in the country. And by that logic, there’s no denying that Montana has to be one of the most beautiful states in America.
Wide open skies, jarring mountains and pristine prairies define this beautiful US state and I find it impossible to stay away for long.
Montana’s claim to fame is Glacier National Park, which spans one million acres and features some of the most pristine glacier-fed lakes in the country.
With more than 700 miles of hiking trails, you’re bound to find yourself entertained for days. Visit during the summer for comfortable hiking temperatures and to avoid the snow/ice on the roads.
Verdict. Go, but go in with a new plan. Glacier dropped its vehicle reservation system for 2026 in favor of a ticketed shuttle and a three hour parking limit at Logan Pass, so read the current access page before you go rather than trusting what worked last time you visited. Worth the adjustment. It’s still the prettiest park in the country to me.
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Image courtesy: TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris
#7. Colorado
Colorado is a favorite state among mountaineers because it is home to more than 50 peaks that exceed 14,000 feet. The dreamy alpine landscape that defines Colorado attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers by the millions every year.
From the towering mountains to the colorful valleys below, this state is ripe for exploration. You’ll find beautiful lakes, sand dunes, forests and quaint towns with great restaurants and accommodations. If you can only visit two cities during your trip, make it Aspen and Colorado.
Verdict. Go, but reserve ahead, because Rocky Mountain National Park went the opposite direction of nearly every other park on this list. Its 2026 timed-entry system now covers the entire park, not just the main corridor, standard entry 9am to 2pm and a separate Bear Lake Road permit from 5am to 6pm, both running May through October. Skip the spontaneity this year. Plan the trip like you mean it.
#6. Washington
One of the biggest reasons Washington is the most beautiful state in America is due to the diversity of landscapes. You can see everything from glaciated mountains to temperate rain forests and miles of rocky beaches. Oh, and the moody weather is only icing on the cake.
The hiking trails swell with visitors and locals alike during the summer months. Everyone is eager to experience the great outdoors that Washington is known for!
Make sure to swing by Mt. Rainier National Park, it’s my favorite park in America (I’ve visited more than 40 times!). Another gem is Mt. St. Helens National Monument, which has one of the most underrated hikes in Washington state.
If you’re interested in cities, don’t miss a weekend in Seattle where you’ll be rewarded with phenomenal restaurants and plenty of fun things to do!
Verdict. Go, but check the closure map first. Sunrise Road, the launch point for Mt. Fremont Lookout and Burroughs Mountain, has been closed to vehicles since a wildfire in August 2026 and there’s no reopening date as of this month. The rest of the park, including Paradise, is open and reservation-free for 2026. Skip Sunrise this year. Everything else still delivers.
Further Reading: 13 Jaw-Dropping Hikes at Mt. Rainier National Park
I go deeper on the rest of the state’s landscape in 7 Natural Wonders of Washington State, if Rainier isn’t the only reason you’re going.
#5. Utah
The striking red-rock formations and landscapes in Utah are unlike anywhere else on earth, which is why folks flock to this beautiful US state from all corners of the world.
The best way to see all the worth seeing landscapes is to take an epic Mighty 5 road trip which takes you through all five of the state’s national parks (including the most visited national parks in America.
You’ll want to bring a trusty pair of hiking boots with you because the hiking opportunities are endless and the panoramic vistas are best seen from a trail. I mean, just check out these 12 jaw-dropping hikes at Arches National Park.
Verdict. Go now. Arches dropped its timed-entry requirement for 2026, so the single biggest hassle of a Mighty 5 trip just disappeared, no app, no 7am scramble for a slot. Entrance is still $30 a vehicle. Fiery Furnace and the campground still need their own permits, but the rest of the park is open access again.
Further Reading: A (Very) Helpful Guide to Utah’s Mighty 5 Road Trip
#4. California
Home to nine national parks (more parks than any other state in the country), California is undoubtedly the most beautiful state in America for natural wonders.
From sandy beaches drenched in sunlight to majestic granite mountains, arid desert landscapes and the tallest trees in the world, California has it all.
In addition to the epic national parks, California is also home to some of the prettiest cities in the country. San Francisco is a great destination for weekend trip, especially if you make time for a winery tour through Napa Valley.
Santa Barbara and San Diego are the two other gems I enjoy visiting at lease once a year. The sunshine does wonders for me, especially during the winter months and there’s no place like California.
Verdict. Go, and go with more spontaneity than California has allowed in years. Yosemite ended its peak-hours reservation system for 2026, choosing real-time traffic management instead, one fewer thing to plan around in a state that already asks a lot of your itinerary. Go in shoulder season if you can. Summer still means crowds, reservation or not.
#3. Hawaii
The land of perpetual paradise, surely you’re not surprised to see Hawaii on this list! Hawaii is one of the most beautiful states in America, especially for those that love palm trees and long stretches of soft sand beaches.
Each of Hawaii’s islands offers something spectacular for nature lovers, impressive (and active) volcanoes, vibrant rainbows, and miles of striking coastlines.
If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, I highly recommend staying on Maui. I’ve visited all the islands and Maui feels the most romantic to me, also, make sure to drive the Road to Hana for an experience you won’t soon forget.
Another great stop on Maui is Haleakala Crater, which may quite literally take your breath away. Experiencing sunrise over the crater feels like a rite of passage and can’t be missed.
If you’re more into cities, Oahu may be more fitting for you. The town of Honolulu has no shortage of great restaurants and shopping. Plus, the hike to Diamond Head is iconic for a reason! Oh, and the North Shore simply can’t be missed.
Regardless of the island you choose to visit, you’ll soon see why Hawaii is considered the most beautiful state in America by most visitors.
Verdict. Go, but price it out first. Hawaii’s Green Fee took effect January 1, 2026, raising the tax on every hotel, vacation rental and cruise stay in the islands to fund climate and coastline projects, projected to bring in more than $100 million a year. It doesn’t change whether you should go. It changes what you budget. Go in fall for better rates and thinner crowds.
Further Reading: 10 EPIC Spots to Get Shave Ice on O’ahu
For timing island by island, see Best Time to Visit Hawaii (Island by Island), and if you’re still deciding between islands, Maui vs Oahu lays out the actual differences.
#2. Idaho
Idaho is an often overlooked gem that is slowly starting to get attention. And it’s not hard to see why, in terms of beauty, Idaho is hard to beat.
Spend a long weekend in Stanley, Idaho and you’ll inevitable create an annual tradition of it. The Sawtooth Mountains rival the beauty of Washington’s dreamy alpine landscapes. Most folks have a hard time believing these stunning mountains are located in Idaho until seeing them firsthand.
Base yourself in Boise if you want to explore the state extensively. You’ll want to allocate time for Coeur D’Alene Lake, Bruneau Dunes State Park, Priest Lake and (if you’re a skier) Schweitzer Mountain.
Whatever you do, don’t miss a visit to Shoshone Falls, the most popular waterfall in this beautiful US state.
However you define your idea of a good time, Idaho is sure to fit the bill. Not only is Idaho one of the most beautiful states in America, but it’s also one of the most exhilarating to explore.
Verdict. Go in summer, full stop. This isn’t a park with a reservation system to dodge or a fee schedule worth tracking, it’s a state that’s simply inaccessible the rest of the year. Highway 21 through the Sawtooths is a summer road, and Stanley basically shuts down once it snows. Go between June and September or don’t go at all.
Photo Credit: Sara Sheehy.
#1. Oregon
Now before anyone accuses me of being biased (I grew up in Oregon), let me assure you that Oregon truly is one of the most beautiful states in America and anyone that visits is bound to agree.
From the stunning Alvord Desert to the striking Cascade Range and blissful serenity of the beloved rugged Oregon Coast, this beautiful US state has everything covered.
Oregon is a vast state, so seeing everything will take multiple visits. To get a good head start, base yourself in Portland and take day trips to some of the natural wonders, like Mt. Hood where you can spend an afternoon sipping award-winning wine.
Another place worth exploring is Bend, which has some of the most jaw-dropping hikes in the state and stunning waterfalls work hiking to.
Verdict. Go, obviously, I’m from here and I’m not pretending to be neutral. Crater Lake’s rim drive is a summer proposition, entry runs $30 a vehicle from late May through October and drops to $20 in winter when half the park closes under snow. Go in summer for the rim, go in winter for the quiet. Either way, don’t skip it.
What’s Actually Different About This List in 2026
The biggest national park story of 2026 on this list has nothing to do with beauty and everything to do with logistics. Four of the fifteen states here (Utah’s Arches, California’s Yosemite, Washington’s Rainier and Montana’s Glacier) dropped their timed-entry or vehicle-reservation systems for 2026, while Colorado went the opposite direction, expanding Rocky Mountain National Park’s reservation requirement to cover the entire park instead of just the main corridor. If you’ve been putting off a Mighty 5 trip because of the reservation app, this is the year.
Money moved too. Hawaii’s Green Fee took effect January 1, 2026, adding a climate surcharge to every hotel, vacation rental and cruise stay in the islands, projected to raise more than $100 million a year. Separately, the Park Service now charges non-US residents an extra $100 at eleven major parks, including Glacier, Grand Teton, Grand Canyon and Yosemite, unless they’re holding an annual or America the Beautiful pass.
And the one closure that actually reroutes a trip on this list, Mt. Rainier’s Sunrise Road, the trailhead for two of the park’s best day hikes, has been closed to vehicles since an August 2026 wildfire, with no reopening date posted.
Most BEAUTIFUL States in America (Post Summary)
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Hawaii
- California
- Utah
- Washington
- Colorado
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Arizona
- Alaska
- Vermont
- North Carolina
- Maine
- Florida
Map of beautiful US states
If you’d like to offer your two cents feel free to do so in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
According to this list, built from personal visits to every state, Oregon takes the top spot, followed by Idaho and Hawaii. It really depends on what kind of beauty you’re chasing, desert, coastline, or alpine.
No. Both parks dropped their timed-entry and peak-hours reservation requirements for 2026, choosing real-time traffic and parking management instead. Arches still requires separate permits for the Fiery Furnace hike and Devils Garden Campground.
Hawaii’s Green Fee is a climate surcharge added to the state’s transient accommodations tax, effective January 1, 2026. It applies to hotel, vacation rental and cruise ship stays, and is projected to raise more than $100 million a year for climate and coastline resilience projects.
Not for cars. Sunrise Road, the trailhead for Mt. Fremont Lookout and Burroughs Mountain, has been closed to vehicles since an August 2026 wildfire, with no reopening date posted as of this writing. The rest of the park, including Paradise, remains open.
Yes, and the requirement expanded in 2026 to cover the entire park, not just the main corridor. Standard timed entry runs 9am to 2pm daily from May 22 through October 12, and a separate Bear Lake Road permit runs 5am to 6pm through October 18.
Yes. The National Park Service now charges non-US residents 16 and older an extra $100 at eleven major parks, including Glacier, Grand Teton, Grand Canyon, Acadia, Everglades, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion, unless they hold an annual or America the Beautiful pass.
Your state rankings for natural beauty are spot on IMO. I have resided in 12 states and have visited 42. I currently live in Boise and love Idaho. Hard to top the diverse beauty of OR & Wa. Also completely agree that Glacier and Grand Teton NPs are the most stunning, and I’ve been to most NPs in the US. Great article; thanks!
Having Washington that far down the list is not right. Washington is basically Oregon except with taller buildings in Seattle. I’m an Oregonian and to say Washington is that far behind Oregon IS being biased. Seattle is perhaps the most beautiful city in America.
We are talking about “natural beauty” that God created ! ( Not man made structures! )
I agree. To me, Seattle is much prettier than Portland. Seattle is surrounded by beautiful water and has a majestic feel. I was born in Washington; however, I lived longer in Oregon. While Portland failed to satisfy my preferences, Bend and Sunriver are captivating. I lived there before it became crowded, and it was pure heaven. Ultimately, I love Washington and Oregon and consider them my home.
I’ve lived in Oregon for 24 years. It’s so beautiful here and you have green of the trees the beautiful mountains and the gorgeous coast! Before that I lived in Washington for 18 years so I know the beauty of mount Rainer and nothing compares
Except for Yellowstone, Wyoming has nothing to offer in terms of sight-seeing. Same with Eastern Montana. You can’t base your poll based on one section of the state. Sorry. I have been through a lot of states. I know what I’m talking about.
I grew up n California and have been in most or the states you listed I transplanted t Oregon as a young newlywed and been here for 35 years and scouts not agree more that Oregon is truly beautiful. Only one item I believe was missed and that is the state of Tennessee it is beautiful in its own right with the music and the Smokey mountains. As well as some of the most incredible water ways anywhere. But that’s simply my opinion.
Guess you forgot Georgia. Has everything from mountains ,beaches,swamps and low lands, various orchards and farm lands. Way nicer than half the states you mentioned including California.
Hahahaha. That’s a funny joke. HotLanta is a cesspool and the rest of the state is sewage runoff. I’d sell Georgia back to the Russians in a heartbeat if I could.
Dale, I’m all for differing opinions, but I’m not a fan of disrespect and random commentary. If you haven’t personally visited Atlanta in the past five years, doesn’t seem like you’re in a position to comment. Also, seems like your judgement is outdated, not a good position to be in. Change is good, Dale!
This list seems to rank the ‘wow’ of each state but not the entirety of the state, which means both coast and interior (thus Florida not being in the top 10) and overall diversity (Which is why California is justifiably much higher than Colorado). With this criteria New York definitely should be in the top 10 — NYC, Niagara Falls (and numerous other fantastic falls), Adirondacks, Catskills, Finger Lakes, Long Island (Atlantic Ocean Shore), 2 Great Lakes (Ontario & Erie) + Lake Champlain. Really a beautiful state from end to end.
I agree with your 4th comment but disagree with all other comments.
Its as if youve never been to Iowa. There are so many songs about Iowa. Like Route 66. Under the Bridge. LA Woman. The list goes on. I wouldn’t stop to take a dump in Oregon. I’d rather sit in my own swamp butt than pull over in Portland.
I have to admit, this is such a strange comment. I don’t understand the aggression here, Oregon is beautiful! Portland isn’t like it’s portrayed in the news. But I don’t doubt that Iowa is beautiful. Less divisive language would be appreciated so that we could have a real conversation, I don’t understand the unnecessary hate.
I lived in Portland for 11 years and grew up just outside of the city, and from my experience, I’d say that Portland is at least as bad as the news shows it to be. The rest if the state is pretty great, though, for the most part, and so beautiful!
Washington should be #1
I hear you, Washington is genuinely stunning, we summited mountains there and it stuck with us. But this list is our firsthand take and Utah, Vermont and Hawaii just hit different for us right now. Also worth noting, Sunrise Road’s been closed since the August wildfire, so it’s not even the year to chase it.
How about Pennsylvania? As a Canadian I have visited Poconos and Warren county and absolutely loved the beauty and nature.
Thank you! I’m fortunate enough to live in the Poconos and love sharing my backyard with the local wildlife (bears, foxes, deer and an occasional bobcat). Autumn here is a treat for the eyes with all the fall colors – people come from other states to see it in October. Add in the hills, valleys, lakes, and tons of woods, it’s a beautiful place to be away from the hustle & bustle of people. Foe those loving the outdoors, the famous Appalachian Trail is here for hiking, and for the adventurous, plenty of caves to explore (just bring warm clothes – it’s chilly in there!)
Michigan should be on the list. Have you ever been to the national sea shore sleeping bear dunes or walked lake Michigan or lake superior beaches? They are stunning.
I’ve been to all states but Oregon and Idaho and Oregon. I think Wyoming should not be on the list.
I hear you on Michigan, I know those shorelines have a whole cult following and for good reason. This list is just our own firsthand take though, not a scientific ranking, so Wyoming stays put on ours even if it wouldn’t on yours. That’s the fun of these lists honestly, everyone’s got their own top fifteen.
You’re missing Virgina… my husband was born and raised in Oregon and it is one of the most beautiful states… I completely agree! On the other hand I have lived in VA most of my life and when someone once said that Oregon and VA were “sister states” I could understand what they meant… so different and yet something. “Familiar” about them. Virginia is stunning and offers such a variety of scenery. Come visit us in the fall or summer and you fall in love!
Virginia sounds gorgeous, I believe you completely. This list is just our own firsthand ranking though, not a ranking of every state out there, so plenty of stunning places don’t make the cut. Appalachian light in the fall is hard to beat anywhere, so I get the pull.
You have never been to the upper peninsula of Michigan it is absolutely stunning. Surrounded by 3 of the great lakes.then the lake Michigan shore line where you can see the northern lights from the top of sleeping Bear dunes 🐻 it’s gorgeous
You’re right Patrick, the UP is stunning and I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about Pictured Rocks and the Lake Superior shoreline. This list only covers states that surprised me on my own trips, and clearly I need to fix that Michigan gap soon!