Calling all #wanderers out there! Name a single thing that is more relaxing and tranquil than a day spent in the forest… (Hard to find one, huh?!) Well, we couldn’t agree more, and we have photos to prove just that.
There are tons of beautiful forests across the U.S. However, we’ve shrunk our list down to 10 based on several factors. Still, we can assure you that you’ll find them just as beautiful as we do. So who’s ready to spend some quality time outdoors surrounded by nature?
If you’re ready, let’s dive in together straight into the mouth of the unknown!
1. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Situated in eastern New Hampshire, White Mountain National Forest offers a plethora of lakes, alpine peaks, streams, and last but not least beautiful forests. The wildlife is also abundant, so we wouldn’t recommend adventuring too much into the heart of the woods.
All in all, White Mountain National Forest is definitely not for the faint-hearted… its extreme weather conditions are well-known among locals. However, if you’re an adventurous type of person and properly equipped with hiking shoes, food, water, and other essential gear, everything will be fine (as long as you respect Mother Nature).
And.. guess what?! White Mountain National Forest is also home to the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire, namely Arethusa Falls!
2. Sierra National Forest, California
Our second stop is Sierra National Forest, located near Yosemite National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. This wildly beautiful forest is home to many animals and species of trees, being one of the most stunning forests in America (some say in the entire world).
The wildlife is not the only thing that makes Sierra National Forest so special… Its tall mountain peaks, shimmering lakes, and pristine hiking trails are one of a kind. Words are simply not enough to perfectly describe its beauty, so you just have to go there and see it with your own eyes. Psst! The best months to visit it are June, July, and August!
3. Superior National Forest, Minnesota
The North Star State is home to a beautiful forest that contributes $13 billion to our economy every single year! This may come as literally no surprise for some since it has many recreation opportunities for all ages and preferences.
With almost 2,000 lakes and rivers (445,000 acres of surface water) and more than 130 scenic byways, Superior National Forest is something you just have to visit in your lifetime. Just make sure you’re ready to be blown away by its unique aquatic plants such as water lilies and its mixed conifer hardwood forest areas.
#Did you know?! 7 out of 10 Americans live within approximately 100 miles of a National Forest.
4. Dixie National Forest, Utah
If you’re in Utah, you just have to take a trip to Dixie National Forest! It’s the perfect place for outdoor lovers and those who seek adventures. From hiking and camping to climbing and fishing, this beautiful forest boasts a wide range of activities, all surrounded by spectacular vistas.
There are plenty of stunning spots in Dixie National Forest, but the one you can’t miss is definitely Navajo Lake — its purple-blue water is absolutely marvelous. The national forest is also home to a pretty dramatic canyon made up of intense orange walls of sandstone.
Pro tip: This canyon is very Instagrammable, so don’t forget your camera!
5. Coconino National Forest, Arizona
As one of the six national forests in the Grand Canyon State, Coconino National Forest is known for its wildly beautiful combination of forest and desert. So, if you want to see both red sandstone canyons and pine trees, this is the perfect place to be.
Swimming enthusiasts are also welcomed with open arms since Coconino National Forest has plenty of creeks to cool off in. For incredible vistas, you just have to stop at Oak Creek Canyon Vista — the scenery is extraordinary! In other words, every single inch of this beautiful Forest is worth the while.
Ready to go on your next adventure?
6. Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington
Located in southern Washington, Gifford Pinchot National Forest is the perfect recreational getaway for those who live nearby. Here you can find pristine lakes, plenty of hiking trails, various wildflowers, and many mountain vistas, including the second highest peak in Washington, Mount Adams.
However, the thing that makes Gifford Pinchot National Forest unique is most likely its unusual terrain of tunnels and caverns formed from lava many years ago. Nonetheless, there are many hidden gems in the heart of this beautiful forest, but some absolute musts are Ape Caves, Lewis River Falls, Takhlakh Lake, Panther Creek Falls, and Goose Lake.
7. Tongass National Forest, Alaska
Another beautiful forest that deserves its spot on our list is Tongass National Forest. This shouldn’t surprise us since approximately 35% of The Last Frontier is only forest. On top of that, Tongass National Forest is actually the largest national forest in our great country (16.7 million acres).
A lifetime is literally too short to enjoy its beauty. Still, you absolutely cannot miss the Mendenhall Glacier, Tenakee Hot Springs, El Capitan Cave, the state’s longest mapped cave, and, of course, Harbor Mountain.
P.S.: If you’re not really into hiking and still want to discover parts of Tongass National Forest, you can opt for a helicopter tour.
8. Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont
Winter and fall are definitely the best seasons to visit Green Mountain National Forest! During the coldest months of the year, this beautiful forest is the perfect description of a winter wonderland. Still, if you’re not a fan of the cold season (not many of us are), fall months are great to check out Green Mountain National Forest — the foliage is A-MA-ZING!
Photography enthusiasts are also fans of Green Mountain National Forest. Here, they can easily spot wild turkeys, moose, and beavers through their camera lenses. But if you want to enjoy Green Mountain National Forest’s awesomeness while putting those muscles to work, we recommend visiting Blueberry Lake in Warren for kayaking and canoeing.
9. The Giant Forest, California
The Giant Forest lies right in the heart of California’s jewel, Sequoia National Park. As the name suggests, this forest is home to one of the largest and tallest tree species (the General Sherman tree). More than 8,000 humongous sequoia trees are proudly encompassing a variety of wildlife.
This beautiful forest is undoubtedly the most visited sight in Sequoia National Park, but there are still plenty of things to do here. Hiking or peacefully strolling around on a Sunday in the Giant Forest will definitely recharge your batteries.
Fact: Giant sequoias are among the oldest living organisms on the Planet. Some are older than 3,200 years!
10. Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming
Compared to other national forests, Bighorn is a little bit underrated. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not appreciated — it’s still a beautiful forest. Bighorn National Forest is truly a wonder for those who love spending their free time outdoors.
One of the best things about Bighorn National Forest is its location, situated halfway between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore.
In other words, you CAN’T get bored here. Overall, the area gives you the sensation of a classic forest filled with alpine pine, aspen, spruce, and fir, not to mention the population of black bears, coyotes, moose, deer, elk, and grouse.
RELATED POST: 9 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the US
So, are all wanderers ready for a new adventure?
