Whether you’re a thrill-seeker who loves heights or just someone chasing stunning scenery, North America’s epic mountain peaks and jaw-dropping man-made landmarks won’t disappoint. Check out these ten incredible panoramic views from parks across the U.S. and Canada.
Mount Washington, New Hampshire
No matter how you reach the top—riding the cog railway, driving the historic toll road, or hiking the Six Presidents trail—the view from the Northeast’s highest peak is always impressive. And windy. Seriously windy. Back in 1934, the weather station up here clocked a world-record wind gust at 231 mph (371.76 km/h). (Want to explore more? Here’s how to do a one-day loop in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.)
Statue of Liberty, New York
It’s not the tallest viewpoint in NYC, but it might just be the most iconic. Peek through Lady Liberty’s crown for a killer view of the Manhattan skyline and the harbor that’s welcomed millions of immigrants since 1886. (Take a look at the faces of immigrants back in 1917.)
Washington Monument, D.C.
Freshly upgraded elevators now zip visitors up to the top of this towering tribute to America’s first president. At 555 feet (169.17 m) up, the observation deck gives you a sweeping look at the Capitol, White House, Lincoln Memorial, and other landmarks. (Just a heads-up—the 897-step staircase has been closed since 1976.) (Need a D.C. travel guide? We’ve got you covered.)
Clingmans Dome, North Carolina and Tennessee
The highest spot on the entire Appalachian Trail, this 6,643-foot (2,024.78 m) peak in the Smoky Mountains is accessible by car, foot, or even cross-country skis when the road’s snowed in. On a clear day, you can see for 100 miles (160.9 km).
Gateway Arch, Missouri
After a major renovation, St. Louis’s gleaming 630-foot (192 m) stainless steel arch is back open to the public. For a real appreciation of how this thing was built, don’t miss the film Monument to the Dream at the National Park Visitor Center.
Navajo Bridge, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is packed with world-class views, and picking the best one is totally subjective. But it’s hard to beat the dizzying sight from the historic Navajo Bridge—the only crossing over the Colorado River between Lake Powell and Hoover Dam since 1929. (Planning a road trip? Check out these eight must-see stops in the Four Corners region.)
Half Dome, California
Leaning over the granite ledge at the top of Half Dome and gazing down at Yosemite Valley—8,844 feet (2,695.6 m) below—is one of those bucket-list national park moments. But it’s no walk in the park: You’ll need to tackle a 16-mile (25.75 km) round-trip hike, with the final stretch being a nerve-wracking cable climb up the mountain’s steep, smooth backside.
Marin Headlands, California
The lush hills north of the Golden Gate Bridge offer a bird’s-eye view of the famous span and San Francisco Bay. On foggy summer days, the bridge’s glowing towers are often the only things poking through the mist. (Looking for the best things to do in San Francisco? We’ve got recommendations.)
Haleakalā, Hawaii
Sunrise at Maui’s highest peak is a tradition so popular that you now need a reservation to visit at dawn. And for good reason—it’s breathtaking. Picture the golden sun rising over the Pacific, with Hawaii’s other volcanic peaks hovering on either side. (Here’s your ultimate guide to Hawaii.)
Glacier Skywalk, Alberta
Walking on the Athabasca Glacier is cool, but how about looking down on it from a glass platform 900+ feet (274.32 m) above? This see-through walkway gives you an insane view of the glacier and Sunwapta Valley, plus the massive Columbia Icefield feeding it from the Canadian Rockies.