Epic USA Bucket List: National Parks, Wild Rivers & Coastal Horizons

Embark on an authentic backcountry boat journey through the intricate mangrove labyrinth with a multi-generational local boat captain who knows the hidden waterways and local folklore.

Wander through the historic heart of New Orleans, admiring the wrought-iron balconies and catching lively brass bands along Royal and Frenchmen Streets beyond the standard party corridors.

Take an authentic river cruise aboard a historic paddlewheeler on the mighty Mississippi for sweeping skyline views and rich river navigation history.

Head deep into the moss-draped cypress bayous on an immersive small boat swamp tour to encounter alligators, herons, and owls up close in their native habitat.

Stop for fresh, warm powdered beignets paired with chicory café au lait at this legendary 24-hour New Orleans landmark.

Explore the vibrant outdoor historic market stalls filled with local crafts, regional spices, and Gulf Coast praline treats.

Climb up the rugged rocky peak for breathtaking 360-degree panoramas over the Arkansas River and the surrounding Ouachita Mountain foothills.

Stroll or bike along the scenic riverfront bluffs and cross the illuminated Big Dam Bridge spanning the Arkansas River in Little Rock.

Launch a kayak into crystal-clear waters to paddle out and set up a camp on one of the 200 uninhabited lake islands for a peaceful night under the stars.

Rent touring kayaks and pick up topographic lake maps to plan your island-hopping route among Lake Ouachita's 970 miles of shoreline.

Trek along one of Arkansas's wildest and most scenic trails through a dramatic canyon canyon to discover hidden waterfalls and plunge pools.

After a day on the trail, stop in the quaint mountain town of Jasper for hearty southern country cooking and famous homemade mile-high pies.

Marvel at the vivid concentric rings of orange, gold, and turquoise in America's largest hot spring. Take the Fairy Falls overlook trail for the most breathtaking elevated vantage point.

Stand at Artist Point to view the 308-foot Lower Yellowstone Falls plunging into a magnificent 20-mile canyon composed of brilliant yellow, orange, and red volcanic rock.

Watch the world's most famous geyser erupt boiling water over 130 feet into the air, and step inside the historic log lodge next door.

Drive through the renowned 'Serengeti of North America' during dusk to view massive bison herds, pronghorn, and potential wolf pack sightings.

Walk the boardwalks above terraced travertine formations sculpted by steaming, mineral-rich thermal springs over thousands of years.

Enjoy a comforting meal in the historic dining room overlooking the historic Grand Loop before heading out to evening sunset viewpoints.

Wade through the Virgin River between soaring thousand-foot canyon walls. In deeper sections, water can reach chest height—keep electronics sealed in dry bags and maintain steady footing on slippery river stones.

Ascend Walter's Wiggles to the exposed spine of Angels Landing, holding onto anchored chain handrails for thrilling panoramic views over Zion Canyon.

Explore the vibrant gateway village of Springdale to rent dry-suits, canyoneering shoes, and trekking poles before your trek into the canyon.

Refuel with hearty southwestern craft brews and locally sourced burgers on the shaded patio with front-row views of the towering red sandstone peaks.

Take a scenic stroll along the paved path following the Virgin River to the trailhead of The Narrows, admiring weeping walls and cottonwood trees.

Drive the iconic switchbacking highway carved through sandstone cliffs and through the historic 1.1-mile tunnel with scenic canyon viewing windows.

Launch off the coastal cliffs for an exhilarating tandem paragliding flight over the Pacific surf, watching waves crash along Black's Beach below.

Hike through the rare Torrey pine groves along sculpted sandstone bluff trails leading down to pristine coastal shores.

Discover the unexpected tropical oasis aesthetic nestled directly against the stark San Jacinto Mountains in historic downtown Palm Springs.

Ascend 8,500 feet via the world's largest rotating tramcars from the desert floor up into the cool alpine forests of Mount San Jacinto.

Explore the surreal otherworldly landscape of twisted Joshua trees and massive giant monzogranite boulder formations.

Celebrate the completion of your journey with fresh Californian farm-to-table cuisine and artisanal cocktails on a mid-century modern garden patio.