USA TODAY US Edition

America’s most stunning views

- Leif Pettersen

America is a big country full of bigger views. From stunning natural formations to architectu­ral wonders, some sights rise above the rest:

Sedona, Ariz.: The area’s sandstone towers, canyons and sculpted buttes glow in shades of orange and red, captivatin­g visitors since the Native Americans settled here 11,000 years ago. More recently, it has become a beacon for artists and New Agers.

Pittsburgh: The panoramic view of downtown from atop Mount Washington has long been considered one of the best skyline views in the world. The “mushroom” overlook platforms sit at 400 feet, accessed by a historic funicular.

Kauai, Hawaii: Along Kauai’s northwest shore sits Na Pali (“the cliffs”), a 15-mile stretch of rocky, vividly colored coastline. You can view it via hiking trails or from a kayak or helicopter.

Denali National Park, Alaska: The name “Wonder Lake” fits its cinematic, mirror-like sheen reflecting Mount McKinley.

Arches National Park, Utah: Park Avenue in Arches, an easy, 1-mile trek, is filled with natural stone arches, pinnacles and massive, balanced rocks, under a vast sky.

For more vistas, visit usatoday.com/ experience/america/.

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NEAL HERBERT, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

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