Calling all science, history, and you know what we’ll throw in travel nerds too, we’ve compiled a list of just a few of the coolest rock formations you can visit! And if you’re already shaking your head, don’t be too quick to judge because when you stop to think about how cool natural rock formations are, they preceded us and they will far outlive us, it does seem like the ultimate travel destination! Plus a lot of these spots include some kind of hike, and there is nothing, we repeat, nothing, better than a post-hike meal! Let’s get started.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA
(image via: visit arizona)
There’s a really good chance you recognize this place because it is unbelievably photogenic. These gorgeous rock formations are somewhere between looking like a painting and another planet (in the best way possible, of course!) Because this canyon actually sits on Navajo Land, not just anybody can visit, you do have to book a tour or tour guide to check them out. And yes, it is totally worth it!
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA
(image via: sunset)
A “hoodoo” is an irregularly shaped column of rock and this park is absolutely brimming with them. The only thing breaking up the monotony of red columns are valleys and patches of forests. There are more than 400 native plant species in the park, and the diversity among the wildflowers is beyond gorgeous, and, as you can imagine, the plants you can see in the forest are totally different than the plants you’ll find among the rocks. To say there is a lot to see here is a vast understatement.
Reflection Canyon, Utah, USA
(image via: image conscious)
Okay, what’s really cool about Reflection Canyon is that when you visit dictates what you’ll see. If you plan your visit during August-May, you’ll see a pretty breathtaking S-shaped canyon; whereas if you go any other time during the year, the canyon will be full of water and, well, it isn’t called Reflection Canyon for nothin’. You can get here by car or, if you’re really trying to make some memories, you can view this canyon by plane.
Natural Bridge, Virginia, USA
(image via: lexington virginia)
The first thing you should know about Natural Bridge is that locals refer to it as Natty B, and we think that’s pretty cool. This natural bridge is 215 feet tall and it came to be thanks to Cedar Creek, the small but mighty creek that eventually carved it. The bridge is surrounded by forests, meadows, and mountains, so paying Natural Bridge State Park a visit is an all-around win.