5 American Natural Wonders You Never Knew Existed

Sometimes, Americans gets a bad rap. People from around the world say that we're consumptive and material, that we only care about reality TV and fast-food, that we never go outside anymore. And in some cases, they're right.

But they don't have to be. After all, America is home to some of the most fantastic and awe-inspiring natural wonders on the entire planet, sights that should bring people to the outdoors in drove, to hang out, take pictures, and appreciate the beauty that is their native land. In honor of that process, we've listed, below 5 American Natural Wonders you never even knew existed, a list intended to inspire the average American to go outside and see more than just Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon, to understand exactly what about this country is so remarkable.

5. Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

As it turns out, New Mexico is home to more than just Walter White. In fact, it's the location of the largest network of underground caves in the country. Consequently, the Carlsbad Caverns is one of the best tourist attractions that people don't know about, housing the fifth largest single cave in the country (at a massive 1,220 feet long and 255 feet high), and the famous "underground lunchroom." Just watch out for the bats - Carlsbad has one of the biggest collections in the country!

4. The Wave, Arizona

This next item on the list you need to see to believe. Indeed, the famous "Wave" on the Arizona-Utah border is one of the craziest rock formations in the world: a series of undulating, sinuous lines, making their way across the rocks of Coyote Buttes. But be warned - seeing the Wave is no easy feat. In fact, the location is known for its lack of accessibility, requiring a trackless hike across the fierce Arizona sands to get there. But once you do, it's certainly a sight you'll never forget.

3. Enchanted Rock, Texas

Perhaps not as aesthetically striking as some of the other items on the list, Enchanted Rock is nevertheless worth seeing because of the remarkable history surrounding it. The sight, a giant pink granite dome, 640 acres large and 425 feet high, was considered among local native American tribes (and even some Texans who have lived there for long enough) to be haunted: they witnessed ghost fires coming from the top of it, and strange creaking and groaning in the night. Some even thought it was a portal leading to another world. No matter who's right, one things for sure: the natural beauty and rugged charm of Enchanted Rock is sure to make you feel like you're in a whole different universe.

2. Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming

Coming in at number 2 on our list is a site that combines natural phenomena with the colorful vision of the Beatles "Yellow Submarine" movie. Indeed, the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone is one of, if not the strangest sights you'll see outdoors: a giant hot spring ringed by an assortment of yellow, green, and blue water. Sure, the hot spring is in the famous Yellowstone national park (meaning, maybe it's not all that unknown), but this sight was just so cool we had to include it. And, if you ever visit, you'll see why.

1. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The last item on the list, and Arizona's second (as you can see, the Southwest of the United States is a pretty crazy place), Antelope Canyon combines the raw beauty of The Wave with the mystical significance of Enchanted Rock and the colors of the prismatic spring. The canyon, a basin formed by erosion and frequent flash flooding, is one of the most remarkable places in the entire world, a sight that has to be seen by anyone interested in travel or exploration. But don't try to take pictures! The light from the camera will just bounce around the narrow canyon walls, providing another reason you have to see this amazing natural sight in person.