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13 Photos of American National Monuments Will Take Your Breath Away
The US is filled with national monuments, but some are more picturesque than others. Check out these stunning photos of national monuments in the country.
Traveling in 2020 is a challenge, to say the least. But just because you can't hop on a flight or into a car doesn't mean you can't discovering some of the great sites this country has to offer. But looking at photos of national monuments, you will be able to practice social distancing while still discovering some of America's most beautiful destinations.
And in case you were wondering, yes, there is a different between national monuments and national parks. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, "national monuments are nationally significant lands and waters set aside for permanent protection" by a president, whereas national parks are established by congress.
Of course, you probably don't care about the history and just want to see the beautiful sights, right? Here are some of the most picturesque images of national monuments in the US that will have you planning a future road trip so you can see them all.
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1
Owachomo Bridge, Natural Bridges National Monument — Utah
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Thought to be the oldest and smallest bridge (there are three), Owachomo is the perfect place to admire erosion at its finest.
2
Carrizo Plain National Monument — California
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Just a few hours from Los Angeles, the Carrizo Plain National Monument is perfect for getting away and taking a good photo. The best time to see some flower action is spring, specifically April, when the wildflowers that blanket the plains are in bloom.
3
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument — New Mexico
This spot is pretty popular, but still equally as beautiful. Muir Woods National Monument is an old-growth forest that has more Redwoods than we can count.
5
Mount Rushmore National Memorial — South Dakota
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The giant faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln peer down from Mount Rushmore making this a sight to see.
6
Cedar Breaks National Monument — Utah
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The best time to check out this Utah national monument is in the winter. Snow covers the amphitheater in a really spectacular way.
7
Devils Tower National Monument — Wyoming
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A bunch of movies have been filmed on Devil's Tower making it a must-see destination for cinephiles.
8
White Sands National Monument & Park — New Mexico
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Known for its rare white gypsum sand dunes, this place is perfect if you're looking to be off world.
9
Rainbow Bridge National Monument — Utah
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Considered the world's highest natural bridge, its span is reported to be 234 feet. Rainbow Bridge is often noted as having historical and cultural significance to Native American tribes nearby.
10
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument — Arizona
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The cliffs have been eroded for millions of years and have some of the most interesting colored layers that we're sure have inspired an artist or two.
11
Buck Island Reef National Monument — US Virgin Islands
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Most of the monument is underwater and home to a variety of marine life. The reefs alone attract 50,000 visitors per year.
12
Canyon de Chelly — Arizona
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It's been reported that Canyon de Chelly was home to numerous indigenous groups and has prehistoric rock art throughout the park.
13
Montezuma Castle National Monument — Arizona
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The dwelling was created 40 years before Montezuma the ruler was born and acted more like an upper east side high-rise than an actual castle. It has over 20 rooms making it one of the oldest luxury residential centers in the United States.
