Natural wonders, characterized by their unique geological and environmental features and high value, range from waterfalls and canyons to geothermal features and national parks. This article explores ten of the greatest natural wonders within the richly diverse continent of North America.
What is North America?
Typically, “North America” refers to three countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. However, depending on the context, this geographic scope can extend further. The United Nations officially divides North America into three regions: North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. In casual discourse, however, Central America is often excluded from the scope of the term. In this article, “North America” will encompass Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the countries within the Caribbean.
An overview of North America’s natural wonders
North America’s natural wonders are as diverse as the continent itself, with unique geographic features. From the mighty Niagara Falls to the intricate Sistema Sac Actun cave system in Mexico, these awe-inspiring sites invoke a sense of wonder with their breathtaking beauty. The following sections provide an in-depth exploration of ten of the most magnificent showcases of Mother Nature’s work across the continent, highlighting their distinctive characteristics.
1. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA
Niagara Falls isn’t a single waterfall, but a group of three cascades situated along the U.S.-Canada border, between New York and Ontario. The most impressive of the three is the Canadian or Horseshoe Falls, located on the Canadian side. This waterfall, standing at 51 meters (170 feet) high and stretching approximately 820 meters (2,700 feet) from one end to the other, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Canada.
On the American side of the border, you’ll find the American Falls. Adjacent to these falls, separated by natural forces, lies a smaller waterfall known as the Bridal Veil Falls. The American Falls measure 34 meters (110 feet) in height and span 335 meters (1,100 feet) in length.
You might wonder, “What makes Niagara Falls so special? After all, the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls in Venezuela, reaches a staggering 979 meters (3212 meters) high, and the widest, Khone Falls in Laos, spans an impressive 10,783 meters (35,376 feet) ! However, the reality is, even the tallest waterfalls in the world appear as tiny rivulets when compared to the sheer volume of Niagara. Similarly, the world’s widest waterfalls are comparable in height only to river rapids.
Few waterfalls can boast both significant height and width like Niagara. Comparable examples might include Iguazu Falls in South America or Victoria Falls in Africa. What sets Niagara Falls apart from other remarkable waterfalls is its unique location in the heart of a bustling city. Typically, waterfalls of such magnitude are nestled in remote locations, surrounded by unspoiled nature.
2. Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders. It presents a vast and visually compelling landscape characterized by towering cliffs and a vibrant array of colors etched into its ancient rocks. Its color spectrum changes throughout the day, culminating in a stunning sunset.
Stretching more than 275 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and reaching a depth of one mile, the Grand Canyon is unparalleled in the United States for its awe-inspiring beauty. Although it is not the steepest or longest canyon in the world, it is considered the most remarkable for its combination of scale, size, and beautifully colored landscape.
The Colorado River, the primary force behind the Grand Canyon’s formation, carved its way through the canyon roughly 17 million years ago. The river continues to shape the canyon today in an ongoing geologic evolution. Kayaking through the Colorado River provides a thrilling way to experience the canyon’s depths and is one of the top outdoor experiences in the US.
The Grand Canyon’s splendor can also be appreciated from above, thanks to numerous viewpoints. Mather Point, a short walk from the South Rim Visitor Center, is one of the park’s most popular overlooks. It provides an impressive introduction to the vastness of the Grand Canyon.
3. Geothermal features of Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park covers approximately 2.2 million acres, or 8,983 square kilometers (3,472 square miles), making it larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined. Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park was not only the first national park in the United States but also in the world. Its establishment set a precedent, marking the first intentional preservation of natural wonders for future generations.
The park is situated over one of the world’s most active volcanic regions, known as the Yellowstone Caldera. Often referred to as a “supervolcano,” it’s one of the largest active volcanic systems globally. This system gives rise to the park’s iconic geothermal features.
Yellowstone National Park is home to an unparalleled collection of hot springs, geysers, mud pots, and fumaroles. Here, more than 10,000 hydrothermal features can be found, over 500 of which are geysers.
Old Faithful is perhaps the most famous geyser in the park and the world. This massive geyser can sometimes spew water up to 180 feet into the air. Remarkably predictable, Old Faithful typically erupts every 60-110 minutes. Its reliability is such that estimated eruption times are available online to help visitors plan their trip.
4. Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park in Canada is a stunning natural treasure, overflowing with wonders that could fill more than one country. As Canada’s first national park, it is the flagship of the nation’s park system. Spanning 6,641 square kilometers (2,564 square miles) of stunning mountainous terrain, it’s nestled in the vast wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. While the Rockies also house other spectacular national parks such as Kootenay, Yoho, and Jasper, Banff National Park maintains its distinct allure.
Banff National Park hosts some of the most beautiful lakes in Canada, and arguably, the world. There are numerous lakes within the park, but two stand out as natural marvels – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Both are among the most recognizable landmarks in Canada, boasting stunning turquoise waters set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Other noteworthy lakes include Lake Minnewanka – the longest lake in the mountain parks of the Canadian Rockies, and Peyto Lake – renowned for its incredibly bright turquoise waters.
Glaciers further enhance the remarkable beauty of Banff National Park. The park is home to over 1,000 glaciers. A popular area for viewing glaciers is the Plain of Six Glaciers, where visitors can see several glaciers, including Lefroy Glacier, Pope’s Peak Glacier, and Aberdeen Glacier. A teahouse at the end of the Plain of Six Glaciers trail makes it a popular hiking destination. The Columbia Icefield, another well-known glacier, is one of the largest icefields in the Rocky Mountains. Although it is primarily located in Jasper National Park, it feeds eight major glaciers, including the renowned Athabasca Glacier.