Visit these 10 best national monuments for spectacular views
The stunning scenery around Canyon de Chelly National Monument — Photo courtesy of Ron and Patty Thomas / iStock Via Getty Images
Although national parks are considered America’s jewels, national monuments also have much to offer. In the U.S., a national monument is a protected area of land or water owned or controlled by the federal government. These include archeological sites, historic landmarks and structures, and other objects and spaces of significance — including national parks!
The primary difference between a national park and a national monument is that only presidents can declare a national monument, whereas a national park requires an act of Congress. President Theodore Roosevelt initiated the program: He deemed Devils Tower, located in eastern Wyoming, the first national monument through the Antiquities Act of 1906.
Today, there are 133 national monuments spread across the United States, with the most in Arizona (19), followed by California (18), then New Mexico (13). They encompass natural wonders, famous statues, hikes and stairs, and often fantastic views of good, old-fashioned American scenery.
With so many options, we gathered our 10 favorite national monuments with scenic views, plus offer tips on things you can do while visiting. Entry fees are typically $10 per person on foot or $20 per vehicle, but it’s best to check in advance.
Statue of Liberty National Monument – New York, New York
Views from the top of the Statue of Liberty are amazing — Photo courtesy of OlegAlbinsky / iStock Via Getty Images
The Statue of Liberty is the most visited national monument in the U.S., welcoming more than 4 million visitors a year. Gifted to the U.S. by France in a display of friendship in 1886, Lady Liberty was designated a national monument in 1924. She’s been a symbol of freedom and equality since.
Visitors can climb the narrow, spiral staircase to the statue’s crown and see sweeping views of New York City. There’s no elevator access, so you’ll climb 162 steps to reach the top. Reservations are required. If you choose to forgo the strenuous climb, you can visit the museum, which debuted in 2019.
Like most visitors, you might also venture to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which requires a separate ferry ticket (or take a cruise around both). Spring and fall are the best times to visit the Statue of Liberty to avoid the crowds. Winter is the slowest time of year but comes with variable weather conditions.
Dinosaur National Monument – Vernal, Utah
The leg bone of a dinosaur showcased in the Quarry Exhibit Hall in Dinosaur National Monument — Photo courtesy of milehightraveler / iStock Via Getty Images
Located on the southeast side of the Uinta Mountains along the border of Colorado and Utah, the Dinosaur National Monument offers panoramic views of colorful rock strata.
In addition to plenty of hiking trails, which range from easy to difficult, visitors can camp, go river rafting, or explore the many petroglyphs throughout the 200,000 acres. More than 1,500 dinosaur relics are on view along the “Wall of Bones” in the Quarry Exhibit Hall. The best time to visit Dinosaur National Monument is from April to September.
Bandelier National Monument – Los Alamos, New Mexico
Bandelier National Monument is home to archeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo community — Photo courtesy of National Park Service, NPS
Established in 1916, Bandelier National Monument spans 33,677 sprawling acres. With over 70 miles of hiking trails, visitors have many options for exploring the well-preserved archeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo community.
One not to miss is a moderate 3-mile hike through an 11,000-year-old colony, which features ladders and small carved rooms called cavates (pronounced CAVE-eights). Those who have trouble climbing (or feel claustrophobic) should exercise caution.
Permits are available for camping and RVs (no hookups available). Though open year-round from dawn to dusk, the best times to visit Bandelier National Monument are spring and fall. Summers are dry and get very hot.
Muir Woods National Monument – Mill Valley, California
Towering redwood trees are the hallmark of Muir Woods National Monument — Photo courtesy of zrfphoto / iStock Via Getty Images
Recognized in 1908, Muir Woods National Monument is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California. Encompassing 558 acres just north of San Francisco, these towering redwoods, many over 1,000 years old, attract both local residents and tourists. Some of these gorgeous trees stretch higher than 250 feet.
There are many hiking options here. The Ben Johnson Trail is approximately 4 miles and sees an elevation gain of 925 feet. On a clear day, you might see the Pacific Ocean from the top.
From August through October, you’ll find the best weather in Muir Woods; you’ll likely see rain from late October to May.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Kanab, Utah
Views go on for miles at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument — Photo courtesy of Jean Chen Smith
If you think Bryce Canyon National Park is spectacular with its sedimentary red rocks, wait until you visit the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. Be prepared for some seriously strenuous hikes to see magnificent views and petrified trees.
The rock formations here are stunning; expect to see brightly lit orange sandstone cliffs and slot canyons. Because the area is remote, come prepared with water and snacks. Best times to visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are from March to June and September to October, as summers get stifling hot. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails.
Readers’ Choice Awards: Best Recreational Trail (2024)
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument – Kimberly, Oregon
Breathtaking scenery at every turn at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument — Photo courtesy of Travel Oregon
At the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, fossils from over 50 million years ago show the evolutionary process of climate change, animals, and plant life. The park covers over 14,000 acres in three geographically diverse units: Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit, and Clarno Unit. The great thing about John Day is that you don’t have to do a ton of hiking to reap the rewards of splendid rock formations and captivating landscapes.
The Painted Hills Unit specifically offers several short hikes that offer breathtaking scenery. Spring and fall are the best times to visit John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Summers get very hot, and in the winter you might encounter ice and snow.
Cabrillo National Monument – San Diego, California
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument is serene — Photo courtesy of U.S. National Parks
Nestled at the southernmost edge of the Point Loma Peninsula, Cabrillo National Monument celebrates the European expedition of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, which began when he landed in 1542. One of the most popular attractions is the tide pools, formed over millions of years. The rocky coastline varies dramatically at high and low tides.
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, built in 1855, served as a signal light to ships for centuries. Today, the popular attraction provides a historical context to the area. The visitors center also offers exhibits and guided tours to facilitate an educational experience for adults and children. Fall and winter are the best times to visit the tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument when the current is low throughout the daytime.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – Castle Rock, Washington
Stunning vistas abound at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument — Photo courtesy of creativephoto / iStock Via Getty Images
Designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1982 following the explosive eruption, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument spreads across 110,000 acres. Managed by the United States Forest Service, the preserved site offers many viewing spots and information about the historic event.
While there are many hiking trails, the most challenging (and popular) is the Mount Saint Helens Summit via Ptarmigan Trail. The vigorous, 8.5-mile out-and-back trail features gorgeous views and indigenous flora and wildlife. Dogs are allowed at the monument but not on this particular trail. Visit Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument in late spring through early fall for the best weather.
Carrizo Plain National Monument – Santa Margarita, California
Peaceful vibes abound at the Carrizo Plain National Monument — Photo courtesy of Jean Chen Smith
The Carrizo Plain National Monument is a magical place to visit. This secluded area sits across more than 200,000 acres with miles and miles of hiking paths, most of which are flat and easy to navigate. Set in San Luis Obispo County, California, the plain is famous for being one of the best viewing sites of the San Andreas Fault, which runs along the northeastern side.
The plains offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Visit Carrizo Plain National Monument in late March to early May to see vibrantly colored wildflowers in abundance along the mountainsides and in the valley. The well-maintained visitors center features a gift shop, restrooms, and picnic tables.
Readers’ Choice Awards: Best City Park (2024)
Canyon de Chelly National Monument – Chinle, Arizona
The Anasazi tribe inhabited the land at Canyon de Chelly National Monument over 4,000 years ago — Photo courtesy of libre de droit / iStock Via Getty Images
Located in northeastern Arizona, Canyon de Chelly National Monument is best known for Spider Rock, an 800-foot-tall spire, and its impressive canyons. President Herbert Hoover designated this national monument in 1931, but its cultural significance dates to more than 4,000 years ago when the Anasazi tribe inhabited the land.
The park spans 83,840 acres with trails that range from easy to challenging. The Navajo Tribal Trust of the Navajo Nation owns the monument, but it’s managed jointly with the National Park Service. Plan your visit to Canyon de Chelly National Monument during spring and fall for a mild climate and colorful wildflowers.
