Iconic Sights To See in Lake Tahoe and the North American West
The North American West is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and iconic landmarks in the world. Countless sights will take your breath away and leave you in awe of the natural world. The North American West has something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a change of scenery. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most iconic sights to see in the North American West, including Lake Tahoe, that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Lake Tahoe – California and Nevada
Lake Tahoe is undoubtably, one of the most breathtaking lakes in the world! Lake Tahoe is often referred to as “The Alpine Caribbean”, due to its crystal-clear waters that radiate bright emerald, turquoise, and sapphire colors while flanked by the magical Sierra Nevada Mountains. The crisp, clean air allows you to take in the soothing scents of Pine and Spruce. If you are brave enough to take a dip in the water, be prepared that the temp is brisk, to put it lightly, but if you treat yourself to a hike along the beautiful Rubicon Trail, a dip in this natural cold plunge might feel perfectly refreshing. Between the extraordinary sights, the feel of the cool water, and the pure nature scents, Lake Tahoe will awaken all of your senses.
Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in America and spans across two states, California and Nevada, offering the best of both worlds as the Nevada side, representing South Lake Tahoe offers your pick of fancy casinos, the West Shore of the lake has some of the most spectacular hikes and fun historic towns to visit and the California side, considered North Lake Tahoe is home to the world renown ski resorts during winter and beautiful beaches for the whole family to enjoy during the summer! If you’re interested in North Lake Tahoe, you can find endless outdoor activities here including kayaking, hiking, boating, snowshoeing, fishing, skiing, and so much more!
If you’re looking for a place to stay that matches this gorgeous lake in beauty and luxury, look no further than the Ritz Carlton Club in Lake Tahoe. This mid-mountain resort is located in North Lake Tahoe and provides ski in ski out during the winter and lake access during the summer. You can book one of these vacation condos with Travel En Vogue, by clicking here.
Monument Valley – Arizona
Monument Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful and iconic symbol of the North American West. Located on the Navajo Nation Reservation, this vast area of red sandstone buttes and spires has been featured in countless movies and television shows, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and Forrest Gump. Visitors can take guided tours through the valley to see some of the most famous formations, such as the Mittens, Elephant Butte, and Merrick Butte. Several hiking trails that wind through the valley and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape are also available to tour.
The Hoover Dam – Nevada
The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that you won’t want to miss. Built during the Great Depression, the dam was a monumental achievement that provided much-needed jobs and electricity for the surrounding area. If you’re a first-time visitor to the Hoover Dam, consider taking a guided tour to learn about the dam’s history and construction. Many scenic overlooks offer stunning views of the dam and the surrounding desert landscape. Located under an hour outside of the Las Vegas strip, this iconic sight to see in the North American West is a must-visit location.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the North American West. This massive underground cave system features more than 119 caves, including the famous Big Room, which is over 4,000 feet long and 255 feet high. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves or explore independently using self-guided audio tours. The park also features several hiking trails and a visitor center with exhibits that explore the area’s geology and ecology.
Antelope Canyon – Arizona
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. The canyon is famous for its stunning colors and swirling rock formations, which are the result of millions of years of water erosion. Visitors can take guided tours through the canyon and marvel at the light beams that shine down from above and cast a mystical glow on the walls. Antelope Canyon is truly a photographer’s dream; visitors should bring their cameras to capture the stunning beauty of this natural wonder.
Montezuma Castle National Monument – Arizona
Montezuma Castle National Monument is an ancient cliff dwelling located near Camp Verde, Arizona. Built by the Sinagua people over 600 years ago, this five-story structure is a marvel of ancient engineering and architecture. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the site and learn about the history and culture of the Sinagua people. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks that boast stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.