The world offers an amazing spectrum of natural beauty. So much of it is best to explore when you’re young, strong, and able to tackle whatever the earth can throw at you. Here is a selection of natural wonders, some famous and some not, that you can accompany with a slew of physical challenges and thrilling activities. Here are four natural wonders absolutely worth the trip, and things you can do to make each visit even more exciting.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Hawaii provides numerous ways to enjoy the sun, beauty, and wonders of the 50th state. You can find plenty of thrills on the Big Island if you ever want to go beyond the beaches and nightlife that it’s famous for. Seeing the island’s 15 volcanoes, six of which are still active, up close is one big reason to visit. Hike and bike the many trails of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to observe lava floes and the awesome wonder of a volcanic eruption. But be careful, you can easily injure yourself or even die in many ways if you don’t pay attention to the posted signs and other warnings.
Great Blue Hole, Belize
The Great Blue Hole is what it sounds like but is so much more. Formed over the centuries, it’s a massive sinkhole in the ocean some 407 feet deep and 1,043 feet wide. Scuba and other divers regularly explore its depths, the perfectly clear waters affording glorious underwater views of sea life, rocky reefs, and more. Casual divers need not apply as at least three lives have been lost in its depths. Divers need Open Water or Advanced Open Water diving certification, but taking the time to acquire certification makes diving the Great Blue Hole worth it. Aerial and in-person visits are still available for those who can’t dive.
Mont Blanc, The Alps
Despite its beauty, Mont Blanc, the name of which means simply white mountain, is supposedly one of the most dangerous natural wonders in the world. The first recorded ascent took place in 1786. Since then, the mountain has seen thousands of ascents and many deaths. The mountain has seen more than 6,000 to 8,000 fatalities by some estimates, more than any other mountain. Rescue teams stand by to recover climbers who encounter difficulties ascending or descending, run into rockfalls or avalanches, or experience altitude sickness. Therefore, unprepared and inexperienced climbers should avoid the ascent. The area also offers skiing and other ways to get thrills without chills.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Here’s the last of the four natural wonders absolutely worth the trip. Many enjoy the Grand up close and from afar. It offers amazing views whether you’re standing at the edge or hiking through the canyon itself. But take care. Offering 277 miles of length and a depth of up to 6,000 feet, getting lost in the Grand Canyon is just one of its many dangers. Dehydration is a bigger concern than starvation but be ready to prevent either. Exposure is another killer, as some of the wildlife and plant life, believe it or not, are dangerous to humans. Finally, falls and flash floods are two other ways hikers have died, so be aware of your surroundings while you’re taking in all that beautiful scenery.
