These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest

In the heart of the Midwest, there is no shortage of amazing cities from Chicago to Indianapolis to Milwaukee. But what many don’t know, is that the natural wonders of this region are utterly divine, and must be visited. There are trails to hike and caves to explore, so get going on these. Let find out These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest below.

These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest

Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Park Harrisburg, Illinois

As part of the Shawnee National Forest, The Garden of the Gods rivals the western Rocky Mountains for its sprawling views and breathtaking hikes. The dramatic rock formations are unlike anything else in the Midwest. The park is open year round, but for the best views take the famous Observation Trail mid summer or early fall.

Mammoth Cave Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Mammoth Cave looks more like something out of a Jurassic Park film than it does a landmark in Kentucky. However, it has often been cited as the most wondrous natural attraction in the whole state. The stalagmites and stalactites are the forms of myth, and the water elements are super unique. The tours are not for the faint of heart or the claustrophobic. That is once of These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest.

Cave in Rock Cave in Rock, Illinois

While the name lacks some majesty, the landmark does not. Cave in Rock is one of the coolest natural landmarks in Illinois, mainly known for it’s 55ft cave, which was carved out of water thousands of years ago.
The state park that Cave in Rock lives in also overlooks the Ohio River, providing guests with spectacular views from any angle. Once you’re done exploring the cave, there is always the famous Cave in Rock Restaurant and Lodge to visit for some traditional southern fare.

Wildcat Canyon – Oglesby, Illinois

Mainly Illinois is recognized as a fairly flat state with gorgeous bodies of water. However, many don’t realize the phenomenal hiking and trailblazing that can be experienced there.
Perhaps one of the most gorgeous places to explore is Starved Rock State Park, with such natural wonders as Wildcat Canyon, where a gorgeous Midwestern waterfall sits just waiting to be photographed.

Apostle Islands – Near Bayfield, Wisconsin

Lake Superior may look and feel like a freshwater ocean, so it should be no surprise that it comes with its own islands too. The Apostle Islands, just off the coast of Bayfield, Wisconsin, are quaint spits of land atop some of the most gorgeous sea caves in the world. While the trees are pine instead of palm, this is a total Midwesterner’s paradise. That is once of These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest.

Cave of the Mounds – Blue Mounds, Wisconsin

The Cave of the Mounds is simply a treasure trove of brilliance. The tour through these ancient rock formations is a once in a lifetime experience, and leaves little left to be desired.
Perhaps one of the greatest selling points of this cave is the pathways lined by crystal formations. The caves also have activities where guests can unearth fossils and even crack their own geode.

Eagle River Chain of Lakes – Eagle River, and Three Lakes, Wisconsin

Perhaps the best fishing lakes in Wisconsin also hold an awesome secret the Eagle River. Three Lakes Chain of Lakes is actually the largest inland chain of lakes on the entire planet. The 28 different lakes are all connected by small channels, most big enough for a canoe or kayak to pass through. Standing alone, these lakes are all gorgeous in their own right, but knowing they’re all connected truly shows how great this planet is.

Maquoketa Caves – Maquoketa, Iowa

Formed by a glacier thousands of years ago, this cave looks like it belongs in the rain forest, not in Iowa. The Maquoketa Caves State Park actually contains more caves than any other state park in Iowa.
The large cave for which it’s known for, was recognized for it’s unique stalagmite and stalactite formations, however those were stolen by souvenir hunters. People have been known to find pottery and other historical articles in the caves. That is once of These Most Stunning Natural Wonders in the American Midwest.