The United States is a landscape photographer’s dream. From rugged coastlines to serene deserts, snow-capped peaks to ancient forests, the U.S. offers an incredible variety of scenery—all waiting to be captured through your lens.
In this article, we’ll highlight 10 of the best scenic locations across the U.S. where you can elevate your landscape photography, hone your skills, and walk away with portfolio-worthy shots. We’ll also note opportunities for long exposure techniques where relevant.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Why it’s amazing: Towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, ancient sequoias, and reflective valleys.
Photo highlights:
- Tunnel View (sunrise or foggy mornings)
- El Capitan and Half Dome
- Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls (great for long exposure water blur)
Best time to visit: Late spring for waterfalls, fall for color
2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Why it’s amazing: Jagged alpine peaks, pristine lakes, and roaming wildlife.
Photo highlights:
- Schwabacher Landing (still reflections—ideal for long exposures)
- Snake River Overlook
- Oxbow Bend (especially in fall)
Best time to visit: Late September for fall foliage and wildlife
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
Why it’s amazing: Rugged Atlantic coastline, pine forests, and granite summits.
Photo highlights:
- Cadillac Mountain (sunrise)
- Boulder Beach (waves are perfect for long exposure)
- Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Best time to visit: October for fall colors
4. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
Why it’s amazing: Misty ridgelines, rich biodiversity, and iconic Appalachian charm.
Photo highlights:
- Clingmans Dome (sunrise)
- Cades Cove (fog and wildlife)
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (long exposure of streams)
Best time to visit: Spring for wildflowers, fall for color
5. Zion National Park, Utah
Why it’s amazing: Massive sandstone cliffs, winding canyons, and dramatic desert light.
Photo highlights:
- The Watchman (sunset)
- Angels Landing from Scout Lookout
- The Narrows (long exposures in the river)
Best time to visit: Spring or fall for manageable temperatures
6. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Why it’s amazing: A sapphire-blue lake nestled in a volcanic caldera—breathtakingly unique.
Photo highlights:
- Watchman Peak (sunset or night)
- Phantom Ship and Wizard Island
- Reflections in early morning calm (great for long exposures)
Best time to visit: Summer for full access; winter for snowy contrast
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why it’s amazing: Alpine meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and dramatic valleys.
Photo highlights:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Lake McDonald at sunrise (mirror-like lake, ideal for long exposure)
- Many Glacier area
Best time to visit: July–September when roads are fully open
8. Arches National Park, Utah
Why it’s amazing: Over 2,000 natural rock arches with fiery colors and dramatic skies.
Photo highlights:
- Delicate Arch (sunset)
- Turret Arch through North Window (framing technique!)
- Balanced Rock with Milky Way (perfect for long exposures)
Best time to visit: March–May or September–November
9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Why it’s amazing: A glacier-capped volcano surrounded by lush meadows and wildflowers.
Photo highlights:
- Reflection Lakes (long exposures enhance reflections)
- Sunrise and Paradise regions
- Tipsoo Lake during wildflower bloom
Best time to visit: July–August for flower season
10. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Why it’s amazing: Otherworldly formations, layered sediment, and wide-open skies.
Photo highlights:
- Sunrise at Big Badlands Overlook
- Yellow Mounds
- Night sky and star photography (excellent for long exposure work)
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for cooler weather
Final Thoughts
These ten spots are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to landscape photography in the U.S. Each offers its own unique palette of colors, light, and textures, and every visit holds the potential for something new.
Don’t forget to bring your tripod and ND filters—these scenic wonders are perfect for experimenting with long exposure techniques, whether you’re smoothing out flowing water or capturing the slow dance of clouds.
So pack your gear, plan your route, and get ready to capture America’s natural wonders—one breathtaking frame at a time.
Happy exploring!