Jaw-dropping photos of America from above

See America from new heights

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America has little shortage of incredible vistas but its cities and natural landmarks are often even more impressive when seen from the sky. From bird's-eye views of big cities to aerial shots of lesser-known wonders, these photographs show America from a whole new perspective.

Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

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New England has plenty of scenic drives and Massachusetts' Mohawk Trail is among the most picturesque of them all. The historic route, which originated as an ancient path used by Native Americans, winds on for more than 60 miles (96.5km) east to west, taking in dinky roadside inns, state parks and quaint small towns as it goes. The trail is at its most beautiful in fall – here a hairpin bend along the road contrasts with the green, yellow and ochre foliage all around.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska

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The icy expanse of Glacier Bay National Park is all hulking glaciers, blue-green fjords and snow-crowned mountains. You'll get spectacular views from all corners of the 3.3-acre park and the higher you get, the better you can enjoy America's backyard at its finest.

San Francisco, California

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Visitors are often fascinated by San Francisco's steep slopes and windy roads, and the twists and turns of this particular street look even more pronounced from up high. Fondly nicknamed Crooked Street, this is a stretch of Lombard Street whose eight super-tight hairpin bends pose a big challenge for modern drivers. The street was initially built this way to allow early automobiles to travel down the steep hill safely.

South Beach, Miami, Florida

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Affectionately nicknamed SoBe, South Beach is a sand-fringed neighbourhood in Miami known for its stunning beaches, calm waters and glitzy nightlife. The sand here is dotted with sleek umbrellas, white-washed lifeguard stands and well-heeled sunbathers, and the coast looks just as beautiful from the air as it does up close.

Route 66, California

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Route 66 has been attracting travellers dreaming of the open road for decades. Drivers following this lengthy route will find all manner of attractions along the way: the road passes through buzzing cities, past kitsch roadside attractions and along quiet stretches of desert-hemmed highway. This portion of the Mother Road slices through California with stark desert unfolding on either side. Discover the unusual things you'll find on a road trip through the USA here.

Denver, Colorado

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Colorado's capital, the Mile High City, certainly lives up to its moniker. As its nickname suggests, Denver sits some 5,280 feet (1,609m) above sea level and dramatic vistas of the Rocky Mountains can be seen from all over town. Pictured here in fall, Denver's cluster of skyscrapers rise from a canopy of yellow and orange, and a forest of peaks line the horizon.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, Oregon

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When it comes to road-tripping the Pacific coastline, California usually gets all the attention but the section of Highway 101 in Oregon is equally as beautiful in parts. It boasts the same rocky headlands, golden-sand beaches and incredible ocean panoramas, with preserves such as Ecola State Park and Cape Blanco State Park along the way. This particular stretch of the highway is close to Oregon's Port Orford. Discover more of America's most magical road trips here.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

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Yellowstone's eye-popping Grand Prismatic Spring can truly be appreciated from up high. The wonder appears in rings of fiery orange, yellow, turquoise and teal – colours caused by the bacteria that exists in the water. It's a whopping 370 feet (113m) in diameter too, making it one of the largest springs in the world. You'll find the Grand Prismatic Spring in the park's Midway Geyser Basin. Find our guide to northern Wyoming and Yellowstone here.

Los Angeles, California

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The City of Angels loves the camera and it looks particularly handsome from up high. The Downtown area's forest of skyscrapers rises up dramatically, backed by the cloud-hugging San Gabriel Mountains. And while the city is known for its incessant traffic, even Los Angeles' highway interchange appears striking from the sky.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA

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One of the most recognisable landmarks in the USA, San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge looks pretty spectacular from any angle. But when captured from above you can truly admire the sheer scale and ingenuity of the structure. Its towers rise to 746 feet (227m) and its orange-red expanse stretches right across the San Francisco Bay. Numerous operators will whisk tourists over the mighty bridge in a helicopter. Check out our round-up of the most impressive bridge in every state here.

Tallulah Gorge, Georgia

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Tallulah Gorge State Park is a beautiful natural preserve in Georgia's Rabun and Habersham counties. While it's a scenic area year round, the park truly comes into its own in the fall when the gorge's plunging walls are topped with fiery foliage. Here adventurous kayakers, appearing like colourful ants from the air, enjoy the rushing Tallulah River.

Hoffstadt Creek Bridge, Toutle, Washington

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One of the tallest bridges in the USA's Northwest, Hoffstadt Creek Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering. Rising some 370 feet (113m) above the ground, the bridge spans the eponymous Hoffstadt Creek and can be found along Washington's Spirit Lake Memorial Highway. Here the imposing man-made structure contrasts with the whirling waters and green thickets below.

Las Vegas, Nevada

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The glittering lights of the Sin City strip look as dazzling from the sky as they do on the ground. This aerial vista shows the soaring Fountains of Bellagio, the yellow glow of Caesars Palace and Las Vegas' very own Eiffel Tower. To get a similar view, get in touch with operators such as Sundance Helicopters which offers an after-dark helicopter ride over the strip.

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

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Some six million acres make up Alaska's Denali National Park which is named for the Denali peak, the tallest mountain in North America at more than 20,000 feet (6,000m) above sea level. Within the park's expanse, adventurous travellers will find alpine tundra, vast lakes, snow-blanketed peaks and wildlife such as grizzly bears, black bears, moose and caribou. This lofty shot shows the intricate crowns and crevices of some of the park's highest bluffs.

Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys, Florida

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The Seven Mile Bridge strings together Knights Key in the Middle Keys area and Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. The bridge soars over the water, its grey expanse contrasting with the perfect blue-green sea on either side. While the open road grants gorgeous ocean views, the structure itself looks most impressive from above. Find our full guide to the Florida Keys here.

Cape May, New Jersey

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Given the golden sand and teal waters, you'd be forgiven for thinking that this shot was taken over the Caribbean. But it was actually captured in New Jersey's Cape May, a seaside resort known for its fine beaches and quaint historic district. Here a wooden boat seen from above sits on Cape May's peach-coloured shore which is lapped by a frothing Atlantic ocean.

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai Island, Hawaii

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The otherworldly shores of Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park are unlike those anywhere else in the United States. Splashed with popping orange and green, the ridged peaks of Nā Pali, on the island of Kauai, drop down towards sand beaches and a windswept ocean. Competent hikers can follow the 11-mile Kalalau Trail through the park but you'll get the best views of the coast with a helicopter ride.

New York City, New York

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The Big Apple is one of the world's most photogenic cities with its teetering skyscrapers and sprawling Central Park. From above, Manhattan looks as fetching as ever, with the city's so-called Green Lung contrasting with the concrete jungle around it. The Top of the Rock observation deck at the Rockefeller Center grants tourists epic views of the city, while a helicopter tour will take things to the next level. Discover more things to do in New York here.

Temecula, California

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While often overlooked in favour of regions such as Napa, Temecula, a city 1.5 hours north of San Diego, is surrounded by beautiful wine country. Neat rows of vines carpet Temecula Valley's hills and there are plenty of wineries to sample the region's produce. A hot air balloon ride is one of the top ways to take in the landscape and the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival at the start of summer is not to be missed either. Discover more of California's wine regions here.

Akaka waterfall, Akaka Falls State Park, Hawaii

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An impressive cascade on Hawaii Island, the Akaka waterfall can be found in the eponymous Akaka Falls State Park. The rugged park is nestled away in the northeast of the island and the dramatic falls, surrounded by dense forest, crash some 442 feet (135m) down into the gorge below. A hike of less than an hour will lead you to the falls which also look stunning when viewed from above. See more photos of impressive waterfalls from around the world here.

Reflection Canyon, Utah

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The state of Utah has a bounty of scenic vistas, from the jagged rocks of Bryce Canyon to the green peaks of Wasatch Mountain State Park up north. But one of the most impressive bird's-eye views is of Reflection Canyon, a dramatic rock formation in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The canyon is remote, reached by a strenuous 20-mile hike, so unless you're prepared for the challenge, it's best seen from the air.

Stowe, Vermont

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New England isn't short of quaint small towns that come to life in the fall and one of them is Stowe, a dinky resort town in northern Vermont known for its skiing slopes and walking trails. Its defining feature is the white-washed Stowe Community Church, with its sloping roof and striking steeple. It's seen here surrounded by orange trees as the golden season begins. We reveal America's more under-the-radar destinations for spotting fall foliage here.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

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While it may seem surprising that this sandy expanse exists in the USA at all, you'll find the jaw-dropping Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado. Seen here from above, the Sahara-like park, home to the tallest dunes in North America, draws campers, hikers, sand-boarders and stargazers from all over the state and beyond. Take a look at more places that you won't believe are in the USA here.

Culebra, Puerto Rico

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The US territory of Puerto Rico looks just beautiful from above as it does on the ground and Culebra, a little isle off the east coast, remains a popular tourist attraction. The sleepy island moves at a gloriously slow pace and is known for its palm-dotted sands, turquoise waters and wildlife-rich trails. Here, this little slice of paradise is seen from the clouds. Discover more American islands that aren't in North America here.

Sangre de Cristo Mountains, near Santa Fe, New Mexico

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The Sangre de Cristo Mountains sprawl across parts of southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. The impressive peaks reach more than 14,000 feet (4,000m) in parts and sections are covered by the 1.6 million-acre Santa Fe National Forest. Hiking trails and ribbons of road wind through the forest which is pictured here in the depths of winter.

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California

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Tipped as southern California’s gateway to the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory is a striking sight from the air. From up high, the planetarium dome and the manicured grounds gives the LA landmark a majestic appearance, even resembling India's Taj Mahal. The building is a place to discover the stars and space through talks, telescopes and interactive exhibits.

Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona

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The coppery buttes of Monument Valley are synonymous with the southwest USA. Today visitors come from all over to explore the Mars-like landscape which seeps into both Arizona and Utah. US 63 offers a direct route into the red rockscape, 30,000 acres of which is protected as a Navajo Tribal Park. Here the otherworldly bluffs are captured from overhead. Back on the ground, be sure to swing by the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center.

Acadia National Park, Maine

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Acadia National Park encompasses a great swathe of the Atlantic coastline, its rugged rocks lapped by waves and fringed by forestland. You can soak up the park's natural beauty, from its rocky headlands to its sand beaches, along the 158 miles (254km) of hiking trails. Operators such as Acadia Air Tours also allow visitors to get up high and see the preserve from a helicopter.

Diamond Head, Oahu, Hawaii

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Diamond Head on Hawaii's island of Oahu is a 200,000-year-old volcanic crater whose outer slopes can be ascended via a rugged hiking trail. From the top of the trail, travellers can drink in impressive views of Honolulu, Hawaii's capital, as well as vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Those keen to learn more about the natural landmark can take a narrated tour, while operators such as Paradise Copters sweep visitors over the sight via helicopter. There's no activity at this site now but if you fancy visiting a live volcano, check out these ones which you can explore up close.

Breckenridge, Colorado

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Colorado has ski resort towns aplenty and one of them is pretty Breckenridge which is situated some 80 miles (128km) to the southwest of Denver. The scenic town could have been pulled straight from the Alps and though a sight to behold year round, Breckenridge looks best with a dusting of snow. You can get a bird's-eye view of the resort from one of the ski lifts.

Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia

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The mighty Blue Ridge Mountains sprawl over Southern states including Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia, where this stirring sunset panorama was snapped. Georgia's Blue Ridge peaks also include Brasstown Bald, a 4,784-foot (1,458m) mountain and the highest point in all of the state. While beautiful the whole year through, the area looks particularly spectacular in the fall. Discover more places to visit around the Blue Ridge Mountains here.

El Morro, San Juan, Puerto Rico

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San Juan is Puerto Rico's historic capital, known for its colonial architecture and top-notch culinary scene. Among the city's top attractions is El Morro (Castillo San Felipe del Morro), a hulking 16th-century fort that watches over the San Juan Bay. The imposing defensive structure is captured here from up high but visitors can explore the fort and take in the views for a small entry fee.

Badwater Basin, Death Valley National Park, California

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The stark Badwater Basin, a vast salt plain in Death Valley National Park, boasts the lowest point of elevation in the whole of North America: 282 feet (86m) below sea level. It's possible to hike on the salt flats outside of the summer months and from the air, appears like a dramatic patchwork.

American Falls, Idaho

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Idaho's American Falls is not one of the most-visited spots in the States but the city and its bucolic surrounds are pretty photogenic, especially when captured from up high. Power County, where American Falls is located, is best known for its agriculture and this shot sweeps over neatly striped potato fields close to the small city.

Chicago, Illinois

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The Windy City is filled with landmark skyscrapers from the Willis Tower to the John Hancock Center which each soar well above 1,000 feet (305m). Get up high and you'll see the city from a new perspective with Chicago's grey cluster of towers contrasting with a sapphire-hued Lake Michigan. Visitors with a head for heights should brave TILT!, a heart-pumping observation deck with a twist at the John Hancock Center.

Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

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Hexagonal Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park looks pretty dramatic from above, as the fort's lumbering grey walls contrast with the coral-filled waters all around. Dating to the 19th century, the fort is situated on Garden Key and can be reached via ferry or seaplane. The park is also popular with snorkellers and divers.

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park, South Dakota

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From twisting rock to glossy lakes, you needn't look far to find an impressive view in South Dakota. One such vista is Sylvan Lake, tucked away in the Black Hills' Custer State Park and captured from the sky in this image. The lake remains one of the most popular spots in the 71-acre preserve, drawing swimmers, kayakers and photographers alike.

Boston, Massachusetts

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The city of Boston is best-known for its rich history but it's not lacking in head-turning views either. This aerial shot takes in the city's vast harbour, its waters dotted with boats and fringed by skyscrapers. From the air, you can also appreciate how green Massachusetts' capital really is, with trees peeping from between the buildings and vast parks breaking up the glass and grey. Find our full guide to Boston here.

Niagara Falls, New York, USA/Ontario, Canada

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The most famous set of waterfalls in North America, Niagara Falls encompasses three cascades on the US-Canadian border: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls and the mammoth Horseshoe Falls. The second-largest of the three, American Falls, is situated entirely within the US and crashes 180 feet (55m) into the river below. From above, the cluster of waterfalls looks especially spectacular.

Crater Lake, Oregon

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This sapphire lake in southern Oregon is actually the deepest in the United States, with a total depth of 1,943 feet (592m). The lake exists within a dormant volcano and its still surface, surrounded by cliffs and old-growth forest, is interrupted only by Wizard Island, a cinder cone formed by volcanic eruptions. The vivid colours of this natural wonder are best admired from the sky.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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The Grand Canyon is the second most-visited national park in America (second only to the Great Smoky Mountains) – and it's not hard to see why. From up high, travellers can admire the contrast between the canyon's rust-red rocks and the deep blue Colorado River. For dizzying views across the park, head to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped bridge that juts 70 feet (21m) out over the canyon's rim.

Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park, Washington

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Olympic National Park in Washington state is made up of old-growth rainforests, sandy beaches and craggy bluffs carpeted in green. One of the most famous spots in the park is Hurricane Ridge, a mountainous area popular with hikers and so-named for its gusty winds. This pocket of the park also affords visitors fantastic views of the rest of the site.

Afton State Park, Minnesota

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One of America's lesser-known wonders, the St Croix River runs along the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Leafy Afton State Park sits right on the river, protecting prairie land, woodland and even a swimming beach. Shot from overhead, this photograph shows the park in fall when a mottled forest contrasts with the blue river.

Two Lovers Point, Guam

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The most popular attraction in the US territory of Guam, Two Lovers Point is a dramatic coastal lookout spot, soaring to more than 300 feet (91m) and steeped in legend. It's said that two young people who shared a forbidden love jumped to their deaths here as they were pursued by the girl's father. Now tourists are drawn to this storied spot which offers heart-pumping views of the ocean below.