1

Grand Teton and its central peaks

Image: Toan Chu

No matter how many national parks you visit, Grand Teton will always rank among the most beautiful in the country. As evocative as it is inspiring, this national park in northwestern Wyoming saw the arrival of the first settlers, the brave frontiersmen. It also offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world and is a great place for climbing and hiking enthusiasts.

The highest mountain in the park is Grand Teton itself, standing at 13,770 feet, but there are 10 other peaks that reach an impressive height of more than 11,000 feet. The interesting thing is that, to the naked eye, these mountains appear even larger, since they all rise abruptly from the otherwise flat terrain of the Jackson Hole Valley. Six alpine lakes nestled in the foothills of the central peaks, along with a fascinating array of wildlife, complete the scenery of one of the best parks on the West Coast of the US.

2

Crater Lake in Crater Lake National Park

Image: Joris Beugels

The deep blue color of Crater Lake has been the objective of many attempted descriptions, but none comes close to the impact you feel when you see it with your own eyes. In fact, the first name given to it by non-native Americans was simply "Deep Blue Lake." This intense blue color is a result of the lake’s immense depth —reaching 1,932 feet at its deepest point—making it one of the world’s deepest lakes.

Located in south-central Oregon, this volcanic crater lake spans 5 miles in width and 6 miles in length, with a 20-mile shoreline. The dimensions and color are enough to attract visitors, but its setting, surrounded by lava cliffs ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet above the lake's surface, makes it all the more remarkable.

There are many ways to enjoy Crater Lake, which is beautiful all year round. In winter you can rejoice in a true winter wonderland, and in summer, you can hike the trails and go boating or fishing in the bright blue water.

3

Mount Rainier

Image: Peter Robbins

Perhaps the most famous peak in the Pacific Northwest’s Cascade Range is Mount Rainier. This dormant—but not extinct—ice-clad volcanic mountain stands at an impressive 14,410 feet. Though it is not the highest of mountains, Mount Rainier’s sheer bulk and the fact that it is set apart from its neighboring peaks make it the dominant landmark of the region. So much so that it is commonly referred to by locals simply as "The Mountain."

Located in Washington State, just 59 miles south-southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier is visible from over 100 miles away on clear days. Rainier’s legendary beauty is as great as its overpowering size. Its 27 glaciers cover more than 34 square miles, making it the largest single-peak glacial system in the lower 48 states.

4

Half Dome in Yosemite

Image: Aaron Lee

Yosemite National Park in California is justifiably one of America's most famous and beloved parks. Its spectacular scenery is sure to impress even those who have seen practically every other park in the country. And, in turn, probably the most iconic landmark of Yosemite is Half Dome, a quartz monzonite batholith that rises 8,800 feet above sea level.

Once considered impossible to climb, Half Dome now draws thousands of adventurers to its distinctive, hooked summit each year. The 14- to 16-mile round-trip hike via the Half Dome Cable Route offers outstanding panoramic views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. This is a journey you definitely can't miss!

5

Hyperion Tree in Redwoods National Park

Image: Josh Carter

Redwood National Park in Northern California protects nearly 140,000 acres of land and almost 40 miles of Pacific coastline. Bathed in a temperate rainforest climate, the park receives up to 140 inches of rainfall annually. This cool moisture, along with rich forest-floor soil and the trees' ability to sprout new buds, allows coast redwoods to reach lofty heights and venerable old age.

These exceptional conditions have made this park home to the world's tallest tree. Standing at an astonishing 380.3 feet, Hyperion, a Sequoia sempervirens , is considered the tallest living thing on record, including the plant and animal kingdoms. Most experts say it’s 600 years old, although some think it may be as old as 900 years. Currently, the exact location of Hyperion is not publicized to protect it from potential damage from mass tourism.

6

Mount Mckinley in Denali

Image: John Feng

Mount McKinley is the highest point in North America , standing at an awe-inspiring 20,320 feet. The almost-four-mile-high giant was known to the Native Americans of Alaska as Denali , "The Great One," a fitting tribute to one of the world’s best-known mountains.

During winter, on clear days, it is possible to see the glacier-capped summit, and the true power of nature manifests itself. In spring, when the snow melts, nature unfolds, wildflowers bloom, grizzly bears emerge from their long hibernation, and you can find mooses, caribous, foxes, and wolves roaming around the park for a memorable encounter with the wilderness.

7

Devils Tower National Monument

Image: Mick Kirchman

Devils Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks, not only in Wyoming but in the entire United States. Rising 867 feet, this gigantic monolith is visible from up to 100 miles away on clear days! Devils Tower is particularly striking because of its huge, hexagonal rock columns, estimated to be around 50 million years old. The butte is also among the most unusual of the many geologic formations in the country.

Another interesting fact about Devils Tower is that it was designated as the first U.S. national monument in 1906 by Theodore Roosevelt, under the Antiquities Act, due to its scientific and scenic value. Native Americans have long regarded the Tower as a sacred site too. In fact, over 20 Native American tribes have a cultural connection with it, the Lakota people consider it the birthplace of wisdom.

8

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

Image: Zoshua Colah

Spanning 76,680 acres of desert land, Arches National Park in eastern Utah protects more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches. But perhaps the most iconic one is the 52-foot-tall Delicate Arch. It’s so famous that its image appears on state license plates as well as on a postage stamp issued in 1996 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Utah's founding. Fun fact: the Olympic torch for the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics even passed under this arch!

In addition to checking out its most emblematic landmark, this park is a great place to visit any time of the year thanks to its hot, desert climate . There are lots of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from biking, horseback riding, and hiking to taking a minute to appreciate the colorful wildflowers while enjoying an idyllic sunset.

9

Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park

Image: Emily Campbell

Yellowstone is probably the name people are most likely to associate with "national park" and is the very symbol of the American West. It was established by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872 and is the largest megafauna location in the United States. Apart from its scenic mountains, wildflower meadows, and photogenic canyon, perhaps the most emblematic features of Yellowstone National Park are its geysers.

Among these, Old Faithful is certainly the most famous one. Erupting approximately every 90 minutes, it delights visitors with spectacular displays. Shooting up to 8,400 gallons of boiling water nearly 150 feet in the air, it was the first of its kind to be discovered in 1870 by the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition when they entered the Upper Geyser Basin. Today, Old Faithful attracts around 500,000 visitors a month.

10

Angels Landing in Zion National Park

Image: Fineas Anton

Zion National Park in southwestern Utah is famous for its brownish-red mountains with fantastic shades of purple and lilac, skinny slot canyons, and vertigo-inducing cliffs. The most paradigmatic of these rock formations is Angels Landing, a towering 1,488-foot monolith, accessible via a challenging 2.5-mile trail.

The best way to experience Zion is by hiking the trail that hugs the cliffside, crossing a narrow ridge flanked by sheer drops. Sounds too dangerous? Believe us, the reward is worthwhile. Atop Angels Landing you will not only have access to an epic view of Zion Canyon but it's also possible to spot California condors soaring gracefully between the sandstone monoliths, alongside 287 other bird species!

1

Robert De Niro vs Mickey Rourke

Image: Vitruvian Badr

At first glance, it was the typical 1980s film set. But when Robert De Niro and Mickey Rourke worked together in Angel Heart , their differences in style weren’t just noticeable; they were combustible. De Niro, famous for disappearing into his roles with a strict Method approach, didn’t always mesh well with Rourke’s more unpredictable, improvisational take.

According to lore, all hell broke loose when Rourke decided to ignore De Niro’s suggestions for a scene. What was supposed to be a straightforward shoot turned into multiple takes, frustrating not just the two stars but the entire crew. The altercation quickly became Hollywood gossip, with insiders saying it was a classic case of two strong personalities refusing to give in.

2

David Letterman vs Jay Leno

Image: John-Mark Smith

Who deserved the late-night crown , Letterman or Leno? For years, Americans were unable to settle the debate. On screen, both comedians exchanged polite words and even jokes, but behind the curtain, the situation was a little more complicated.

Reporters loved to stir the pot, writing headline after headline about which funnyman truly deserved the throne. Viewers, meanwhile, treated it almost like a sporting match, tuning in to see who would come out on top. In truth, much of the "feud" was blown out of proportion, yet the friendly jabs and constant comparisons managed to keep audiences entertained.

3

Dean Martin vs Jerry Lewis

Image: anncapictures

On stage, there were only gags, music, and applause. But behind the scenes, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis were falling apart. Martin often felt stuck playing the calm, serious foil while Lewis stole all the laughs with his wild, over-the-top routines.

Over time, that imbalance created real tension. After starring in 16 hit films together, the famous duo finally called it quits. Their split was so final that they didn’t exchange a word for two full decades. Fans were stunned when they eventually patched things up later in life, a reminder that even the biggest comedy legends aren’t immune to bruised egos and long silences.

4

Olivia de Havilland vs Joan Fontaine

Image: cottonbro studio

Few family feuds reached the heights of Olivia de Havilland and Joan Fontaine’s legendary rivalry. The sisters were competitive long before the bright lights of Hollywood, each vying for their mother’s attention. Once both became movie stars, the bad blood only grew stronger.

In 1942, the two actresses were even nominated for Academy Awards in the same category. Fontaine ended up winning and later claimed her older sister pulled her hair during the ceremony. That incident became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about snubs. Their quarrel stretched on for decades, marked by jealousy, pride, and the kind of family drama that the public can’t get enough of.

5

Elton John vs Madonna

Image: HubertPhotographer

It may sound like sensational news, but Elton John once declared Madonna’s Bond theme "the worst ever." From that point on, the two megastars exchanged sharp words through the press, with Elton poking fun at her performances and Madonna brushing off the criticism with icy charm.

Reporters loved every jab, turning their spat into tabloid gold. Though they occasionally patched things up, the rivalry lingered. Even music royalty can squabble just like the rest of us!

6

Marilyn Monroe vs Jayne Mansfield

Image: WikiImages

In the 1950s, Hollywood had room for only so many platinum blondes, and Marilyn Monroe was already the reigning queen. When Jayne Mansfield came to light with her hourglass figure and playful charm, the press quickly dubbed her "the next Monroe."

Marilyn, who guarded her image carefully, bristled at the idea of a copycat stealing her thunder. Meanwhile, Mansfield leaned into the comparisons, showing up at events in daring outfits and orchestrating photo ops that guaranteed headlines. The result was a highly public rivalry that fascinated fans, turning every red carpet into a showdown.

7

Johnny Carson vs Joan Rivers

Image: Debby Hudson

One phone call never answered, one friendship lost forever. Joan Rivers owed much of her early success to Johnny Carson, who gave her a career-changing boost as a regular guest on The Tonight Show . For years, she was seen as his comic protégé, someone he personally championed. But when Rivers accepted an offer to host her own late-night program, Carson viewed it as a betrayal.

He cut off contact immediately, refusing to take her calls, and the friendship that once seemed unbreakable collapsed overnight. Fans were stunned to see the bitter end of what had appeared to be a classic mentor-and-student bond. The silence lasted all their lives.

8

Debbie Reynolds vs Gene Kelly

Image: Kazuo ota

When Debbie Reynolds starred in Singin’ in the Rain , she was a 19-year-old performer stepping into a major role for the first time. Gene Kelly, already an established star, demanded flawless performances and wasn’t known for his patience. Reynolds later recalled long hours of grueling rehearsals, where Kelly frequently criticized her every move, reducing her to tears.

Though their discord was rooted more in his high standards than personal dislike, the experience marked a harsh introduction to Hollywood for the young actress. Today, their behind-the-scenes tension is remembered as both a glimpse into Kelly’s tough reputation and a reminder of the enormous pressures that came with working alongside legends.

9

Orson Welles vs William Randolph Hearst

Image: William Warby

When Citizen Kane hit the screens, it wasn’t just a film debut; it was the spark of one of Hollywood’s fiercest battles. William Randolph Hearst, the media tycoon who saw too much of himself in the story, launched an all-out war against Orson Welles.

He tried to bury the film before it could reach audiences, banning ads in his papers and fueling smear campaigns. What began as a clash of egos grew into a cultural showdown, forever linking their names to both scandal and cinematic history.

10

Frank Sinatra vs Marlon Brando

Image: Brett Sayles

If you watch Guys and Dolls today, all you’ll see is glamour. In reality, the shooting was pretty stressful: Sinatra craved efficiency, Brando thrived on slow-burning performance. Brando’s Method acting tested Sinatra’s patience, as Ol’ Blue Eyes favored efficiency and clean, polished takes.

Rumors of heated exchanges and icy silences hit the media, and by the final days of filming, the pair were barely speaking. What should have been a classy production became notorious for its behind-the-scenes tension, adding an extra layer of drama to the musical classic.

11

Bette Davis vs Joan Crawford

Image: Nathan DeFiesta

So iconic was their hatred that it later inspired documentaries and TV series. Davis and Crawford didn’t just feud; they redefined what a Hollywood rivalry is. For decades, the two icons sparred over leading roles, critical acclaim, and public adoration.

Gossip included backhanded insults, stolen lovers, and outright sabotage during productions. When they finally shared the screen in 1962’s What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? , the film’s unsettling tension was magnified by their very real animosity.

12

Chevy Chase vs Bill Murray

Image: Aleks Dorohovich

In the early days of Saturday Night Live , Chevy Chase and Bill Murray were usually at each other’s throats. Chase’s sharp, polished delivery often clashed with Murray’s more offbeat, improvisational style, and the tension spilled offstage.

Reports of heated arguments (and even a near brawl backstage) turned their working relationship into one of the show’s most notorious conflicts. Though both later moved on, their rocky career start stands as a reminder of how fragile chemistry can be in comedy’s spotlight.

1

Massachusetts - Apple pie with a twist

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Apple pie is the nation’s pie—it’s the classic dessert served on the 4th of July, so it doesn’t belong to any particular state. However, Massachusetts thought the classic recipe could do with a twist and they went all the way: Apple pie with a cheddar crust .

This may sound unusual, but it’s actually quite a popular recipe in the Bay State. Some choose to fill the pie with the cheese, while others prefer to lay some slices on top and bake it until a crust forms. In any case, this one is only for those who keep their minds and palates open to new experiences. Are you one of them?

2

Kentucky - Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

In Kentucky, bourbon flows as freely as hospitality, and it’s no surprise that the state’s beloved Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie is a crowd favorite—especially on Derby Day. This dessert combines crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate, and a splash of Kentucky bourbon for a sweet, boozy finish.

Now, here’s the thing with this one: You can’t call it a Derby Pie unless you are Kern’s Kitchen. Why not? Because they own the trademark. But that didn’t stop the locals—they came up with creative alternatives like "Not Derby Pie" or "Derby Dessert."

To make it yourself, try mixing a bit of melted butter with your chocolate for an extra velvety texture. Just don’t forget to sip a little bourbon on the side while you’re baking—it’s only fitting!

3

New Jersey - Green tomato pie

Image: Sophie Dale

New Jersey’s Green Tomato Pie might sound odd to some, but locals know it’s a delicious treat . Made from either ripe green tomatoes (which often have lovely stripes) or unripe red ones, this pie has a flavor that is surprisingly similar to apples. The tomatoes soften as they cook, and they blend beautifully with the cinnamon and the sugar. The result? A refreshing, unique filling.

If you’re giving it a go at home, make sure to use the ripest green tomatoes you can find—they add a more vibrant flavor to each bite.

4

Pennsylvania - Shoofly pie

Image: Kenneth Schipper

Pennsylvania’s Shoofly Pie is one of those old-time desserts that never goes out of style. Based on molasses, the pie comes in two styles: a dry-bottom version that’s more like a cake, or a wet-bottom version with a gooey custard layer.

But what about the name? Traditionally, it’s believed that the name came from the flies that bakers had to "shoo" away while the pie cooled. However, some say it's named after Shoofly the Boxing Mule, a celebrity from the 19th century.

Either way, this pie is a taste of Pennsylvania's Dutch heritage. If you’re up for a baking challenge, aim for the wet-bottom style—its sticky, rich filling is worth the extra effort. Just be ready to shoo some flies away!

5

Georgia - Peanut pie

Image: Isaac Quesada

Were you expecting to see a peach-based pie in this section? Not today, sir! Though Georgia is often called the Peach State, its real star crop is peanuts. Thousands of peanut farmers call Georgia home, including one very famous name. Do you know it? Jimmy Carter, the peanut-farming president!

Peanut Pie might not be as well-known as peanut butter, but it’s just as flavorful and rich. This Southern staple blends sweet, salty, and nutty goodness in every bite. Serve it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

Now, in case you were wondering, Carter wasn’t the only one: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of peanuts! With a history like that, you know this pie is something worth trying.

6

Vermont - Maple pie

Image: Mary West

This one lives up to our expectations: Vermont’s connection with maple syrup is legendary, and Maple Pie is the sweet—and logical—result. As the nation’s leader in maple syrup production, Vermont has turned this delicious treat into a delicious pie.

In the 1860s, maple sugar was cheaper than cane sugar , making it the go-to sweetener, and today, it still holds that place of honor. Maple Pie is rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet… So, Vermont in a nutshell.

Are you giving this pie a go? Use a deep-flavored maple for an intense result!

7

Alaska - Blueberry Rhubarb pie

Image: Erol Ahmed

We may all know Alaska for its rugged wilderness, but it’s also home to some fantastic pie ingredients, like blueberries and rhubarb. These two grow in abundance, especially thanks to Alaska’s long summer days. And did you know? Back in the early 1900s, Henry Clark, who was nicknamed "The Rhubarb King," helped feed Gold Rush workers with fresh rhubarb.

You can use any kind of berry in this pie, but wild Alaskan blueberries are especially tasty! Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’ve got a true Alaskan treat. It’s tart, sweet, and perfect for any adventure. Just be sure to gather your berries before the bears do!

8

Colorado - Rocky road pie

Image: Dagmara Dombrovska

When you think of Colorado, the mighty Rocky Mountains are the first thing to come to mind, right? What better way to honor them than with a Rocky Road Pie? Done and done, thanks to the locals.

This pie brings together chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, just like the famous ice cream flavor. Now, here is a fun fact: legend says the original Rocky Road ice cream was made by cutting marshmallows with sewing scissors!

We can’t really confirm whether that’s true or not, but you can’t deny the charm of the story. The pie version is just as rich and satisfying, with layers of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. If you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy, this one’s for you.

9

Maryland - White potato pie

Image: Josephine Amalie Paysen

Most people think of sweet potatoes when they hear "potato pie," and that makes sense, but in Maryland, it’s all about the white potato .

This pie has been a local favorite for over 150 years, and early recipes date back to nothing less than the 1850s! Baked in a buttery crust, this pie is sweet and custard-like, with just a hint of cinnamon. It’s a bit like pumpkin pie’s lighter cousin.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday go-to! Marylanders have been enjoying it for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Serve warm or cold—it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

10

Ohio - Buckeye pie

Image: Tanya Semenchuk

And we come to the end with Ohio’s signature pie: Buckeye pie take center stage , please! This delicious pie, along with its name, is inspired by the famous buckeye candy that mimics the state tree’s nut.

Though the real buckeye nut is toxic, you can eat this version without any worries. The pie is pure indulgence, layered with chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate is hard to resist, and it looks just as good as it tastes. Simply mouthwatering!