Spanning a large portion of North America, the United States contains some of the most diverse geography, climate, wildlife, and culture in the world. The lower 48 states stretch from the Pacific to the Atlantic and encompass coastal wetlands, rugged mountains, arid deserts, open prairies, and dense forests. The state of Alaska covers the Yukon Peninsula and claims the northern Rocky Mountains, arctic taiga, and a large section of the north Pacific coastline, while the volcanic islands of Hawaii possess a warm tropical environment in the central Pacific Ocean. In order to preserve its beautiful environments, the US established the world's first national park system, which currently consists of 59 national parks throughout the country. All are worth a visit!