It has always been a dream of mine to make a road trip around the United States to see some of the most uniquely beautiful places on earth. For as long as I can remember, I have had an ongoing list of all the places I must see one day.

My list includes many places outside of the United States, but a lot of these places happen to be in the states. Sometimes we forget how much beauty lies within our own country. Some of the places on my list are not the most well-known destinations in the U.S., but that makes me want to visit them even more. I chose my top 10 U.S. bucket list destinations to share.

1. Salvation Mountain - California

This may be the most colorful place on the earth. Salvation Mountain is Leonard Knight's tribute to God. The entire place is filled with messages reminding us of God's love. The Lord's Prayer, John 3:16, and other biblical references are right on Salvation Mountain. It is made of adobe clay and donated paint. This place is sure to make some amazing photos.

2. Arches National Park - Utah

This park has more than 2,000 natural stone arches. It is truly a red-rock wonderland filled with amazing formations, trails, and beautiful sunsets.

3. Seven Magic Mountains - Nevada

These colorful "mountains" are pieces of public art created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. These 30 to 35 feet high totems are located in the desert outside of Las Vegas.

4. Monument Rocks, Chalk Pyramids - Kansas

This may be one of the most unique places you will ever visit. This National Natural Landmark is located in the middle of seemingly endless hills of cattle pastures. The 70 feet tall sedimentary formations of Niobrara Chalk were created 80 million years ago when this area was a part of an inland sea. This desert in the middle of a massive cattle field is worth the drive.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park - Utah

There is nowhere else on earth like Bryce Canyon. This is the largest collection of these oddly shaped pillars of rock left standing by the forces of erosion. These pillars are called hoodoos and will make some beautiful photos and memories!

6. The Wave - Arizona

The Wave is located in Arizona near its northern border with Utah. It's known for its amazing colors and the difficult hike to reach it. Visiting The Wave isn't easy. Due to the delicate nature along with the high number of people wishing to visit the formation, a daily lottery system is used to dispense only ten next day permits. If you plan on visiting the wave, make sure to plan!

7. Garden of the Gods - Illinois

Wind and rain are the ones to blame for creating this beautiful place. The wind and rain chiseled away at the large deposits of sedimentary rock. The Garden of the Gods is located in Shawnee National Forest in Illinois.

8. Horseshoe Bend - Arizona

This horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River is one of the most photographed spots on the Colorado River. The overlook is 4,200 feet above sea level, and the Colorado River is at 3,200 feet above sea level, which makes it a 1,000-foot drop. The hike to get here will be worth it.

9. Flint Hills - Kansas

When we talk about wide open spaces, this is what I picture. This place would be the ideal spot for some amazing photoshoots or just a place to let go and enjoy the wide open spaces.

10. Big Sur - California

Big Sur is located on California's Central Coast where the Santa Lucia Mountains Rise from the Pacific Ocean. It is known to be one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The stunning views make it a big tourist spot. It is protected by the Big Sur Local Coastal Program to keep it undeveloped and preserve its beauty.

These destinations would make the most amazing road trip for anyone. I believe these beautiful destinations shouldn't go unseen. The best time to travel is now. It's a good idea to hit the hiking destinations now while you're young!

I have made travel a priority because I believe it should be. Don't leave this world without seeing as much as it's beauty as you can, even if it's just in the states. There's always a way to make it happen if you want it bad enough.