The sun rises earlier and sets later, the birds are beginning to chirp, it's no longer 30 degrees out. Here in the PNW, we are starting to get a little hint of spring. Spring is always accompanied by gorgeous blooming flowers, baby animals, and the dreaded allergies. Now, for those of use who want to get outdoor more but don't know where to start, I've compiled a list of incredible locations in the western portion of the USA to use for inspiration. I'm always looking for destinations to add to my Backpacking Bucket List, and am planning on hitting all of these destinations before I turn 25.

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1. Horsetail Fall, Yosemite National Park (California).

For two weeks during the month of February, this waterfall looks like it's on fire. Like, literally on fire. When the sun hits this "firefall" just right at sunset, you might catch a glimpse of what water would look like if it could catch on fire. Be sure to research the conditions before your trip, though, as everything has to be perfect for the fall to glow.

2. Kanarra Creek, Zion National Park (Utah).

For those of you looking for a hike that will take you through streams and waterfalls, this one is a great option. Taking you up through twisting canyons, you will have to walk through the stream during this hike. If you want to cool off on a nice summer day, this is a perfect hike for you.

3. Paint Mines, Paint Mines Interpretive Park (Colorado).

These crazy looking geological formations are brightly colored with clay that was used by Native Americans. There is also a vast variety of wildlife including coyote, mule, deer, and even horned toads.

4. Paradise Valley, Mt Rainier National Park (Washington).

There are many trails that pass through this area depending on what you would like to see. The wildflowers are beautiful during the summer, and some trails even take you up to see the Nisqually Glacier.

5. Valley of Fire, Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada).

Located near Las Vegas, this is the oldest park in the state of Nevada. It has incredible Native American petroglyphs carved into the red sandstone walls, similar to cave art. There are several unique geological features depending on your interests, including Petrified Logs, The Beehives, and Mouse's Tank.

6. Palouse Falls, Palouse Falls State Park (Washington).

This "official waterfall of Washington state," nestled in Franklin County. There's a huge camping area if you want to stay overnight. Along with beautiful views, there is also a variety of curious creatures that reside in the area, including rattlesnakes and the yellow-bellied marmot.

7. The Subway, Zion National Park (Utah).

This incredibly difficult adventure might take some practice before you are able to complete it safely. It usually takes 7-9 hours to complete and you must go with an experienced hiker. There will be multiple short rappels and quite a few cold swims. You must bring your own climbing gear, though, as this can be an extremely dangerous climb. It is absolutely worth the struggle, though.

8. Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park (Washington).

Home to the elusive banana slug, this rainforest is ancient. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this lush green forest has trees that can reach up to 300 feet tall and 25 feet wide. Make sure to bring a raincoat, though, as this forest is known to get up to 14 feet of rain per year!

9. Antelope Canyon, Arizona.

While this might be one of the most visited slot canyons in the Southwest, it is the most accessible and most beautiful. The curved sandstone cliffs are multiple hues of red and orange depending on how the sunlight hits. The walls are smooth to the touch and sculpted by the seasonal stream of Antelope Creek.

10. Giant Forest, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park (California).

The King of the Forest lives here. His name is General Sherman and he is the largest living organism on the planet. Reaching 275 feet tall with a trunk width of 100 feet that weighs almost 2.7 million pounds, this 2,100-year-old sequoia tree stands tall next to more than 8,000 other sequoias.

11. Spider Rock, Canyon De Chelly National Monument (Arizona).

The Canyon de Chelly is located on the Navajo Nation and is full of sacred and beautiful creations, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Spider Rock, the big stone spire rising off of the canyon floor, has an interesting backstory. According to Navajo legend, it is the lair of the mystical Spider Woman that used to catch the naughty children and eat them! She would spin her silken web to get down to the ground, and this was how the people learned how to weave.