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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCD chapter.

Whenever I travel, I love to admire the beauty of all the nature present around me. Whether it be the shape of the trees, or the way the water flows in a singular direction, consciously making an effort to really observe everything is something that brings me an immaculate sense of joy and serotonin. There are some specific places that I have traveled to that have made me feel a rush of emotion and, for that reason, are locations that I think everyone should visit one day!

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, California

This is located near Monterey and has one of the prettiest views with a mountain alongside the Pacific Ocean. When I went to Point Lobos, I climbed up to the top of the mountain with my friend and we saw a bunch of marine animals in the water on the way up. The air was cold, and the smell of the salt in the ocean was so overpowering that I could feel the salinity of the area. Once we got to the top, the view was beyond exhilarating, and it really put into perspective the beauty of the earth. 

Ocean from Elk Grove overlook in Humboldt County
Hadlie Ward

Bryce Canyon, Utah

Bryce Canyon is a National Park and has some of the most beautiful rock formations I have ever seen. I remember climbing up the hiking trail while I was surrounded by the tall, orange tinted rocks while the sun was setting. It was definitely one of the most gorgeous views ever! While I was at the top, I couldn’t help but think of how such a beautiful layout with such an ordered pattern was formed and how insane it is that everything I saw was naturally created due to erosion. 

Badwater Basin, California

According to www.nps.gov, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 m below sea level. This is a beautiful location where you are able to walk on a salt flat trail and enjoy the scenic mountains surrounding the basin. My mom was so astonished by the formation of the salt that she even took some with her to bring home! The location is so gorgeous and is a must visit, especially during sunset! 

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

This is a waterfall located in the Pacific Northwest and the best word I could think of to describe this scenery is refreshing. The waterfall is surrounded by mountains and greenery and is actually a source of water in Oregon! It is amazing to see how such natural formations can be so rewarding to look at and this waterfall flows into the Columbia River. When I went, I stood in front of the waterfall with my eyes closed and let the sprinkles hit my face. It was such a calming and relaxing feeling and it made me feel like I was in a different dimension, literally! 

Molly Peach-Yosemite Valley
Molly Peach / Her Campus

Alamere Falls, California

Alamere Falls is a long hiking trail located in San Francisco. It is a 13-mile hike that takes you to a scenic beach alongside mountains, a waterfall, and a field of flowers. This is a place that I go to with my family quite often if I want to get a fun, relaxing workout in as well. The hike is quite a long one, and the view at the end definitely makes it a worthwhile one! A part of the trail includes walking in a tunnel formed by branches and leaves and also has a rock-climbing aspect! This is definitely one that should be on the bucket list for those who love adventure! 

Personally, these breathtaking places have brought me a new sense of appreciation for the beauty that is mother nature! Whether it be hiking, or simply just enjoying a scenic view, these are some places that everyone should definitely visit! 

https://www.nps.gov/places/badwater-basin.htm

My name is Dharshini Sridharan and I am a second year biology major at UC Davis. Some of my hobbies include cooking, traveling, and going shopping with family and friends. I hope to use my life experiences and thoughts to instigate positive thoughts and a sense of unity within those who read my articles!