Arkansas is often called “The Natural State,” and for good reason as it’s home to more than 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,700 miles of rivers and streams. From the Ozark Mountains in the north to the Delta plains in the east, the state’s landscapes offer a wide range of backdrops for hiking, paddling, or simply taking in the view.

Lake Powell, stretching across the Utah-Arizona border, is one of the largest manmade reservoirs in the United States. Formed by the flooding of Glen Canyon after the completion of the Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, it covers over 180 miles in length and contains nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, more than the entire West Coast of the U.S. Despite its modern origins, the area has long been home to the Ancestral Puebloans and later Navajo communities.

Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese experiences.

Nestled within the stunning Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, Lake Louise is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This world-renowned destination is famous for its striking turquoise lake, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains. The lake, often described as one of the most beautiful in the world, is fed by the melting glaciers, creating its characteristic vibrant blue hue.

Lifou is the largest of the Loyalty Islands of New Caledonia and is known for its raised coral landscape, clear lagoons, and forested interior. Unlike Grande Terre, Lifou has no high mountain range, but its limestone plateau reaches enough elevation to create cliffs, caves, and elevated coastal viewpoints.