Our guide to Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley

Imagine yourself let loose in 12,000 square miles of wilderness, and you’ll have a fairly accurate picture of what Yosemite can offer. Yes, there are some big, well noted sights to take in, including the rearing head of the granite Half Dome and the majestic Yosemite Falls.

The fabulous thing about Yosemite’s Californian setting is that you can visit year-round. Places to stay are varied and plentiful, the little towns dotted in the hills are quaint, and you can even enjoy a spot of swimming in some of the natural lagoons on summery days.

If you’re travelling during the summer months, leave The Grand Canyon off your list. It might just be too hot. But in the cooler months, this is one eye-popping experience that will leave an impression like no other. Take a helicopter ride to see all its wonders without breaking a sweat.

It’s not just the jaw-dropping vision of the Grand Canyon itself, but also the sense of history in the place. We’re not just talking about human history. This is the place to go and feel tiny, and unbelievably revitalised, in one fell swoop.

There’s something about standing on top of what’s classed as a 'super-volcano' that will get the blood pumping. But don’t worry, the volcano isn’t likely to erupt any time soon. For now, it’s a spectacle of hot sulphur pools and wildlife.

Home to grizzly bears and buffalo, you’ll be a few steps away from potential danger around every turn. Having said that, the 4 million people who visit each year do so without incident, but it’s still worth noting that you’re visiting somewhere that should be respected for its power at every moment.

For something completely different, take a trip to Zion National Park. If Yellowstone’s fiery underbelly resembled some kind of hell on earth, then Zion should feel like a slice of cool, pure heaven.

Imagine crystal clear pools, cascading waterfalls and natural grottoes to inspire the purest sense of serenity. Avoid the more climatic extremes in summer and winter to get the best from your experience. Pack a pair of good walking shoes and start a list of must-see sights ready to tick off. You can do a lot of it by car too, by following the heart of Zion, simply stopping off to take in the panoramic views and snap some unforgettable photos.

One thing’s for sure, you’ll have a sore neck after a visit to the Redwood National Park, to see the tallest trees in the world. The point is, do you know what the tallest trees actually look like until you’re standing in your comparatively tiny shoes, looking right up to the heavens?

Thanks to the glorious California climate, you can visit year-round. Plus, there’s more than one way to experience it, whether a little road trip is your preference, or setting out with your boots on. There are little treasures to be found along the way too, including those like Enderts beach, and a multitude of idyllic spots to relax and breathe in the delightful forest air.