Discover the most beautiful sunset views in the U.S. to guide your next road trip
Find your Perfect Sunset
Rent the CarDiscover the perfect sunset to guide your next road trip. Whether it’s the golden glow over Yellowstone, the fiery skies above the Grand Canyon, or the soft pastels surrounding the Grand Tetons – SIXT has determined the more than 200 most beautiful sunsets in the U.S. to choose from. Start planning your unforgettable journey now and chase the sunset of your dreams with SIXT.
Calcite Springs
Skagit Valley
Kilauea Crater
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Jenne Farm
Yellowstone National Park
Penn Cove
Au Sable Light Station
Paradise Meadow
Inspiration Point
Mackinac Bridge
North Bar Lake
Big Glen Lake
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Prismatic Spring
Lake Michigan
Overall Run Falls
Little Stony Man
Haleakala Crater
Molokini Crater
The most stunning sunsets in the nation
From coast to coast, these jaw-dropping spots serve up the kind of sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re a mountain chaser, beach lover, or desert dreamer, this map pinpoints the 50 best places to catch the sky on fire.
Calcite Springs Overlook
As the top sunset destination in America, Calcite Springs Overlook is perched above the winding Yellowstone River, offering visitors a breathtaking sunset experience.
Skagit Valley
Ranked as the second-best sunset destination in the country, Skagit Valley showcases a mesmerizing blend of winding waterways, distant mountain peaks, & vast tulip fields. With 9.9k monthly Google searches, the region retains a quiet stillness.
Kilauea Crater
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kilauea Crater ranks as the third-best sunset destination. This massive crater transforms at dusk as the setting sun ignites the sky in hues of molten golden & deep crimson.
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the fourth best sunset destination, offering a dramatic backdrop like no other over an otherworldly volcanic landscape. With nearly 40k monthly TikTok searches, it’s a rising star for sunset seekers. For the clearest skies, visit between mid-May & late September, when the glowing sky mirrors the park’s raw, geothermal power.
Jenne Farm
Jenne Farm, nestled on Washington’s Whidbey Island, is the fifth-best sunset destination. Jenne Farm is a peaceful retreat where lush, rolling hills stretch out below a radiant sky. Though it doesn’t have widespread social media notoriety, its sunsets shine brightest from late spring through summer, when the sky is painted in warm, tranquil hues at dusk.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park – renowned for its vast canyons, winding rivers, & iconic geysers – is one of the top sunset destinations in the country. While mid-spring brings higher cloud cover, early fall offers the best opportunity for unobstructed sunsets where the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of fiery colors.
Penn Cove
Penn Cove, nestled off Whidbey Island, offers stunning sea & sunset views as vibrant colors reflect on the water. Though it has only 1.6k monthly TikTok searches, locals know summer is the best time to visit, when clear skies reveal brilliant sunsets.
Au Sable Light Station
Au Sable Light Station, off the coast of Lake Michigan, is a hidden gem for sunset enthusiasts seeking dramatic beauty & tranquil charm as the sky is bathed in pastels. While this stunning destination isn’t yet a major social media hotspot, those who do discover it are in for a treat.
Paradise Meadow
On the south side of Mount Rainier National Park lies Paradise Meadow. This scenic meadow offers one of the most awe-inspiring sunset experiences in the country. Despite low social media searches, the scenery speaks for itself – with the sunset casting breathtaking views all around.
Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point is an iconic overlook in the heart of Grand Teton National Park that’s a must-visit destination for sunset seekers, offering panoramic sunset views. While the clear period lasts from June through October, visitors should prepare for sudden weather changes.
Mackinac Bridge
Spanning nearly five miles, this suspension bridge carries travelers across Lakes Michigan & Huron and serves as one of the best sunset viewing destinations in the U.S.. While the bridge is popular across social media, with 40k monthly TikTok searches, it remains a hidden gem when viewing a spectacular sunset. The best time to witness a sunset is during the summer months, when there are clear skies for miles as it erupts in golden hues.
North Bar Lake
Located along the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore, North Bar Lake is a sunset lover’s dream, offering a breathtaking setting for visitors to view the sky being painted in a watercolor of oranges & pinks. With only 1.2k monthly TikTok searches, visitors are rewarded with one of the most gorgeous sunset displays in Michigan.
Big Glen Lake
Big Glen Lake lies in the heart of Northern Michigan & is a hidden treasure for sunset enthusiasts. With shimmering waters and a backdrop of rolling hills, this lake offers a pristine setting for an evening of sunset watching. It’s yet to be discovered on social media, with 210 monthly TikTok searches, remaining an undiscovered paradise.
Grand Teton National Park
A crown jewel of the American West, Grand Teton National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers hoping to catch a glimpse of a spectacular sunset. For the best chances of seeing one, visit from June to October when skies are clearest. With 3.5k Instagram hashtags & 108k monthly TikTok searches, the park is a favorite among travelers.
Grand Prismatic Spring
As the largest hot spring in the U.S., Grand Prismatic Spring shimmers with deep blues, fiery oranges, & golden yellows. As steam rises into the evening air, the setting sun casts an ethereal glow over the surrounding landscapes. The spring is a globally renowned destination, with 40.5k Google searches & 26.5 TikTok searches.
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan’s vast waters create a canvas for some of the country’s most breathtaking sunsets, with golden & fiery hues reflecting off the lake’s surface. With nearly 32k Instagram hashtags & 161k TikTok searches, the lake is well-known to sunset chasers. From the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear to Traverse City’s beaches, countless vantage points offer unforgettable sunset views.
Overall Run Falls
Tucked in Shenandoah National Park, Overall Run Falls – the tallest waterfall in Virginia – offers a reward for those willing to make the hike. As the sun sets, golden light filters through the forest, casting a warm glow over the cascading waters and cliffs – but for the clearest skies, visit from July to November.
Little Stony Man
Also located in Shenandoah National Park, Little Stony Man offers stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Those who hike to the overlook have the opportunity to watch as the sky ignites in sunset hues. With only 590 monthly Google searches, Little Stony Man is a peaceful place to enjoy a quiet sunset.
Haleakalā Crater
Stretching over 19k acres and rising over 10k feet above sea level, Haleakalā Crater offers a sunset experience unlike any other, where the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of fiery reds, golden yellows, & glimmering pinks. With 6.6k Google & 4.3k TikTok searches monthly, Haleakalā Crater is a growing must-see sunset destination.
Molokini Crater
Located off the coast of Maui, Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcanic atoll that provides a unique sunset spectacle. As the sun sinks, the sky ignites, casting a glow over the waters teeming with marine life. To catch the best views, visit from June through September. Well-known for its snorkeling, people make 14.8k Google and 9.7k TikTok searches monthly.
Wrangell St Elias National Park
Located at the southeastern point of Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the U.S., spanning a total of 13 million acres, earning 9.9k monthly Google searches – and optimal visibility peaks from June to September for those hoping to experience this marvel of nature.
The Grand Canyon
As one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world, the canyon is home to breathtaking vistas, vibrant rock layers, & stunning sunsets. With 27.1k monthly Google & 17.8k TikTok searches, its appeal as a sunset destination is undeniable, but May & June provide the best window of clarity.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
The Apostle Islands are an archipelago made up of 21 islands on the shores of Lake Superior and serve as an underrated gem for sunset seekers, however, the window for clear skies is short, with the best months being July & August. With 8.1k Google and 5.3k TikTok searches made monthly, its allure is growing.
O Callaghan Tillman Memorial Bridge
Spanning the Colorado River & providing a view of the Hoover Dam, the O’Callaghan Tillman Memorial Bridge is a prime, though overlooked, sunset destination – with the region experiencing its lowest cloud cover from May to October. With 5.4k Google & 3.5k TikTok searches made monthly, it’s a rising hotspot for those seeking unparalleled views.
Echo Bay
Just off the shore of Lake Mead, Echo Bay offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and remains a hidden gem for sunset seekers—drawing 1.9k Google and 1.2k TikTok searches monthly. As the sun sets, the painted sky reflects off the tranquil waters in vivid shades of violet, crimson, and gold.
Voyageurs National Park
Spanning 218k acres of lakes, forests, and streams, Voyageurs National Park is a must-visit for sunset lovers, drawing over 240k visitors annually. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky glows with vibrant oranges, reds, and purples. With 76% cloud coverage and 32.4k monthly TikTok searches, this northern gem offers a tranquil escape.
Mono Lake
Located in California, Mono Lake is one of North America’s oldest lakes—over 1 million years old—and known for its eerie “tufa towers.” As the sun sets behind them, the sky ignites in pink and gold, casting a surreal glow over the landscape. With 21.7k TikTok searches and just 22% cloud coverage, this ancient lake is a rising favorite.
Zion National Park
Nestled in the American Southwest, Zion National Park is a top spot for sunset lovers, drawing 450k Google searches monthly and 763 Instagram hashtags for its sunsets. Known for its red rock cliffs and canyons, Zion transforms into a canvas of fiery hues at dusk. With 0% cloud coverage and iconic lookouts like Canyon Junction Bridge.
Door County
Situated on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is known for its charming towns, rugged cliffs, and serene waters. A top sunset destination in the U.S., it boasts nearly 5k Instagram hashtags dedicated to its stunning sunsets. The picturesque landscape offers a perfect view as the sky is painted in shades of orange, pink, and gold.
Acadia National Park
Home to Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park features rugged shorelines, dense forests, and mountain peaks, making it a prime spot for sunset viewing. The park offers some of the most stunning sunsets in the country, with skies dappled in rich golden hues. With nearly 500 sunset-focused TikTok searches and 50% cloud coverage.
Brooklyn Bridge
In the heart of New York, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering panoramic views of the NYC skyline. With 550k Google and 441k TikTok searches monthly, it’s one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks. As the sun sets, a golden glow is cast across the city, making it an ideal sunset spot.
New River Gorge Bridge
The New River Gorge Bridge spans the gorge, offering sweeping views of the lush Appalachian landscape and breathtaking sunsets. Looming nearly 900 feet above the water, it provides stunning views of forests, cliffs, and the river. A popular spot for thrill-seekers, it earns 40.5k Google and 26.5k TikTok searches monthly.
Monument Valley
A vast desert landscape, Monument Valley is known for its towering buttes and mesas. An iconic symbol of the American Southwest, it transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece at sunset. With over 1k TikTok searches and 820 Instagram hashtags dedicated to its sunsets, it’s clear this is a prime viewing spot.
Lake Tahoe
Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and forested surroundings, Lake Tahoe is an alpine paradise with 550k monthly Google searches. As the day winds down, sunsets cast a golden glow over the lake’s crystalline surface. With 4.6k Instagram hashtags dedicated to its sunsets, it’s clear this is an unforgettable experience.
Crater Lake National Park
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon, Crater Lake is known for its deep blue waters and volcanic landscape. Formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama nearly 8,000 years ago, it’s the deepest lake in America—drawing 74k monthly Google searches. But it’s the sunsets that steal the show, casting golden hues over the glassy surface.
Endless Wall Trail
Perched above the New River, the Endless Wall Trail offers some of the most magnificent sunset views in the country. This scenic hike – searched over 6.6k times on Google and 4.3k times on TikTok each month – winds through lush forests along sandstone cliffs, leading to dramatic overlooks where the setting sun paints the sky in fiery hues.
Gauley River
Known for its whitewater rapids and stunning mountain views, the Gauley River offers a scenic backdrop for a sunset experience. A hidden gem, it draws just 3.6k monthly Google searches and 2.4k TikTok searches. As the sun sets, the river transforms into a serene landscape, reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky.
Thurmont Vista
Located in Catoctin Mountain Park, Thurmont Vista is a hidden gem for sunset views. With just 320 Google and 210 TikTok searches monthly, this quiet spot offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Its peaceful setting makes it ideal for catching a sunset away from the crowds. With average cloud coverage around 38%, visitors can expect amazing views year-round.
Sweets Falls
Located on the Gauley River, Sweets Falls offers a peaceful and picturesque spot to watch a sunset. With just 140 Google and 110 TikTok searches monthly, this waterfall provides visitors with a serene escape surrounded by lush forests. While it remains a lesser-known destination, it adds to the allure of being a perfect spot to witness nature at work.
Glacier Point
Sitting atop Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point offers unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite’s high country, especially at sunset. With 60.5k Google and 39.6k TikTok searches monthly, it’s clear this spot attracts visitors from across the globe. As the sun sets behind the rugged peaks, the sky is bathed in a golden glow.
Kelso Dunes
Located in California’s Mojave National Preserve, the Kelso Dunes offer one of the most unique sunset experiences. As the sun sets behind the towering sand dunes, the landscape turns golden and fiery. Despite its remote location, the dunes draw 2.9k Google and 2.4k TikTok searches monthly from travelers eager to experience the vast land.
Caruthers Canyon
Tucked away among the rugged beauty of the Mojave Preserve, Caruthers Canyon is a hidden gem for sunset lovers. As day turns to dusk, the sun dips behind the jagged rock formations, casting the canyon in a fiery glow for those lucky enough to witness such a spectacle. With just 90 monthly Google and 60 TikTok searches, this canyon is truly a remote destination.
Great Allegheny Passage
Winding through the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Allegheny Passage offers a serene escape into nature. Sunsets paint the sky over rolling hills and dense forests, creating breathtaking views. Though not widely searched, those who venture along this 150-mile trail are rewarded with astonishing sights as the sun dips behind the landscape.
Outer Banks
With a seemingly endless coastline and rolling sand dunes, the Outer Banks are a dream destination for sunset seekers. Drawing 673k Google and 441k TikTok searches monthly, this chain of islands offers astounding sunset views as the sky lights up in oranges and pinks over the Atlantic. Known for its sunsets, with nearly 1.8k Instagram hashtags.
Oneonta Gorge
Hidden in the Columbia River Gorge, Oneonta Gorge is a natural wonder where cliffs and waterfalls create a dreamlike setting perfect for sunsets. Known for its lush greenery and canyon trails, this spot – searched 9.9k times a month on Google and 7.9k on TikTok – offers an enchanting sunset as golden light filters through trees.
Hudson Point
Rising 3k feet above the Pakook Basin, Hudson Point offers a breathtaking sunset view as the desert sky transforms into a golden masterpiece. The rocky terrain glows as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. With 1.9k Google and 1.2k TikTok searches monthly, this undiscovered gem is a must-see for nature lovers.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Nestled in the most densely populated region, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning escape. Tranquil forests, winding waterways, and towering cliffs set the perfect scene for a sensational sunset. As the sun sets, the Delaware River glows in warm hues, reflecting the evolving colors in a surreal scene.
Horseshoe Bend
A hit on social media, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most recognized and visited places in Glen Canyon Recreational Area and a top spot for sunset views. The desert landscape is bathed in fiery crimson hues as the sun sets. With 657 Instagram hashtags and 660 TikTok searches dedicated to its sunsets, it’s no surprise that this destination remains a favorite.
National Mall
Home to iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, the National Mall transforms into a dreamlike landscape at sunset, with gold and pink hues casting a warm glow. This historic site draws 110k Google and 72k TikTok searches monthly, making it a must-visit destination. The best time to experience its beauty is during spring and fall.
St Croix Island
A small, uninhabited island on the Canada-U.S. border, St. Croix Island offers a secluded sunset experience where the sky is painted in pastel hues. With 110k monthly Google searches, this historic island captivates visitors seeking peace. Those who venture here are rewarded with an untouched sunset view reflected off gentle waves.
The perfect car BENEATH A PAINTED SKY
From golden hues over canyons to soft pastels reflecting on lakes, sunsets across the U.S. offer breathtaking views and moments of serenity. Whether you’re chasing vibrant skies in the mountains or along the coast, let these gorgeous sunsets guide your next road trip.
METHODOLOGY
We analyzed more than 200 scenic locations, including popular destinations and bridges across the United States, to identify the best spots for sunsets. To determine air quality, we used PM 2.5 (µg/m³) data, which measures the levels of fine particulate matter at each location. Additionally, we evaluated popularity using Instagram hashtag searches, TikTok search volume, and Google search volume, as sourced from KeywordTool.io. We also considered the overall popularity of these locations based on general search interest, independent of sunset-related terms. By assigning weights to each metric based on its relevance, we ranked the top U.S. locations for viewing sunsets. Data is accurate as of January 21, 2025.
Source: The Surprising Health Benefits of Watching the Sunrise or Sunset, SELF
