The most breathtaking natural wonder in every state

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From arid deserts to lush forests, mountain peaks to gorgeous valleys, America's landscape is as varied as it is stunning. No wonder it's called "America the Beautiful."

Picking 50 wasn't easy, but here are the most beautiful natural attractions in each state.

Melissa Stanger contributed to an earlier version of this post.

ALABAMA: The Cathedral Caverns

The Heart of Dixie is home to the Cathedral Caverns, which features Big Rock Canyon, Mystery River and other stunning natural formations, like Goliath, one of the world's largest stalagmites.

Source: Alabama State Parks

ALASKA: The Northern Lights

Our northernmost state is the only place in the US where the Northern Lights are a common occurrence. Known as the aurora borealis, this natural light show is caused by the collision of solar wind with particles in our atmosphere.

Source: Alaska Tour Jobs

ARIZONA: The Wave

The Grand Canyon is Arizona's best-known natural beauty, but it isn't the only one. The Wave is a sandstone rock with thousands of linear carvings caused by time and erosion.

Source: TheWave.info