These ominous lava formations were said to be an entrance to the netherworld so of course they inspired a famous metal band.

A little-visited waterfall in an otherworldly landscape.

If a glacial river suddenly diving into a sheer chasm via a dramatic, multi-stage waterfall isn't peak Iceland, it's certainly close.

The Icelandic Sea Monster Museum explores the area's history of aquatic cryptid sightings.

This valley of hot springs and boiling mud pots is home to the record-holding "Geysir," which originated the English word.

Climb right into the heart of this colorful Iceland volcano.

The only natural lake in the world that drains into both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

This Yellowstone geyser may not shoot as high as the nearby Old Faithful, but it erupts for considerably longer.

Around half a million years ago, these magnificent columnar basalt cliffs were formed from cooling lava.

An architect's childhood fantasy treehouse made real.

The highest point in Washington state is a volcano covered in glaciers.

Museum about life, death, and cannibalism in the Stone Age.

Native Americans built this circle of stones, which was used to predict astronomical events.

This medieval sanctuary's tree-framed door looks like a portal to a mythical realm.

An ancient Viking village in North America that predates Columbus by 500 years.

The most powerful waterfall in all of Europe.

This elegant arc of a waterfall marks a religious turning point.

Iceland's "Smoky Valley" is a beautiful river that is shrouded in a constant cover of steam clouds.

This modern monument to pagan belief looks like it was transported straight from ancient times.

The drama of nature in full effect in this Nevada State Park.

The true age of this ancient stone circle is unknown, but its stunning vista isn't in question.

Walk in the footsteps of the gods and straddle two tectonic plates.

Giant pinnacles in the sun-scorched lands of Southern Utah have been nicknamed "white ghosts."

These Pre-Columbian petroglyphs contain representations of birds, deer, hunters, and even some early Native flute players.