America’s World-Record-Holding Destinations

PHOTO: Lava flow at Kilauea Volcano. (photo via Flickr/Jay Huang)

As more Americans seek adventures in their own backyards, there are a number of world-record-holding destinations that are worthy of a visit.

If you are making your (travel) list and checking it twice this holiday season, these U.S. hot spots are one for the books:

Did you know that the world’s longest underground cave system is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world, and the national park in which it resides offers up plenty of hiking, biking, equestrian and water trails for visitors.

Whitney Peak Hotel

Would you think that a hotel would hold the world record for the tallest rock wall?

It’s true. The Whitney Peak Hotel, in Reno, Nevada, gives guests the chance to climb great heights. Its rock wall is not quite as high as the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks, but it is an impressive 164 feet tall.

Sequoia National Park

California’s Sequoia National Park is home to the World’s Largest Living Tree. The giant sequoia known as General Sherman is about 52,500 cubic feet and stands approximately 275 feet high.

Visitors can also visit the General Grant Tree, a grove known as the Senate and stroll through the Giant Forest with trees more than 2,000 years old.

Kilauea, Hawaii

Hawaii is home to gorgeous beaches, stunning tropical flora and fauna, high-end hotels and five-star dining. It is also home to the world’s most active volcano.

Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii Island is more active than Etna in Italy and Piton de la Fournaise on La Reunion island. It has been erupting since 1983.