Named for the majestic river wending its way through Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah presents visitors with some memorable American vistas—peaceful flowering valleys, hardwood forests, hazy peaks, waterways with a variety of moods, and the remains of former communities (residents were forced to leave their homes when the area was designated a national park). Black bears and white-tailed deer roam the area, and one of the most famous scenic roads in America—Skyline Drive—meanders for 100 miles along the ridge of the mountains.

The classic trout fishing to be had in Shenandoah involves the wild brook trout, a native species once depleted by the introduction of European brown trout in the late 19th century but now thriving. Angling here generally involves a hike to one of the more than 30 trout streams—unsurprisingly, the farther off the beaten path you get, the better chance you'll have to encounter some hungry brookie in chilly, remote streams.

Move on to Yellowstone, Wyoming