We all know that yoga has incredible benefits to offer no matter where or when it’s practiced. However, there is something incredibly special and powerful about doing yoga outdoors. It combines the mental and physical benefits of yoga with the grounding and reinvigorating effects of nature. Yoga has a way of connecting you with yourself, which makes you experience nature in a whole new way.

For those who are looking to experience practicing yoga outside, you don’t necessarily have to travel to an exotic, far-away destination in order to do so. Here are 5 of some of the best locations for outdoor yoga in the United States.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Enjoy an open-aired class in Acadia National Park where you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful elements of Maine’s dynamic coastline. If the rocky shores, tree-topped peaks, secluded coves, winding trail heads, and roaring surf aren’t enough to draw you to Acadia, catching a glimpse of the sunrise will. For half the year, Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the Eastern Seaboard, is the first place that the sun graces the United States. This unique location offers a breathtaking environment for some yoga, which is considered to be one of the most interesting ways to connect with the park. You can either do a solo, self-led practice or take classes that are open to those of all ages and skill levels.

Chautauqua Park, Boulder, Colorado

Already renowned for its open turf, history, and iconic view of the Flatirons, Chautauqua Park is also a perfect location for some yoga. Practicing yoga in the serenity and fresh air of Chautauqua has been described as a life-changing experience. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature, reconnect with yourself, wake up, and energize. You can practice on your own or you can take a class led by one of Boulder’s skillful yoga teachers.

Baker Beach, San Francisco, California

Yoga doesn’t need to be accompanied by a beautiful backdrop in order to be wonderful. However, practicing it on the sand at Baker Beach, surrounded by views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge creates a pretty spectacular experience. To make things even more awesome, you can attend a Sunset Silent Disco Beach Yoga class, complete with headphones playing awesome playlists and lots of smiling yogi friends.

Central Park, New York

Find serenity in the city with yoga in Central Park. You can escape the honking, shouting, concrete craziness and find a sense of peace in a beautiful, green, rejuvenating outdoor setting. If you find yourself in New York City, there’s a big chance you happen to be a busybody. You deserve to soothe yourself and find some relaxation. Yoga classes in central park offer an opportunity to connect with your environment and the people in it.

Bayfront Park, Miami, Florida

There are plenty of yoga classes to take in Miami, some of which are free, including those at Bayfront Park. The waterfront green space is the perfect spot for some yoga. The gentle sea breeze, swaying palm trees, and sparkling blue water set the scene for an incredibly peaceful and invigorating practice. There is a robust yoga community in Miami, full of many talented teachers who promote improved flexibility, strength, balance, and peace of mind with their classes.

Where is your favorite place to practice yoga outside? Tell us in the comments below!