PHOTO: Mexico's Copper Canyon combines stunning views with a trip through Mexican antiquity. (Courtesy of Thinkstock)

Canyons are glorious rock formations that rise out of the earth and create some of the world’s most breathtaking panoramas.  Their beauty forever changes our state of mind, and nowhere moreso than at these five extraordinary rock formations.  When Mother Nature leaves us with her wonderful works of art, its best we not let her handy work exist in vain, and thank her by paying them these canyons a visit.

Greenland: Grand Canyon

Measuring more than 460 miles long and over 2,000 feet deep, it’s a wonder how this canyon remained hidden for so long.  Until recently the thought of Greenland having a canyon longer than Arizona’s Grand Canyon seemed unimaginable.  However, after plowing through two miles of thick sheets of ice, the massive valley has become one of the world’s most newfound discoveries and mysteries.  Just imagine what other treasures are waiting to be found in the world, and with the northern lights beautifully draping across Greenland’s sky during the winter, this will be one glorious cold-weather view.

Romania: Bicaz Canyon

There aren’t many places where you’re expected to drive through a canyon to reach your desired destination. But if you’re traveling in between the provinces of Moldova and Transylvania in Romania, your ride is met with picturesque views of the Bicaz Canyon’s glorious cliffs. Carved by the powerful Bicaz River, this great gorge is definitely worth the trip, especially if you enjoy basking in natural beauty.  And who doesn't like that?

France: Verdon Canyon

The Eiffel Tower is not the only ideal location for witnessing the magic of France unfold. The views from the lip of the Verdon Gorge are just as beautiful. Trekked by many wanderers of the world, the canyon has become a beloved hotspot for thrill seekers wanting to hike along its various paths while being submerged in the beauty of nature.  They can also sail the sparkling water of the Verdon River to add a little aquatic excitement to their adventure. Arguably the best valley in Europe, the Vernon Canyon provides an awe-inspiring journey into the timelessness of France’s rustic landscape.

Mexico: Copper Canyon

Comprised of six canyons, Copper Canyon takes visitors on an awe-inspiring journey and it's a one-stop-shop for aquiring nature, antiquity and the authentic culture of Mexico.  Its rocky trails offer a visit to the past with sights of Mexico’s indigenous people, the Raramuris, who preserve their long history by living a life of seclusion in Copper Canyon's cliffs.  Stretching 37,000 miles in length, the size of the  Grand Canyon of Arizona has nothing on this canyon, and it also offers a rare look inside Mexico's unique biodiversity.  And above all, where else can you explore the beauty of a canyon while discovering one of the world’s most sacred cultures?

Arizona: Antelope Canyon

By the weird shapes of this canyon you may think you’ve been transported to another planet. But after realizing you're still on earth, you may want to take a moment to thank Mother Nature for leaving us this awesome wonder. Decorated with smooth and curving rock walls, the Antelope Canyon is a renowned slot canyon of the Southwest.  Through its glorious formations, many visitors become uplifted by this strange phenomenon that is a truly as magical as it is classic.  Some of life's best treasures are only ones nature can provide, and the cool features of  Antelope Canyon definitely lead by example.

For more adventures in the great outdoors, check out Untamed: 7 Trips Into the Unknown. Or if you want to check out some rock formations that are a little more man-made, check out our guide to the world's 9 Most Inspiring Statues.