Wulingyuan, China

This scenic wonderland of towering quartzite peaks and cascading streams may look enchanting, but the reality is 52,712 residents crammed into a 266 square mile area. Navigating the extensive bureaucracy required to access the 560 approved tourist attractions is a persistent headache. And while the natural landscape is undeniably stunning, the region's climate can be harsh, with cold, wet conditions common. Overall, Wulingyuan is best suited for adventurous nature lovers willing to tolerate a bit of red tape and unpredictable weather in exchange for its one-of-a-kind geological formations.