In 1999, the USDA decided to rank every county in the contiguous US based on how lovely it was before humans got there—the natural amenities index they created takes into account "six measures of climate, topography, and water area that reflect environmental qualities most people prefer," meaning "mild, sunny winters, temperate summers, low humidity, topographic variation, and access to a body of water," according to the Washington Post, which has now mapped the results. The most beautiful place in America is: Ventura County.
Now known mostly for garish housing development, sprawling outlet malls, and a couple nice beach towns, Ventura is apparently just lovely underneath it all. No duh, the whole California coast is doing pretty well for itself nature-wise: Humboldt County comes in second and Los Angeles ranks third. Repeat: LA is the third most beautiful place in the contiguous US (sucks there wasn't enough data on you, Hawaii!).
In conclusion: Riverside County is one of fifty most pleasant places in the country.
· Every county in America, ranked by scenery and climate [Washington Post]