3 Best Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA
3 Best Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA . Get to know the Hidden USA by going off the grid. When we think of America’s quintessential let alone epic American road trip it typically looks a bit like getting through massive lines at theme parks , seeing the obligatory Grand Canyon views while fighting a small army or having a “real” travel experience by checking off landmarks from a guide book. Not we. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
Luckily, there are few of us like us too the people that long to escape crowds, discover a hidden natural wonder, and can’t stand to visit a place without feeling like we’re on the verge of stumbling on to a forgotten treasure at the risk of never returning to the hustle and bustle of life. The website, Hidden Trip USA was designed for those of you with this same burning desire of discovery! people we at Hidden Trip USA call “True Travelers.”
Those are the individuals out there looking for off the beaten path adventure within the USA where we look forward to surprising you with destinations that will steal your breath away, without a stick figure road line for miles and not a single cell tower in site! Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
From bizarre otherworldly landscapes and islands that seem light years from anywhere you knew, these 3 off the beaten path, must see destination is exactly what you and your family can dream of whether it be a family trip to these destinations or if you’re going alone. We welcome to the real USA!
1. The Otherworldly Beauty of the Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah
Land of salt crust When you think of a landscape straight out of a science-fiction film , Bonneville Salt Flats are it. This immense white crusty salt area near northwestern Utah is probably the weirdest , off the grid , tourist free destination in America. Not only that , it is not just viewed , it is experienced. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
The pure whiteness extends from one end of the landscape to the other and when you are there on a very clear day and if the reflection of the clear sky on the salt flat makes you want to step on the clouds. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Many a tourist hurried towards Utah’s national parks that “ Mighty Five” but the Salt Flats are nothing more, but a peaceful detour. It’s also for photographers that want for a minimal photograph but not only and those whom want to spot the Milky Way like you never do. International Bonneville Speedway hosts land speed records here too , so add also quirky to all that other things that Bonneville Salt Flats represents.
- Best to go: Late Summer to Early Autumn. August-October will ensure you’re able to access the flats dry and they don’t turn into one large salt lake after the wet winter. Best avoid springtime after the rain , as the flats can easily flood. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
- Pro tip: drive gently and slowly. When dry , salt can become really slippery under the vehicle. If wet , you can very easily become stuck. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
- After your salt flats excursion (assuming it wasn’t a salt pool by the time you got there) be sure to give your car a good clean. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
- The salt is very corrosive.
2. Step Back in Time : Cumberland Island Georgia
Imagine an island where wild horses roam free through the dunes, and grand, Gilded Age mansions sit abandoned, slowly being reclaimed by the forest. That’s the magic of Cumberland Island , Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island . It’s a place that feels frozen in time and is undeniably one of the 3 best off the beaten path places to visit in USA for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
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Accessible Only by Boat
Maybe the difficulty in accessing the island is what maintains its pristine nature. Since you can only access the island by ferry or boat, the number of people visiting are limited. Cumberland Island is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and you’ll encounter sea turtles in summer, turtles, Alligators in marshes and the wild , famous horses trotting in the beach. The islands are abundant in history and you’ll come across a number of sites that trace from Native American habitations up to the wealthy family in America , the Carnegie family who developed mansions like The Plum Orchard and The Grey field Inn that you can stay at in this magical place.
- Don’t Miss: See the ruins of the Dungeness Mansion. It is an incredibly beautiful and haunting reminder of days past. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
- Don’t Delay: Ferry rides and camping reservations fill up many months ahead. Planning now could pay dividends. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
3. The “Grand Canyon of the East”: Letchworth State Park New York
If you think you need to venture west to get your fix of massive waterfalls and stunning canyons, think again! Letch worth State Park in New York earns its moniker of “Grand Canyon of the East” with its dramatic 17 mile long gorge etched out by the Genesee River , encompassing three impressive waterfalls and cliffs that plummet almost 600 feet in elevation. Letch worth provides an unbelievable , epic alternative best off the beaten path destinations to visit in USA particularly for East Coasters. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
An East Coast Adventure Hub
Letch worth is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike along the rim trails for postcard worthy views, go whitewater rafting or kayaking on the river or even take a hot air balloon ride over the gorge for a truly unforgettable perspective . The park is vibrant with color in the fall and has deep, wooded gorges that are beautiful any time of year. Despite its “Grand Canyon” nickname , it sees a fraction of the crowds of its western counterpart, making it a peaceful escape.
- Skip (Probably): None. They’re each stunning in their own way, but you’re missing a key component of the gorge experience if you skip any. If you have to, go with the Lower Falls it’s not quite as epic as the other two, but as my buddy says, “When it’s pouring rain the Lower Falls are a good place to stand with an umbrella.”
- Pro Tip: Check out Middle Falls over lunch by the Glen Iris Inn , at the very edge of the canyon right above the cascades. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
- Bonus: Stay overnight and wake up to an unrivaled view of this spectacle. Beaten Path Places to Visit in USA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does it mean to be off the beaten path?
Off the beaten path” means going to places that are less common, not at all near the big tourist spots and crowded attractions. These places deliver an authentic, tranquil and surprising experience. It is really about finding secret spots that conventional travel tours miss.
Is it safe to go to the Bonneville Salt Flats?
Yes it is, but you must be prepared. The salt crust could be very slippery. If its wet your car may be stuck. Make sure you check street conditions, use the BLM to find this out before going.
How do I get to Cumberland Island?
You can solely get to Cumberland Island by a passenger ferry that goes from St. Mary’s GA, or a private boat. The ferry service is the most frequented way to travel, book in advance. It takes about 45 minutes of a beautiful trip and builds up the island feel.
Is it worthwhile to travel to Letch worth State Park during winter?
Yes you would love it! The waterfalls freeze into spectacular crystal clear ice structures that form one of a kind, breathtaking landscapes. The park is open for many different winter activities as well, like cross country skiing, snowshoeing, as well as snowmobiling.
Do these places have places to stay?
Bonneville Salt Flats there are camping spots that are available to book or you could just travel to the nearest hotel which is a couple miles away in Wendover or the next town over, Salt Lake City. (there is no luxury here , only limited areas to sleep in without charge)
What time of year is best to see the wild horses?
The wild horses can be seen at many different times of the year , however in the spring (spring, fall as well as early summer) you have the best chances to see them , although they are most active from dawn till dusk.
Can I just drive to the salt flats themselves?
You can , if at your own risk. The salt will be very slippery and there is nothing to prevent your vehicle from getting caught. It is not suggested. Take the road next to the salt and park your car.
Does anyone particular own land on Let worth State Park?
Not that I know of although yes someone does own part of the land. It is William Pryor Letch worth and he plans to sell/donated all of his land to the NY. He is a business man and a philanthropist; he sees a beauty that many can pass through and wanted to share it.
Can we visit Letch worth State Park with our families?
Letch worth would be best since their is a lot of ground to explore, which my family loves to do as well as the family activities such as hiking as well as programs. They could also be great for families with older children if they loved to hike and look at wildlife for Cumberland Island; but only go as a brief excursion on the way to somewhere else for the Salt Flats.
What shall I bring with me on an off the beaten path trip?
Water, snacks , a camera , sturdy boots/walking shoes, warm clothes in case of a cold day or night , a physical map of the area , GPS also a cell phone charger in case of emergency or if it is necessary
Conclusion
These three destinations the Bonneville Salt Flats , Cumberland Island and Letch worth State Park are just scratching the surface of the magical and often secret corners the U.S. Has to offer. And they tap directly into the hidden experience that inspires Hidden Trip USA: taking it beyond the postcards.
Each location has so much to offer. Do you have your heart set on something otherworldly , secluded or East Coast majesty within reach? Which of these adventures will be your first on a journey beyond the post cards?
