Looking for something a little off the beaten path for this summer’s road trip adventure? We have you covered. Here’s your guide to five spectacular and underrated destinations. Gas up the car and hit the open road …
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
There’s nothing worse than hitting the road only to find a boring drive. Fortunately, Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 – the All American Road – is the opposite of boring. You’ll witness Utah’s rolling slick rock, snaking canyons, mesas and mineral stained rock walls. Overhead, eagles and hawks will soar while elk graze in a nearby meadow. The byway passes through many spectacular sights, including Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Dixie National Forest and Capitol Reef National Park.
Alberta, Canada
Take a drive from one of National Geographic’s top ranking scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies. Or get out of the car and explore Alberta’s historic sites and attractions found in the small towns along the Boomtown Trail. You might find yourself taking a cave tour, hiking through canyons, falls, and trails and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Lake Louise’s crystal blue waters. After a full day of exploring, fuel up on Alberta’s world famous Western beef. You’ll have a choice of barbecued, braised, grilled, minced or skewered. Trust us, you won’t be able to get enough.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque’s rich history and breath-taking sights makes it a worthy stop. Stretch your legs on the city’s 16-mile bicycle and hiking trails in its protected Paseo del Bosque along the meandering Rio Grande. Stay late and watch the sunset over the desert volcanoes. Before you head out, get your “Breaking Bad” fix at Rebel Donut. These crystal blue donuts will give you that sugar boost for the next leg of your trip.
Cheyenne, Wyoming
As Wyoming’s state capitol, Cheyenne is the perfect stop for anyone who wants to travel back to the bygone pioneer days. Spend some time in the Frontier Days Old West Museum, celebrating spirit of the American West and the thrilling history of the world's first extreme sport – Rodeo. If you want to experience the real thing, though, make sure to attend the largest outdoor rodeo in the world, Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo and festival, July 21-31. And don’t forget your mountain bike or fishing poles; the Curt Gowdy State Park has some of the best mountain biking and the Crystal and Granite Spring Reservoirs offer a relaxing fishing experience.
Estes Park, Colorado
Get a marvelous view without stopping the car. Drive into the Rocky Mountain National Park on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the country. You’ll pass through mountain meadows and finally out above the tree line. Feel free to turn around at the Alpine Visitor Center or you can make the drive a part of the 360 mile loop of Northern Colorado by connecting to three other scenic byways. After your high-altitude adventure, head to Estes Park, where you can stroll the charming Main Street, and stop in at the Dancing Pines Distillery to sample some of Colorado’s finest artisanal spirits.
