Check out the uncrowded Off the Beaten Path Hikes in the USA!
Many people have heard about the most famous tourist attractions in the US featured in travel magazines and famous TV shows, but there are actually hidden gems of the US that you need to know of! Additionally, a lot of Americans go abroad to hike every year without knowing about these amazing places in their own country.
For all those adventure-lovers and thrill-seekers who want to try something new, here are 5 off the beaten hikes to fulfill your wanderlust ambitions.
1. Mount Washburn trail, Yellowstone National Park
The Southern route is open to bicycles and park vehicles, while the northern route offers wildlife viewing. Both courses offer stunning views of the park and steady climbs.
It is a 4 to 6-hour round trip, with a cumulative elevation gain of 450 m.
Once you reach your destination, the Inside Yellowstone – Fire Lookout station provides an interactive exhibit for you to explore.
Carry your bear spray and hike in groups.
Season: May to October
2. New Hance Trail, Grand Canyon
This one is the least travelled trails in the Grand Canyon. Talk about off the beaten path! The rugged trail requires a very “hands-on” approach. It rewards adventurers with the most breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon that must only be attempted by experienced hikers.
You will often be scrambling up or over steep ground using elbows and knees. It is roughly a 3 to 5 hours round trip and must be avoided from June to August, due to the high temperatures.
Camp overnight at the river rapid beach, if you have a permit.
Season: September to May
3. Charlies Bunion, Great Smokey Mountains National Park
This hike is strenuous and best attempted in early Summer, or Spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. You will hike along the Appalachian Trail, with an elevation gain of 1,640 ft.
This is a steady climb, so your body will take more time to acclimate. Make sure you have protective gear, a hydro pack, and are fully aware of the signs of altitude sickness.
The climb offers stunning vistas on one side of the mountain ridge. The rocky outcrop of Charles Bunion – the final destination offers the most magnificent view.
Lock knife and bear spray should be included in your kit, and camping here is only possible via permit.
Season: January to December
4. Fairyland Loop Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park
You will need a seven-day pass to access the park.
The trail is simply magical, just like its name. You will get to experience breathtaking hoodoo formations like the famous China Wall and Sinking Ship.
It is a 4 to 5-hour trail and probably one of the parks longest trails. This less popular trail is rated as “moderate to difficult” and will need experience and physical fitness. It is truly a hidden gem trail and off the beaten path.
You might encounter deer, if you begin your hike early enough, while if you start later in the day, you’ll be able to witness the Milky Way from the trail.
Do not forget to take portable water storage bags with you. Watch out for snakes!
Season: April to October
5 . Static Peak Divide, Grand Teton National Park
Hiking in groups in this area is recommended.
It is a 10 to 12-hour hike, so you might want to cover the trail over 2 or 3 days and require a permit for overnight camping. The trail is tiring, with an elevation gain of 5,000 ft, and therefore is suitable for experienced hikers only. It is truly off the beaten path.
The trail starts at Death Canyon Trailhead and offers stunning sights along the way. There are sections in the trail that have steep switchbacks, and the awe-inspiring view at the final destination makes the effort worth it.
Hikers hiking in Static Peak Divide are advised to carry appropriate clothing. You don’t find stores off the beaten path!
You must allow your body to acclimate and must know the signs of altitude sickness. Carry your bear spray and travel only in groups. If hiking in July, carry an ice pick.
Season: June to August
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Actually, I want to talk about the Washburn hot spring, we drive from Canyon region to Tower fall, in between (about 10 min drive from Canyon region), there is a Washburn hot spring overlook, there is an information board telling you that a white area in the mountain is the Washburn hots spring, but when I saw it, nothing special, just like a white scar on the mountain, and can’t see any hot mist or water coming out. When you use a camera to zoom in, you may see a little bit reddish sand inside it. I think if you are not passing by, not worth to drive to see it. And I didn’t see much special for the mountain, people said there will be flowers all over the mountain in hot summer, but when I went there in mid-late July, I didn’t see many flowers, maybe just the very little flowers, actually what you look over the mountain, all are green (grass, leaves, and trees only).
Mark Stewart recently posted…Hiking the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim in One Day
Good info, thanks for sharing. and I love your dog, I have 2 Goldens.