Additional Coverage:
- A traveler who has road-tripped through 33 states shares her 6 favorite hidden-gem destinations for summer adventures (businessinsider.com)
Hitting the Road Less Traveled: Unearthing Hidden Gems Across America
Sarah and Myles Anderson, a couple with a serious case of wanderlust, have spent the last decade crisscrossing the United States, exploring 33 states and logging roughly 7,000 miles annually. As summer travel season kicks into high gear, they’ve generously shared some of their favorite under-the-radar destinations, offering welcome alternatives to the often-crowded national parks.
Escape the Crowds: Custer State Park, South Dakota
The Andersons rave about their 2022 Fourth of July trip to Custer State Park. Snagging a last-minute camping spot, they enjoyed the park’s surprisingly uncrowded trails and stunning scenery.
“You could spend a week there,” Sarah Anderson commented, highlighting the abundant hiking opportunities and breathtaking rock formations reflected in Sylvan Lake. Wildlife sightings, from bison to donkeys, add to the park’s unique charm.
Conveniently located near Badlands National Park and Mount Rushmore, Custer offers a perfect base for a memorable road trip.
Eastern Idaho: A Tapestry of Landscapes
In 2023, the Andersons ventured into eastern Idaho, discovering the hidden beauty of Teton Valley, just a stone’s throw from the popular Grand Teton National Park. Wildflower hikes, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls await those who venture off the beaten path. Nearby sand dunes provided a secluded sunset experience, shared only with a few ATV riders.
Beat the Heat in Sedona, Arizona
While Sedona is a popular destination, the Andersons found tranquility during a late August 2024 visit. By embracing early morning and sunset hikes, they avoided the heat and enjoyed near-empty trails. For those seeking midday respite, they recommend the adults-only Ambiente Sedona hotel, where the pool offers a refreshing escape.
South Carolina: Paddle to a Treehouse Retreat
Charleston may be South Carolina’s star attraction, but the Andersons opted for a unique adventure with Carolina Heritage Outfitters. This tour company offers a canoe trip down the Edisto River, culminating in an overnight stay in a treehouse. This unusual experience, popular with locals, proved to be a highlight of their travels.
Wyoming: Beyond Yellowstone and Grand Teton
Wyoming, often overlooked beyond its famous national parks, offers a wealth of hidden gems. The Andersons suggest exploring the Wind River Range, south of the Tetons, for a similar experience with fewer crowds.
For the truly adventurous, free campsites in the Green River Lakes area offer unparalleled solitude, though preparation is essential due to the remote location. Medicine Bow National Forest, with its stunning lakes and mountain peaks, is another underrated destination in southern Wyoming.
California Dreamin’: Summer in Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes, renowned for its winter skiing, transforms into a hiker’s paradise in the summer. The Andersons explored the area in 2022, enjoying mountain hikes, kayaking, swimming, and breathtaking waterfalls. A quintessential summer experience awaits those who venture to this California gem.