Skip the Tourist Traps and Visit the Hidden Gems Right in Here in the US
When we think of iconic landmarks in the United States, images of the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, or the Golden Gate Bridge often come to mind. While these are undoubtedly awe-inspiring destinations, there are numerous hidden gems scattered across the country that are equally breathtaking yet often overlooked by travelers. Let Whym take you on a journey off the beaten path to explore some of the most beautiful landmarks in the US that are under the radar.
Shoshone Falls – Idaho
While Niagara Falls in New York often steals the spotlight, Shoshone Falls, known as the “Niagara of the West," is even larger. In fact, it’s one of the country’s largest natural waterfalls, located about two hours southeast of Boise. It's part of the Snake River in Shoshone Falls Park, and the falls plunge a jaw-dropping 212 feet (about 30 feet higher than Niagara) and spread 900 feet wide! While swimming near the falls isn’t permitted, Dierkie’s Lake (just a five-minute drive away) offers a swimming area with a sandy beach. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards and you’ll also find picturesque trails to hike. This is definitely worth a day trip.
Apostle Islands Mainland Ice Caves, Wisconsin
Northern Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is made up of 22 wooded islands in Lake Superior. They are popular during the warmer months for a myriad of water sports and hiking but winter is also a great time to visit if you don't mind the cold temperatures. Besides lower crowds, that’s when you can marvel at one of the most unique landmarks in the country, the Apostle Islands mainland ice caves. When Lake Superior freezes over, visitors can walk about a mile to the stunning rock formations and sea caves from the stairs at the end of Meyers Beach Road. Located just 18 miles west of Bayfield, you’ll be rewarded with a mesmerizing wonderland of needle-like icicles. Park officials will sometimes allow you to crawl into the caves, if the conditions are right, and marvel as the ice floor beneath reveals the bottom of the lake like a sheet of see-through glass.
Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada
When driving U.S. Route 50, dubbed the “Loneliest Road in America" for its long, empty stretches through remote central Nevada, you’d never know that a hidden gem sits among the sea of sagebrush. The Silver State is home to many natural hot springs, like Spencer Hot Springs. There are no bathrooms or facilities of any kind, but visitors will find pools with idyllic water temperatures and stunning mountain vistas that can be enjoyed year-round. So if you're headed that way, don't forget a bathing suit!
Hovenweep National Monument, Colorado/Utah
Hovenweep is a place that in-the-know Nevadans have been visiting for decades, but one out-of-staters have only recently “discovered.” Located close to the four corners of Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, it's about 2 hours southeast of the town of Durango. The most popular time to visit for the moderate temperatures and beautiful wildflower blooms in March-May and then after monsoon season from September-October. But even the "busy seasons" here are nothing compared to more popular tourist spots. Who says you have to leave the country to marvel at prehistoric ruins?
Thor's Well, OR
Tucked away near the tiny coastal village of Yachats, 3 hours south of Portland along the Oregon Coast Highway, is Thor's Well. It was once a sea cave, but after the roof collapsed due to erosion, it became a natural sinkhole reaching depths of about 20 feet. The gaping hole is best viewed at high tide, when the water rushes in and then shoots up into the air, or during a storm when the waves violently wash over it before falling back through. A paved trail leads visitors to the overlook, and there are other trails that lead to a ground-level view. There are other fun things to see close by too, like Bazelgette the Whale (a park with spouting water coming from beneath the surface) and the Sea Lion Caves.
Skull Rock, CA
Southern California’s Joshua Tree National Park, located not far from Palm Springs, is famous for its bizarre, spiky Joshua trees and other unusual desert plants, but it also hosts some incredible rock formations that are popular with climbers. One of the most unique attractions is Skull Rock, which has been naturally sculpted by the elements over time. Rain eroded the granite until, eventually, two hollowed-out eye sockets formed, giving the rock a skull-like appearance (and its name). Visitors can follow a 1.7-mile nature trail to reach the spectacular and relatively unknown rock.
Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Located just a short drive from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is a mesmerizing desert landscape characterized by vibrant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and rugged terrain. The park's fiery hues come alive during sunrise and sunset, casting a surreal glow over the rock formations. Visitors can hike through winding canyons, marvel at natural arches and rock sculptures, and soak in the serene beauty of this hidden gem away from the bustling city.
The Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
Stretching for 32 miles through the vast North Dakota prairie, The Enchanted Highway is an art installation like no other, featuring larger-than-life metal sculptures created by artist Gary Greff. Each sculpture tells a story and captures the essence of the region's history and culture, from soaring geese to a massive scrap metal depiction of Teddy Roosevelt on horseback. The scenic drive along The Enchanted Highway offers a unique blend of art, nature, and exploration.
Cathedral Gorge State Park, Nevada
Nestled in eastern Nevada's high desert, Cathedral Gorge State Park is a hidden treasure known for its intricate slot canyons, towering spires, and sculpted clay formations. The park's cathedral-like rock formations were shaped over millions of years by erosion, creating a labyrinth of narrow passages and hidden alcoves to explore. Visitors can hike through the park's unique landscape, admire panoramic views from overlooks, and witness the interplay of light and shadow on the colorful canyon walls.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Tucked away in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is home to one of the most pristine and awe-inspiring natural wonders in the United States. Formed over 7,000 years ago by the collapse of an ancient volcano, Crater Lake is renowned for its deep blue waters, which are among the clearest in the world. Visitors can drive along the scenic Rim Drive, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and marvel at Wizard Island rising from the lake's depths, making it a best kept secret for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Letchworth State Park, New York
Dubbed the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park in western New York boasts stunning waterfalls, deep gorges, and lush forests, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers in the region. The park's centerpiece is the Genesee River, which carves through the gorge, creating scenic overlooks like the iconic Inspiration Point and Middle Falls. Visitors can hike along miles of trails, picnic by the waterfalls, and witness the vibrant foliage during the fall season, showcasing the park's natural beauty throughout the year.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Nestled within the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is a hidden oasis renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls. The journey to Havasu Falls involves a challenging hike through the canyon, but the reward is well worth it. Visitors can swim in the pristine pools, marvel at the 100-foot Havasu Falls, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of this remote paradise.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Towering against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is a surreal landscape of towering sand dunes, lush meadows, and alpine lakes. The park's iconic dunes, some reaching heights of over 700 feet, offer a unique playground for sandboarding, sledding, and hiking adventures. Visitors can marvel at the contrast between the desert-like dunes and the snow-capped peaks, creating a scene reminiscent of a mirage in the American West.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and pristine paradise accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson perched on Garden Key. Visitors can snorkel among colorful marine life, explore the fort's storied past, and bask in the tranquility of this secluded island getaway.
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, New Mexico
Located about 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe, the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument boasts some of the most intriguing geology in the U.S., yet it’s rarely found on lists of the country’s top natural wonders. The cone-shaped rock formations are the result of massive volcanic eruptions that occurred 6 to 7 million years ago, blanketing the landscape with over 1,000 feet of ash, pumice, and tuff deposits. Hiking the three-mile loop trail affords amazing views of hoodoos and striated rocks that range in height from a few feet to as tall as 90 feet. Unfortunately, as of mid-2023, the area is closed, but the Bureau of Land Management is working with the Pueblo de Cochiti peoples to reopen the site in a way that reduces impacts on the lands, resources, and Indigenous population.
Exploring these hidden gems not only reveals the diverse beauty of the United States but also highlights the importance of preserving and appreciating our natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're drawn to desert canyons, cascading waterfalls, or coastal wonders, these lesser-known landmarks offer unforgettable experiences that showcase the wonders of our planet. So, plan your trip with Whym and venture off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems waiting to be explored right here in the U.S.