Exploring Freedom - A Van Life Blog
Gemstones, potatoes, appaloosas – these are just a few things Idaho is known for. However, some might be surprised to learn that the Gem State is packed with ghost towns. These abandoned areas were predominantly founded by miners who hoped to strike big. Below you’ll discover some of the best ghost towns to visit while in Idaho.
If you talk to people who have driven Road to Hana, you will hear about gorgeous Hawaiian scenery, the wealth of exotic stops along the way, and the narrow and winding road. All are true; in fact, this could be one of the windiest highways you ever drive. Combined with sheer 300-foot cliffs, this is not a place for reckless driving. But with just a small amount of planning, you can safely travel this beautiful highway and experience for yourself why taking Road to Hana is one of the most beautiful drives in the US.
Like most of us, you may have seen photos and videos of the bright curtains of green, red, and purple light in the night sky that make up the Northern Lights and wondered what it would be like to see them first hand. The good news is seeing them is easier than you may think. You don’t need to be in Alaska, Canada, or Iceland. You can see them in the mainland United States, and Minnesota is one of the best states to view them.
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Glacier National Park is one of the top scenic destinations in the country. When you visit, the beauty is etched in your mind for a lifetime. And driving through the park is half of the fun.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is the only road to traverse the entire park and provides outrageously gorgeous views all along the way. It is best described by travelers in two words: spectacular and frightening. The road is one of the most scenic drives in the United States, but in some parts, it gets your heart racing – especially when it is your first trip on the road. Each time you use it, you’ll find it easier. It just takes some getting used to.
Let’s shine some light on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
[Read more…] about Is the “Going-to-the-Sun Road” Scary? Yes, and Worth Every Second
If you’re looking for stunning scenic beauty and a truly other-worldly experience, Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats should be firmly on your travel list. The globally-renowned location ranks as one of the top geographic destinations in North America, and it is easy to see why. It provides truly unique and breathtaking scenery and plenty of room to take it all in. And if you happen to be a car enthusiast, it brings some excitement as well.
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Independence Pass is a 32-mile stretch on Colorado’s Highway 82, which winds through the Rocky Mountains and reaches 12,095 feet at its summit, making it the highest paved pass in North America. It begins in Twin Lakes and ends in Aspen’s world-famous ski resort village.
The highway provides some of the most breathtaking views in Colorado, and the scenic lookouts are strategically placed so drivers can stop and see miles and miles of Colorado’s famous Aspen trees and the Roaring Fork River.
[Read more…] about Is Driving On The Independence Pass Scary?
Anyone who has even been remotely close to Death Valley, flown over it in a plane, or driven through it knows that it’s the closest thing we’ll come to seeing a true wasteland, especially the U.S. It’s unbearably hot, reaching 115-120 degrees 5 months out of the year, and there’s no sign of human life from the main road. Looks are deceiving, however, because a lot of people call Death Valley home.
Don’t let the name scare you off! Death Valley is one of the largest national parks in North America, and has one of the most adventurous histories in the West. From iconic Wild West stories and movie backdrops to its picturesque desert landscape, Death Valley is definitely worth the visit.
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Ouray, Colorado is the official Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado. Located in southwestern Colorado, Ouray attracts thousands of visitors every year who are in search of adventurous experiences. There are so many things to do year-round, so regardless of season or reason, Ouray is the perfect versatile destination. This city is great for weekend getaways, honeymoons, and summer family vacations, so get started on planning your trip to Ouray!
(photo: Reinhard Schön)
Scenic drives are such a treat. Whether in a convertible or with the windows down there’s just something freeing about feeling the hugs of a curve and the wind through your hair. The US has many scenic drives, and of these the Million Dollar Highway or Highway to Hell is one of the most famous. Take a ride with us today to learn more about this incredible, and sometimes insane, route.
[Read more…] about How Dangerous Is The Million Dollar Highway?