The United States is the one place on our great planet that we all immediately think of whenever somebody utters the phrase “wide open road.”
But it’s not only the roads that make it such an incredible country, it’s what happens between those roads and off those roads that really make America such a joy to explore.
Like Australia, so much of the country is made up of space, whether that’s desert, countryside, snow-capped mountains, or somewhere in-between all three. As such, it’s ideal for off-road enthusiasts.
However, given the sheer size and scale of the USA and the hundreds of potentially incredible off-road trails found within it. Today we’re going to stick squarely to the more ‘bucket list’ off-road destinations and have limited California to just two entries.
Death Valley, California
It might sound ominous but Death Valley is actually one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US.
Known for being the hottest location on earth due to the thinning of the Ozone layer just above it, Death Valley is certainly not for the faint-hearted but it can’t be beaten for dirt roads, canyons, and desert landscapes. Just make sure you’ve got decent air conditioning in your ride!
Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
While you might understandably not assume that a national forest would be the most ideal place for an off-road driving holiday, Black Hills boasts over 500 miles of ‘anything goes’ dirt trails open to all vehicles.
Hidden among the streams and reservoirs, not to mention the towering trees, are dozens of potential adventures of various lengths and difficulties.
You could quite happily spend a week in the forest with your 4×4, stopping every once in a while for swimming, fishing, and sleeping under the stars.
Hidden Falls, Texas
If you drive for about an hour outside the Texan capital of Austin, you’ll find over 200 miles of marked off-road trails in the Marble Falls area known as the “Hidden Falls.” It’s a location that seems to have been carved out by nature herself as an off-roaders paradise.
Indeed, if you don’t wasn’t to risk your own vehicle you can even hire a dirt bike or an ATV for the afternoon and explore some of the most challenging and rewarding off-road courses in the country.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are renowned across the world for their off-road potential,
but for a slightly quieter experience, head north and you’ll find hundreds of trails that are not half as busy.
From the beaches of Lake Huron to the dazzling Tahquamenon Falls, there are dozens of potential trails, though be warned the terrain can get pretty rough so you’ll want to ensure you upgrade your suspension before tackling certain trails.
West Virginia
While it might seem a little unconventional to end the list with an entire state, there is nothing conventional about West Virginia. Conditions vary wildly, from gravel and rock to sand and clay.
The mountains, meanwhile, are covered with lush vegetation and the scenery is truly awe-inspiring. Not to be missed.
If you’ve been tempted by any of the destinations above, contact us today and we’ll help you get your 4×4 fighting fit and ready for your American adventure.
Image: Francoise de Valera / Shutterstock.com
