As you may have noticed from the many recommendations throughout our blogroll, the United States has a particularly special place in our hearts when it comes to off-roading hotspots. The US offers, in our opinion, some of the very best trails for beginners and long-time off-roading enthusiasts, along with a varied landscape to get your teeth into.
With summer fast approaching, there’s no better time to plan a US trip that allows you to hit the open road in the most exhilarating way. But as the following off-road destinations prove breaking away from the pavement and exercising your rights as a 4×4 driver is rather easy to do.
Whether it’s the dirt or gravel you crave, these are the US off-roading destinations where you can get your fill!
Moab, Utah
Often described as a mecca for off-roading, Moab in Utah offers countless trails and an indescribable experience for locals and visitors alike.
Off-roading is a part of the culture in Moab, and with its deeply ingrained connection with Overlanding, awe-inspiring views, and iconic red rock formations, it’s a trip of a lifetime and the ultimate off-road experience.
The area’s Golden Spike trail is one of the many amazing offerings within the area. Strictly reserved for experienced 4×4 drivers, the trail takes you to the peak of the desert bowl – a place where only eagles dare to fly – to provide captivating views of the land below.
Death Valley National Park, California
Summer is one of the most daring times to drive the ominously named Death Valley, but this represents a worthy challenge for more experienced 4×4 drivers. With some 3.4 million acres of roadless wilderness to explore, it’s a 4WD adventure that’ll always leave you coming back for more.
Lookout City is one of Death Valley’s most renowned trails. Those looking to go even further off the beaten track in their search for Overlanding adventure and a touch of American history should try Titus Canyon. We’ll let The Break of Dawns explain more about this inspiring route and its reputation:
“Leadfield, now a ghost town 16 miles in to Titus Canyon, was the main proponent behind why this road was made. Titus Canyon Road was described in the 1920s as ‘one of the grandest and most rugged drives on the American continent’. That still holds true today. Now a 26-mile one-way gravel road, it was named after a mining engineer who disappeared in the heat of the summer in 1905.”
Washington Backcountry, Washington
For beginners looking to enjoy their first taste of off-roading in the US, Washington Backcountry is the perfect playground. Its discovery route offers a long but simple trail to explore by 4×4. Test yourself and your vehicle on its steep grades without missing out on your creature comforts thanks to the range of amenities accessible throughout.
Despite being particularly well-serviced, the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route offers no end to the adventure. You can explore its arid desert landscapes and lush mountain forests to enjoy a broad range of terrain during your trip.
Alpine Loop, Colorado
If you can’t get enough of that mountain scenery or those fascinating American ghost towns, the Alpine Loop Trail in Colorado should be the next stop on your 4×4 tour.
Based just five hours away from state capital Denver, the 63-mile trail takes you on the scenic route of the Juan Mountains and through no less than seven ghost towns, and your 4×4 is your ticket to the best views. Whilst the vast majority of the Alpine Loop is accessible by 2WD, the tracks requiring higher ground clearance are the jewels in the crown.
Colorado’s Alpine Loop is only open from spring to autumn, which makes it a worthy addition to your summer road trip itinerary. Just don’t forget to pack those off-road camping essentials!
Image: chrisontour84 / Shutterstock.com
