Thinking about planning a road trip in the USA but wanting to avoid touristy spots? VroomVroomVroom has compiled a list of highly-underrated and remote places sure to inspire your next vacation. To experience the best of what the United States has to offer, make sure to rent a car with VroomVroomVroom.
With over 50,000 square kilometers, or almost 20,000 square miles in extent, the stretch of Highway 2 from Grand Island to Alliance has been called one of America's most scenic routes. Widely recognized as one of the largest plant-anchored sand dune regions in the world, the Nebraska Sand Hills are fragile grasslands that are isolated and stunning in unexpected ways. The Sand Hills area has been a designated National Natural Landmark since 1984 making it one of those must-see places that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Directions: If you want to experience this picturesque part of the state, book a car rental in Nebraska and take on Nebraska Highway 2, also known as Nebraska Sand Hills Journey Scenic Byway. Driving time from Grand Island to Alliance takes about 4 hours and 26 minutes via NE-2 W.
Recommended car: To enjoy the views, book a convertible car rental and enjoy the freedom of driving with the wind.
Tips: If you need to spend more time in the sand hills and want to get an authentic cowboy experience, book a stay at Rowse's 1 Plus 1 Ranch. Other featured activities at Rowse's include horseback riding, team roping, Hay Rides and campfires.
Whether you are searching for adventure or action in a beautiful Colorado-mountain setting during the winter or summer, Crested Butt is the perfect place for you. This is one of the few ski towns where you won’t find yourself in a long line at every lift. Check out Crested Butte Mountain Resort and Monarch Mountain Ski and Snowboard Area for amazing skiing and snowboarding. There are less than 2,000 residents in Crested Butt, yet the town has its own airport. The town has all the recreational activities you would expect in a mountain paradise. If you like to ski, the town provides lift-served alpine skiing and snowboarding. You are likely to face fewer crowds and can go mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, kayaking, or fishing during summer. Every July, the town celebrates the Wild Flower festival.
Directions: For driving times, allow 4 hours from Denver, or 4.5 hours from Colorado Springs via rental car to arrive in Crested Butte. From Colorado Springs, take US-24 West and US-50 West to reach Gunnison. Continue straight onto Main Street (US-135 North) towards Crested Butte.
Recommended car: Book a Toyota Yaris or similar with VroomVroomVroom for added space and comfort.
Tips: During winter, the snow can reflect up to 80 percent of UV radiation, so make sure to apply an SPF sunblock to protect any exposed skin.
Yellowstone - Wyoming
Another place worthy of recognition due to its vast and remote areas is the least populous state, Wyoming. Nature lovers and adventurers wanting to connect with Mother Nature will enjoy Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park - two of the most popular national parks in the U.S. Don't be surprised when you see wild animals such as bear, bison, elk and coyotes roaming the plains of this vast and spectacular state. If you like the great outdoors and want to spend time alone, head to the Wind River Mountains from the summit of Gannett Peak or any other mountain range in the state such as the Big Horn Mountains in the north central, the Black Hills in the northeast, and the Laramie, Snowy, and Sierra Madre ranges in the southern region.
Directions: Only 45 minutes from Grand Teton National Park and just two hours drive from Yellowstone National Park, plan your journey in Wyoming with a reliable car rental to see some amazing hot springs and native wildlife.
Recommended car: Rent a crossover or SUV if you want to store your hiking and camping gear.
Tips: No trip to Yellowstone would be complete without a visit to the most famous geyser - Old Faithful, which erupts on average every 92 minutes. Bring a hat and a bottle of water. If you plan to eat a meal after watching the eruption, head back to the Old Faithful Inn early to avoid the long queue.
Minnesota's Angle Inlet is so remote you literally need to cross into Canada by car, or cross the Lake of the Woods by boat. Take note that when crossing the U.S./Canada border, proper documents are required. Some lodges and resorts provide boat and ice transport services that operate within Minnesota. Top outdoor activities in Angle Inlet include fishing, hunting, hiking and golfing. If fishing adventure is what you desire, book a stay at Jake's Northwest Angle. Travelers visit Angle Inlet primarily for the isolation and natural beauty of the area, and with a population of just under 200, you never have to worry about getting out while on vacation in this beautiful, undisturbed wonder.
Directions: This scenic journey is approximately 60 miles from the U.S./Canada border. From the Trans Canada Highway (MB-1), you may take MB-308 South to MB-525 East which will take you directly in to Angle Inlet.
Recommended car: Book a midsize car rental with VroomVroomVroom for more room and comfort.
Tips: Notify your car rental provider before crossing the Canadian border and make sure you have the essential documents with you.
Stretching over 30,000 acres, the Bonneville Salt Flats is one of the unique natural features in Utah. Free and open to the public most of the year, the area is often used by racers looking to break the land speed record. Every summer, amateur and professional teams from around the world go head to head for land speed records in various vehicle categories at annual events like Speed Week and World Finals. The flats have been recognized as a unique backdrop for filming locations, fashion shoots, and car commercials. During winter, the flats collect an inch of water and reflect the surrounding mountains and blue sky. Overnight stays are not permitted on the salt flats. There are private campgrounds and plenty of accommodation service available in nearby Wendover, only 10 miles west of the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Directions: By car, it will take you at least 4 hours to reach Bonneville Salt Flats from Utah via US-6 W or you can rent a car from Salt Lake City via 1-80 W. Driving time is 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Recommended car: Treat yourself to a prestige car rental and drive a luxury or sports car with VroomVroomVroom.
Tips: Some rental car companies prohibit off-roading, which includes the salt flats. Be sure to check with your rental company to avoid getting charged.
