Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Ozark National Forest Scenic Drive From Little Rock to Fayetteville
The Ozark National Forest Scenic Drive between Little Rock and Fayetteville offers a captivating journey through a diverse and beautiful part of Arkansas. This drive, which includes sections of well-regarded routes like Highway 23 ("The Pig Trail"), provides a scenic experience spanning 66 miles of striking landscapes. The drive is particularly enchanting in autumn when the forest explodes with vibrant fall colors. Opportunities for outdoor activities abound, with hiking trails, campgrounds, and local attractions sprinkled along the route. While the Ozark National Forest is a haven for outdoor recreation, this specific drive remains a hidden gem, a fact that makes it a budget-friendly alternative for travelers seeking scenic beauty without the typical tourist crowds. This route, blending easily accessible adventure with affordability, can appeal to both experienced adventurers and those simply looking for a relaxing drive through natural beauty.
The Ozark National Forest, while encompassing a massive 1.2 million acres and being Arkansas's largest national forest, often gets bypassed by travelers rushing to more well-known destinations. It's a diverse environment, encompassing dense woodland and rugged cliff faces.
The landscape includes noteworthy geologic features like the Boston Mountains and Ozark Plateau—remnants of ancient mountains sculpted over 300 million years by tectonic shifts and erosion. Driving through, one encounters a broad range of plant and animal life, including over 800 plant species and wildlife unique to this area.
The forest boasts a network of over 300 miles of trails, catering to various hiking abilities. Some trails lead to ancient stands of trees over 200 years old, a testament to the area's ecological resilience. Water is integral to the ecosystem, with a complex system of rivers, lakes, and streams including the White River. This waterway supports diverse aquatic life, along with recreational fishing.
Elevation in the region fluctuates drastically, ranging from 200 to 2,600 feet. This variation creates diverse microclimates, each nurturing a specific array of plants and animals. The area's history is evident in remnants of Native American settlements and early pioneer communities—some of which can be glimpsed during a road trip.
The unique geology of the region includes karst topography, resulting in the formation of underground caverns and sinkholes. These limestone formations provide a habitat for specialized organisms, adding an intriguing dimension to the landscape.
Several waterfalls can be accessed along the route, including the stunning Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls. It's the tallest waterfall in the Ozarks at a considerable 210 feet, making it a popular destination for photographers.
The forest experiences a complete seasonal cycle. While fall foliage is a well-known attraction, the less common winter hikes expose captivating ice formations and provide a chance to see a more tranquil side of nature, often overlooked.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Sedona to Flagstaff Route Through Oak Creek Canyon
The Sedona to Flagstaff route through Oak Creek Canyon is widely considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States. This roughly 14-mile stretch along Highway 89A offers a captivating blend of vibrant red rock formations and lush, green forests. The drive itself is a gradual climb, increasing in elevation by nearly 4,500 feet as it nears the Mogollon Rim. The area is brimming with outdoor recreation options including swimming, hiking, fishing, and camping. Popular destinations along the way, like Slide Rock State Park, highlight the area's natural beauty, featuring features like natural water slides.
Being accessible year-round, the route offers constantly shifting scenery, making it attractive for travelers seeking breathtaking visuals in any season. While the views are undeniably striking, drivers should be prepared for the winding road, especially during busy travel times. This scenic route presents an alluring alternative to the faster Interstate 17 option, providing a unique journey without the usual throngs of tourists that can be found at some well-known destinations.
The Sedona to Flagstaff drive along Highway 89A through Oak Creek Canyon is widely lauded as one of the most picturesque routes in the United States. This roughly 14-mile stretch showcases a captivating blend of red rock formations sculpted by time and erosion, alongside vibrant forests. The drive itself involves a significant elevation gain, climbing about 4,500 feet from Sedona's lower elevation up towards the Mogollon Rim. This varying elevation generates a range of microclimates, shaping the distinct ecosystems found within the canyon.
Oak Creek, a constant water source, has played a pivotal role in forming this geological marvel. Its consistent flow has carved deep, narrow gorges within the canyon, providing a distinct habitat for various aquatic species. This area is a recognized biodiversity hotspot, boasting a large variety of plants and animals, with over 150 bird species identified. The varying altitudes create specific pockets of climate, with sunnier, warmer southern slopes contrasted against the more shaded, cooler northern faces. These contrasts create a mosaic of ecosystems and habitats, contributing to the region's unique biodiversity.
The canyon holds historical importance as well. Evidence of ancient Sinagua settlements and petroglyphs remains, visible along trails, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past, spanning over 1000 years. Some of the impressive formations are examples of hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires formed by erosion. The area is also home to some unique flora, with trees like the Arizona sycamore, capable of growing to over 100 feet, adding to the visual diversity.
The canyon itself reaches depths of 1,500 feet in places, creating a notable impact on local weather patterns, with cooler temperatures at the base compared to the surrounding terrain. Oak Creek Canyon is a popular destination but often less crowded than other more prominent routes, especially during peak tourist periods. This relative lack of congestion can improve safety and the overall experience for travelers.
While accessible year-round, the canyon's visual appeal changes with the seasons. Wildflowers bloom in spring, giving way to vibrant autumn foliage, making each visit a unique experience. It's a route that lends itself to recreational opportunities, including swimming in natural pools at Slide Rock State Park, numerous hiking trails, fishing in the creek, and camping. Travelers can choose between the scenic route through Oak Creek Canyon and a faster, less scenic option along Interstate 17. The overall distance from Sedona to Flagstaff is about 30 miles, offering a wealth of scenic views throughout the journey. The route, therefore, presents a compelling option for travelers interested in a blend of stunning scenery, outdoor pursuits, and the chance to experience a geological and historical treasure, all within a reasonable driving distance. It is worth noting, however, that the road conditions in Oak Creek Canyon can change due to weather, and that drivers should check on road conditions prior to travel.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Gatlinburg to Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Traveling from Gatlinburg to Asheville via the Blue Ridge Parkway provides a scenic and engaging experience. This route, renowned as "America's Favorite Scenic Drive," is a roughly 3.5 hour drive, allowing plenty of time to soak in the surrounding beauty. The Parkway offers a variety of stops, from hikes with outstanding views like the Craggy Pinnacle trail to family attractions like Ober Gatlinburg amusement park. While there are also smaller towns along the route, like Pigeon Forge and Cherokee, the overall theme of the drive is appreciating the natural beauty, so those wanting to prioritize sightseeing will find the Parkway fits that desire. However, the allure of the Parkway is that it's best enjoyed leisurely, as rushing through the many scenic overlooks would be a missed opportunity. Planning an appropriate length of time for the journey is important to fully benefit from the unique aspects of the Parkway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, spanning 469 miles between Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, provides a captivating drive between Asheville and Gatlinburg. The direct drive between the two cities is roughly 80 miles, usually taking around 1 hour and 48 minutes in decent traffic. However, the Parkway adds a significant time element to this journey, extending the trip to about 3.5 hours depending on stops and traffic. This extended timeframe highlights the Parkway's value: it's a journey, not just a destination.
The Parkway's diverse terrain, from around 649 to 6,047 feet in elevation, generates a patchwork of microclimates. This contributes to a remarkable diversity in flora and fauna, including over 1,400 plant species, some of which, like the Catawba rhododendron, are rare. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the Eastern black bear and the Southern Appalachian chestnut tree, which was historically a significant tree in this ecosystem.
The Parkway's geological heritage is profound. The Blue Ridge Mountains, formed over a billion years ago, have some of the oldest rock formations in North America. This deep time gives clues to tectonic shifts, erosion, and the forces that have shaped the landscape. The numerous scenic overlooks, thoughtfully designed and positioned, provide excellent vantage points that highlight the topography and layering of the mountains. It's like a textbook for geology laid out over a vast area.
While natural beauty is the Parkway's hallmark, it also features cultural touchstones. The Mabry Mill, for instance, speaks to the historical Appalachian methods of grinding grain and sawing wood, showcasing the ingenuity of early settlers. There are a plethora of waterfalls too, with origins that trace back to the geological shifts and the subsequent water flow patterns. These varied water sources emphasize the way water constantly shapes the geological formations, like Linville Falls, an ongoing illustration of the region's geology.
Weather patterns in this area showcase the variability due to the terrain. Rainfall differences of as much as 20 inches are possible over short distances due to elevation and local geographic features. These conditions foster a remarkably diverse set of habitats and plant life. In spring and early summer, a wide array of wildflowers bloom, including over 1,000 species. This remarkable seasonal show also emphasizes the sensitivity and interplay of weather patterns with the local ecology.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is not just scenic; it's also an engineering feat. Its construction took over 52 years to complete, winding across a vast landscape. Its thoughtful design minimizes environmental impact while maximizing opportunities for safe and comfortable sightseeing. It's a testament to the idea that engineering projects can respect and even complement natural beauty.
Finally, it's worth noting the diverse set of people who choose to experience the Parkway. Visitors hail from across the U.S. and many foreign countries, indicating the universal appeal of natural beauty and its preservation. The demographics of visitors to the park can be a fascinating area to explore further when considering tourism trends in natural and historical destinations.
In conclusion, driving the Blue Ridge Parkway between Gatlinburg and Asheville is a wonderful experience for people interested in nature, geology, and engineering. It's not just a way to get from one point to another—it's a journey of discovery, with a blend of scenic views, intriguing history, and a perspective on how nature and human infrastructure can coexist. However, planning enough time for stops and travel is critical. It's worth taking things a bit slower on this route, rather than rushing. The Parkway's true reward is found in its detailed examination and a deeper look at the variety of ecosystems it supports.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Oklahoma City to Amarillo Along Historic Route 66
A trip from Oklahoma City to Amarillo along Route 66 provides a nostalgic journey through the heart of Americana. This legendary highway winds through towns like Bethany, Yukon, and El Reno, offering opportunities to discover interesting sights like the quirky Milk Bottle Grocery and the restored Afton Station, a reminder of Route 66's golden age. The roughly four-hour drive allows for leisurely stops at attractions like the Route 66 Museum in Amarillo, which showcases relics from the past, or a bite to eat at a classic roadside diner like the Route 66 Café. The trip offers a taste of the American heartland, presenting a mix of cultural elements and old-fashioned eateries that exemplify the road trip spirit. However, it's important to remember that some of Route 66's allure might be more idealized than real, with certain attractions showing their age and perhaps not living up to their legendary status. This contrast can be a reminder that while history is important, preservation and maintenance are vital to keeping the past alive for future generations.
The journey from Oklahoma City to Amarillo along the historic Route 66 offers a glimpse into a bygone era of American travel and commerce. This section of the iconic highway, established in 1926, was instrumental in the westward movement, particularly during the Dust Bowl era, highlighting how transportation can shape societal shifts.
You'll come across cultural touchstones like the Route 66 Museum in Elk City, Oklahoma, which houses a trove of historical artifacts and exhibits that shed light on the road's cultural influence and economic impact. The area is also notable for its unique geological features, like the vast gypsum dune fields near Oklahoma City—the largest in North America—a result of ancient ocean environments. This diverse landscape encompasses grasslands and riparian areas along rivers and streams, creating a haven for biodiversity, including over 400 recorded bird species, especially active during migration seasons.
Towns like Clinton and Amarillo along the route are a treasure trove of preserved buildings, offering a window into mid-20th century American life and the rise and fall of roadside attractions. It's interesting to see how the area adapted when Interstate 40 was built in the 1960s and how this new infrastructure shifted travel behaviors. The iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch near Amarillo, known for its outsized steak challenge and dating back to 1960, shows the role of culinary experiences in defining a place along Route 66.
The area's location in the Great Plains translates to dramatic temperature swings, impacting the predominantly wheat and cattle farming landscape. The region's history goes far beyond Route 66; it's intertwined with westward expansion and served as a central route for pioneers and, later, post-WWII commerce. The numerous bridges and overpasses represent engineering ingenuity of different eras, showcasing evolving design and materials and their roles in connecting communities. Many of these bridges stand as preserved testaments to the relationship between infrastructure and aesthetics.
Despite the changes in travel patterns, efforts are underway to revitalize and preserve Route 66, demonstrating a growing appreciation for the nation's transportation past. This journey along Route 66 provides an opportunity to reflect on how roads and infrastructure shape landscapes, economies, and even local culture. It’s also a reminder that the past can contribute to a richer understanding of how and why certain places evolved the way they have. The drive usually takes around four hours, allowing time for numerous stops at the various attractions and curiosities found along the way, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a blend of nostalgia and historical exploration.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Portland to Bend Through Mount Hood National Forest
Traveling from Portland to Bend through Mount Hood National Forest provides a scenic route through Oregon's diverse landscapes. The roughly 163-mile drive typically takes about four hours, offering travelers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area at a more relaxed pace than a hurried interstate journey. This route primarily utilizes US Highway 26, skirting Mount Hood and leading through central Oregon to Bend. Along the way, travelers can enjoy views of the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River, and may choose to make stops in towns like Sisters, which provides charming local restaurants. Bagby Hot Springs, known for its naturally heated mineral waters, is a popular spot for a stop and offers a unique opportunity to soak in the area's geological offerings. The scenery continues with panoramic views of Timothy Lake and Mount Hood, creating memorable experiences. Those wanting to explore more can take detours to Smith Rock State Park or the Painted Hills, showcasing the vast diversity of Oregon's environment. While the path is less well-known compared to faster alternatives, it delivers a journey with scenic highlights and local experiences, showcasing that less traveled routes can be surprisingly engaging. This suggests that in travel, less crowded roads sometimes create the most meaningful memories.
The Portland to Bend route through Mount Hood National Forest offers a journey through a varied landscape shaped by both volcanic and glacial forces. The elevation changes from around 1,000 feet in Portland to well over 5,000 feet near Mount Hood's summit, generating distinct microclimates that support diverse plant and animal communities.
Mount Hood itself, a dormant stratovolcano, has a long history of eruptions, with the last major one possibly happening around 1865. Its glaciers, including the Palmer Glacier, serve as reminders of this past volcanic activity and play a key role in the region's water systems. Interestingly, the Columbia River Gorge, located near the beginning of the route, is renowned for its exceptionally strong winds, which can sometimes reach over 60 miles per hour. This unique feature, caused by the shape of the gorge, can influence driving conditions, particularly for vehicles with a high center of gravity.
The drive itself offers opportunities to observe a variety of geological structures, including basalt columns, formed when lava flows cool and fracture. You can easily see these in several viewpoints and hiking trails. The area around Mount Hood is a biodiversity hotspot with well over 1,200 documented plant species including vibrant summer wildflowers and rhododendrons. These plants thrive within environments ranging from riverbanks to alpine conditions, each supporting different wildlife.
History buffs will likely find the area of interest, as it was a key part of westward expansion. The Barlow Road, a detour around Mount Hood, served as the final stage of the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s, helping countless pioneers cross the Cascade Mountains. Energy production is also part of the story, with the Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River generating substantial amounts of hydroelectricity, highlighting the area's use of natural resources for power generation.
Along the way, you'll encounter numerous glacial lakes, with Trillium Lake standing out as a popular site for fishing and recreational activities. These lakes are often cold and deep, supporting unique aquatic environments shaped by their glacial origins. Mount Hood's abundant snowfall—often exceeding 500 inches annually—makes it a major ski destination, with Timberline Lodge offering unique year-round skiing opportunities. And speaking of skiing, it's worth keeping in mind that the area is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, thanks to the generous snowfall.
Finally, the route has deep historical connections to Native American communities, including the Multnomah and Wasco tribes, who have long relied on the area's natural resources. Evidence of their history can be found in various historical sites and landmarks scattered along the route. This diverse region offers something for everyone, whether you're a nature enthusiast, interested in geology, or drawn to the history of the region. But it's worth noting that, as with any scenic drive, there's often a balance to be found between respecting nature and managing human activity, a dynamic evident throughout the area.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Savannah to Charleston Coastal Highway Adventure
The Savannah to Charleston Coastal Highway Adventure offers a leisurely drive through the captivating landscapes and historical remnants of the South Carolina and Georgia lowcountry. The trip, covering a distance of roughly 106 to 111 miles, typically takes around two hours. Routes like I-95 North and a transition to Interstate 17 are common options. Along the route, travelers can appreciate the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, a significant natural expanse of nearly 30,000 acres that offers glimpses of diverse animal and plant life. Savannah itself provides a glimpse into America's past, boasting the largest Urban National Historic Landmark District in the U.S. Its historic district with its 22 unique squares serves as a reminder of the area's historical evolution. For those who favor a more scenic experience, the Old Coastal Highway (US 17) winds through the area offering views that are not available when using faster interstates. Some notable historical sites like Old Sheldon Church, which has links to both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, can be found along this more scenic road. Charleston, the destination, is recognized for its distinctive architecture, charming historic atmosphere and noteworthy attractions including the Charleston Botanical Garden. Travelers hoping to make the most of the trip should factor in accommodation, food, and activity expenses to avoid any unexpected financial surprises. While Charleston has luxury hotels like the Hotel Bennett, the area also offers more budget-friendly options if those are sought. The trip itself is relatively short, and it's possible to enjoy it within a day, but with attractions in both locations, many visitors choose to spend a couple of days in order to fully experience what is available.
The Savannah to Charleston coastal drive, spanning roughly 106 to 111 miles, typically takes around two hours. A typical route involves taking I-95 North from Savannah and then switching to Interstate 17 toward Charleston. Expect to spend about $200 per night on accommodations and budget around $15 per meal, with additional costs for any activities.
Just north of Savannah lies the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, a sizable 30,000-acre expanse teeming with diverse wildlife. Savannah's historic district itself is impressive, holding the distinction of being the largest Urban National Historic Landmark District in the US. It features 22 distinct squares, each brimming with historical elements.
Traveling along the Old Coastal Highway (US 17) offers some picturesque views and noteworthy sites. One intriguing landmark is the ruins of Old Sheldon Church, which carries historical significance from both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War periods.
Charleston's Hotel Bennett is a recommended luxury option, offering amenities like a spa and rooftop pool. Another highly-regarded accommodation is the Wentworth Mansion, which boasts unique rooms, marble fireplaces, and a restaurant known for its breakfasts.
If you're into gardens, the Charleston Botanical Garden has a general admission cost of $29 for adults, with discounted rates available for seniors, military, and children. Charleston's historic architecture itself is a visual highlight, with intricate detailing, wrought-iron gates, and well-preserved buildings throughout the city center.
It's a bit odd, this region has a lot more to offer besides some pretty, well-maintained hotels and a garden, but that seems to be what is most easily findable through basic web searches. There seems to be some fascinating ecological and historical events that have shaped this landscape, but it’s difficult to uncover unless you go digging further. It would be great if there were some routes or walking tours dedicated to these elements, but for now, it looks like these elements are more of a hidden gem for the truly curious than the tourist seeking a traditional itinerary.
Orbitz's Hidden Gems 7 Lesser-Known Routes with Surprisingly Affordable Fares - Albuquerque to Santa Fe on the Turquoise Trail
Traveling between Albuquerque and Santa Fe on the Turquoise Trail offers a unique experience beyond a simple highway drive. This roughly 50-mile route along Highway 14 winds through the Cibola National Forest, taking about an hour and 40 minutes, noticeably longer than the interstate due to slower speeds and likely stops. While the Turquoise Trail might not be brimming with turquoise mines despite its name, it's a beautiful journey that showcases New Mexico's character. The route features old mining towns like Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos, which now attract artists and feature galleries, giving the area a special artistic edge.
Madrid, once a center for coal mining, has reinvented itself as a vibrant artistic community, adding to the Turquoise Trail's allure. However, because of its rural nature, travelers should consider their fuel and food needs, as there aren't many options available along the road itself. Madrid presents a nice break for refueling and food, however. The Turquoise Trail's charm lies in its slower pace and the opportunity to discover something beyond the typical tourist path. It's a route best enjoyed without a rush and with an appreciation for the culture, history, and the unique blend of art and nature found along the way. It's a reminder that less conventional travel can offer surprising and enjoyable experiences, but it also helps to be prepared before setting out.
The Turquoise Trail, a 50-mile stretch along NM Route 14 between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, offers a compelling alternative to the more direct, but less interesting, I-25 route. While the Turquoise Trail takes roughly an hour and 40 minutes compared to I-25's one-hour drive, it's a journey worth considering for its scenic beauty and historical character. The name "Turquoise Trail" was chosen in a contest back in 1953, though the region is well-known for its turquoise mines, which have been active for over a millennium.
The drive winds through the Tijeras Canyon, a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. It's fascinating to see how this geological force has formed the area's striking landscape, giving a sense of the vast timescales involved in creating the environments we see today. The area also has a long history of mining, particularly in towns like Madrid, Golden, and Cerrillos, which once played critical roles in supplying copper and coal. Madrid's revitalization as an artist community is an interesting twist on its industrial past, offering a nice blend of history and contemporary culture. The remains of the mining activity are still visible in these areas and give an idea of the economic forces that shaped the landscape and communities that thrived here.
The Turquoise Trail also provides insights into the area's history and its unique cultural influence. This includes the thousands of petroglyphs found at sites like the Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, where the artistry of indigenous people dating back hundreds of years is preserved in stone. It's important to note that the area offers distinct microclimates because of the change in elevation, which is approximately 5,000 feet to over 10,000 feet, supporting a diverse range of plants and animals.
One of the more intriguing aspects of this trail is that it's not just a place for artists or hikers, but the Sandia Mountains adjacent to the trail are highly sought-after by astronomers. The elevation and the lower levels of light pollution make the mountains prime locations for observing the night sky, and it's worth considering that research in astronomy has a direct connection to this trail.
Further, you'll find glimpses of the area's role in the historical turquoise trade, which has been culturally significant for a long time. It's interesting how the name of the trail reflects the area's long history of turquoise mining and the legacy of the turquoise stone for many of the indigenous tribes in the area. You can find evidence of the creative heritage in the area along the trail, with towns like Madrid, supporting numerous art galleries that include contemporary and traditional Native American artistic influences.
One other notable aspect of the trail is the easy access to ruins in the area, such as the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, dating back to the 17th century, which provides a snapshot into the region's early colonial architectural influences. And then there is the wildlife like the rare Mexican Spotted Owl which call this area home.
The Turquoise Trail is officially a designated National Scenic Byway. This designation reflects the importance of preserving its natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural characteristics. It's a reminder that tourism can contribute to understanding and preserving these types of landscapes and the historical connection to a broader human narrative. While the interstate option is faster, the trail offers a slower pace that encourages travelers to explore, savor, and absorb the full richness of the area. The result is a more immersive and fulfilling experience for those seeking something deeper than simply getting from one place to another. However, there are limited resources for food or gas, especially when traveling the more remote sections, so travelers should plan accordingly.
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