There’s no wrong way to experience Dubois; rather, there’s no shortage of great ones. Here are six of our favorite activities, both in and out of town.
There’s no wrong way to experience Dubois; rather, there’s no shortage of great ones. Here are six of our favorite activities, both in and out of town.
Start your final morning with a one-hour drive to the iconic Devils Tower National Monument, the country’s first national monument. Here, you can hike the scenic 1.3-mile base trail, which winds around the tower’s massive rock formation, or simply soak in the breathtaking views from the visitor center. Devils Tower’s dramatic landscape and rich cultural significance make it a must-see destination for any traveler in the region.
Winter in southern Utah often surprises travelers. While the region is best known for red rock deserts and iconic national parks, Cedar City, Utah, offers a winter experience that blends snow-covered mountains, accessible outdoor recreation, and uncrowded landscapes – all framed by those classic Utah red rock views.
Calico Ghost Town is without a doubt the most bustling ghost town in the American West. With a heaping roster of family-friendly festivals and entertainment and a genuine tie to California’s mining past, it’s a destination where old west history comes to life, year-round.
The variety of landscapes throughout Cowboy Country had my jaw dropping what felt like every few minutes. There are multiple hot springs and geothermal features in the area, rolling sand dunes, and wide expanses of desert that feature some of the most quiet places in the US (aside from the occasional coyote howl).
Route 66 isn’t just asphalt and neon, it threads across the ancestral and living homelands of many Indigenous nations. From Potawatomi lands at the Chicago start, through Osage and Kickapoo land in the Midwest, across dozens of Tribal Nations in Oklahoma, to Pueblo communities in New Mexico and Navajo and Hualapai lands in Arizona, more than half of Route 66 runs through Indian Country. For travelers looking to go beyond the kitsch, the most authentic experiences are those led and offered by tribal people themselves. These experiences vary from guided canyon walks and pueblo tours to trading-post galleries, and tribally owned lodgings. Spending your money at these establishments directs tourism dollars to local economies and cultural programs. You can create a positive experience for both yourself and these communities by visiting with gratitude and respect – prepared to learn about the local cultures and histories.
Cheyenne captures the spirit of the West—old and new, welcoming, and adventurous. In just three days, you can hike through granite canyons, bike along urban trails, paddle across clear blue lakes, and still make it back in time for a steak and sunset. For travelers craving wide spaces, easy access, and authentic Wyoming character, this capital city proves that the frontier is still very much alive.
Ash Fork offers an unfiltered, authentic experience of Route 66 that is hard to find elsewhere. With its vintage charm, historic architecture, and quiet, laid-back atmosphere, this small town invites travelers to connect with the true spirit of the Mother Road. Whether you’re exploring the town’s unique landmarks, enjoying a meal at a local diner, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Ash Fork provides a refreshing escape from the busier stops along the route. It’s the perfect place for those seeking to embrace the grit and charm of Route 66 in its purest form.
Oatman is a true Route 66 treasure, offering visitors a taste of the Wild West with its historic sites, thrilling reenactments, and charming burros. Whether you’re exploring the old mining history, enjoying an old west shootout, or indulging in local sweets, Oatman provides a one-of-a-kind experience. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable stop along Route 66, where the spirit of the Wild West is as strong as ever.
Seligman is a town that truly embodies the spirit of Route 66. From its neon-lit streets and classic roadside eateries to its historic shops and unique attractions, Seligman offers an unforgettable experience for anyone traveling the Mother Road. Whether you’re stopping for a quick meal or immersing yourself in the town’s rich history, Seligman welcomes you to relive the glory days of Route 66 in a place where the past is alive and well.