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.
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.
Grand Canyon West is the perfect place to experience the Grand Canyon from a fresh perspective. With world-class viewpoints, exciting adventure activities, and the chance to connect with Native American culture, it’s a destination unlike any other. Whether you’re rafting the Colorado River, standing on the Skywalk, or simply soaking in the views, Grand Canyon West offers an unforgettable adventure that’s perfect for the entire family.
Holbrook, Arizona, is a blend of old and new, wild and quirky. From its petrified forests and colorful rock shops to its retro roadside attractions, this town offers a truly unique Route 66 experience. Holbrook invites travelers to embrace the charm of Route 66 with open arms and a sense of adventure. So, pack your sunscreen and your curiosity, and get ready to explore a town that wears its history proudly.
Guided tours, museums, and sightseeing destinations will help acquaint you with the Indigenous and geological history of Utah’s Canyon Country. Along the way, delightful bites and insightful conversations are guaranteed.
Utah’s Canyon Country features a dynamic landscape; sometimes, the cliff sides are as grooved as a rumble strip, while at others, they seem to flow as lazily as hot fudge on an ice cream sundae. Make sure to pack a pair of binoculars to zoom in on the many cliff dwellings and natural arches that you will see on your trip.
Hit the open road and discover the best of Arizona’s Route 66 on a motorcycle. From iconic landmarks to scenic detours, this 5-day itinerary offers a thrilling, alternative way to experience America’s most famous highway. Whether you’re riding through desert landscapes or stopping at quirky roadside attractions, this journey is the ultimate adventure for road trip enthusiasts.
We truly mean it when we say that Aspen is one of the prettiest corners of Colorado. Even if you’re not super into the outdoors, the mountains in this area almost have a way of calling you in. Whether celebrating their beauty in the form of art or on a long hike, you’ll find layers of Aspen waiting to be enjoyed.
Juneau, Alaska, will take your breath away! You will wonder at the vastness of glacier-carved mountains and expanses of frozen rivers of ice (or icefields). Juneau inspires a desire for exploration, breathing deeply, and curiosity at what remnants of the past remain hidden in the 17-million-acre rainforest.