The so-called "secret spot" has always occupied a place in America's consciousness. The fantasy of escaping our busy, crowded world to another place - a beautiful place - which is completely undeveloped, uninhabited, and most importantly, unknown is a dream shared by many.
Do these uncovered hidden gems actually exist? While everyone is busy visiting Times Square or snapping photos of the Golden Gate Bridge, can you find a scenic destination to escape the noisiness of society?
The answer is yes - secret spots still do exist. These two destinations are living proof:
1. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Venture north into this world of natural wonders - the Upper Peninsula of Michigan - bountifully beautiful yet sparsely inhabited. Residents here revel in its north country ruggedness. Referred to as “Gitche Gumee” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in The Song of Hiawatha, Lake Superior extends as far as the eye can see with her crystal clear waters sparkling in the autumn sun. This is Pure Michigan!
Best Time of Year to Visit: Late September to see peak fall foliage
What to See: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Lake of the Clouds, Ottawa & Hiawatha National Forests, Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, Whitefish Point Lighthouse, Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor, Fort Wilkins, Quincy Copper Mine Tour, Madeline Island
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
*Photos Above Courtesy of Pictured Rocks Cruises
This 42-mile stretch of Michigan Coastline on Lake Superior is marked by its sand dunes, unique rock formations, natural archways, and waterfalls. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located between Munising and Grand Marais Michigan.
tahquamenon Falls
These 200-foot wide falls drop roughly 50 feet as they rush down the Tahquamenon River. The Tahquamenon Falls are located on the eastern side of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan near Lake Superior.
Copper Harbor & Brockway Mountain Drive
Get your cameras ready for this spectacular view of Copper Harbor. This small town is named Copper Harbor because it was the home of booming copper mines during the mid 19th century. Copper Harbor is located near the scenic Fort Wilkins State Park.
Lake of the Clouds & Porcupine Mountains
This beautiful blue lake is surrounded by the thick forests of the rugged Porcupine Mountains. Visit during September to see the colorful fall foliage reflect off the calm, undisturbed surface of the Lake of the Clouds.
American Classic Tour to The Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Join America's favorite travel club on an all-inclusive trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. American Classic Tours is a 55+ community of travelers passionate about exploring the beauty of North America and sharing the pleasure of travel with one another.
2. The National Parks of the Southwest
The Southwest National Parks (Utah & Arizona) are often lost in the conversation of premiere American travel destinations. But to the people that have seen the splendor of the red-rock mountains, winding canyons, and rugged terrain of the Ole' Wild West, the National Parks of the Southwest are simply unforgettable.
When to Visit: Anytime from June to October
What to See: Grand Canyon’s North Rim, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Vermillion Cliffs, and Dead Horse State Park
Arches National Park in Utah
This National Park is named Arches for a reason--it contains the world's highest concentration of natural sandstone arches. Within Arches National Park's 76,518 acres sit an astonishing 2,000 sandstone arches. Arches is also home to other unbelievable geological formations such as giant sandstone fins, enormous balanced rocks, and sky-reaching spires & pinnacles.
Canyonlands National Park In Utah
Canyonlands National Park is often overlooked nationally and overshadowed locally by Utah's more prominent national parks including: Arches, Bryce, and Zion National Parks. However, after visiting Canyonlands National Park, you will be happy you traveled off the beaten path to see this stunning National Park.
Bryce national Park in Utah
Bryce Canyon is unique for two reasons. First, it is home to multitudes of Hoodoos, a distinct geological feature which is found across Bryce National Park. Secondly, Bryce Canyon is one of the best places in the world to stargaze because of its remoteness.
Zion National Park in Utah
Zion National Park offers the full package. Filled with red rock canyons, jagged mountain peaks, lush vegetation, a weeping rock, a Virgin River, unique geology, and diverse wildlife.
AMERICAN CLASSIC TOUR TO THE Southwest National Parks
Join America's favorite travel club on an all-inclusive trip to the Southwest National Parks. American Classic Tours is a 55+ community of travelers passionate about exploring the beauty of North America and sharing the pleasure of travel with one another.