10 Thrilling Detours Near National Parks - Atlas Obscura Lists
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10 Thrilling Detours Near National Parks

Even amid the grandeur of the parks, visitors may want to seek out diversions.

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Traveling through America’s national parks is a journey of infinite possibilities and inspiring viewpoints, where the unexpected lurks around every corner. From soaring mountaintops and bright deserts to rushing rivers and green valleys, the parks offer bountiful opportunities for exploring. And all along the way are loads of other exciting options.

East of Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, you can find Abert Rim, a 2,500-foot escarpment that’s a popular launch spot for hang gliding.

Not far from Arches National Park, rich with its own stunning examples of geological beauty, are the sandstone pinnacles known as Fisher Towers, with some of the most challenging rock climbing in the country, as well as a hiking trail of more moderate difficulty.

Only the most experienced off-road drivers should attempt to ascend Lake Como Road, a short drive from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in southern Colorado. 

There are new vistas and chances for diversion in the east, too. Along Highway 129, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Tail of the Dragon challenges motorists of all stripes, with 318 curves in 11 miles. Nearby is the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower, where on a clear day, visitors who make it to the top can see as far as 60 miles.

With so many choice destinations to see, trekking across the country to enjoy the natural beauty of America’s parks can truly be the trip of a lifetime.

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Sheepeater Cliff

Around half a million years ago, these magnificent columnar basalt cliffs were formed from cooling lava.
onpyre Added by onpyre
Blanca, Colorado

Lake Como Road

The worst road in Colorado is the main gateway to some of its highest peaks.
mikewalker Added by mikewalker

Presented by Ford, which has partnered with Google Maps to put the entire 5,900-mile TransAmerica Trail on Street View for the first time. Whether you’re planning to go cross country or head out on a weekend adventure, scout out the trail on Street View, challenge yourself, and let your Ford handle the rest. Learn more about the full story here.