Not all trips are the same. While many are regular, some are life-changing and worth experiencing. There are so many of these trips around the world that one can experience, but such trips don’t always have to be to distant countries and across continents. The US also has this type of travel. With its long history, interesting cultures, unique landscape and diverse people, there are so many things to do in this country that can change a person. For those seeking that experience, here are 10 life-changing journeys that might even be taking place in your US backyard.
10 See The Northern Lights in Alaska
The colorful display of the Northern Lights works wonders in a person’s mind, which is why they are worth a visit. When it comes to seeing the mesmerizing colors, Alaska holds its own against destinations like Iceland and Norway. These colors are best seen in Fairbanks, Alaska, and the best time to see them is from August through April, when the nights are longer. There are many accommodations in Fairbanks, Alaska that are worth booking the night at.
9 Go white water rafting on the Colorado River
Whitewater rafting is exciting, but not all rivers offer the kind of experience that the Colorado River offers. The river stretches through the Grand Canyon, allowing adventurers to ride through one of the most magnificent geological formations on earth while battling some exhilarating rapids. It’s worth staying in accommodation around the Colorado River.
8th Explore New York City
If there’s one life-changing thing worth experiencing, it’s spending a day in a city of crowded streets, frustrating traffic, deafening noise, delicious food, stunning hotels, and interesting attractions. That’s exactly what you get in the City of New York. In town, see the Statue of Liberty, take a river cruise, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and climb the Empire State Building for unique views of the city.
7 Hike the Kalalau Trail
Nobody experiences the Kalalau Trail, and it stays the same. One of the toughest in the United States, this trail stretches 11 miles and features eerie cliffs and dangerous turns. But despite the difficulty of the trail, it offers beautiful views of the lush landscape of the island of Kauai. Throughout the fall, adventurers will encounter waterfalls, beaches and the dramatic coastline that surrounds the island. Due to the hazards associated with the trail, adventurers are advised to only hike the trail during the summer months when the treacherous trail is dry, as slippery rocks can be extremely dangerous. There is plenty of accommodation to book on the beautiful island of Kauai.
6 Experience the thrill of roller coasters in Florida
There are many roller coasters in the United States, but Florida has some of the fastest. From the Incredible Hulk at Universal’s Island of Adventure hitting 67 mph to Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom hitting 61 mph, there are so many roller coasters in Florida that are worth experiencing. Universal Studios may be the best place to enjoy this life-changing journey, but you can also experience it at Walt Disney World Resort and SeaWorld Orlando. It’s well worth booking a stay at one of Florida’s iconic resorts.
5 Driving on the Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is arguably the most scenic road trip in the world, and it’s right in the United States. Stretching a total of more than 1,657 miles, this road cuts through the states of Washington, Oregon and California while offering scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. While one doesn’t have to drive the whole street to enjoy the life-changing experience, it’s recommended to explore all the highways from Seattle to Portland, Cresent City, San Francisco, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and finally San Diego. This trip can take well over five days, but it’s worth it. It’s well worth booking a stay at an iconic Santa Barbara hotel.
4 Explore Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park is home to unique natural attractions found nowhere else in the world. The park is home to the tallest trees in the world. In addition to the redwood trees, the park is also home to giant sequoias and some unique wildlife such as the Roosevelt elk and whales. In addition to hiking the lush forest trails and hugging the giant trees, adventurers in Redwood National Park can camp, take scenic drives and watch whales at the Klamath River Overlook. There are many accommodations that can be booked around Redwood National Park.
3 Visit the happiest place on earth
Disneyland in Anaheim is not called the “happiest place on earth” for nothing. From beautiful castles to delicious food, thrilling rides and sights of various fun Disney characters, Disneyland is one of the most exciting places to visit in the United States for a life-changing experience. It’s worth staying at one of the famous hotels in or around Disneyland, Anaheim.
2 Visit Yellowstone National Park
A visit to Yellowstone National Park is an opportunity to view stunning wildlife and some of the country’s most unique natural creations. Wildlife that can be seen in the park includes grizzly bears, gray wolves, and bison. Also visit Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Geyser and the impressive Mammoth Hot Spring. Camping, kayaking, and car rides are other activities to enjoy at this park. With such opportunities for adventure, a visit to Yellowstone is sure to be life-changing. There are also many lodging options for a stay in or near Yellowstone.
1 Complete The Appalachian Trail
The longest pure hiking trail in the world, the Appalachian Trail stretches approximately 2,200 miles through several states in the eastern United States. With such a length, it seems like an impossible task, but people from all over the world come to complete the trail every year. Most people who complete the trek spend an average of 165 days hiking the trail, but it can take longer. Nobody who completes this trail stays the same physically and mentally. There are many hotels to stay at while hiking the Appalachian Trail.
