My 10-day adventure through some of America’s lesser-known but equally captivating destinations was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had. Using a customised tour package that combined the raw beauty of Arizona, the verdant charm of Oregon, and the iconic coastline of California, I found myself immersed in a diverse mix of terrains and cultures. I can’t thank Thrillophilia enough for making this trip seamless, enriching, and utterly unforgettable.
Arizona and its stunning landscapes
We kicked off the journey in Arizona, where we discovered hidden corners that lie beyond the famous Grand Canyon. Our first stop was the mystical landscapes of Sedona. I had always heard whispers about its unique red rock formations, but seeing them in person was an experience that was surreal. The towering, jagged cliffs against the bright desert sky create a sense of timelessness.
One of the trip’s highlights was a sunset Jeep tour that took us to the remote areas of the desert. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the rocks seemed to glow, turning the entire valley orange and pink.
The next day, we travelled to the less-explored Antelope Canyon which is famous for its narrow sandstone walls. Honestly, it felt like we had stepped into a natural art gallery. A short hike nearby led us to the Horseshoe Bend which is a dramatic curve of the Colorado River that took my breath away. Arizona is often underrated, but this tour unveiled some of its most magical spots that many travellers overlook.
Oregon: home to cascading waterfalls and quaint towns
From Arizona’s desert charm, we flew to Oregon, where lush greenery and cascading waterfalls awaited. Oregon is often associated with its vibrant city, Portland, but our tour took us to the more secluded corners of the state.
First on the list was the Columbia River Gorge, a place of towering cliffs and majestic waterfalls. Multnomah Falls, a two-tiered spectacle, was absolutely mesmerising. We hiked a short distance to a viewpoint, and the sound of the cascading water combined with the fresh forest air was invigorating.
One of the more intimate moments of the trip was our visit to the small town of Hood River located along the Columbia River. This charming town is known for its local food scene and scenic views.
We wandered through orchards brimming with ripe apples and sampled artisanal ciders. We also enjoyed a leisurely bike ride along the riverfront. The Thrillophilia reviews I had read didn’t fully capture the magic of Oregon’s hidden gems, and I am truly happy that I decided to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
On our last day in Oregon, we ventured out to Crater Lake National Park. The deep blue waters of Crater Lake, formed in the caldera of an ancient volcano, were surreal. We took a boat tour to Wizard Island in the centre of the lake, which allowed us to explore even more remote spots.
California and its secluded beaches
The last destination of my USA tour was California, but I didn’t want to visit popular cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco. We focused on the state’s lesser-known coastal gems and started with the Big Sur coastline.
Every twist and turn of the Pacific Coast Highway offered jaw dropping views of the rugged cliffs dropping into the azure ocean below. We stopped at several lookout points, including the iconic McWay Falls, where a waterfall cascades directly onto the beach.
The next day, we visited the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This artsy, seaside town is like stepping into an European village, with its quaint cottages, boutique shops, and galleries. We spent a leisurely afternoon walking through the town, visiting the stunning Carmel Mission, and enjoying fresh seafood by the water.
For our final adventure, we headed to the Channel Islands National Park which is located just off the coast near Santa Barbara and home to unique wildlife. We kayaked through sea caves, spotted playful seals, and hiked along the rugged coastline.
Conclusion
My 10-day tour through America’s hidden gems, with tour packages from Thrillophilia, exceeded all expectations. The tour struck the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. From the deserts of Arizona to the waterfalls of Oregon and the secluded beaches of California, each destination was a unique treasure waiting to be discovered.
Having read reviews of Thrillophilia before the trip, I was confident the experience would be smooth and well-organised. And I wasn’t disappointed. I was amazed to see that everything from accommodations to local guides was meticulously arranged. For anyone seeking an adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist trail, I highly recommend considering a tour package like this. I’ve done my fair share of travelling, but this trip was truly something special.
