Epic USA Outdoor Odyssey: Ozark Canyons, Red Rock Thrills & Alpine Peaks

Begin the journey in the mountain biking capital of the Ozarks. Explore the sprawling urban trail systems and pick up rental gear or local supplies downtown.

Wander the winding, hillside streets of this quirky Victorian mountain town. If visiting during the autumn season, join or witness the massive annual Zombie Crawl celebration through the historic district.

Tackle one of the most rugged and unmaintained backcountry routes in the Ozarks along Indian Creek. The technical trail leads through steep canyon bluffs to the massive natural rock formation known as the Eye of the Needle. Wear grippy water shoes or boots suitable for slick riverbed crossings and rope-assisted scrambling.

Take in the dramatic limestone bluffs and quiet pools of the Buffalo National River. This protected national river provides premier paddling coves and wilderness views.

Enjoy a scenic horseback trail ride through rolling wooded valleys and rocky creeks. Keep a steady grip on the reins as trail horses can have an adventurous mind of their own.

Relax after canyon scrambling with locally roasted Ozark coffee and fresh artisan baked goods in historic downtown Jasper.

Experience one of the most thrilling 4x4 trails in North America. Tackle steep sandstone domes, the famous Escalator obstacle, and precipitous drop-offs with panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River gorge.

Ride the exhilarating sandstone roller coaster of Fins and Things. Lower your tire pressure for optimal grip on the grippy Navajo sandstone domes.

Refuel with hearty southwestern fare, microbrews, and street-style tacos in downtown Moab after tackling Sand Flats.

Drive the iconic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway through the historic 1.1-mile rock tunnel. The scenery stuns from the vehicle window as massive sandstone monoliths tower thousands of feet overhead.

Hike the scenic Canyon Overlook Trail perched directly above the Pine Creek slot canyon. The short trek delivers breathtaking bird's-eye panoramas of the main Zion Canyon floor.

Grab fresh espresso, artisanal pastries, and trail fuel in Springdale right outside Zion's south park entrance.

Tackle the steep, grueling backcountry hike to Goat Lake in the Sawtooth Wilderness. The route involves relentless switchbacks followed by an unmaintained, loose scree and boulder scramble. Sturdy hiking poles and careful footing are critical.

Reach the cobalt-blue alpine waters of Goat Lake tucked beneath Thompson Peak. Recover by the glacial shore while soaking in the majestic granite amphitheater.

Chase the magical desert golden hour across the rolling gypsum dunes. As the sun sets, the pure white sand reflects vivid pink, orange, and purple hues across the Tularosa Basin.

Stop by Captain Morgan's Seafood Grill in Everglades City and order Magy's legendary Cafe con Leche alongside fresh local stone crab and Gulf seafood.

Explore the Ten Thousand Islands and labyrinthine mangrove tunnels of Everglades National Park by kayak or boat excursion.