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Coolest Summer Getaways Arizona Has to Offer

Summers in the Arizona desert might be difficult to handle. On the days when the sun is at its most merciless, even the most desert-hardened locals must be dreaming of a cool refuge. Thankfully, Arizona’s geography is a lot more diverse and offers stark contrasts to the desert valley that can provide a refreshing shelter from the heat.

This is our selection of Arizona’s summer getaways that will wipe the sweat off of your brow in no time. They can also serve as pointers for an awesome summer road trip across the state, so grab a map and hop into your car. Better yet, rent a free transfer car or camper van for a trip to remember on a budget.

Greer

A general rule of thumb for Arizona’s summer weather is this: “if it’s higher, it’s colder.” Located on the altitude of almost 8,500 feet, Greer is a slice of small-town Americana from the days of yore. The little town high up in the White Mountains provides a much needed respite from the modern world (even the cell phone reception is clunky, and Wi-Fi is nearly impossible to find).

Greer’s greatest attraction is the lush scenery that encircles it. The town’s surroundings, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, is a heaven for the outdoors-oriented, as well as a popular vacation spot during the summer, as the temperatures are generally 20-30 degrees cooler than in the deserts. The surrounding forests and lakes provide a full plethora of outdoor activities, from camping, hiking, fishing and swimming, all the way to horseback riding.

Lynx Lake

Arizona lakes are the go-to getaway from the summer heat. They are numerous, diverse, and usually high up in the mountains, providing a breath of fresh air for the heat-stricken. The state of Arizona doesn’t lack for choices in the lake department, and none of them are wrong. Still, if we were forced to recommend just one, then it has to be Lynx Lake.

Located deep in the Prescott National Forest, Lynx Lake sits on the altitude of cool 5,500 feet. It is a gorgeous lake surrounded by lush greenery. Due to its accessibility, it is very popular among the locals, offering wonderful opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing and boating, as well as the sighting of as large number of wild animals such as bald eagles, mule deer and osprey.

Flagstaff

If you’re looking for a bit more from your vacation than spectacular natural scenery, a college town seated in the world’s largest continuous Ponderosa pine forest has plenty to see and do.

Flagstaff sits at the altitude of about 7,000 feet among the pines, ensuring a fresh summer even in the hottest days. The town is host to the Northern Arizona University, making it a lively hub with a vibrant cultural scene and vivid social life. There are Hopi and Navajo Indian reservations in the near proximity, and, to top it off, the Grand Canyon is less than an hour’s drive away.

Mogollon Rim

If breathtaking scenery and stunning vistas stretching as far as the eye can see are your thing, then mark the Mogollon Rim on your map, because you’re in for an absolute treat.

The enormous forested plateau is a marvel of geology, with sedimentary, metamorphic and volcanic rock from the Precambrian days joining together to form some of the most amazing views on Arizona’s forests and desert flats. The area is rich with wildlife and offers great hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as nice fishing spots, while the nearby town of Payson has all the charms of a small mountain settlement.

Jerome

Seated in the Black Hills of Arizona’s Yavapai County, Jerome is one of those peculiar little towns that spontaneously grow into quirky local cultural hubs thanks to their colorful inhabitants. The town’s sprawling main street is dotted with galleries, bars and restaurants with a decidedly local atmosphere, as well as unusual shopping spots, such as (supposedly) the world’s largest kaleidoscope store, or a shop entirely dedicated to homemade fudge.

Aside from its art town charms, Jerome also offers gorgeous surroundings and nice tracks for hiking and horseback riding, while the famous ruins of the Native American Montezuma Castle are only a short drive away.

While many see the summer in Arizona as a curse, we see it as an opportunity to venture out and get to know the side of the state we don’t see very often. An extended road trip is in order, made even better with the chance to find a free transfer car to fuel your voyage.

Stunning Landscapes for Midwest Fall Getaways

You can rarely hear people talking about the American Midwest the way they praise New York, Mount Rushmore or Grand Canyon. The main reason for such an unfair treatment of this cult American region lies in the fact that tourists, especially foreign ones, don’t know too much about it. Now that fall is coming and nature is preparing fireworks of colors, it’s the right time to start planning a visit to this part of the USA. Therefore, find a comfortable reading position and get familiar with the hidden gems of the Midwest before you rent a free car and set off on this amazing feast for your eyes.

The Slopes of the Buckeye State

You would miss a lot if you just storm through Ohio. Rarely a part of fancy tourist guides, this state offers intriguing tourist spots. The most attractive natural beauty that will take your breath away on an October afternoon stroll is Hocking Hills. The tourists coming from New York can get to this picturesque region driving along the beautiful shore of Lake Erie.

When you reach Columbus, you should continue for another 57 miles until you reach a blend of breath-taking vistas – fast waters rushing over jagged rocks, dozens of beautiful waterfalls, as well as endless areas of hickory, maple and oak, displaying probably every single existing color that the fall has to offer. Before you continue your trip, conclude your adventure at the Glenlauren restaurant – traditional Scottish cuisine will serve as a great follow-up to a day in the wilderness.

The Waterfront of the Wolverine State

If you want to add some water energy to the mostly earth-ish and wood-ish Ohio experience, your next stop on the Midwest quest for stunning landscapes should be the tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Keweenaw. Remember the lake scene with Robin Williams from What Dreams May Come? Expect something like that when you see the reflections from the trees on the shore in the lake.

Also, knowing that the Upper Peninsula is covered by approximately 4 million acres of woods explains why fall in this region is an endless source of pure living inspiration. The most popular activities you can do here are definitely hiking and bike rides through endless pine forests. Moreover, you will certainly come across some old mines, but don’t get inside, for your own safety. Just take a quick selfie and move on.

When you start feeling hungry, go down to the Eagle River and dine in one of the restaurants on the river bank, like the Fitzgerald’s Restaurant and Hotel. Beside first-class meals, this place also offers accommodation – a handy package for an exhausted traveler.

The Scenery of the North Star State

On the western shore of Lake Superior you can witness an unparalleled view of this astonishing lake from the Minnesota Highway 61, also known as the North Shore Scenic Drive. As you reach Duluth and before you get to this highway, make a stop and try some local specialties, to get enough energy for your North Shore exploration. You shouldn’t drive the entire 142 miles, but only scan the view and get back to enjoy other attractions of North Shore, since this road leads straight to Canada.

Bear in mind that this part of the Midwest has a continental climate, with some plant species characteristic for much colder regions. The direct descendant of such conditions is the vegetation that reminds of Russia or Scandinavia, with aspen, pine and birch trees as its main representatives. In fall, this triplet of trees (treeplet) will sweep you off your feet, so just immerse yourself into this unique combination of colors, fragrances and views.

keweenaw

The West Gate of the Cornhusker State

The end of this Midwest quest – or the beginning for the travelers coming from the east – is in Valentine, Nebraska. This town serves as a great base for Nebraska-discovering trips. A car drive from Duluth, MA to Valentine, NE should take about nine hours, so find out more about the diners along Interstate 80 relevant for your part of this transcontinental road before you hit it.

The most important natural attraction that takes one-quarter of the Nebraskan land is the Sandhills. It consists of numerous sand dunes covered with grass. The dunes look like landscaping masterpieces made by some great artists, but they’re only a genuine work of nature. During the fall months, those miraculous shapes can easily make you think you’ve come to an uninhabited planet.

Another must-see attraction when in Nebraska is Smith Falls State Park. The drive from Valentine to this scenic spot should last for about 20 minutes and then you will get a chance to see a 70-foot high waterfall. Last, but not the least – don’t forget to add Bruce Springsteen’s amazing album Nebraska to your playlist for the trip to and across this state.

This guide only shows the tiny part of the Midwest natural wealth. We suggest you follow our route, but also don’t hesitate to add some places of your special interest to a fall tour de Midwest and have a great time exploring this amazing, bust somewhat underrated US region.

Article by Lillian Connors.
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US Road Trip: The Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains are considered one of the most dramatic landscapes of the USA. This region, known for skiing in winter, is ideal for road trips during the hot summer days. Our Free RVs can take you there.

Denver – Idaho Springs (33 miles)

The 40-minute drive from Denver to Idaho Springs will take through some of the most beautiful parks outside Denver, a perfect introduction to the Rockies. The first stop is Centennial Cone Park with its 12-mile trail loop, leading to the majestic view of Clear Creek. If you’re lucky, you may meet elks and other wildlife species.

Mine tours, including the Phoenix Gold Mine tour and the Argo Tunnel tour in Idaho Springs are not be missed. Both of them will take you back in time with their museums displaying mining artefacts, receipts, emergency equipment, old photographs, etc. You will certainly be tired and hungry after exploring these old mines, so drop by the Smokin’ Yards BBQ, a family-run restaurant specializing in smoked meat and barbecue sauces. For the end of the day, stay at the Indian Hot Springs.

Idaho Springs – Silverthorne (35 miles)

On your way to Silverthorne, visit a small historic town of Georgetown renowned for its uniquely preserved Victorian architecture. If you’re interested in bike rides, slap some panniers for your ride
onto it and take a 23-mile Guanella Pass Scenic and Historic Byway route in the Pike and Arapaho National Forests. The route follows an old wagon road, linking two silver mining towns of Georgetown and Grant.

Continue with your road trip through the scenic landscape of the Rockies until you arrive at Silverthorne. The tranquil Blue River flows through this small town, nestled between Buffalo Mountain, Red Mountain and Mount Silverthorne. In order to fully experience Silverthorne, take a family-friendly Blue River Trail, or consider bird watching along the Blue. When you’re back in town, drop by the Nepal Restaurant for the taste of the Himalayas.

During the 1960’s, the town of Silverthorne was a makeshift camp for workers constructing the Dillon Reservoir, a water storage facility in the Denver Water system. The Dillon Reservoir surface area offers a large number of recreational activities. Water sports, such as kayaking, rowing, canoeing and windsurfing are available. Nature lovers will love scenic overviews around the Dillon Reservoir as well as numerous hiking and bicycle trails. Make sure you bring your tent as this area is one of the best campsites in Colorado.

Silverthorne – Leadville (34 miles)

Although resorts at Breckenridge and Copper Mountain are buried under snow during winter, in summer they come alive. Visit the village at Copper for a breath of fresh mountain air. You will find a variety of summer activities waiting to be discovered. For instance, a free round-trip ride on the American Eagle chairlift cannot be missed. Adventure seekers will enjoy the largest outdoor climbing wall in Colorado, the Zip Line as well as bungee jumping.

The colorful history of the next stop, Leadville will take your breath away. Include the Historic Walking Tour of Leadville and the visit to the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum into your activities. There’s something for adrenaline enthusiasts, too. Online maps of area trails from beginner to advanced will help you explore the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

When it comes to lodging and dining, the Victorian-style Delaware Hotel and the 1886 Victorian Inn are a must-do vacation stop in this part of the region. In the hotel, you can take a self-guided tour brimming with the collection of antiques available for purchase. Finally, learn about the history of Victorian tea and choose between Traditional Afternoon Tea, Cowboy Tea and Sweet Tooth Tea at The Delaware Hotel.

Leadville – Aspen (58 miles)

Further south, you will see Mountain Sheridan and Mountain Elbert on the horizon. Between Leadville and Aspen, you will come across another mining town in the heart of the Rockies, Lakes Town. Located at the base of Mountain Elbert, this town offers three trailheads for climbing. Apart from awe-inspiring natural beauty (the Twin Lakes are the largest glacial lakes in Colorado), the town is known for its history during the gold rush. At the end of the 19^thcentury, it was described as “the most charming summer mountain resort in Colorado.”

The final stop is Aspen, situated in the White River National Forest. It boasts world-class ski resorts during winter as well as biking and hiking trails in summer. The vibrant art scene is another thing this town, originally inhabited by the Ute Indians, is famous for. Some of the must-see art destinations are the Aspen Art Museum and the PISMO Fine Art Glass.

This fabulous road trip should definitely be on your bucket list, and renting a free transfer car will make this dream journey not only more comfy, but cheaper, too. The scenery of the Rockies, which is changing every day, will live in the memory for years to come, always reminding you that the road trip you once experienced must be repeated.

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Denver

Clear Creek

Silverthorne

Leadville

Aspen

US Green Travel: Hot Spots

As the environment is becoming more vindictive than ever before, the main task of each and every one of us is to do their best and try to sooth nature by opting for green travel destinations. The USA offers hundreds of households, parks and other facilities that identify themselves as eco-friendly destinations. The main features of this type of tourism are low carbon footprint, minimal energy consumption and accommodation facilities that are in accordance with eco-friendly regulations.

Bay Area

One of the hippest cities in the States, San Francisco also represents a truly ecological place that provides numerous green facilities and activities. First of all, you only need to use a free car to get to Frisco, but once you are there, you should consider other means of transport. Since this city has beautiful vintage trams, you can get anywhere you want using them, and you’ll have a better chance to look around the city, too.

You can rent a bike and go round the entire San Francisco Bay area and you can plan your cycling route here. When it comes to accommodation, opt one of the LEED-approved places, such as the Orchard Garden Hotel, in the city center.

Yosemite

When you are already in California, it would be a shame to miss the natural beauties of the Yosemite National Park. Since it is visited by about 4 million tourists every year, it is craving for new eco-friendly regulations. In accordance with such desires, the park authorities have decided to reduce the traffic-induced damage to environment. Because of that, now you can move around the park with super-efficient hybrid buses.

Of course, the major part of your stay here should be spent on hiking, camping, fishing, horse riding and other exciting Yosemite activities. As for the green accommodation, the Ahwahnee Resort Hotel will suit all the needs that an eco-aware tourist might have.

Alaska

It is hard to imagine a better place for a relaxing, eco-friendly vacation than Alaska. If there is a heaven on Earth, it is placed in this US state. Among many other destinations that give their visitors a chance to spend some time living in accord with nature, Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge definitely stands out as a rustic yet modern place to stay. It consists of handmade wood cabins that can only be approached by water taxis.

Visitors who come here can eat vegetables grown in the organic garden, and from this spot you can take long hiking quests and witness some breath-taking views of the Alaskan landscape. Since you are going to spend time in the genuine wilderness, bringing one of those increasingly popular pacsafe bags with you might be a good idea.

New England

As one of the most picturesque parts of the US, New England also displays well-developed ecological features. If you want to see this part of the States at its best, visit New England in fall and enjoy some truly stunning scenery.

When it comes to green regulations, Massachusetts leads the way in this part of the country. Once you arrive there, you should definitely stay at the Berkshire East resort. Aside from offering amusing activities during all seasons, such as skiing and snowboarding in winter and zip line tours in summer, the entire resort gets electricity from the best solar panels available and wind turbines.

Florida Keys

To round off this American green tour with a destination in the south, it is logical to mention Florida and its Keys. It is not only the Beach Boys that once found their calm and peace in this area, but also a large number of tourists that visit this area annually. Here you will not only witness green coves and woods, as well as green facilities, but the sea is also emerald green in this region.

The most reasonable option for green travelers when visiting Florida is Key West, as a pedestrian-friendly town that also encourages cycling, too. Moreover, tourists can also use other eco-friendly transportation services, such as shuttle buses, electric cars and ferries. And if you want to experience something unique, go and visit the Dry Tortugas National Park (regular tours are organized from Key West).

Wherever you go in America, there are some green locations that can accommodate you in accordance with high ecological standards. If you decide to become a green tourist, you will contribute to the preservation of the environment while experiencing nature as it once was.

Article by Lillian Connors, photos creative commons.

Roads Less Traveled: Hidden Gems of the U.S

It’s never been cheaper to go to the U.S! Increased airline competition on routes between Los Angeles and New Zealand has pushed fares down as low as a few hundred dollars return, compared to about $2,000 on average a few months ago. This winter is therefore the perfect time to experience a summer road trip in America! Here’s our selection of the perfect off-the-beaten-track road trips:

Oregon-California

The West Coast displays a myriad of interesting destinations. Since everybody knows everything about Frisco and the City of Angels, you should find out more about some other, less famous but equally interesting destinations. For instance, a route from Eureka, CA to Coos Bay, OR is still pretty much a cherished secret, offering a great chance to see some mystical scenery and witness lush oceanic landscapes.

Prairie Creek Redwoods

The drive itself can lasts for about 4 hours, but the time passes fast on this route. Your itinerary for this trip has to include a visit to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, where a part of Jurassic Park 2 was shot. Once you reach southern Oregon, you can indulge yourself in sea activities, but there are also some beautiful mountain landscapes, like Elliot State Forest.

Round Colorado

Colorado still possesses the true spirit of America – the unharnessed wilderness and the genuine felling of self-reliance, reflected in hundreds miles of mountain pathways. Start the Colorado trip in Whitewater Park in Durango. Here you can go kayaking, as well as see some quite amazing animals. From Durango you should go west and enjoy hiking around Wolf Creek Pass. It is a great place for a hiking afternoon and a picnic for the entire family.

After resting your mind and soul, head north and visit Grand Dunes National Park. Among many other interesting things, here your kids can try sandboarding and sand sledding.

Midwest Minnesota-Michigan

A family can have a great experience on this long trip from Duluth, MN to the Michigan’s shores of the Great Lakes. The planned route is 550 miles long, so you should plan at least five or six days for this adventure. Duluth is the hometown of Bob Dylan, the greatest singer/songwriter of our time, which is why you should not miss to visit his boyhood home, as well as some other Duluth attractions. After that, you can set off for Michigan via Wisconsin.

You should plan your route to get to Upper Peninsula in Michigan, to reach Black River Scenic Byway. Here you can see seven breath-taking waterfalls and observe beautiful Lake Superior. Also, this is a perfect place to have a rest while enjoying some tasty wine specials, before falling asleep after an exciting day in nature. When you get some good sleep, hit another 200 miles and finish this trip in Hiawatha National Forest.

New Orleans-Florida

The last trip we suggest for this summer is about 400-mile long adventure from New Orleans to the west coast of Florida. If you take your family to New Orleans, make sure that they visit French Quarter – the old city center. Also, your kids will like the New Orleans ice-cream specialties called snowballs.

When passing through Mississippi, you should make a two-day stop to rent kayaks and visit the Horn Island and its beautiful beaches. Also, families could find boat visits to this island a more practical solution than going there in kayaks.

When you get to Florida, the end point of this trip could be Apalachicola, where you can rent an apartment for your family and enjoy a few days in mild ocean waves and a wonderful local cuisine.

Road trips around the US can last for a few days or a few months, depending on your budget and wanderlust. The routes suggested in this article can fit into an average ten-day family ride and a middle-class vacation budget, especially if you manage to score a free rental RV on Transfercar. Have a great trip!

Text Lillian Connors, Photos creative commons

Cruzing in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is known for its delectable moderate climate, the natural beauty of its pristine coastline, gargantuan redwood forests, and alternative community lifestyles. If you happen to pass by this city with your Transfercar free rental, be sure to stop in and take advantage of all it has to offer!

Beach it like a Whale

With 29 miles of sun heavy coastline, Santa Cruz offers some of California’s best beaches. These white sanded beauties offer up the perfect waves for surfing or the softest spot for beach volleyball. Beaches like Manresa, Mitchell’s Cove and the mysteriously alluring Pleasure Point await you in Santa Cruz. But, if you’re not a sun worshipper, then visit a museum or art gallery, ride a steam train, or hit the wine tours, boozey! You know how they say that the best things in life are free? I’m pretty sure they were referring to the fun things to see and do here in Santa Cruz. And rental cars. They were definitely talking about Transfercar rental cars.

Boardwalk Empire

Santa Cruz boasts the best Boardwalk in the US. Year-round events at the Boardwalk include summertime Friday night bands on the beach, movie nights, Clam Chowder Cook-Offs, and Chili Cook-Offs. Is that your stomach growling? No, it’s mine… The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk features the world famous Giant Dipper Roller Coaster (which I don’t actually recommend riding after the chowder and the chilli FYI), and the historic 1911 Looff Carousel for the kiddies. A perfect spot for the young and the old, the boardwalk has something to offer everyone. Riding the rides does cost money but walking around and soaking up the atmosphere are completely free. Be sure to check out the Laffing Sal automaton: you can hear her creepy cackle for free, but the ensuing nightmares will cost you. You’ve been warned.

Have a Beer on the Pier

The Santa Cruz Wharf is the longest wooden pier in California at 2,745 feet and one of the oldest in the state, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. But, it’s not just about the wood. Lined with groovy shops and restaurants offering up an array of cuisines, it’s a great place to stroll and take in the spectacular views of the bay. If you fancy some sea life, walk to the end of the pier and look down to the lower decks to spy on sea lions basking naked in the sun. Cheeky sea lions! Have you no shame?!

Just Eat It

You won’t find fresher local produce, sustainable seafood and award-winning California wines anywhere else than on the Santa Cruz County restaurant menus. Organic and locally-grown choices offer a unique dining experience. From hip bistros serving modern California cuisine, to neighbourhood cafés loved by locals, there are a number of ways to satisfy your cravings in Santa Cruz.

Are you convinced yet? Well then grab your surfboard and start surfing the Transfercar website to find the best free relocation deal for you. We’ve got you covered, sugar!