It seems that you always hear about the plans that people have to go backpacking in Europe… obviously the United States is too crowded and cramped for a worthwhile hiking adventure to be had (unless you’re flocking with everyone else to the Appalachian Trail.) Are there no good hiking and backpacking areas left in the States, or has the entire country become too overrun by roads?

There are places left in the United States where you can get away from it all and leave the major roads and highways behind… you just have to know where to look. If you’re looking for hiking locales that are different from the ones that everyone else is going to, you’ll be able to find wilderness areas, deserts, and more to feed your need.

These Boots Were Made for Walkin’

So where can you go if you want a good backpacking or hiking adventure far away from major roads and highways? Many of the best places are in the central or western US, though Alaska and Maine do rank on the list as well. All of the following places are at least 35 miles from state or national highways, and tend to be rather scenic locations to boot.

Southern Nevada

In southern Nevada, near the northern end of the Nevada Test Site, there is a place that is 37 miles away from the nearest roads (Nevada Highway 375 and US Highway 95). Some people might hesitate to plan a hiking vacation to a place known as the Nevada Test Site, but you shouldn’t have to worry about running into any residual effects due to the testing.

Eastern Utah

There is a place in Uintah County, Utah, which is at least 38 miles from the nearest major roads (Utah Highway 123, which ends at Sunnyside, Utah Highway 88, which ends at Ouray, and Interstate Highway 70.) This can make a great day-hiking area while on a vacation to the west or midwest.

Northeastern Minnesota

Getting into northern Minnesota, you start to find that you’re closer to Trans-Canada Highway 11 than any major road in the United States. Boundary Waters Canoe Area, which is almost due north of Schroeder, Minnesota, is around 38 miles from Highway 11 and is at least that far away from Minnesota Highways 1 and 61. There are a few numbered county roads in the area, though.

Northern Maine

Traveling into the far northern reaches of Maine, you’ll reach an area in Piscataquis County near the Canadian border. All of the local roads are privately operated toll roads, and the nearest major roads (Maine Routes 6 and 15 at Rockwood, Maine Route 159 at Shin Pond, and Quebec’s Route Provinciale 204) are at least 41 miles away. Perfect for a summer jaunt into scenic northern Maine.

Northwestern Nevada

A vast expanse in northwestern Nevada makes for a great hiking location for those who enjoy hiking in dryer areas. West of the Black Rock Range, the only major highway in the area is Nevada Highway 447, which is still 43 miles away (though sections of Nevada Highway 140 also pass by at a bit farther distance.) After all, 43 miles is still far enough to make this a great place to get away from it all.

Southwestern Idaho

Travel into the extreme southwestern part of Idaho, and you’ll find yourself in somewhat of a “No Man’s Land” in the area where Idaho, Nevada, and Oregon meet. In this area, there’s at least one place that’s 44 miles from the nearest major highway… in the distance, you can find Idaho Highway 51, as well as two separate sections of US Highway 95.

Northwestern Arizona

When visiting the Grand Canyon, don’t overlook the chances for hiking and backpacking that aren’t advertised by the tourist agencies. There’s quite a distance from one rim to the other, and roads aren’t exactly plentiful (especially on the western side of the canyon.) There is at least one point in the eastern part of Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument that is exactly 50 miles from both Interstate Highway 15 and Arizona Highways 66 and 389. Add to that the lack of highways on the western side of the canyon (you won’t reach any until you’re around the Nevada border), and the Grand Canyon starts looking more and more like a hiker’s paradise.

Western Utah

If you enjoy desert hiking, you might want to consider a trek to western Utah. Head to the western portion of Juab county, and you’ll find yourself in an area that’s 51 miles away from the nearest highways. The distant highways include Utah highways 196 and 199 to the northeast, US combination Highway 7 and 50 to the south, and Alternate US Highway 93 to the northwest, in Nevada. Take care if you decide to visit this area, though, as it is mostly desert and parts of the area are restricted territory (including the Deseret Test Center.)

Central Idaho

Venture into central Idaho if you want to find the farthest point in the lower 48 states that you can get from a highway. Near the middle f the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area, you’ll find yourself at least 52 miles from Idaho Highways 14 and 21, as well as US Highway 93. If you like secluded areas, then this is for you; despite what the name says, you’ll likely return time and time again.

Alaska

If you really want to leave it all behind, it’s time for an Alaskan vacation. Get in a plane and head up to Kabuch Point, Alaska… it’s near Cold Bay, and can’t be reached by a major highway. This is the farthest point away from a highway that you can reach in the United States. (This doesn’t include some islands under US control, as some of the furthest west islands in the Aleutians are closer to some Japanese highways than American.) In case you’re wondering, Kabuch Point is around 549 miles from the nearest major road. Of course, there may be areas a bit farther out in Alaska, but with the lack of major roads in much of the state this is the only one that’s being included in this list.