Embracing the Scenic Detour Method of Travel
Leaving space in your plans to explore the unexpected
Have you ever had those moments when a detour becomes the best part of your trip? Mark and I sure do, and I’ve started to think that the best way to travel might be to follow a “Scenic Detour” method.
What do I mean by that? It’s all about leaving space in your plans to explore unexpected, off-the-beaten-path spots that weren’t in the original itinerary.
Let me tell you about one of our favorite scenic detours—one that we’ll never forget.
Tusher Tunnel
We were driving to Arches National Park in Utah, excited to see the famous rock formations that the park is known for. But I’m always on the lookout for unique spots, and as we cruised along, I opened up Google Maps to see what else was nearby. I zoomed in and found a place called Tusher Tunnel, and while I didn’t know much about it, the off-road vehicle route that led there looked intriguing. Since we have a Jeep Wranger, convincing Mark to the turn to go off-roading was pretty easy ;)
Tusher Tunnel isn’t your typical stop. It’s a vertical crack in the sandstone that extends 83 feet through the ridge. Despite the name, it’s not technically a "tunnel" since it’s open at the top, but it’s wide enough at the bottom for you to walk through and stand up straight. The crack flares open at the bottom, making it feel like you’re entering an ancient, hidden passageway.
When we arrived, there was no one else around. It felt like we’d stumbled upon something spectacular and secret. The light coming through the top of the crack created beautiful shadows on the sandstone walls, and the view on the other side of the tunnel? Jaw-dropping. The contrast of the bright Utah sky with the red, weathered stone was just breathtaking. It became one of the most memorable parts of our road trip —not something we had planned for at all, but a find that ended up being just as stunning as the arches themselves.
How to Embrace the Scenic Detour Mindset
Scenic detours like our Tusher Tunnel adventure aren’t about losing your way. They’re about finding something you didn’t even know you were looking for. Here’s how you can bring a little “scenic detour” magic into your travels:
Keep Your Itinerary Flexible
Leave gaps in your schedule to allow for spontaneous stops. We always block off time for big attractions, but we make sure not to cram too much into one day, just in case something catches our eye along the way.Let Google Maps Be Your Guide
Sometimes the best finds come from a little tech-assisted curiosity. Pull up Google Maps or Atlas Obscura, zoom in on your area, and see what shows up. You’ll often find obscure locations that don’t make it into typical tourist guides.Be Open to Adventure
Not every detour will be as mind-blowing as Tusher Tunnel, but that’s okay. The joy is in the discovery. Whether it’s a roadside diner or a hidden natural gem, embracing detours keeps your travels exciting.Follow Your Instincts
If something looks interesting, go for it! We would’ve missed out on Tusher Tunnel if I hadn’t randomly checked out the map, but our curiosity led to an unforgettable moment.
Why Scenic Detours Make Travel Better
There’s something special about the unexpected in travel. The thrill of not knowing what you’ll find can make even the most routine trip turn into an adventure. Scenic detours remind us that there’s more to the world than the most photographed landmarks. They encourage us to slow down, explore, and appreciate the quieter, less-traveled corners of the world.
Next time you’re out exploring, leave some space in your plans for the unknown. You never know when you might stumble upon a hidden tunnel through red sandstone that becomes one of the highlights of your journey.
Have you ever taken a scenic detour that turned into a memorable experience? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments!
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LOVE THIS! Ironically, one of my favorite detours was just AFTER our family hiked Arches ... a little taco food truck on the side of the road on the route to Torrey, Utah. Wish we had stumbled upon this little hidden gem too -- wonderful photos!