Unexplored States in the United States: A Journey Through U.S. Geography
Unexplored States in the United States: A Journey Through U.S. Geography
As I navigate the vast expanse of the United States, I have visited just over half of all its states. This journey has led me through diverse landscapes, from the sandy deserts of the southwest to the northeastern forests. However, several states remain uncharted by my footsteps. Here, we explore the states yet to be explored, considering factors like proximity, cost, and remoteness. The geographical journey takes us through the lesser-visited regions of the northwest and the prairie states.
States That Echchxxxxxe the Call
My current tally of visited states stands at 26, leaving 34 uncharted territories. The states I haven't had the chance to explore are predominantly located in the northwest and the prairie regions, with a few exceptions in the south. Here is the list and some insights into why they remain off the beaten path:
Alabama - Not too far away, but not enough to warrant a trip. Alaska - One of the most geographically remote and expensive to visit. Arkansas - Close, but often overlooked for more exciting destinations. Hawaii - Expensive, time-consuming, and off the beaten path. Idaho - A mid-western state with reasonably close proximity. Iowa - Similar to Idaho, but with fewer attractions. Kansas - A vast prairie state, but with few tourist attractions. Mississippi - Another state with more significant attractions in neighboring states. Missouri - Close to numerous major cities but less popular as a tourist destination. Montana - Known for its wilderness and the Rocky Mountains, but remote. Nebraska - Another mid-western state with more urban centers closer by. Nevada - Known for the Las Vegas strip and Washoe Lake, but unvisited due to modern attractions. New Mexico - Home to unique landscapes and cultures, but not as well-known. - A mid-western state with small towns and prairies. Oklahoma - Known for its events and music, but less explored. Oregon - Known for its natural beauty and coastal cities, but less visited. South Carolina - Known for its coastal charm and history, but less visited. South Dakota - Known for Mount Rushmore, but less visited. Tennessee - Well-known for its music history, but less visited. Utah - Home to Bryce Canyon and the Great Salt Lake, but less visited. Washington - Home to Seattle and Mount Rainier, but less visited. Wisconsin - Known for its dairy and beer, but less visited. Wyoming - Known for its national parks and wildlife, but remote.Personal Insights on Unvisited States
Alabama: This Southern state, known for its deep history and cultural heritage, remains unvisited due to its proximity to more well-known states like Florida and Georgia.
Alaska: Even though it’s a dream destination for many, the cost, distance, and time required make it a less frequent travel choice. Air fares from the East Coast can exceed those to Europe, and the travel time is comparable. For instance, the journey from New York to Fairbanks is around 9 hours, which can stretch to 12-13 hours with connections. Similarly, from Chicago, it’s at least 8 hours, making it as far from Boston as Boston is to Lapland. Airfares to Alaska are rarely under $400, and unless you’re planning a car rental and extensive exploration around Fairbanks, it might not be worth it.
Hawaii: Another state that remains unvisited is Hawaii. The cost of flights from the East Coast is often even higher, coupled with the long travel time. From Boston, to Hawaii, it’s approximately 11-12 hours, making it a less frequent travel choice compared to other states.
While I have technically been to many of these places, having traveled through North Dakota on a train during the night and driving across the bridge from Memphis to Arkansas, they remain unvisited states from a more personal exploration standpoint.
Given the option, I would prioritize Alaska and Hawaii for future travels. Fortunately, these destinations are not getting any closer, and both remain stunning frontiers waiting to be explored.
By understanding the unique characteristics of each state, one can craft a more enriching travel experience, covering all 50 states mentioned in the map below, with each trip adding a layer to one’s understanding of the vast and diverse geography of the United States.