1

Florence Trail, Vermont

Image: Rod Long

Intermediate mountain bikers will love this berm-and-jump-filled descent, which can be incorporated into a 5-mile ride at Cady Hill . The Florence Trail is known as the best flow trail in Stowe, and one of the finest trails in the state of Vermont.

Advanced riders seeking to add some swoop and flow to their biking adventures will also find this trail enjoyable.

2

Devil's Den, Arkansas

Image: Oliver Graham

A mountain bike trail with history attached to it, Devil's Den State Park is a hallmark in the Arkansas mountain biking scene. At the very trailhead, a sign proudly declares that the lower area of the park, known as Fossil Flats, was the "Birthplace of Arkansas Mountain Biking" in 1989.

Recently designated as a "Monument Trail," the park underwent renovations to update sections of the historic trail while expanding the network with brand-new segments. Featuring impressive rock formations, jumps, and drops, Devil's Den truly is a biker’s paradise.

3

Citrus Tech Trail, Michigan

Image: Aishwarya MV

Despite being the most remote mountain bike destination in the Lower 48, Copper Harbor is home to some of the highest-quality trails in the nation. The newest additions to the network, located on Rock Solid's privately owned East Bluff mountain, include some of the best trails that have been built in the nation . Among them, the Citrus Tech trail stands out, earning praise from every mountain biker who has ridden it.

4

South Boundary Trail, New Mexico

Image: Richard Hedrick

An epic trail that winds through stunning mountain meadows and aspen groves before descending into the desert town of Taos , the South Boundary Trail features 4,500 vertical feet of downhill riding. However, it’s worth noting that bikers will face 2,000 feet of climbing along the way—but the breathtaking ride more than makes up for the effort.

5

Doctor Park, Colorado

Image: Holly Mandarich

One of the most thrilling descents in the country, the Doctor Park singletrack takes riders on an unforgettable journey. Starting at a high elevation, the trail winds through an alpine meadow , descends into an aspen grove, and continues down into pine forests before reaching a dry, lower-elevation climate zone .

Bikers from across the country and around the world can either shuttle to the top or pedal their way up to experience this incredible ride.

6

The Presidio, California

Image: Tim Trad

California is brimming with bike trails, making it difficult to recommend just one. However, this former military base turned national park stands out with its 25 miles of paved or hard-packed trails. Offering sightlines to the bay, coastal cliffs, beaches, forests, Alcatraz, the city skyline, and, of course**,** the iconic Golden Gate Bridge , it’s an unforgettable biking destination.

7

DuPont State Forest Slickrock, North Carolina

Image: Leslie Cross

The DuPont State Forest is a rarity on the East Coast due to its exposed bedrock trail. The biking experience in the North Carolina mountains offers epic descents, small mountains, and trails that flow nicely on soft rocky terrain , giving visitors a great experience, with the Slickrock (Cedar Rock, Big Rock, and Burnt Mountain) trail being one of its highlights.

8

Alpine Trail, Oregon

Image: everett mcintire

There are many trails named "Alpine Trail" but this one, at least, honors its name. Beginning high in the mountains, it goes downhill on soft and beautiful black dirt . A few open meadows and exposed outcroppings provide brief panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, before dropping back into the timber for more high-speed ripping.

9

Tahoe Rim and Flume Trails, Nevada

Image: Abhi Verma

The Flume Trail wasn’t originally designed for bicycles—it began as the grade for a water flume that delivered lumber from high in the mountains above Lake Tahoe to the towns below. Today, remnants of the flume are still visible, but the old flume bed has been repurposed for use by mountain bikers and hikers.

10

Osberg Ridgeline Epic, Idaho

Image: Karsten Winegeart

The Osberg Ridgeline Epic isn’t for everyone. While it requires a shuttle to reach the trail’s starting point, bikers are still faced with over 3,000 feet of uphill pedaling. However, on the other hand, that 3,000 feet of climbing rewards riders with 5,500 feet of thrilling descent, along with a 15-mile ridge traverse with amazing views .

1

Florida - Key Lime Pie

Image: Delfina Iacub

Let’s open with a classic: This tangy and refreshing treat is a true Sunshine State main character.

Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, tart filling nestled in a graham cracker crust. It’s often topped with a fluffy meringue or whipped cream. The key limes, smaller and more tart than regular limes, give this pie its signature flavor.

2

Arkansas - Chili Cheeseburger

Image: René Roa

Pure Americana, hearty and satisfying meal. The Arkansas chili cheeseburger takes a juicy beef patty and smothers it in a savory, meaty chili .

Of course, melted cheddar cheese and diced onions are included. Chili cheeseburgers have been a staple in Arkansas diners and drive-ins since at least the 1950s.

3

Kentucky - Kentucky Fried Chicken

Image: Erik Mclean

Nothing like the crispy, golden goodness of Kentucky Fried Chicken when you are hungry. This finger-lickin' good dish, featuring Colonel Sanders' secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, has been a Kentucky staple (and a national favorite) since the 1930s.

Whether you prefer the original recipe, extra crispy, or those tasty chicken tenders, KFC is a true Kentucky comfort food classic.

4

Delaware - Thrashers French Fries

Image: Louis Hansel

In Delaware, Thrasher’s French Fries reign supreme. These crispy, golden fries are cooked in peanut oil and served piping hot in a paper cone, with a generous shake of salt and a side of apple cider vinegar for dipping. Forget ketchup or mayonnaise!

The Thrasher’s bucket has been a Delaware tradition since 1929, and it’s now a must-have snack for any beach day.

5

Indiana - Hoosier Pie

Image: Corleto Peanut butter

A delicious and comforting dessert that's perfect for sharing (or not): Indiana's Hoosier Pie, a.k.a. the sugar cream pie , features a flaky crust with a creamy, custard-like filling that tastes like butter and vanilla.

This pie is believed to have been a popular treat in Indiana farmhouses in the 19th century.

6

Illinois - Deep-Dish Pizza

Image: Chenyu Guan

Chicago-style deep-dish pizza has its naysayers, but it also has its fans. A hearty pizza with a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, plus toppings.

Some argue it’s not a pizza as much as a cheese pie . But it can be both, and it’s unarguably delicious. Whether you prefer it with pepperoni, sausage, or veggies, this is a must-try iconic Illinois treat.

7

Georgia - Peaches

Image: NisonCo PR and SEO

Simple as that! Georgia, the Peach State, lives up to its name with its juicy and flavorful peaches, and its citizens voted this as an unmissable treat.

Whether you enjoy them cold, baked in a cobbler, or preserved in a jar, Georgia peaches are a true Southern delight. But locals suggest you try them fresh off the tree .

8

New Hampshire - Maple Waffles

Image: nabil boukala

A breakfast that's sure to satisfy a sweet tooth. New Hampshire's maple waffles are fluffy, golden, and drizzled with pure maple syrup , made from the sap of the state’s maple trees.

The state's long history of maple sugaring dates back to the Native Americans, and today, New Hampshire maple syrup is prized for its flavor and quality. You can enjoy your waffles plain or topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.

9

Pennsylvania - Philly Cheesesteak

Image: Snappr

The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich legend, born and bred in the City of Brotherly Love. It features thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed with onions and melted cheese (usually provolone or Cheez Whiz), all piled high on a soft hoagie roll .

The story goes that this sandwich was invented in the 1930s by Pat and Harry Olivieri, hot dog vendors who decided to try something new.

10

New York - Lox and Cream Cheese Bagel

Image: Nancy Ingersoll

New York City's lox and cream cheese bagel is a classic deli staple that's perfect for breakfast or lunch!

A chewy bagel topped with thinly sliced smoked salmon (lox) , creamy schmear, and often some capers, onions, and tomatoes. It’s a New York City icon enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

11

North Carolina - Krispy Kreme Donut

Image: leannk

What's amazing about North Carolina's Krispy Kreme donuts is that people prefer their original version: light and airy donuts with a signature glaze .

The company was founded in the 1930s in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and their "Hot Now" sign became a beacon for donut lovers everywhere. Of course, they offer many versions nowadays, like chocolate-iced or jelly-filled ones.

12

Rhode Island - Calamari

Image: Bart ter Haar

Rhode Island's calamari is a seafood lover's dream. This dish features tender squid, lightly breaded and fried to a golden crisp , often served with marinara sauce or a spicy aioli.

With its long coastline and rich fishing tradition, Rhode Island is known for its fresh seafood, and calamari is a local favorite.

1

Bigfoot

Image: Jon Sailer

Legend and cultural icon, Bigfoot— also known as Sasquatch— has fueled our imaginations since at least the mid-20th century. This mythical creature, which appears in both American and Canadian folklore, is believed to inhabit the forests of the Pacific Northwest.

Its origin is not entirely clear, but it likely stems from a blend of stories brought by European immigrants and tales from North American indigenous cultures. Many people throughout history claim to have seen Bigfoot and describe it as a 6- to 9-foot, half-human, half-ape creature covered in dark hair. Others have only found its large 24-inch footprints, which has certainly helped keep the legend alive.

2

Pukwudgie

Image: Johannes Plenio

Pukwudgies are mythical creatures from Native American folklore, more precisely from the New England region. They are described as small, humanoid beings, about 2 to 3 feet tall, with grayish skin, pointed ears, and spines on their back.

According to Wampanoag legends, Pukwudgies are considered guardians of the forest. They are mischievous creatures with the ability to disappear and move swiftly through the forest. In addition, they are known to cast spells and curses on those who offend them or cross their path. So now you know, if you ever travel to these lands, remember to be respectful and honor nature to avoid being punished by these protective little monsters.

3

The Jersey Devil

Image: Belinda Fewings

There are not as many sightings of the Jersey Devil as there are of other creatures on this list. However, some people claim to have found traces of claw prints made by a two-legged creature. The few eyewitnesses who were able to catch a glimpse describe the Jersey Devil as a bizarre assortment of different animal parts, resembling everything from kangaroos and dogs to horses and even reptiles.

This creature theoretically inhabits an area in South Jersey known as the Pine Barrens. It is linked to a local legend from 1735, which claims that a woman nicknamed Mother Leeds allegedly cursed her thirteenth unborn child. The baby eventually became a demon who murdered the entire family and fled to the woods to steal livestock and terrify unwary travelers to the end of times.

4

Urayuli

Image: osensei

Very similar to Bigfoot, the Urayuli, or "hairy men," are a mythical race of creatures that live in the woodlands of southwestern Alaska, near Lake Iliamna. Those who claim to have seen the Urayuli describe them as being 10 feet tall, with shaggy hair, luminescent eyes, and long arms stretching down to their ankles.

According to lore, the Urayuli are said to be transformed children who got lost in the forest, therefore they are considered peaceful creatures. Taking this into consideration, it is very likely that this legend was born as a cautionary tale to prevent children from wandering out alone at night.

5

Wendigo

Image: DGSstudios

One of the most terrifying creatures in Native American mythology is the Wendigo. According to legends originating in Algonquian folklore, the Wendigo is an evil spirit that feeds on human flesh. This creature is believed to have the ability to possess people, turning them into starving monsters who cannot help but devour other humans.

The Wendigo has been depicted in various forms throughout history but is generally described as a slender, skeletal giant with glowing eyes and sharp fangs. This malevolent, cannibalistic, and supernatural being is usually associated with cold winters, as well as with greed and gluttony.

6

Wampus Cat

Image: Peter .

The Wampus cat is usually described as a fierce, bipedal creature with a humanoid body and a feline head. This spectral, panther-sized beast has been reported across the American Southeast for centuries, with numerous legends about its origins varying by region.

One of the most famous stories has its roots in Alabama and comes from a Native American tradition. According to this story, a Cherokee woman disguised herself in the skin of a mountain lion to secretly follow her husband on a hunting trip. When the men gathered around the fire to share stories forbidden to women discovered her, they cursed her to spend eternity as a half-woman, half-mountain lion.

7

Florida Skunk Ape

Image: RyanMcGuire

Florida, the Sunshine State, has its own version of Bigfoot: the Skunk Ape. This creature is said to resemble an orangutan more than the gorilla-like Sasquatch. This particular being got its name for the pungent odor that announces its presence and was seen many times lurking around the Florida swampland during the 1960s and 1970s.

Sightings were so common during that time that, in 1977, the state legislature had to introduce a bill to protect the elusive man-ape. Although the bill was never passed and Florida wildlife officials deny the existence of the Skunk Ape, many people continue to report sightings of the black, hairy creature to this day.

8

Champ

Image: GregMontani

If you thought Scotland had the only lake monster, you haven't met Champ yet. Lake Champlain, a freshwater lake in New York, is said to be home to America's most famous lake monster. Since the early 19th century, there have been accounts of Europeans claiming to have seen a seahorse-headed creature emerging from the water. However, the local Native Americans, the Abenaki, and the Iroquois, had stories of a horned serpent called Tatoskok dating back much earlier.

Over the years this beast has manifested itself to numerous people. In fact, in 1977, a woman named Sandra Mansi claimed to have taken a photo showing a creature with a small head and a long neck, which—let's be honest—looks suspiciously similar to the Loch Ness Monster.

9

Menehune

Image: Timothy Dykes

The Menehune are a mythological race of little people in Hawaiian tradition that only appear at night. For the most part, these two-foot-tall creatures are harmless, although they can become angry if disturbed. It is believed that these supernatural beings may have originated from ancient ancestors who populated the Pacific region, eventually evolving into folklore.

The Menehune are said to be builders, gifted with great strength and architectural skill. They construct stone structures such as dams, roads, and sacred worship sites known as heiau . They work when nobody is watching, so beware—never interrupt them, or they will vanish.

10

Beast of Busco

Image: Pascal Mauerhofer

In this article, we have explored a wide array of mythological creatures resembling apes, cats, birds, serpents, and even humanoids. However, you probably won't guess what kind of creature the Beast of Busco is. In 1898 a farmer from Churubusco, Northern Indiana, claimed to have spotted an enormous turtle in Fulk Lake.

His story was corroborated fifty years later by two fishermen who reported seeing a giant turtle weighing at least five hundred pounds and with a shell as big as the roof of a car. Such was the commotion that the lake’s owner at the time went so far as to drain it in order to catch the creature, which proved to be impossible. Since then, every June, the town of Churubusco celebrates Turtle Days festival, which includes a carnival, a parade, and—wait for it—turtle races.