Arches National Park Trip
Arches National Park is unique, and everyone should see it. At sunset, the Grand Arch is an indescribable orange. Everyone who visits tries to capture that orange with a camera, and even though cameras have gotten exponentially better at capturing images, they will never match seeing it in person. This park was one of the backgrounds of your family’s first computer. The arches are as old as the dinosaurs, and the entire park feels spiritual. I genuinely believe everyone should see this park at some point. Below is our suggested route to Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. Instead of flying over the amazing American West, with Roderamerica, the view from your office will be the natural beauty of the six national parks featured below.
Budget
Below is our rough draft of a trip. This cost was calculated intentionally omitting food and drinks. Add stops, remove stops, or if you just find the most beautiful spot you have ever seen, stay longer. One nice feature of our van versus traditional travel is that you aren’t limited to fast food stops and convenience store junk food; instead, you can buy items in bulk, prep, and cook your own meals. You probably want to indulge a little but don’t have to eat out every meal.
The Route…Kinda
Here is the very rough outline for each stop along the way. We intentionally set the prices higher to allow some natural wandering along the way to make it 100% your perfect route. The picture below is the zero-wandering route to each of the destinations below.
There are unlimited other options for driving in a circle from the Midwest. Do you like skiing? Check out Big Sky, Winter Park, or Aspen. Concert goer? Take a little detour to Red Rocks to see your favorite band in the historic natural amphitheater right outside of Denver. If you have already seen the Badlands, reroute your journey home and check out the world-famous Omaha Zoo.
One of the main takeaways we have from years of travel is there are unlimited fascinating things to do when you go out looking for adventure.
Days 1-2 Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the rugged badlands of North Dakota, is a true gem among America's national parks. One of the best things to do there is to embark on a scenic hike that offers breathtaking vistas of the unique and otherworldly landscape. If you live anywhere else in North Dakota, you'll feel like you've been transported to another world. While wandering, keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife. This National Park offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the beauty of the badlands and the conservation legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/thro/index.htm
Days 3-4 Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland that promises an unparalleled outdoor adventure. The best thing to do there is to witness the iconic Old Faithful geyser. Seeing the awe-inspiring eruption of Old Faithful is an unforgettable experience. A haven for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike right in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone National Park is a testament to our planet's remarkable beauty and geological diversity, and exploring its wonders will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
Day 5 Grand Teton National Park
Worth a 2-hour detour from Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park Nestled is a pristine wilderness sanctuary that offers visitors a multitude of breathtaking experiences. One of the best things to do there is to embark on a hike along the scenic trails that wind through the park. The Grand Tetons offer options for hikers of every skill level. The Teton Crest Trail, in particular, is a popular choice. Grand Teton National Park's pristine natural beauty, with its rugged mountains and serene lakes, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true mountain adventure in the United States.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/grte/index.htm
Days 6- 7 Arches National Park
Finally, you made it. Arches National Park, nestled in the red rock wonderland of Utah, is a geological marvel. The best thing to do there is to explore the park's renowned Delicate Arch. This iconic natural arch stands as a symbol of the American Southwest. The medium-difficulty hike offers an adventure through red rock canyons. Time your hike towards the end of the day during sunset when the warm hues of the setting sun paint the landscape with a perfect orange seen in very few places on Earth. Arches National Park is a must-see for photographers, hikers, and all those who seek inspiration in the natural world.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/arch/index.htm
Days 8-9 Rocky Mountain National Park
In the heart of the Rockies, This national park is a wilderness paradise. The best thing to do there is to journey along the iconic Trail Ridge Road. This high-altitude roadway takes you on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the park; at 12,000 feet, you'll feel like you're on top of the world. Trail Ridge Road provides an unforgettable experience of the park's natural beauty and is a must-do adventure for anyone visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
Days 10-11 Badlands National Park
Needing a break on the home stretch? Badlands National Park, situated in the rugged heart of South Dakota, offers a unique landscape to explore. One of the best things to do there is to hike the Notch Trail. This trail takes you on a journey through the park's terrain, ending at a fantastic overlook where you can gaze upon the spires and canyons that define the Badlands. Badlands National Park offers memorable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
If interested in booking camping, learning more about their events, visit their site: https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm
Day 12 Home After Checking Six Things Off Your Bucket List
You made it! This is where you stop to rethink all the places you have flown over before. This is also the point where you realize you have just scratched the surface of the natural beauty that is part of the American experience. This isn’t a perfect guide. Everyone should experience road trips differently, but I hope it paints a good picture of what a new, better vacation could look like. If you made it here and are interested in discussing your next big adventure, let’s have a coffee.
