Have you ever dreamed of embarking on an epic road trip to visit all the National Parks in the United States? With 63 National Parks spread across the country, it’s a daunting challenge that would require months of planning and preparation.
But how long would it actually take to complete this once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Let’s find out.
The Route
First things first, let’s establish the route. There are several ways to go about visiting all the National Parks, but one popular route is known as the “ultimate road trip.”
This route covers approximately 22,000 miles and takes you through 47 states, hitting all 48 contiguous National Parks along the way. You can start from any point on the map, but for simplicity’s sake, we’ll start and end in Washington D.C.
The Timeline
Now that we know the route, let’s talk about how long it would take to complete. The answer?
It depends. The amount of time it takes to road trip to all the National Parks will vary depending on your travel style and preferences.
If you’re looking to do a quick tour of all the parks without spending much time at each one, you could theoretically complete the trip in as little as three months. However, this would require driving long hours every day and not spending much time at each park.
For a more leisurely experience where you can truly appreciate each park, plan for a minimum of six months. This will allow for more time at each park and some rest days in between driving stretches.
If you want to take your time and really savor each moment without feeling rushed, plan for eight months or even up to a year. This timeframe will allow for plenty of breaks along the way and ample exploration time at each park.
The Cost
Of course, embarking on a road trip of this magnitude requires a significant financial investment. The cost will vary depending on your travel style and preferences, but here are some expenses to consider:
– Gasoline: With a route that covers over 22,000 miles, expect to spend a lot on gas. The average cost of gas in the United States is currently around $3 per gallon, so plan accordingly.
– Lodging: Unless you plan on camping or sleeping in your car every night, expect to spend money on lodging. This can range from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels depending on your budget.
– Food: You’ll need to eat along the way, so factor in the cost of food and snacks.
– Activities: While many National Parks are free to visit, some do charge entrance fees. Additionally, there may be other activities you want to do along the way that come with a price tag.
The Experience
Despite the high costs and long timeframe required for a trip of this nature, it’s truly an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the stunning landscapes of Yosemite and Yellowstone to the rugged wilderness of Acadia and Glacier, each park offers something unique and awe-inspiring.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from all walks of life and immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity that America has to offer. Whether you choose to complete the trip in three months or a year, it’s sure to be an adventure like no other.
- Conclusion: So how long would it take to road trip to all the National Parks? It depends on your style of travel and how much time you want to spend at each park.
Plan for at least six months for a more leisurely experience or up to a year if you really want to take your time.
- Tip: Consider breaking up your trip into smaller sections if you can’t commit to a full six months or more. For example, you could focus on visiting all the parks in the western United States one year and then tackle the eastern parks the following year.
Embarking on a road trip to visit all the National Parks is a bucket list item for many people. With proper planning and preparation, it’s an adventure that’s well worth the investment of time and money. So start plotting your route, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through some of America’s most stunning landscapes.