Yesterday, we blew up confetti balloons and made homemade cards to participate in a drive by birthday party parade. It was heart warming to see so many friends lined up in their vehicles, wishing well an excited seven year old at a safe distance.
It was memorable for all of us. And in today’s new normal, it was practical.
I recently read that 60% of travelers surveyed said once this travel ban is over, they will feel the safest traveling to destinations in their personal cars.
Conservationist, John Muir once said that, “Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.”
I believe when this curfew is lifted, we will see a a rise in road trips and our wondrous National Park’s topping families’ summer list.
This travel memory highlights a few sights and sounds of the summer I headed west and put 8,000 miles on a rental car.
Next week is National Park Week where the NPS is asking everyone to a envision their 2020 Park Experience from their living rooms.
In preparation for this celebration, I thought I would bring some of my favorite destinations that originated social distancing to help you #findyourpark
Badlands National Park
On the edge of South Dakota, the earth seems to awaken. The dramatic landscape and colorful rock formations in the Badlands is awe inspiring. How something so ravaged by wind and water can be so picturesque is a testament to creation itself.
Yellowstone National Park
Our first national park is a true marvel to behold; visiting Yellowstone is out of this world. From famous Old Faithful, colorful hot springs, teeming wildlife, and rushing rivers, this park in Big Sky country is a remarkable trip in itself.
Grand Tetons National Park
Tall and proud, the snowcapped Tetons rise dramatically against stark blue skies and the serenity is palpable. Stargazing in Jackson is a jaw dropping memory seared in my mind.
Glacier National Park
Trail after trail opens up to gorgeous glaciers cutting through stone and gorgeous peaks reflecting in the almost turquoise blue crystal clear mountain lakes. You have to see it to believe it. At the urging of a friend and local, it is the one park I wore a Grizzly Bear bell.
Pacific Coast Highway
Talk about having the scenery all to yourself, I drove it north to south in the lane closest to the water taking in the Oregon coastline, Big Sur, Monterrey, and a glass of wine or two. While it can be done in a day, I recommend stretching this stretch of paradise.
Redwoods National Park
Best way to reflect on the magnificence of life and the mere size of our time in it is to walk among these giants.
Route 66
Inspired by Pixar’s Cars Movie, Bobby Troup, and of course Johnny Cash, I just had to take this road….
Contact Us at How Far I’ll Go Adventures when you are ready to get your kicks on your next domestic adventure….
