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Road trip pictures

How to Plan A Road Trip Using Pinterest & Google Maps

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Deciding to take a 50 state tour across America was the most exhilarating and daunting decision of my life. (Don’t worry Heath, deciding to marry you was still the best decision I’ve made!) I had no idea how to start to plan a road trip across the US and I really had no clue what I should do in each state. I mean, North Dakota? What on earth am I going to do in North Dakota?

So like any 23-year-old girl, I hopped on Pinterest and found my board where I pinned all of my travel inspiration. [For travel inspiration, you can view my Pinterest board “Travel Things” here .] I know when it comes to planning a road trip, Pinterest isn’t the number one source that comes to mind. But most of the awesome places I’ve visited in the past two years of RVing full-time I’ve found because of Pinterest, like this awesome sight on the coast of Oregon:

Nanoseconds after this shot, I turned and clamored up the rocks to try to avoid the splash. And while my shoes are completely ruined and I reek of salt water, I’m reminded that the best moments in life only happen when you venture out of your comfort zone. #nofilter #oregon #roadtrip #hourlyamerica #rvlife A photo posted by Alyssa Padgett (@alyssapadge) on Jun 29, 2014 at 2:42pm PDT

How to Pick Your Destinations

Related: Learn how to use Pinterest to increase your web traffic .

Now that I’ve started my list of stops, I need to see them all on a map to plot my route and find out if visiting all of these places will even be possible in a single road trip.

This is where Google comes in. If you have gmail account, which you probably do, you have access to Google Drive. I use Drive all the time to create and share documents, but the best feature of Drive is lesser known. It’s called Google My Maps. This is not Google Maps, but an app that allows you to create your own routes using Google Maps for free.

To create your map, visit your Google Drive . Click the big red “New” button on the left-hand menu and then click “More” at the bottom. The menu that pops up will include Google My Maps (Or you can go straight to My Maps here ). Once you create your map, My Maps will open the typical map view that you see when visiting Google Maps, but instead of a box where you enter locations for directions, you have options to create layers.

I named my first layer “Pinteresting,” since this is where I’m gathering my travel info. (I usually create another layer later titled “Recommendations” since once you say you’re traveling,  everyone  has recommendations.) Now I’ll start adding to my map all the stops I already listed from my Pinterest. If you already have a travel bucket list, you can start adding these to the map too.

To drop my first pin, I pick one of the stops I saw on Pinterest and type into the search bar. Google will drop a lime green pin on the exact location you searched. Then you can add your own marker to remember that spot on the map. I like to add notes based on what I know about the area, like places to visit, things to do, costs, busy season, etc. You can also drop pins by eyeballing locations where you want to stop, like Las Vegas or San Francisco, which are clearly marked on the map.

After I’ve marked all the places from my Pinterest (Note: I haven’t actually searched anything yet) on the map, I look to see which areas of the country or bare, or which ones I missed completely. For me planning our fifty state tour in 2014, this was imperative because I needed to visit each state. For you, this may mean you’re looking for attractions and things to do while driving across South Dakota on your way to the Grand Tetons (If this is you, I highly recommend Oh My Cupcake! in Sioux Falls, Wall Drug, the Badlands, Mt Rushmore, and Crazy Horse).

This is when Pinterest becomes especially helpful. The best part about researching a trip on Pinterest is that the photos help you easily see if the place you’re looking at is the type of place you’d like to visit. I’ve found that Pinterest is typically more reliable than Google Images when it comes to showing you photos of the actual place you’re considering visiting.

For example, if I’m driving through Iowa and, for the record, I’m pretty certain there’s nothing to do in Iowa, I simply Pinterest search “Iowa”. Not even “things to do in Iowa” or “places to visit”, just the name of the state. Pinterest does a great job of curating relevant content whereas Google can give you an overwhelming number of articles to consider. Here’s the response I got from just the state’s name:

I’m already pumped to visit Iowa! Look at these caves and waterfalls! When I think of Iowa, I think of corn and thunderstorms. Most Americans probably wouldn’t be able to spot Iowa on the map, let alone tell you of anything to do there. Pinterest has given me lots of options to consider, plus the buttons at the top can help me filter based on my interests.

Completely unrelated story about Iowa: When Heath and I visited Iowa the first time, we were having severe issues with the RV and had to get down to Texas for RV repairs. It was the end of August, super hot, and we were in terrible moods because of our RV trouble! So our opinion of Iowa has been pretty low ever since. We are visiting the great state again this July to speak at the Grand National Rally for Winnebago and to be honest, I’ve been pretty bummed about it. Iowa in the summer? Been there, done that, it was hot and humid. Now that I’m checking out the state on Pinterest, I’m legitimately excited to go back and explore! (And praying that it isn’t too steamy!) Anyway, back to how you can plan your awesome route!

Now I have pictures and lists of all the best places to visit in Iowa, so I can start pinning them to my travel board. Then I’ll repeat the search process with any other states I’ll be visiting or passing through. The great thing about this is that Pinterest will store your pins indefinitely, so if you miss something on the road or want to remember stops for your next road trip, they will all be stored on your Pinterest board.

This is easily the most fun part of planning a road trip. You get to sit on Pinterest, look at pretty pictures, and daydream about all the awesome stuff you’ll see one you hit the road.

I went ahead and added a few pins based on my Iowa search to my 2016 travel map. For reference, here is our travel map for the entire year of 2016.

The different colors on my map relate to seasons: blue for winter, green for spring and summer, and red for the fall. The non-pin shapes indicate flights and our home base of Austin, Texas.

The Actual Road Trip Part

You’ll see on my map above that in addition to lots of pins, I’ve got blue lines connecting many of them. With Google My Maps, you can connect up to 10 destinations with directions. This will do two awesome things for you:

A) It will tell you the exact step-by-step directions for your road trip and

B) It will help you find detours and places to visit along the way.

For example, here’s the step-by-step directions for our summer road trip from Texas, to Colorado, to Canada, to Iowa, across to Oregon. I love how this also tells you the number of miles you’ll travel and how long it will take. We travel no more than six Google Maps hours a day, so now I know this road trip will call for at least two weeks of drive days.

When we initially made our map, our destinations for our summer trip were Texas to “somewhere where it isn’t hot” to Iowa to Oregon. Now, as you can see, we’ve added stops in a few different places in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Canada. After finding Banff National Park, Google My Maps showed me that we had to drive along the Rockies to get to Alberta. Then I was able  to find minor but beautiful detours like La Veta, Colorado (pictured below), the Grand Tetons, and Glacier National Park using Pinterest.

We’re currently camping in Colorado for a few days before continuing on to Wyoming to visit the National Parks there. These little stops wouldn’t have made it on our route if we hadn’t been able to plot it so easily with Google My Maps and Pinterest.

This method of using Pinterest + Google My Maps is how I’ve been planning all of our road trips for the past two years. How do you typically plan your road trips? Was this helpful? Comment below and let me know.

• About Author
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Alyssa Padgett

Travel blogger

The second half of Team Padgett and the chief navigator in our travels. I blog about our latest adventures, how I run our business from the road, and the ridiculous things Heath does on a daily basis. Fortunately, my husband thinks I'm funny.

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13 responses.

This is SO helpful! I’m bookmarking it for future reference 🙂 Thank you!

Yay! I’m glad it helped 🙂 Then maybe one day we can meet up with you on the road!

[…] How to Plan a Road Trip Using Pinterest […]

[…] How to Plan a Road Trip Using Pinterest and Google Maps […]

I will writing that down. I have used Roadtrippers in the past, then do google maps from A to B and print it out just in case GPS issues. But the pins on a full map and step by step to ten at a time? I NEVER would have known that. Flipping sweet. Plus we are setting out from SA Town… so possibly very similar. Thanks again.

For me it’s the easiest way! I never really liked Roadtrippers and Pinterest tends to give really good destination ideas 🙂

It seems nice and cohesive. I do have a travel board among the 5 or 10 or 20 other boards. haha

I will be playing around with this! I am struggling to figure out a system to combine my Pinterest boards, bookmarks, Saved places in Facebook, etc. I’ve been using Roadtrippers to develop basic routes, and created an Excel file to track reservations. Yeesh.

Right?! It can get so overwhelming!

great post, would you be able to share the link for your google maps road trip around the USA? I would like to see all the pins you have dropped and what they are. Steve

Hey Steve! You can follow us on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/alyssapadgett/ but you can see all of our Google maps on our travel page: Heathandalyssa.com/travel

Wonderful idea. I was clueless about Google Drive and what you can do with it. I’ve used an old-school huge atlas (I love maps) and Google Maps for mileage and a dose of reality. Fall 2017 – Summer 2018, we’ll be traveling in a huge circle around the country pulling our little cargo trailer with our “live comfortably in a tent” gear. The pinterest/google drive approach will be great!

[…] Heath & Alyssa: […]

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How to Plan Your Road Trip Using Pinterest

When it comes to planning a road trip, Pinterest isn’t the number one source that comes to mind. Aside from the fact that Pinterest is a great place to get lost in a sea of copycat recipes and makeshift tutorials, it also can be an incredible resource for planning your next road trip adventure.

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Some of the most beautiful places we’ve visited in the past three years of RVing I’ve found because of Pinterest, like this awesome sight on the coast of Oregon called Thor’s Well.

Or this awesome view of the Grand Tetons:

Why Plan a Road Trip Using Pinterest

• It’s the perfect place to go for inspiration.

If you’re looking for inspiration or motivation to get out and travel more, Pinterest is a one stop shop for “travelspiration.”

There is no shortage of inspirational quotes pasted on photos of stunning landscapes.

Before we decided to go on our  fifty state honeymoon tour,  I spent a lot of time on Pinterest planning our wedding and getting distracted by gorgeous photos of beaches and mountains. I soon found myself daydreaming less about our wedding day and more about what we do after the wedding. Where would we honeymoon? Where would we live? Scrolling through Pinterest sparked a desire in me to see the world and everything it had to offer.

If you’re considering RVing full-time or just getting out and traveling more, there is no better place to get lost in jaw-dropping landscapes and travel inspiration.

• It’s the best place to find off the beaten path destinations.

When people hear that you’re heading west, they all recommend you go to Yellowstone. When you go east, everyone says to hit coastal towns like Savannah and Charleston.

Yes, I’ve been to Yellowstone. But even better was discovering the Grand Tetons, which I found on Pinterest while searching for things to do in Wyoming.

There are also millions of Pinterest posts that offer quirky travel destinations like “12 Stops to Make on Route 66” or “Best Ice Cream in All 50 States.”

Posts like these are gold and a great way to uncover hidden gems.

How to Plan a Road Trip Using Pinterest

• Research Places to Visit

Googling ‘where to visit in Maine’ can be overwhelming. You’ll likely end up with a bunch of tourist board websites and maybe a link to a Buzzfeed article.

The great thing about Pinterest is that instead of sifting through titles and text, you can simply look at pictures. Here’s what I got when I searched in Pinterest for places to visit in Maine, where we are planning to spend our summer:

This gives me a few great options right off the top: coastal towns, tips for visiting Acadia National Park, plus nine road trips in Maine worth taking (And one out of place ad for traveling to Norway).

I clicked on the pin offering tips for visiting Acadia and found a long list of restaurants to visit (plus what they offer on the menu), advice on trails to hike, and mentions of various tourist companies in the area, like Lulu’s Lobster Boat Ride which sounds awesome.

Heath and I are planning on visiting Acadia for two weeks in August, so this pin on “Tips for Visiting Acadia National Park” was incredibly helpful for us.

• Pick Your Favorite Pins

What I love about clicking through links on Pinterest is that it feels often like you’re asking a friend for suggestions. Most links go to personal blogs by fellow travelers or bloggers. This can be especially helpful if you are looking specifically at posts related to RVing. Fellow RVers know to include important info in their posts, like whether or not you’ll encounter low clearances or length restrictions while visiting a new place.

Pro tip:  A good way to vet out what quality of content you’ll get on the other side of a pin is to look at the photo. How are the graphics? Does this look like a professional photo or a pixelated photo from a family vacation with text thrown on top?

I typically look out for obvious stock photos or photos that look  too  professional. I’ve found that those typically link back to sites with the least useful information and are just using photos to get re-pins.

• Save Articles for Future Reference

The other great thing about Pinterest is how easily you can re-pin and save places that you really want to visit. This is especially helpful when you’re planning an extended road trip and don’t want to forget tips you’ve found online.

You can create a travel board to save all your pins to, or create different boards for different parts of the country (Pacific Northwest, the South, the Keys) or different terrains (national parks, beaches, deserts, etc.).

When you re-pin your favorites, you can also change the description in the pin to remind yourself what information you found there.

I’ve been using Pinterest in this way for years, ever since planning our fifty-state honeymoon tour back in 2014. And even after visiting all fifty states, it continues to show me cool places that I missed during our first tour, like Shipwreck Coast in Michigan and Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Planning a road trip is one of the most exciting things to look forward to. I’m constantly dreaming about national parks along our route and our upcoming trip to the Florida Keys. Dreaming of future travel destinations is the single most inspiring thing to think about when I’m having a rough day, or our rig breaks down or I second guess why we decided to live in a home on wheels.

The way Pinterest easily displays pins on a board with beautiful pictures keeps your future road trip front of mind and inspired to Go RVing (see what I did there?).

Have you found any roadside gems using Pinterest? Let us know in the comments!

Heath & Alyssa Padgett

We've been RVing since 2014. What started as a honeymoon dream to visit all fifty states spun into an obsession with RV living and RVing around the world.

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Road Trip USA: 28 Amazing Photos to Inspire You

Often when we talk to our friends back home they ask us what our favorite countries are in the world. And they are generally surprised when the good ‘ol US of A makes our top 10 list. Sometimes we get so caught up in the hype of international travel we forget how incredible and diverse the scenery is in our own backyard.

That is why in the fall of 2016 we decided to pack up our lives and embark on a 6-month road trip from Portland, Oregon to Key West, Florida, and back again. With plenty of meandering along the way, we managed to rack up over 22,000 miles on our 1994 Ford Bronco. We spent ~150 nights camping under the stars in the spectacular National Parks and public lands of the United States.

During our road trip in the USA, we explored iconic US destinations like Havasu Falls , New Orleans , and Gatlinburg, TN . We soaked in secluded hot springs , hiked in the Great Smoky Mountains , and even won the lottery for The Wave in Northern Arizona (one of the most difficult places to visit in the USA).

Here are a few of our favorite pictures we took along the way. We hope they inspire you to take your own road trip across this beautiful country!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

28 Road Trip Photos from the USA

1. buckskin gulch, utah.

Buckskin Gulch is the longest slot canyon in the US and is one of our favorite places in the country. While its colors are not as bright as Antelope Canyon and it doesn’t have the rushing water of The Narrows in Zion National Park, it does offer a very similar setting with almost complete solitude. Buckskin Gulch is located in a remote part of Southern Utah near the town of Kanab.

It is also located just a short distance from the famous ‘Wave’ in Northern Arizona . You can hike the entire 24-miles of the canyon or just journey in a short distance and return the way you came. Prepare to be awed by the towering sandstone walls of the narrow canyon!

2. Antelope Island, Utah

Antelope Island State Park , located just north of Salt Lake City, is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake. There, you’ll have 42 square miles of protected land to explore. However, the most amazing part feature of this island is the free-roaming heard of over 500 American bison.

In Spring 2017, this state park was designated an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. They work to protect night skies and avoid light pollution. It makes Antelope Island State Park a great place to stargaze and do a little bit of astrophotography.

3. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the least visited parks in the United States National Park System. That’s likely because it is located 70 miles off the southern tip of Florida and is mostly open water with just seven small islands.

But there are plenty of reasons to visit this national park. In addition to beautiful coral reefs and crystal clear water, the largest island is home to the historic Fort Jefferson. This massive fortress was built during the 19th century to protect the shipping channel between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Today, you can wander freely through the long-abandoned fortress taking in the sweeping views of the turquoise ocean and white sand beaches. There are no accommodations in the park. Camping is allowed, but you’ll need to make reservations months in advance to secure one of the eight campsites for a night.

The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane. There is a daily ferry that runs between Dry Tortugas National Park and Key West.

4. Havasu Falls, Arizona

When people ask us where our favorite place is in the USA, we enthusiastically respond with Havasu Falls! The setting of a lush valley in the middle of the desert with a turquoise river flowing through it over a series of increasingly beautiful waterfalls is just something out of a fairy tale.

Getting a permit for Havasu Falls requires a bit of planning and a bit of luck, but it’s absolutely worth it! If you’re thinking about visiting, make sure you check out our Havasu Falls Packing List !

5. Desert View Watchtower, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring sights during your road trip in the USA. Standing at its edge is on many a traveler’s bucket list.

If you just have one day at the Grand Canyon , then hike the South Kaibab Trail or the Rim Trail to check out all of the epic viewpoints. Desert View Watchtower, Hopi Point, and Mather Point are a few of the best viewpoints in Grand Canyon National Park .

If you have more time, there are lots of other cool ways to explore the Grand Canyon – hike the bright angel trail to the floor of the canyon, raft the Colorado River, or take a helicopter tour from Las Vegas!

While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is more accessible, you’ll find that the North Rim is much quieter, yet equally as beautiful.

6. Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana

Oak Alley is one of the beautiful plantations along the River Road located on the outskirts of New Orleans . If you’re heading to the Big Easy, you should definitely take a day off drinking and go visit this well-preserved piece of Southen history.

Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds so you can explore the massive landscape and the 28 live oak trees before you head inside the big house for a tour. Photos don’t do the place justice, but photographers from all levels can submit their photos, including landscape, architecture, still life, and photographic art, for the Oak Alley Photography Contest.

7. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Spanning the continental divide of North America and encompassing one of the most stunning portions of the Rocky Mountains, this national park can’t be missed if you’re driving across Colorado . It’s packed with visitors in the summer, but if you visit during the winter months, you’ll find it easy to find a bit of solitude among the epic snowy landscapes.

The Rocky Mountains National Park is located 90 minutes from Denver and it’s roughly 415 square miles boasting 77 peaks and 156 lakes. You can spend your days doing a little bit of camping, hiking, and fishing in the summer, or go skiing near Grand Lake in the winter!

8. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Located in the desert of southern California, Joshua Tree National Park offers some experiences that shouldn’t be missed! There are many trails open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and there are even opportunities for rock climbing. 

The park spans about 794,000 acres and has four visitor centers – Joshua Tree, Oasis, Cottonwood, and Black Rock. The park offers three entry points, including Yucca Valley in the west, Twentynine Palms in the north, and Cottonwood Springs in the south. 

We recommend visiting during the spring and the fall, as temperatures are more manageable. However, the park is open all year. Go and gaze at the rugged rock formations, the funky Joshua trees, and the stunning desert landscapes. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll want to take endless photos!

9. White Pocket, Arizona

White Pocket, Arizona is one of the most picturesque places in the United States. The marbled orange and white sandstone have been eroded into incredible formations that just don’t seem real until you see them with your own eyes.

White Pocket isn’t visited as much due to its remoteness – you’ll certainly need a 4WD vehicle to access the area! The drive itself is a great adventure. When you start exploring on your two feet, you’ll be astonished at all of the colors, shapes, and textures in the area. Just be cautious as it is a fragile environment, so tread lightly and enjoy the sights of the beautiful stones.

10. Racetrack Playa, California

Death Valley is one of the most barren and remote National Parks . It is full of unworldly landscapes, including huge sand dunes, expansive salt flats, and the mysterious Racetrack Playa.

The Racetrack is nestled between the Cottonwood and Last Chance Ranges. The roads leading to it are rough. Make sure you have good tires and spares since there’s no cellphone coverage in the area.

The best part of Racetrack Play was a mystery for many years. Large stones drift across the dried-up lake bed on thin sheets of ice that form when weather conditions align perfectly. You can see the trails of the dragged stones across the ground leaving trails showing their journey.

11. Christine Falls, Washington

Mount Ranier National Park is often overlooked by people during a road trip in the USA. But, if you’re planning a west coast road trip , then this national park should definitely be a part of it.

The park is full of stunning waterfalls that are easily accessible from the road – make sure you check out Myrtle Falls and Christine Falls. Christine Falls is framed by a historic arching bridge with a 60-foot waterfall. Visit in the summer as the skyline trail offers some of the most photogenic vistas in the entire USA!

12. Sequoia National Park, California

Sequoia National Park in California is home to the world’s largest trees. Wandering through a grove of giant sequoia trees is a surreal experience that should be on everyone’s USA bucket list .

The largest of these trees (and the largest living tree in the world) is the General Sherman Tree. It has a circumference of 102.6 feet at its base. The Sequoia trees are some of the largest and oldest trees in the world. They can live for over 3,000 years due to a chemical in the bark – it protects them against rot and fire!

The park also has over 800 miles of trails. If you’re there during the hiking season – July to September – hike by the trees, sheer cliffs, and river canyons to your heart’s content.

13. Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake has to be seen to be believed! At 1,949 feet, it is the deepest lake in the United States. It fills the massive caldera that was created when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed over 700 years ago.

You can visit in the summer if you want to swim in the crystal clear waters. You can also come in the winter to enjoy the spectacular scenery by snowshoe or cross country skis. It’s definitely a must-visit for any Pacific Northwest road trip ! Read more about visiting Crater Lake here.

14. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands National Park is located in southeastern Utah. Known for its desert landscape, it definitely deserves a place on your road trip in the USA bucket list! 

There are endless canyons, mesas, fins, arches, and spires to explore. It’s divided into four districts – Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Green and Colorado rivers. Head to the Island in the Sky as it is more accessible and offers views along the paved scenic drive.

If it’s backcountry experiences that you’re searching for, then the Needles is the place. You can explore by hiking or driving a 4×4 around the area. You can also embark on some flatwater trips on the rivers, including canoeing or kayaking. 

There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Canyonlands National Park. Make sure you don’t miss it!

15. Monument Valley, Arizona

Monument Valley in Arizona houses some of the tallest (up to 1,000 feet!) and most impressive sandstone rock formations in the US. You may recognize them from Hollywood movies and TV shows – from Forrest Gump and 2001: A Space Odyssey to Westworld and The Man in the High Castle .

You can head to the visitor center to explore the museum and attend a guided tour by either car or horseback. There’s also a Navajo archaeology exhibit and a collection of arts and crafts to peruse. Another option is to do a self-guided drive to check out the unique rock formations. 

Make sure you don’t miss this natural wonder of the world!

16. Anza-Borrego Desert, California

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located within the Colorado Desert in southern California. Named after Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza, it is the largest state park in California.

The parks span around 600,000 acres with 110 miles worth of hiking trails. It’s best to visit during the winter and spring to avoid the desert heat during your hiking trips. Plus, the spring season covers multiple areas with amazing wildflowers. 

Start your day at the underground visitor center to learn about the park and finish it laying on a blanket and gazing at the star-speckled sky!

17. Point Reyes, California

Just 30-miles Northwest of San Francisco, Point Reyes Peninsula is a wild and beautiful place to explore. You can explore miles of hiking trails and epic sea kayaking along the rugged coastline.

Visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse built in the 1800s to help sea travel from San Francisco north. There’s also the Inverness Shipwreck located on a sandbar in Tomales Bay. Make sure you don’t miss walking through an incredibly photogenic tunnel of massive old cyprus trees!

18. Ramona Falls, Oregon

The hike to Ramona Falls is a 7.1-mile loop trail near Rhododendron, Oregon. With an elevation of over 1,000 feet, it might be a challenge for some and takes roughly three hours to complete. If you’re not up for the trek, you can also complete the trail on a fun horseback ride! 

Whether you opt to hike or go on horseback, it’s a worthy adventure to check out the 120-foot-tall waterfall. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to be in awe at this amazing waterfall!

19. Big Sur, California

The Bixby Bridge in Big Sur is one of the most iconic stops along a  Pacific Coast Highway road trip . It’s just 18 miles south of Monterey. The drive offers spectacular coastal views as the road winds its way along the sea cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean.

The bridge is made of reinforced concrete with an impressive arch. It’s also popular among photographers and one of the most photographed bridges in California!

20. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

Miles of white gypsum sand dunes make White Sand National Monument in New Mexico one of the most strikingly beautiful places in the United States. It contains only 10 designated campsite and visitors without a camping permit must exit the park before 9 pm.

Camping under the stars in this vast white desert made White Sands was one of our favorite experiences on our road trip in the USA. It is also one of our top alternatives to the country’s busier National Parks .

21. Penny Hot Springs, Colorado

Penny Hot Springs is an inviting little off-the-beaten-path hot spring located just outside of Carbondale, Colorado on the banks of the Crystal River. The landscape is particularly stunning in the winter when the riverbanks are covered in snow!

If you visit during the winter, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking or skiing. The boiling water seeps up from the ground with a few pools sectioned off right alongside the river. The water gets hot! However, if the tide is right, cool water from the river can flow in making it the perfect temperature.

22. The Wave, Arizona

The Wave is famous for its orange and white swirls of sandstone that come together to form – you guessed it – a perfect wave.

We spent a week in Kanab, Utah attempting to obtain a permit for The Wave . It’s one of the most difficult pieces of public land in the USA to visit. It is also one of the most stunning.

If you want to try your luck at obtaining one of the daily permits to hike through Coyote Buttes North, make sure you check out our ultimate guide to visiting The Wave .

23. Druid Arch, Utah

The Druid Arch Trail is a challenging hiking trail. But rest assured, it is well worth it to take in the views of the 150-foot-tall arch! Located within the Needles District of the Canyonlands National Park, its Druid name comes from its resemblance to the Stonehenge monument.

You can start your hike to the arch at the Elephant Hill trailhead. It’s about a 10.8-mile distance, so it takes an average of 4-5 hours to complete. Keep going to enjoy epic vistas of the canyons and the towering “needles” until you reach Druid Arch.

This hike is so spectacular it will be the highlight of your road trip in the USA!

24. Temple of the Sun, Utah

The Temple of the Sun and The Temple of the Moon are stunning! You’ll find them in the remote Cathedral Valley section of Capitol Reef National Park. You’ll need some patience to get out there as it’s 15 miles down a rough dirt road. However, it’s definitely a worthy adventure!

The Temple is a large, freestanding rock formation composed of Entrada Sandstone formed by deposition of sand and slit. If you have time for some hiking, there are a few round-trip hiking routes you can take. There’s the Jailhouse Rock and Temple Rock route, which roughly takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

If it’s a bird’s eye view of the Temples that you’re searching for, take the Lower Cathedral Valley Overlooks route. The path is faint, so keep that in mind, but the hike roughly takes about 1-2 hours to complete. Make sure to add this location to your road trip in the USA bucket list!

PS. Capital Reef is one of the more underrated National Parks in the US . Y ou should absolutely visit if you can!

25. Angels Landing, Utah

Angels Landing is one of our favorite hikes we did during our road trip in the USA and a highlight of everyone’s Zion National Park itinerary . It offers sweeping views of Zion Canyon. However, it’s not a hiking trail for the faint of heart or for hikers with a fear of heights. 

You’ll begin the hike by ascending a set of 21 steep switchbacks (known as “Walter’s Wiggles”). It will test your endurance! You’ll end it by scrambling along rock ledges while holding onto metal chains 1,400′ above the canyon floor!

Angels Landing is one of the most popular  Zion National Park hikes . As such, it’s best to hike it early in the morning or midweek. On busy weekends, you’ll almost certainly have to wait in line for your turns using the chains at the end of the hike.

26. Goblin Valley, Utah

Goblin Valley is as close as you will get to visiting Mars (that is until it is actually possible to travel to Mars!). This state park is full of unique mushroom-shaped rock formations referred to as goblins. It was also featured in films like Galaxy Quest , City Slickers II , and The Tree of Life due to its otherworldly scenery.

Not for the faint of heart, adventure-seekers can rappel into Goblin’s Lair – a 70-foot sandstone cave on the east side of the valley. Backcountry permits are required for this adventure, and you can also rappel with a guide. For something a bit more mellow, there are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and stargazing.

We recommend a visit during the spring and fall seasons as it can get very hot during the summer. Winter is a good time to visit too, but the nights get very cold (sometimes they reach 0°F!). Nothing a good cuddle won’t fix!

27. Zapata Falls, Colorado

Zapata Falls – a 25-foot secluded waterfall hidden by rocks – is a Colorado hidden gem worthy of a visit during your road trip in the USA!

Even from the parking lot, you can appreciate the views of the Great Sand Dunes and the San Juan Mountains. Make sure you arrive early, so you don’t miss the sunrise against the landscape. It is breathtaking!

The trip to Zapata Falls will make you work for it as you hike through chilly waters and slippery rocks. But don’t worry, it’s only about a half-mile from the parking lot, and it’s well worth the effort.

 28. Alvord Desert, Oregon

Located in Harney County in Oregon, the Alvord Desert is an 84-square-mile dry lake bed set in the shadows of Steens Mountain. It’s the perfect place to go driving around in your 4×4 during the day and stargazing at night.

You can hike up the dunes at the far end of the playa or pick out any spot of the desert to set up camp for the night. There’s also the privately owned Alvord Hot Springs. Head out there for a relaxing soak. You can also stock up on groceries and firewood if you’re camping out.

Preparing for a road trip in the USA? Check out our favorite resources!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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2 thoughts on “road trip usa: 28 amazing photos to inspire you”.

Hey what a great list! I’ve spent years road tripping the USA and haven’t seen most of these. LOL – What the heck was I doing???

My amazing grands! My armchair travels through you!

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How to Plan for Road Trip Photography

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Of all the different ways you could choose to travel, my favourite by far is a road trip. Road trips give you a freedom that is very difficult to get from other forms of travel. You can go where you want when you want. You can change your plans last minute. And you can even drive with no destination in mind if you like.

Road Trip Photography: Capturing the Journey

The first section of the planning is all about the vehicle, accommodation, and route. This involves choosing a vehicle if you don’t already have one, deciding on how and where you would like to sleep, and deciding on the road trip route. These things are personal preference and will also depend on whom you’re traveling with.

• Is it safe and mechanically sound?
• Is it appropriate for the kind of terrain you’ll be driving?
• Will it be big enough for you, your travel buddies, and your gear?
• Will it be comfortable to drive for hours on end?
• What’s it like on gas? How much will it cost to drive and maintain?

These are important questions to ask before you decide on a vehicle, not just for the sake of your wallet, but also your safety.

Why You Need Access to Electricity

How to Stay Connected

When you’re planning a photography-specific road trip, there are several more things to consider.

Why You Should Be as Specific About Location as Possible

I mentioned in the previous section that I like to plan my route around the locations that I want to photograph. It’s worth getting a lot more specific with your photo planning . Don’t just write down the name of the location, think about the shots you want.

• What time of day will provide the best light?
• How long will it take to get there from where you’re staying?
• What time will the crowds arrive?
• Are there other places close by that could provide some good shots to maximise your time there?

How to Back Up Your Photos

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A Seward Highway road trip promises epic adventures

The skybridge above New Year’s Chute is one of two Veilbreaker Skybridges that collectively span 600 feet and are suspended 2,500 feet above the valley floor, at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. (Emily Mesner / ADN)

Anchorage visitors venturing beyond city limits will find a scenic escape via the Seward Highway, a spectacular route with a surprising number of roadside diversions that culminates in a storied harbor town.

This renowned 125-mile roadway runs south from Anchorage to the town of Seward. The first portion follows alongside a narrow finger of water called Turnagain Arm. This historic waterway is named for British explorer Captain James Cook, who had to “turn again” when his ship reached its dead end.

Along the journey, the highway is framed by the dramatic Chugach and Kenai Mountains. Ancient glaciers peek through lush summertime greenery. Passing small communities, rustic roadhouses and pristine alpine lakes, the highway terminates in Seward on the edge of Resurrection Bay.

The time-pressed traveler could make it to Seward and back in one long, full day, logging five-plus road hours alone. But overnighting in Seward (or elsewhere) offers a more enjoyable and leisurely experience, and allows time to appreciate the Alaska scenery and character, along with the history, recreation and dining offered along the way.

About 45 minutes south of Anchorage, Girdwood is a laid-back ski town that relocated inland a few miles from the Seward Highway after the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake.

For Alaskans and visitors alike, Girdwood is a recreation mecca, with a charming collection of memorable restaurants, art galleries, ski chalets and condos. Winter slopes and ski lifts transform to host downhill mountain biking come summer. Paved paths thread through the town, offering an opportunity to take in scenery during a stroll.

Jake Jankowski and Kelly McDermid walk along Glacier Creek near its confluence with Winner Creek. The area is a popular summer destination. (Marc Lester / ADN)

For hikers, the user-friendly Winner Creek Trail begins just behind the picturesque Hotel Alyeska. For a challenge, tackle the south end of the 21-mile Crow Pass Trail, which connects Girdwood to Eagle River’s outskirts north of Anchorage. The first few miles of the Girdwood end of the trail wind upward, with breathtaking views of glaciers, jagged mountaintops and remnants of long-gone gold mining efforts.

Girdwood’s dining options are impressively plentiful. Begin at a local icon, The Bake Shop, open as of press time Wednesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. A morning-time staple for 40-plus years, The Bake Shop features homestyle favorites like sourdough pancakes and sweet rolls. For lunch, the shop switches to homemade soups and sandwiches on fresh-baked bread.

For a special dinner experience, try Jack Sprat. Its regional cuisine with an Alaska touch is truly special, highlighting seasonal fresh produce and locally sourced protein such as halibut. The tall chalet windows offer romantic views of the mountainside. Check the restaurant’s website for hours.

Nearby, stalwart Double Musky Inn is a tucked-away steakhouse known for colorful French Quarter decor, a world-class wine cellar and spot-on Creole classics with Alaska flair. Its lively elegance has delighted locals and tourists alike for decades. There will be a wait many nights, but it’s worth it.

For a fun, relaxed vibe, pop by Girdwood Brewing Co. With indoor tables and outdoor seating around gas-fed fire pits, sip pints or smaller-pour taster glasses while ordering from one or more local food trucks that rotate on site; the truck schedule is updated on the brewery’s website. They also sell trendy hoodies, trucker hats and artsy stickers to remember your sudsy Girdwood detour.

Like Girdwood, Portage once sat alongside the Seward Highway, but after the 1964 quake, Portage faded away, with little remaining today but the remains of decrepit cabins overtaken by aggressive brush. In Portage’s place, visitors today will find the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Mile 79 Seward Highway), a sprawling sanctuary across 200 acres that provides large-enclosure spaces for orphaned and rehabilitating Alaska animals.

View animals by either driving, walking the 1.5-mile loop encircling the center, or booking a tour with one of the staff naturalists. Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. May 1 through Sept. 15. Check the website for additional hours.

A Princess cruise ship is in port at Whittier. Small boats make their way around Passage Canal behind the ship. (Anne Raup / ADN)

An eastern turn at Portage down Portage Valley Road delivers motorists to the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, and beyond that, the end-of-the-road town of Whittier.

As of this writing, the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center (Portage Lake Loop) is scheduled to open May 26, 2024. It sits about 5 miles east of the Seward Highway, a flat, pretty, quick drive. Named in honor of U.S. Reps. Nick Begich and Hale Boggs, whose flight in Alaska disappeared in 1972, the center is built on the edge of a lake on the moraine left by the receding Portage Glacier. The glacier is visible via boat trips to its front. The center itself offers science-geared educational opportunities for adults and kids alike.

Drive farther and travelers will encounter a truly different experience by way of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. The 2.5-mile-long, one-way toll highway tunnel is a dark and moody viaduct through the formidable mountains. The longest in North America, it was originally a train tunnel connecting the western side of Turnagain Arm to the military port town of Whittier. Find tunnel schedules online to time your visit accordingly.

Whittier exists as a critical deep-water port. In this unusual community, most residents call one of two large buildings home due to the lack of housing and buildable land. For activities, there are glacier-viewing boats, hiking and fishing. The town’s single hotel, the lovely Inn at Whittier, was closed early in 2024 after flooding; reopening updates will be posted on their website. Camping and RV options exist as well.

The one-way toll tunnel is strange enough to warrant a one-hour side trip. If you have time, visit the small but surprisingly comprehensive Prince William Sound Museum. An impressive number of exhibits fills its snug space, capturing the story of Whittier’s history.

Arriving in Seward is a show-stopper. As the highway ends at last, the view opens up to this special place that’s surrounded by the dramatic mountains ringing Resurrection Bay. Seward is home to an amiable community with a hodgepodge economy built on fishing outfits, kayak companies, sightseeing excursions, shops, restaurants and bars, plus there’s a beautiful boat harbor where visitors can walk the docks. About 2,625 people live here year-round, and summer cruise ships can deliver thousands of visitors a day.

A humpback whale surface feeds in the company of opportunistic kittiwakes at the mouth of Resurrection Bay near Seward. (Erik Hill / ADN archive)

Highlights of Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center, a hands-on aquarium and working science facility that boasts opportunities to ogle diving puffins and swimming sea lions, peer at octopus up close and learn about the special place that is Resurrection Bay.

From the SeaLife Center, a leisurely walk up Fourth Avenue provides a serene sense of Seward’s long-ago frontier culture, with Old West storefronts, historical murals, steepled churches and commemorative plaques and historical markers. A paved footpath that runs from the SeaLife Center along the waterfront toward the harbor is a pleasant way to enjoy the mountain scenery.

Seward has plenty of hotels and motels, home rentals, hostel beds, camping and RV options for those overnighting it.

Beyond the roadways, day cruises through Kenai Fjords National Park are a popular way to soak up the glorious waters of Resurrection Bay. Otters, seals, puffins, orcas and various migrating whales all may make cameos on these charters, some of which include island stopovers for meals.

To see a glacier by foot, carve out a couple of hours for a stop at Exit Glacier. Located just inside Kenai Fjords National Park, this glacier at the edge of Harding Icefield recedes annually, to the sadness of many fans. But a moderately graded walking path leads to overlooks where the glacier is still visible and can be photographed.

Visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park get a look at Exit Glacier. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Seward is synonymous with fishing, and there are a bounty of half- or full-day charters that fish for halibut, salmon or both. Charters typically provide all fishing gear, and in town, there are options for having fish filleted and flash-frozen for shipping after your excursion ends. These trips depart early and return late and make for a full Alaska experience. Play your cards right, and you will enjoy the scenery of a wildlife-viewing trip while returning home with a freezer’s worth of fish to commemorate your unique and unforgettable Alaska vacation long after it’s over.

Enjoy Illinois recommends things to do, best places to visit for summer road trip season

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) -The kids are counting down the days until summer break which may have some of you planning ahead for fun road trips for the family.

Daniel Thomans, Deputy Director at Enjoy Illinois , offers many recommendations for attractions and destinations only a car ride away including getaways in and around Chicago , the Springfield area (the state capitol), outdoor adventures in the Southeastern part of the state , and outstanding l ocal resources and amenities right here in the Quad Cities.

Travel recommendations featured are Millennium Park, Chicago Architecture Cruise, Morton Arboretum, Six Flags Great America, The Forge: Lemont Quarries, Route 66 Legends Neon Sign Park, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library , Cozy Drive-in, Shawnee Hills Glamping, Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, Shawnee Hills Lavender, Rendleman Orchard, Celebration Belle, John Deere Pavilion, Lagomarcino’s, Great River Road & Nauvoo, and Quincy.

Also notable is that the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), has announced the release of its spring/summer 2024 issue of Enjoy Illinois--now available in digital and print --as the state’s free travel magazine the best attractions, outdoor activities, events and stays in the state.

To learn more about summer travel, recommended itineraries and road trips, visit EnjoyIllinois.com .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Enjoy Illinois (@enjoyillinois)

Copyright 2024 KWQC. All rights reserved.

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Parents worry after explicit AI-generated photos of high schoolers spread online

NEVADA, Iowa (KCCI) - An investigation is underway after explicit photographs of high school students, generated by artificial intelligence, circulated in an Iowa school district. Parents of the victims fear those who are responsible won’t be punished.

Chad Borwick’s child is one of the Nevada High School students whose image was altered to make them appear naked in photographs that were posted to social media.

“It spread like wildfire. It spread through our high school, our middle school, and you know the kids have probably spread it to other school districts, to other friends. It’s probably going to spread around all those,” Borwick said.

Ida Nady’s child is among the victims, as well.

“You don’t want things to happen to your kids. You want them to have better,” Nady said.

The Story County Sheriff’s Office is investigating, but parents like Borwick and Nady said they are worried no one will be held accountable. They said investigators told them there was probably little they could do, as the Iowa criminal code is not yet clear on the laws surrounding creating and distributing explicit AI-generated photos.

“Our daughters are being victimized, and it doesn’t seem like there’s anything we can do about it,” Borwick said.

“They’re going to feel like they don’t matter, their voice doesn’t matter,” Nady said.

State Sen. Chris Cournoyer, R-LeClaire, led a bill through the Iowa Senate this session that was signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds just last week. The bill makes it a felony to create media of minors or their likeness engaged in a sexual act or in full or partial nudity. It doesn’t go into effect until July 1.

“While the images may be fake, the effects they have on people are very real,” Cournoyer said.

She says the situation at Nevada High is exactly what she said she hopes this bill prevents in the future.

“We tried to put some real teeth into this law, and I think that will be a big difference, knowing that there are some pretty dire consequences if you do these types of things to people in the state of Iowa,” Cournoyer said.

The school district said it’s turned over the investigation to law enforcement and won’t issue any disciplinary actions until it is complete.

Copyright 2024 KCCI via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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Mom reunited with kids after husband arrested in Turks and Caicos for ammunition

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Gray News) - An Oklahoma mom had an emotional reunion with her two kids Tuesday, but one family member was missing.

Valerie Watson has spent more than a week out of the country. She and her husband Ryan were held in Turks and Caicos after bullets were inadvertently left in their luggage after a hunting trip.

It’s a serious offense on those islands, with a minimum prison sentence of 12 years. Officials released Valerie Watson on Monday but locked up her husband.

“We know that God’s still working, and he’s working through us,” Valerie Watson said.

“I’ve been thinking about this moment for a while,” she said of being reunited with her kids. “I didn’t know when it was going to happen. I was prepared to also be arrested yesterday.”

The Watsons have some help in their fight. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt sent a letter to government officials in Turks and Caicos on April 16. He calls Watson “an avid outdoorsman,” arguing the ammunition was “an inadvertent oversight, not an intentional attempt to break the law. "

The office of Sen. Markwayne Mullin said they’ve been in touch with the family and are doing everything they can to help.

Valerie Watson said she’s been anticipating embracing her children.

“I don’t even have words to describe it. Just getting to hold them again, it just filled my momma heart. It made me so happy. It just gives me a lot of comfort to know that I get to be here with them now. But my wife heart is still breaking because Ryan’s not with me,” she said.

Valerie Watson said that there’s still work to be done to get her family back together.

“Routine has never sounded better, but I know our life is different. And our goal is to get Ryan home because we can’t be a family without Dad,” she said.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. KOKO via CNN Newsource contributed to this report.

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New ER vet hospital in keeps people with their pets

CINCINNATI (WXIX) -A new 24/7 veterinary emergency room opening in Cincinnati allows pet owners to stay with their dogs, cats, birds and other beloved animals through all stages of treatment, including surgery and overnight hospitalization.

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) is holding an 11:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday at 3702 Madison Road in Oakley.

VEG said in a news release they will provide families in Cincinnati and neighboring cities with “the highest level of emergency care in veterinary medicine, including surgeries, ultrasounds, x-rays and more.”

This is the second VEG hospital in Ohio.

Licensed veterinarians will always be available for pet emergencies, even on holidays and answer the phones to respond to medical questions.

The facility also immediately begins to care for pets when they come in the door instead of after their owners fill out paperwork.

“When a pet parent walks into VEG Cincinnati, they will immediately feel they have finally found a place that will provide their family and pet the best emergency veterinary experience that exists,” said Dr. David Bessler, VEG founder and CEO.

“Upon entering VEG Cincinnati, pet parents will feel a sigh of relief and comfort, as they are greeted with a friendly smile, empathetic attitude, and luxury comforts for them, and their pet. VEG has revolutionized veterinary emergency medicine by completely reworking the experience, so it works for people and their pets. When a pet parent calls VEG, they speak immediately with a licensed veterinarian to get their medical questions answered.

“VEG customers don’t need to wait and worry in a lobby. Instead, triage begins as soon as they walk in the door, even before filling out paperwork. Pet parents are allowed to stay with their pet through all stages of treatment, including surgery and overnight hospitalization.

The company also gives back to the community through VEG Cares, an initiative benefiting “underserved pets in crisis” and supports future emergency veterinarians by granting scholarships to students.

For more information, follow VEG on Instagram @veterinary_emergency_group for more on pet emergency tips.

You also can visit veg.com .

See a spelling or grammar error in our story? Please click here to report it .

Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description.

Copyright 2024 WXIX. All rights reserved.

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Stowaway cat shipped 650 miles from home in Amazon box

LEHI, Utah (KSL) - A Utah couple’s missing cat was found more than 600 miles away after she was accidentally shipped out with an Amazon return.

Carrie Stevens Clark and her husband, Matt Clark, say their cat, Galena, has a guilty pleasure: she likes to hide in boxes.

“She’s a hider,” Stevens Clark said. “She loves to play in boxes. It’s just a part of her personality.”

But it got her into trouble April 10 when she mysteriously disappeared from the Clarks’ home in Lehi, Utah. The couple spent hours looking for any sign of their beloved cat.

“That was the worst part: we had no idea what happened,” Stevens Clark said. “We put tons of flyers up. We contacted friends and family to help us search. We searched for a whole week.”

Just as it seemed all hope was lost, the couple got a phone call last Wednesday – from a veterinarian in California. Galena’s microchip had been scanned 650 miles away near the city of Riverside.

“I just couldn’t even believe that she was in California. I thought it was a prank. It’s still hard to wrap my brain around,” Stevens Clark said.

It turned out that Galena had gotten trapped in an Amazon package her owners were using to return some shoes. She slipped inside the box while at home and managed to go undetected.

“We had no idea, so Matt took the package to the drop-off without knowing that our dear cat was inside,” Stevens Clark said.

Galena went six days without food or water in the box until she was discovered by an Amazon employee named Brandy. The employee took the cat under her care, even taking her to the vet, until she could be returned to her family.

“We are so thankful for Brandy and for everything that she did for our kitty,” Stevens Clark said.

As soon as the Clarks heard Galena had been found, they booked a flight to reunite with her the next day. They say the cat’s recovery was nothing short of miraculous.

Other than some mild dehydration, Galena was unharmed during her trip. The box she was in was split open enough to give her air, and the temperatures were such that she didn’t overheat or freeze. She is now home and back to her old self.

“It was just the best because I know that under other circumstances, she wouldn’t have been found. We’re just so happy to have her again,” Stevens Clark said.

Stevens Clark adds that she wants to encourage all pet owners to microchip their pets and “triple-check your Amazon boxes.”

Copyright 2024 KSL via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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