Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cambridge, Ontario to Richmond, British Columbia

Driving from Cambridge, Ontario to Richmond, British Columbia can be a long and tiring journey. The route spans over 4000 km and takes approximately 39 hours of driving time. However, this drive can be made more enjoyable if you take some time to explore the hidden gems that lie along the way. In this article, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on your road trip from Cambridge, Ontario to Richmond, British Columbia.

Halfway Point - Dickinson, ND

Before we begin, it's important to note the halfway point of this journey. After driving through four U.S. states and three Canadian provinces, you will reach Dickinson, North Dakota. This small town is a perfect place to take a break, fuel up, and rest. With plenty of hotels and restaurants, you can stay the night and start fresh the next day.

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (Medora, ND)

The first stop on our trip is the Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. This small park is named after the 26th President of the United States, who was a passionate conservationist. The park is known for its rugged badlands, scenic drives, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the park to see bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. The park is also home to several unique geological formations, including the Painted Canyon and the Cannonball Concretions. When in Medora, make sure to try their famous bison burgers at Badlands Pizza & Saloon.

2. Glacier National Park (West Glacier, MT)

Our second stop is Glacier National Park in Montana, which is a hidden gem of the American West. This national park spans over 1,500 square miles and is home to hundreds of lakes, glaciers, and mountains. Visitors can take the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the park's landscapes. The park is also known for its hiking trails, which range from easy walks to challenging climbs. When in West Glacier, make sure to try the huckleberry ice cream at the Park Cafe.

3. Coeur D'Alene (Coeur D'Alene, ID)

The third stop on our journey is Coeur D'Alene in Idaho, which is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Coeur D'Alene. The town is known for its outdoor recreation, including biking, hiking, and skiing. Visitors can take a stroll along the lake's boardwalk or visit the world-famous Floating Green at the Coeur D'Alene Resort Golf Course. The town is also home to several art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. When in Coeur D'Alene, make sure to try the huckleberry pancakes at Michael D's Eatery.

4. Leavenworth (Leavenworth, WA)

The fourth stop on our trip is Leavenworth in Washington, which is a charming Bavarian-style village with a population of just over 2,000 people. The town is known for its quaint shops, authentic German cuisine, and festive celebrations throughout the year. Visitors can take a stroll along the town's streets, which are lined with Bavarian-style architecture, or visit one of the many local wineries. When in Leavenworth, make sure to try the bratwurst and sauerkraut at Andreas Keller Restaurant.

5. Harrison Hot Springs (Harrison Hot Springs, BC)

Our final stop is Harrison Hot Springs in British Columbia, which is a scenic resort town located at the southern end of Harrison Lake. The town is known for its natural hot springs, which have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. Visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters or take part in outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The town is also home to several spas, restaurants, and boutique shops. When in Harrison Hot Springs, make sure to try the fish and chips at Chantilly's On the Lake.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Cambridge, Ontario to Richmond, British Columbia can be a daunting task. However, by taking some time to explore the hidden gems along the way, you can turn this journey into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the rugged badlands of North Dakota to the natural hot springs of British Columbia, there are plenty of unexpected places to visit on this trip. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure.