Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa and Denver, Colorado

Road trips are a great way to satisfy your craving for adventure and create unforgettable memories. If you’re planning a road trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Denver, Colorado, be sure to buckle up and get ready for some exciting experiences. The journey from Cedar Falls to Denver is approximately 766 miles, and Kearney, Nebraska, marks the halfway point. Here are the top things to do on this trip:

Exploring Black Hills National Forest

A visit to the Black Hills National Forest is a must if you love nature and outdoor activities. Located in South Dakota, this forest covers over 1.2 million acres and spans two states. This lush and breathtaking forest is a natural wonder and offers various activities like hiking, picnicking, camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking. You can also go fishing in the numerous rivers, streams, and lakes.

Interesting Fact: The Black Hills are considered sacred land by the Lakota tribe and were originally part of the Great Sioux Reservation.

Discovering Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Located in Bayard, Nebraska, Chimney Rock National Historic Site is an iconic landmark that has stood for thousands of years. The site features a 325-foot spire rising above the North Platte River Valley. The rock served as a landmark for emigrants traveling on the Oregon Trail, marking a halfway point between Independence, Missouri, and Oregon. Visitors can take a guided trail to the base of the rock, explore the exhibits at the visitor center, and view a magnificent sunset over the Nebraska skyline.

Interesting Fact: Chimney Rock was named by the fur traders who called it "Elk Penis" in their journals due to its phallic shape.

Unwinding at Hot Springs State Park

Located in Thermopolis, Wyoming, Hot Springs State Park is a true oasis in the middle of the rugged Wyoming landscape. The park is home to the world's largest mineral hot springs, which offers various pools for you to relax and enjoy the therapeutic waters. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swinging bridge over the Bighorn River. The park also features a herd of bison, elk, and other wildlife.

Interesting Fact: The mineral springs at the park are believed to have formed as a result of rainwater seeping into the Earth's crust and returning to the surface under pressure.

Marveling at the Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a natural gem that attracts millions of visitors each year. The park is home to some of the highest peaks in the Rocky Mountains, pristine forests, alpine meadows, and wildlife like elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black bears. Visitors can hike on over 350 miles of trails, fish or go horseback riding. The park also features scenic drives, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

Interesting Fact: The highest point in the park is Longs Peak, which stands at 14,259 feet and is considered one of Colorado's best hikes.

Soaking up the History at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library

Located in Abilene, Kansas, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum is perfect for history buffs and political enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the interesting exhibits and artifacts that relate to the life and presidency of Eisenhower, who was the 34th President of the United States. On display are the World War II documents, military equipment, and the old family home where Eisenhower grew up.

Interesting Fact: Dwight D. Eisenhower was the first president to fly in a helicopter.

Conclusion

The road trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa, to Denver, Colorado, offers a range of activities and sights to experience. This trip is approximately 766 miles, and it takes approximately 11 hours of driving without stopping. Visiting Black Hills National Forest, Chimney Rock National Historic Site, Hot Springs State Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library are five must-visit stops along the way. The combination of historic landmarks, beautiful sites, and outdoor adventures make this road trip a memorable experience for any traveler. So, make your plans, pack your bags, and hit the road to discover the wonders of the Midwest.