Exploring the Best Road-Trip Destinations between Charlotte, NC and Calgary, AB

CHARLOTTE, NC - Canada's Calgary, AB, is over 2,600 miles from Charlotte, NC. Braving this long trek across various states and provinces can produce some of the best road-trip memories. En-route, travelers can experience some of nature's most stunning sights, most courteous hospitality, and some of the world's best cuisine.

A halfway point of the trip is Albany, MN, which offers some of the most breathtaking natural parks that every road-tripper would want to visit. But that’s not all. Throughout the road trip, some stops would make any itinerary more enjoyable.

Best Five Places to Visit on This Road Trip

1. Traverse City, MI Sublime wineries, stunning beaches, and a laidback ambiance make Traverse City an excellent road-trip destination for travelers from either Charlotte, NC, or Calgary, AB.

Interesting Fact: Traverse City is Michigan's Cherry Capital. The town holds the National Cherry Festival annually, usually occurring from June to July. If possible, road-trippers should try to attend and take advantage of the numerous cherry-themed events.

2. Badlands National Park, SD The Badlands National Park is South Dakota's natural wonderland, with a rugged terrain that's becoming increasingly popular for thrill-seekers' adventures and exciting wildlife sightings.

Interesting Fact: Paleontologists have discovered over 20 new species of prehistoric animals within the Badlands, including the infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex.

3. Banff National Park, AB Banff National Park, Alberta, is a postcard-perfect wilderness area that offers some of the most stunning landscapes and natural wonders. The park also offers some of the best hiking opportunities that short-term and experienced hikers would enjoy.

Interesting Fact: Banff was Canada's first National Park, founded in 1885.

4. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, SD One of America's most iconic landmarks, the 60-foot-high faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln on Mount Rushmore, are a sight to see for all road trippers.

Interesting Fact: Unbelievably, the original design of Mount Rushmore had the carvings extending all the way down to the presidents' waists, but budget cuts forced the designers to scale back the project.

5. Niagara Falls, NY If you are on a road trip to Calgary or Charlotte, Niagara Falls on the border of New York and Ontario, offers a refreshing stop. This largest waterfall system in the world is an awe-inspiring sight, especially during the spring's thaw as the falls gush with impressive volumes of water.

Interesting Fact: Apart from breathtaking views, Niagara Falls also offers some of the best adventure activities, including white water rafting and zip-lining.

With these five destinations, Charlotte-to-Calgary road-trippers can create some unforgettable memories that they would recount for years.

Conclusion

This trip takes an average of about 36 hours as the route cuts across different states and Canada’s provinces. While on the road, road-trippers can binge on all the local foods they find in diners or unique bistros or enjoy hiking and exploring nature's beauty. Begin your preparations and now set out to experience some of America and Canada's most stunning and remarkable destinations. Enjoy the ride!