Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cody, Wyoming and Carlsbad, New Mexico
Cody, Wyoming and Carlsbad, New Mexico may be separated by hundreds of miles, but the journey between them is packed with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable experiences. Traveling southward on this road trip adventure, road trippers will encounter breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and plenty of outdoor activities. One of the midway points along the route is Colorado Springs, CO, offering additional opportunities for exploration. Buckle up and get ready to embark on an incredible journey through nature and history, as this road trip promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
1. Yellowstone National Park: An Untamed Wonderland
Visiting Yellowstone National Park is an absolute must on this road trip. The park, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in an untamed wonderland. From the iconic geothermal features like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring to the majestic Yellowstone Lake, this park will leave all who visit in awe.
Interesting Fact: Yellowstone National Park is not only the first national park in the United States but also the first established national park in the world, dating back to 1872.
2. Mount Rushmore: A Monumental Tribute
A short detour from the main route brings road trippers to the grandeur of Mount Rushmore. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, this iconic monument features the faces of four American presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. A visit to Mount Rushmore is a patriotic and awe-inspiring experience that offers a glimpse into the nation's history.
Interesting Fact: Sculptor Gutzon Borglum chose the presidents depicted on Mount Rushmore because he believed they represented the most significant events in the history of the United States up to the year 1900.
3. Mesa Verde National Park: Ancient Cliff Dwellings
As road trippers continue south, they will encounter the unique and extraordinary Mesa Verde National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the world, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the native people who called these canyons home over 700 years ago. Exploring the ancient cliff dwellings and the park's rugged beauty is a truly unforgettable experience.
Interesting Fact: Mesa Verde National Park preserves over 5,000 archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings.
4. White Sands National Park: A Dazzling Desert of Glistening Sands
A visit to White Sands National Park adds a touch of otherworldly beauty to this road trip. Located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, this park is known for its vast expanse of brilliant white gypsum sand dunes that create a mesmerizing landscape. Visitors can explore the ethereal dunes, try sand sledding or stargazing, and experience the unique serenity of this breathtaking location.
Interesting Fact: The gypsum sands of White Sands National Park are constantly shifting, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.
5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park: An Underground Wonderland
The final highlight of this road trip is the majestic Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Beneath the surface, an extraordinary world of limestone caves and stunning geological formations unfolds. Visitors can explore the caverns through a variety of guided tours, marveling at the stalactites, stalagmites, and vast underground chambers. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns is an experience that will leave an indelible impression.
Interesting Fact: The Big Room in Carlsbad Caverns is the fifth-largest chamber in North America, with a floor space covering 356,000 square feet.
After an incredible journey through majestic national parks, historic monuments, and stunning landscapes, road trippers will realize that the distance between Cody, Wyoming, and Carlsbad, New Mexico was well worth the drive. The route, which covers approximately 1,100 miles, can be completed in around 20 hours of driving time. However, given the abundance of incredible attractions along the way, it is recommended to take your time, enjoy the journey, and make lasting memories at each highlighted destination. Gear up, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure from the natural wonders of Yellowstone to the underground marvels of Carlsbad Caverns.