From Colorado Springs to Hays: A Road Trip Adventure
If you're looking for a great road trip, consider driving from Colorado Springs to Hays, Montana. This route offers a scenic drive and the opportunity to visit some interesting landmarks, museums, and parks along the way.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that the drive from Colorado Springs to Hays takes you through four different states? You'll pass through Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, and finally reach Montana.
Halfway Point: Halfway between Colorado Springs and Hays is the town of Kaycee, WY. This small town is known for its cowboy heritage and beautiful mountain views.
The drive from Colorado Springs to Hays is approximately 800 miles and can take around 12 hours to complete. The route takes you through the rolling plains of eastern Colorado, the majestic Black Hills of South Dakota, and the scenic mountains of Montana.
Top Five Places to Visit
Mount Rushmore National Memorial – No road trip through South Dakota would be complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore. This iconic landmark features the faces of four famous U.S. presidents carved into the granite mountainside. It's a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in American heritage.
Point of Interest Recommendation: While at Mount Rushmore, be sure to take a walk along the Presidential Trail for an up-close view of the sculptures, and don't miss the evening lighting ceremony where the monument is illuminated against the night sky.
Custer State Park – This expansive park in the Black Hills offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to scenic drives and horseback riding. There's also the opportunity to see a herd of wild bison up close, which is a unique experience for nature enthusiasts.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a drive along the scenic Wildlife Loop Road to glimpse the park's diverse wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs.
Devils Tower National Monument – Located in northeastern Wyoming, Devils Tower is a distinctive geological formation that rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike around the base of the tower or simply marvel at its sheer size and unusual rock formations.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the tower's cultural and historical significance to Native American tribes.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – This historic site in Montana commemorates the Battle of the Little Bighorn, where General Custer and his troops were defeated by the Lakota and Cheyenne tribes. Visitors can tour the battlefield and learn about the clash of cultures that took place here.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Be sure to visit the Indian Memorial, which honors the Native American warriors who fought in the battle.
Gates of the Mountains – Just north of Helena, Montana, you'll find the scenic Gates of the Mountains, a section of the Missouri River flanked by towering cliffs. Boat tours offer a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Keep an eye out for the "gates" themselves, where the river squeezes through a narrow canyon, providing a memorable photo opportunity.
In conclusion, the road trip from Colorado Springs to Hays offers a diverse range of places to visit, from historic landmarks to natural wonders. The trip takes around 12 hours to complete, but the sights and experiences along the way make it well worth the journey. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the open road, this route has something for everyone to enjoy.