A Perfectly Planned Road Trip to Every National Park in the Contiguous U.S.
This has to be the most epic road trip of all time.
If you’ve ever tried to plan an itinerary for you and your crew's big road trip, you know it’s no easy task. Now, imagine trying to plan the most efficient route to drive to all 47 national parks in the contiguous United States...
Photo: Randal Olson
That actually sounds like a fun challenge, right? But rather than spend hours pouring over maps, calculators, and computer screens, why don’t you trust someone who has already done the leg work.
Hike to Bear Church Rock via Bootens Gap, Shenandoah NP | Photo: Christin Healey
Randal Olson, a data scientist and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, was inspired to celebrate the National Park Service Centennial by computing the optimal road trip stopping at all the national parks in the lower 48. It forms a ring around the country, making it easy for you to start at any given point and head in whichever direction you please.
Hike through Lady Bird Johnson Grove in Redwood NP | Photo: Jake Young
Olson insists if you travel “at breakneck pace,” you can complete the whole trip in about two months...better start racking up your vacation days! Before you hit the road, explore Olson's interactive map and check out these tips from seasoned veterans.
Cover photo: Mike Fennell | Camp in Capitol Reef National Park
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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