Ankeny to Billings: The Ultimate Road Trip Adventure
Are you ready for an epic journey from the Midwest to the land of mountains and cowboys? Then pack your bags and hit the road from Ankeny, Iowa to Billings, Montana!
There are several different routes you can take to reach Billings, each offering a unique experience. Whether you prefer scenic drives or quick routes, we've got you covered. Here's a breakdown of the different options and their travel times.
Interstate 90
The most direct route from Ankeny to Billings is via Interstate 90, covering a distance of approximately 975 miles. This option offers quick, easy driving, with an estimated travel time of 14 hours. However, if you're in no hurry to reach your destination, we recommend taking some detours along the way to explore some hidden gems.
Recommendations:
- Stop at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota for some quirky photo ops.
- Visit the Badlands National Park in South Dakota for stunning rock formations and hiking trails.
- Take a break at the Missouri River Canyon in Montana to enjoy the scenic views.
US-212
For those who want to experience the rugged beauty of the Great Plains and the Black Hills, taking US-212 is the perfect choice. This route runs through scenic prairies and forests, as well as iconic destinations like Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. The distance covered is approximately 1,100 miles, with an estimated travel time of 17 hours.
Recommendations:
- Stop at Wall Drug Store in South Dakota for some quirky shopping and refreshments.
- Visit the Custer State Park in South Dakota for wildlife encounters and hiking trails.
- Explore the Devil's Tower National Monument in Wyoming for breathtaking landscapes.
US-83 and US-212
If you want to experience a little bit of everything on your road trip, taking US-83 and US-212 is the way to go. This route offers diverse scenery, including rolling hills, scenic drives, and historic towns. The distance covered is approximately 1,150 miles, with an estimated travel time of 18 hours.
Recommendations:
- Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in North Dakota for an educational experience.
- Explore the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Montana to learn about the Battle of Little Bighorn.
- Take a dip at the Hot Springs State Park in Wyoming to unwind.
No matter which route you choose, make sure to plan your journey in advance and give yourself enough time for stops and detours. Road trips are all about the journey, so make the most of it!