Road Trip Adventures: Brighton, Michigan to Denver, Colorado
If you've ever dreamed of a classic Americana road trip, Brighton, Michigan to Denver, Colorado is the perfect choice. With stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and quirky roadside attractions, this drive definitely won't disappoint. So, pack your bags, grab your road trip playlist, and let's hit the open road!
The Distance and Time
From Brighton, Michigan to Denver, Colorado, the shortest driving distance is approximately 1,087 miles via I-80 West and I-76 West. It takes around 16 hours to drive straight through. However, there are several different routes, each offering their charms and places to visit. Below are a few options with approximate driving times based on Google Maps estimates.
Northern Route: It’s All About Nature
If you're looking for natural beauty, head West on I-96, then get onto I-69, continue West on US-94 and eventually merge onto I-80. Once you reach Omaha, take US 34 to enter Colorado. Driving through Nebraska and Wyoming means you'll see plenty of rolling prairies, expansive skies, and gorgeous mountain ranges. Expect a 19-20 hour drive, with possible stops in Cheyenne, Wyoming, for a visit to the Wyoming State Capitol Building or the Wyoming State Museum, and the nearby Vedauwoo Recreation Area for stunning views of rock formations.
Scenic Route: A Panoramic View
If you're interested in savoring the panoramic views, then take the I-90 to I-25 through South Dakota, and then end up either in Wyoming or Colorado. The drive time is around 17-18 hours and there are plenty of amazing views along the way. Stop by Badlands National Park, Mt. Rushmore National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial Monument and the Corn Palace. In Cody, Wyoming, which is not on the way to Denver but worth the detour, visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, home to five separate museums that explore the history, culture, and wildlife of the American West.
Southern Route: a Cultural Voyage
By taking the Southern route, you can expect a slightly more cultural trip with lots of variations in scenery. If you’re interested in art and history then a visit to Amarillo, Texas is a must. After all, it is home to one of America’s most iconic art installations, Cadillac Ranch, and the well-known Amarillo Museum of Art. Driving through Oklahoma and Texas, you'll see plenty of diverse landscapes such as rolling hills, open plains, forests, and lakes. Driving through scenic Roswell, New Mexico, then onto Albuquerque and Santa Fe, the unique and historical architecture and food traditions will satiate your curiosity for culture. The drive time on the Southern route is approximately 22 hours.
Practical Considerations
No matter which route you take, there are a few practical considerations that you should keep in mind. The harsh winter conditions in northern states such as North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming could create difficult driving situations. Towing a trailer or RV requires advance-planning for overnight stays in the towns nearby the campsites. It’s always wise to double-check any seasonal travel restrictions, particularly when travelling during the months from October to April where unpredictable weather may occur.
Conclusion
If you have a sense of adventure and interested in exploring the diversity of our nation, the road from Brighton, Michigan to Denver, Colorado is full of breathtaking vistas, hidden gems, and fun stops. So what are you waiting for? Get behind the wheel and make some unforgettable memories.