The Rocky Mountain Road Trip: Calgary to New York

Are you ready for a cross-country adventure? Get ready to hit the open road and explore the diverse scenery of Canada and the United States. Here's a guide on the travel time between Calgary, Alberta and New York, New York.

The Route

There are a few different options to get from Calgary to New York, but the most popular route takes you through the Rocky Mountains, across the Great Plains, and through the urban centers of the Midwest and Northeast. This route spans over 3,700km and takes around 40 hours to drive without stopping.

The Distance

The most direct route from Calgary to New York covers over 3,700km. However, taking a route through national parks and larger cities can add additional distance to the journey. For instance, going through Yellowstone National Park will add nearly 500km to the journey. Being conscious of time and distance can help you plan your ideal road trip best.

Driving Time

Driving from Calgary to New York without stopping would take around 40 hours. However, who wants to spend all that time cooped up in a car without experiencing the surrounding areas? Taking time to make stops in different cities and natural areas breaks up the journey and makes for a more enjoyable adventure. A recommended stop would be Bozeman, Montana, at the base of the Rockies, for hiking and sightseeing.

Recommendations

If going through Yellowstone, consider stopping there, or take a detour to the Badlands in South Dakota for some otherworldly scenery. Once you hit Minnesota, you can explore the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul for a unique urban experience. As you make your way across Illinois and Indiana, Chicago is a must-see for anyone passing through the Midwest. From there, you can hit Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and finally New York. The cities on the way offer various unique experiences.

Alternate Routes

If you are interested in experiencing a new route, consider driving through Minneapolis to Milwaukee. From there, you can hug the coast of Lake Michigan, taking a ferry across the lake to Muskegon, Michigan. Once in Michigan, there are numerous camping and hiking areas that are of particular interest. From there, heading towards Chicago and then hitting the Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and finally New York is feasible and offers vastly different scenery than the first route.

Conclusion

The drive from Calgary to New York can take anywhere from 40 to 60+ hours, depending on the route taken and stops made. However, this journey offers the opportunity to see some of North America's most beautiful scenery and explore unique urban areas. Whether you take the direct route or detour through cities and natural parks, there will be something for everyone on this journey. So, buckle up, pack some snacks, and hit the open road for an adventure that you will never forget.