The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Appleton, Wisconsin to De Beque, Colorado

Are you up for an adventure? Taking a road trip can be the perfect way to explore new places, make memories, and create unforgettable experiences. If you're planning a journey from Appleton, Wisconsin to De Beque, Colorado, there are plenty of exciting stops along the way to add to your itinerary. Get ready for stunning sceneries, fascinating history, and delicious eats. Let's dive in!

Discovering the Best Stops on Your Route

Stop 1: The Dells of the Eau Claire County Park

Starting your trip off with a bang, the Dells of the Eau Claire County Park is the perfect place to stretch your legs after a long drive and admire the gorgeous scenery. The park features a 5.8-mile loop trail that takes you by cliff faces, waterfalls, and the Eau Claire River. The views are breathtaking and the hike is manageable for all skill levels. You'll want to wear sturdy shoes and bring your camera along for some amazing photos.

Stop 2: The Mill City Museum

Next up, the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a wonderful place for history buffs. It's built within the ruins of a flour mill that was once the world's largest. You can learn about the history of flour milling and how it shaped the world we know today. There are interactive exhibits, riverfront views, and lots of fun facts to discover.

Stop 3: Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Driving into South Dakota, we have the famous Mount Rushmore National Monument. This iconic landmark features four of our most famous U.S. Presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln – carved into a massive granite mountainside. You could spend hours wandering around the monument's grounds, and there are many other attractions nearby, such as the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve

Stop 4: Crazy Horse Memorial

Only a few miles from Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial is another must-see landmark. The massive sculpture is dedicated to the legendary Sioux chief and is still under construction today. Once complete, Crazy Horse will be the largest statue in the world. There are museums, galleries, and educational exhibits on Native American culture. Visitors can also watch artists working on the sculpture in the artist-in-residence program.

Stop 5: Vail, Colorado

Last but not least, Vail, Colorado, is a perfect place to end your road trip. The world-famous ski resort town is beautiful year-round, with plenty of activities to enjoy, even in the summertime. From hiking and biking to kayaking and horseback riding, Vail features an abundance of options for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s also great nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and art galleries if you prefer taking it easy.

Conclusion

Driving from Appleton, Wisconsin, to De Beque, Colorado, opens up plenty of opportunities for adventure and discovery. From stunning natural wonders to fascinating cultural and historical landmarks, these stops will make your journey a memorable and enjoyable one. While these are just a few of the many incredible attractions along our route, we encourage you to take the time to add your own stops and make this journey your own. Happy travels!