Top Places to See When Driving From Arcata, California to Sheridan, Wyoming

Are you planning a road trip from Arcata, California to Sheridan, Wyoming? The journey offers a stunning drive through the beautiful countryside, mountains, and forests of the western United States. With so much to see and explore on the way, it can be a challenge to decide what to include in your itinerary. To help you plan an unforgettable trip, we’ve curated a list of top places to see along the way.

Redwood National and State Parks

Start your journey at Arcata, California, and head north to the world-famous Redwood National and State Parks, where you will find the tallest trees on earth. The Redwood National and State Parks preserve a collection of Coast Redwoods, the tallest trees in the world, along with other beautiful flora and fauna, including Roosevelt Elk. The parks offer stunning hiking trails and scenic drives that give visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the Redwoods truly. The Redwood National and State Parks are located about 30 miles north of Arcata and are open year-round.

Crater Lake National Park

As you continue driving eastward, make your way to Crater Lake National Park, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The blue-green lake is nestled in a caldera that was formed by a volcanic eruption over 7,000 years ago. The stunning surroundings offer visitors a chance to hike, bike, and take a boat ride around the lake. Watch the sunset at the Rim Village for some truly amazing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, is a must-visit destination on your road trip from Arcata, California, to Sheridan, Wyoming. It is the first and the oldest national park in the world, and it is renowned for its natural geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and wildlife. You can see some of the world’s most iconic geysers, including Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, elk, moose, and bison. Don't forget to stop by the Yellowstone River and Yellowstone Lake, two other must-see destinations in Yellowstone National Park.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, located just south of Yellowstone National Park, is another must-visit destination on your road trip. The park boasts some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the United States, with the Teton Mountains towering over the park's landscape, and a variety of wildlife species, including black bears, grizzly bears, elk, and moose, among others. The park offers plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, and take boat rides around the park. Try one of the local activity providers for a guided trip through the park to gain a unique insight into the park’s history, geology, and ecology.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

As you drive further east, make sure to stop by Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. The area offers stunning views of beautiful canyons, crystal-clear blue waters, towering sandstone cliffs, and abundant wildlife. You can go kayaking, boating, and fishing in the reservoirs; hiking, horseback riding, and camping in the surrounding canyons. Be sure to go beyond the main lookout points to experience some of the tranquil areas the park has to offer.

Conclusion

The western United States is full of stunning natural beauty and rich history, and it’s no wonder that a road trip from Arcata, California to Sheridan, Wyoming is an adventure of a lifetime. From the towering Redwoods to the colorful mountain scenery, and the iconic geysers at Yellowstone, the journey has so much to offer. Don't forget to take some time to appreciate the local culture as you visit these destinations and always remember to stay safe during your travels. We hope this list will help inspire you to make the most of your road trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!