The Ultimate Road Trip: From Bonaparte Plateau to Bethel, Maine
If you're looking for an exhilarating road trip experience, driving from British Columbia's Bonaparte Plateau to the charming town of Bethel, Maine, is definitely a journey worth taking. The road trip offers breathtaking scenery, exciting adventures, and countless opportunities to connect with nature.
Whether you're an adventure seeker or an admirer of natural beauty, this trip has something for everyone. Buckle up and get ready to hit the road as we take you through the top places to visit on this fantastic journey.
Natural Wonders
Banff National Park, Alberta: This breathtaking park is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers incredible natural beauty. It has several lakes, glaciers, and hot springs, making it an excellent spot for photography. Some of the park's must-visit attractions include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Banff Gondola.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: Yellowstone is the first National Park in America and is renowned for its geothermal wonders. The park has hot springs, geysers, and mud pots that make it an exceptional geological site that you can't miss.
Niagara Falls, New York: Niagara Falls is a popular attraction that attracts millions of visitors each year. The falls comprises three waterfalls that straddle the international border between Canada and the United States. The falls are an amazing spectacle that you can observe from various viewing points.
White Mountains, New Hampshire: If you love hiking, White Mountains in New Hampshire is a must-visit destination. Its scenic trails lead to the Presidential Range of mountains – an awe-inspiring sight and a dream for all outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also an excellent spot for skiing during winter.
Acadia National Park, Maine: Situated in Maine, Acadia National Park is a natural haven with a diverse habitat. It has miles of crystal clear waters, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains; thus, it's appreciated by outdoor adventurers. Whether you want to go hiking, kayaking, or bird watching, the park is a perfect escape.
Historical Gems
Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta: This iconic castle-like hotel is a perfect blend of luxury and history. The hotel was built in 1888, and since then, it has served many notable guests. Its impressive architecture and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains make it an excellent stop along the way.
Old Faithful Inn, Wyoming: The Old Faithful Inn is a historical log hotel that has an incredible story to tell. Built-in 1903, it's one of the last surviving log hotels in the west. Its rustic charm and cozy atmosphere make it an ideal place to spend a night.
Boston, Massachusetts: Boston is one of America's oldest and most historic cities and is full of exciting historical sites. The city is home to numerous museums and monuments, including the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long walk that takes you through 16 historical sites.
Portland Head Light, Maine: The Portland Head Light is a lighthouse that has stood in Cape Elizabeth since 1791. The lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history. Besides, its scenic location makes it an excellent site for photographers.
Bethel Historical Society, Maine: This historical site is the heart of Bethel, Maine's cultural attractions. Visit the museum to learn about the town's history, or attend one of their cultural events. Adjacent is the Dr. Moses Mason House, which was built over 200 years ago; the house, which is an excellent example of classic architecture, has since been transformed into a museum.
Unique Experiences
Calgary Stampede, Alberta: The Calgary Stampede is a ten-day rodeo festival that celebrates cowboy culture. The festival offers exciting events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. It's an excellent opportunity for anyone who loves cowboys and rodeos.
Recreational Marijuana, Colorado: Colorado permits the use of recreational marijuana, which makes it the perfect destination for marijuana enthusiasts. Visit one of Colorado's many dispensaries and try out some of the locally grown marijuana strains.
Fenway Park, Massachusetts: Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in America and is home to the Boston Red Sox. The stadium offers daily tours, allowing visitors to explore the player dugouts, seating bowl, and the Green Monster.
Outlet Shopping, New Hampshire: New Hampshire is famous for its tax-free shopping, making it a shopper's paradise. The state has numerous outlet shopping centers that offer designer clothing at bargain prices.
Cranberry Fever, Maine: Maine is the largest producer of wild blueberries and cranberries in America. Visit the Maine cranberry farm during the harvest season to pick fresh cranberries.
Conclusion
At this point, you must be convinced that driving from British Columbia's Bonaparte Plateau to Maine's charming town of Bethel is a road trip full of adventure, excitement, and breathtaking views. Despite the long distances, the trip offers plenty of attractions that will undoubtedly keep you entertained throughout the journey.
We've outlined some of the top attractions that you must see along the way, but there are countless other hidden gems that you'll discover as you drive. So, gather some friends, get behind the wheel, and start exploring the best North America has to offer.