The Ultimate Road Trip: Best Places to Visit from Birdseye, Indiana to Moab, Utah

Are you planning a road trip from Birdseye, Indiana to Moab, Utah? If so, be prepared for an epic adventure through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. From the rolling hills of Indiana to the stunning rock formations of Utah, there are plenty of natural wonders to explore along the way. To make the most of your trip, we've compiled a list of the top places to visit during your journey.

Exploring the Midwest:

Mammoth Cave National Park

As you leave Birdseye, Indiana, consider making a stop at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. Mammoth Cave is the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of underground passageways. The park offers a variety of cave tours for all skill levels, from easy, wheelchair-accessible walks to strenuous explorations that require crawling on your hands and knees. Above ground, the park boasts over 70 miles of hiking trails through forested hills and meadows.

Gateway Arch National Park

Next up is St. Louis, Missouri, home to Gateway Arch National Park. The Gateway Arch is a stunning architectural marvel that towers over the city skyline. Take a ride to the top of the arch for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding city. The park also offers museums and exhibits that tell the story of the explorers, pioneers, and innovators who shaped the American West.

Badlands National Park

As you leave the Midwest and approach the western plains, make a stop at Badlands National Park in South Dakota. The park's rugged peaks and colorful canyons provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for bison, pronghorns, bighorn sheep, and coyotes as you explore the park's trails and scenic drives.

Crossing the Great Plains:

Wind Cave National Park

On your way from the Badlands to the Rockies, swing by Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota. Wind Cave is one of the oldest national parks in the country, and it boasts the largest remaining natural mixed-grass prairie in North America. Beneath the prairie, however, lies a vast network of caves that are home to endangered species like the black-footed ferret and the eastern pipistrelle bat. Take a guided cave tour to learn about the park's unique ecology.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota is a famous and iconic symbol of the United States' history. Featuring four of the most important US presidents, a visit to Mount Rushmore is essential when road tripping in the area. Get out of the car and enjoy a hike to an overlook of the famous carvings to get a closer look.

Yellowstone National Park

One of the most famous national parks in the world, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming boasts over 2 million acres of rugged wilderness and geothermal wonders. Drive through the park to see colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and impressive geysers like Old Faithful. Keep your eyes open for moose, bison, elk, and other wildlife that call Yellowstone home.

Entering the Rockies:

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is another stunning national park to add to your list. The park boasts a dramatic mountain range and breathtaking alpine scenery. Hike the famous Teton Crest Trail, or take a scenic drive through the park to see stunning vistas of the mountains reflected in the park's lakes.

Arches National Park

As you approach Moab, Utah, don't miss Arches National Park. The park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, as well as many other geological wonders like balanced rocks, spires, and fins. Hike to iconic arches like Delicate Arch, or take a scenic drive through the park to see its many unique formations.

Conclusion

The journey from Birdseye, Indiana to Moab, Utah is a road trip full of natural wonders and amazing experiences. From the Midwest to the Rockies, the route is dotted with stunning national parks, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or a first-timer, this is a trip you won't soon forget.