The Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Box Elder, South Dakota and Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you're looking for a road trip filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences, a journey from Box Elder, South Dakota to Colorado Springs, Colorado is an excellent choice. This route spans over 500 miles and offers numerous opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and attractions. One of the best features of this trip is the halfway point in Kimball, Nebraska, a vibrant small town that serves as a gateway to many exciting destinations. Here are five must-visit places on this road trip:
Kimball, Nebraska - Small-Town Charm with Big-Scale Fun
Located on the I-80 corridor, Kimball, Nebraska offers a perfect, midway stopover to recharge and explore. In this seemingly small town, you will find some unique experiences, for instance, looking at the two largest roadrunners in the world, each made from old car parts. These statues of eight feet and 400 pounds each are a sight to behold. Take a walk downtown to see the wall murals showcasing the history of the town and the Home of the Longhorns, which offers unique longhorn beef treats that are sure to live long in memory.
Cheyenne, Wyoming - A Cowboy's Paradise
From Kimball, head southwest on I-80 to Cheyenne, where you can catch the true cowboy spirit. Discover the legend of the infamous gunslinger "Wild Bill" Hickok and other fascinating stories at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum. Get to the heart of rodeo action at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, the world's largest outdoor rodeo known as the "Daddy of 'em all." Explore the Victorian-style mansion of Wyoming's first governor, Francis E. Warren, at the Wyoming Historic Governors' Mansion.
Fort Collins, Colorado - A City by Nature
After a 90-mile drive south on the I-25, you will reach Fort Collins, a city surrounded by scenic natural attractions. Visit Rocky Mountain National Park, known for its dramatic peaks, alpine forests, and vast wilderness. Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Cache La Poudre River, which winds through stunning river canyons and meadows. Take a stroll through the historic Old Town Fort Collins, with charming boutiques, craft breweries, and art galleries that showcase the city's creative soul.
Colorado Springs, Colorado - Beauty and Bravery Merge
The end of the trip will be well-timed for the majestic beauty of Colorado Springs. The city is crowned by the picturesque Pikes Peak, America's mountain, one of the most-visited mountains in the world. Take the cog railway to the summit to marvel at the panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Walk-through Garden of the Gods is another highlight, a natural wonder that boasts towering sandstone rock formations and hiking trails. Learn about American WWII aviation history at the National Museum of WWII Aviation.
Custer State Park, South Dakota - Wild West, Up Close
The last stop is a slight diversion but will allow you to soak up some Wild West feel before winding the trip down. Return to I-25 and take the northbound I-90 and drive to Custer State Park, South Dakota, a historic location preserve home to more than 1,500 bisons, antelopes, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. Drive the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road, where you'll see grazing bison, pronghorns, and other wildlife up close. Stop by Sylvan Lake, a crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by cliffs and hiking trails in the park.
Conclusion
From the small-town charm of Kimball to the grandeur of Pikes Peak and Custer State Park, this road trip offers a range of experiences. Whether you're drawn to Wild West history, natural wonders, or outdoor adventures, you won't be disappointed. Not to mention the opportunity to dine at small town diners, farm-to-table restaurants, sample local beer, wines, and peaches. Make the most of your journey and enjoy the magnificent sights and destinations along the way.