Need help with a plan.

[LaZz4]

I've put together a trip hitting the following places (with various stops along the way) i was wondering what is the best route to take....things i should look for....this is going to be my first long trip. I've taken several state jaunts before but not for this long. anyway thoughts would be great.

Start:
Richmond Va, Charlotte, Atlanta, Key West, New Orleans, San Antonio, Vegas, Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, and back to Charlotte.

[Midwest Michael]

Welcome to the RTA Forum!

Its virtually impossible to identify a "best route" because what's best for you depends upon too many variables that we can't decide for you.

For a starting point, I would probably use google maps to build out the outline for your route, and then you could build off some side roads from there.

I would suggest you take another look at your western destinations. I think it would make more sense to hit the Grand Canyon on your way west, before Vegas, and then go down to Joshua Tree before going back to Yosemite. Right now it seems like your route would involve a whole lot of backtracking.

[RedCorral]

Hi,

I agree with Michael that you seem to have your sights out of sequence for greatest efficiency, though you may have reasons we are unaware of.

The big question is how much time do you have for this trip, and when? If you've got three weeks you are going to be stuck on the Interstate highways with stops for food, sleeping and seeing the sights (all of which are good ones). If you've got a month then more options open up that include a few backroads and additional destinations that are worth your time as you travel around. If you have more time, then the country is your oyster (don't know where that expression came from) and you can have a truly diverse and delightful adventure. Take a look at a good road atlas and/or travel guide to get an idea of all the possibilities available to you. The possibilities are nearly endless.

If you are planning to travel this winter then you will have some limitations getting in and out of Yosemite. The road east of Tioga Pass typically closes in October and you may encounter weather difficulties in Utah and Colorado.

Regardless, you've picked some interesting places to visit and you should take sufficient time to see them well. All totalled you are looking at about 8,000 miles, which is at least 18 days of driving - probably more like 20.

Have a great trip, and enjoy,

Craig Sheumaker
co-author of the travel guide: America's Living History-The Early Years