The time to live is now! A boy, his dogs, and a transcontinental trip from GA to AK.

[aws140]

Hello everyone!

A few months ago I decided to take on one of the biggest challenges of my life thus far, a cross country trip from GA to AK with my two pups. Nature is the name of the game.

Since I am a very dedicated engineering student, and Air Force ROTC cadet, trying to get prepared during the semester was a monstrous task. I am finally to the point to where I think I have all of the gear and food covered, except finishing my Rav4/camper conversion, and I can focus on routes. You say you haven't even picked a route?! Not exactly, and that's the mentality of this trip, take the adventure as it comes. Also, I was waiting to hear about meeting with a friend in New Mexico, but just decided today to scratch that idea.

I'm on no one's time but my own and I don't want to set any crazy obligations in fear it'll hurt my experience. In my day to day I over plan, over achieve, and spend way too many hours at school. It's time to relax and enjoy my favorite things in the world, nature and adventure. That being said, I do have my first real destination: Westcliffe, Colorado. At this location I will be spending at a few days volunteering at a wolf conservation called Mission: Wolf.

Now comes decision time, which route to take to CO: I-40, I-70, or I-24? Drive through Arkansas or Oklahoma, or Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas?

I plan on it taking at least two days, probably three, of driving, not including stops. I intend to take my time, to absorb the scenery as well as conserve the gas. Since my Rav4 will be equipped for us to sleep in, I am fine with setting up "camp" anywhere, but prefer actual camping. Since fund conservation is very important at this phase, cheap/free camping is the name of the game. I will not pay $20 a night to camp anywhere, that's ridiculous.

Since this is my first major road trip, and I haven't ever been in any of these states, I am looking for route suggestions. Camp/nature suggestions are welcome as well. Anything city related I am not interested in.

If you want more info about my trip, planning, etc., I am making a blog since it's the most efficient way to keep friends and such filled in.

Bring on the knowledge!