Cross-Country Road Trip Recap

September 8, 2016

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We’ve been living in California for about two months, which means this final road trip recap is about two months behind schedule. Better late than never! We last left off at Stop #12: Zion National Park, Utah. After that, we were almost at our final destination!

Originally we were going to make a stop in Vegas but decided that by this late in the road trip, we’d be eager to get to SF. Also, dog friendly Vegas hotels seemed to be at a minimum (or added tons of $$). Instead, we made our way to Los Angeles. A quick visit, but we were able to see a big group of friends (we came to Cali knowing lots of people in LA, few in SF), BBQ with our crew and even maaaybe made a little trip to SUR (no good sightings, such a let down).

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We fit in a workout at Orangetheory and spent some time taking in those gorgeous Cali views.

And then finally, on Day 17 it was time to head north to our new home. While taking the scenic route was enticing, we took the shorter route, this time. Next time we journey down to LA we will absolutely take the 1.

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It’s hard to wrap up our cross-country road trip, but here are some of my thoughts on the experience.

I loved it as much as I thought I would. This has been on my bucket list for years and I was starting to think I’d never have the opportunity. I feel very lucky that we were able to take two and a half weeks and see some pretty amazing places. While at times it was tiring and uncomfortable, I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

It was really hard to pick a favorite place or moment, but I have a list of standouts.

Road Trip Recap Faves:

  • Favorite City: Jackson, WY
  • Favorite National Park: Grand Tetons
  • Favorite Food Along the Way: Beef Tartare Pizza from Snake River Grill (Jackson)
  • Favorite Hike: The Narrows at Zion
  • Favorite Hotel: Waldorf Astoria, Park City
  • Favorite Scenic Drive: Beartooth Highway

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Now that I’m thinking about this trip, I want to do it again right now! If you ever have the opportunity to do a cross-country road trip, do it.

With this epic adventure behind us, we have many things to look forward to. Our wedding is coming up and then our honeymoon (we just booked it! more on that soon). I’ve had a touch of wanderlust my whole life and love to travel (who doesn’t though?); I hope there are just as many exciting adventures in our future.

If you missed any of the road trip recaps along the way, you can read them all here:

#1 Niagara Falls / #2 Ann Arbor / #3 Madison / #4 #5 #6 South Dakota / #7 Montana / #8 Yellowstone / #9 Grand Tetons / #10 Park City / #11 Bryce Canyon / #12 Zion

*photos from me & MM

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2 COMMENTS

  • I’ve loved reading your recap! Driving cross-country is definitely on my bucket list and I’m sad I didn’t do it a few years ago when I had the opportunity to bring my car back from LA.

    I’m sure it will happen eventually!

    • YES- you need it make it happen! As a student, I have a feeling you will have the opportunity to take a multi-week journey in the nearish future 🙂 When you do, let me know and I’ll help you with your route!

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