Take the whole family on a shamelessly American summer road trip that they’ll always remember.
THE ROAD IS AN UNRIVALLED TEACHER. As street-wise students ourselves, we can attest to that. And we know that our kids—in their pre driving years—will only learn what we show them. So, why not show them the very best? Imagine a trip where they could walk into the unadulterated wilderness of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Where they could stand in the place where history happened and hear the stories that define us. Where they could explore our nation—body and soul. From the Pacific Northwest’s shining sea to the rock monument at Mount Rushmore, you can do just that this Summer. Not only will you make memories that will last a lifetime, but you’ll also give your kids a clearer picture of who they are as Americans—and a sense of gratitude for the natural treasures they’ve inherited.
Washington State to Washington’s Face
Starting your journey in Seattle, you’ll begin a straight shot east toward the heart of the American wild. Taking I-90 East over 300 miles through Spokane and across the Idaho border, you have yet another 90 miles or so till you break into Montana. Around St. Regis, you’ll have the option to take Exit 33 and sprint north onto MT-135 North if you want to detour toward Glacier National Park. Otherwise, you’ll continue on I-90 for another 400 miles southwest toward Yellowstone. At Exit 333, you can take US-89 South toward America’s first national park entrance near Gardner.
After you have seen your fill of geologic wonders or—more likely—have used your allotted time, head back north along US-89 to continue your eastward progress along I-90. Almost
immediately, the landscape will begin to transform into rolling ridges and ravines with rivers and streams, especially as you cross into the Crow Reservation where Little Bighorn lies. Continuing south, you’ll swing back east, always on I-90, and cut the northeastern corner of Wyoming before entering South Dakota. From here, you’re within 100 miles of the magnificent stony gaze of our fore most presidents at Mount Rushmore.
A Perfect Place to Pedal Around
Whether you’re a family of cyclists or you just keep the bike rack ready for the right moment, do not— we repeat—DO NOT let yourself drive by Trail of the Coeur d’ Alenes. There are 73-miles of smooth, paved trails—perfect for bikers of any experience level. And the views are among the best on the planet. Frankly, biking with the family here is the kind of memory that everyone will always remember.
A Stone-Fired Pizza Primer
Finally arriving at Yellowstone is a big day for everyone. Before you drive through the northern entrance, make a stop for the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Pizza. No whining. No fighting. Just smiles and that mmm-mmm sound as kids eat stone-fired slices and you tear into a special with buffalo sausage.
Make a Stand at Little Bighorn
Little Bighorn is one of those places—like Gettysburg—where history comes alive. Stepping out of the RV, you can watch your kids’ imaginations run wild as they envision the rolling battle across the open hills, the heavy sound of hoofbeats, and the crack of rifle fire. For the homeschooling parent, it’s a gift-wrapped history lesson like no other.
Get a Glimpse of the Old West
Deadwood is about as close as we’ve gotten to time travel. While its home to the graves of western legends like Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane, don’t be mistaken: Deadwood is far from a
ghost town. The historic district is great fun for the whole family, and when you’re ready to return to the 21st century, you can go off-roading in the Black Hills.
