Dream Road Trip: Chicago to Yellowstone National Park

Introduction:

Planning a road trip is always a thrilling adventure, full of anticipation and the promise of discovery. But when that journey spans nine days, covers 5,000 miles across 11 states, and unfolds during a global pandemic, it demands a whole new level of preparation and creativity. We embarked on this epic road trip just as summer was fading into fall—a perfect time to witness the changing landscapes and make memories to last a lifetime.

Pandemic Precautions: Navigating the Road Safely

Traveling during a pandemic adds layers of complexity to any trip. To ensure our safety and peace of mind, we took several extra precautions:

• Rest Stops: We carefully mapped our route to include rest stops with plenty of open space, allowing us to stretch our legs while maintaining social distancing.

• Drive-Thru Restaurants: Drive-thru restaurants became our go-to for meals, minimizing contact while still enjoying classic road trip fare.

• Health Essentials: Our car was stocked with hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and N-95 masks, which became our constant companions.

With these safety measures in place, we set off on our meticulously planned journey, confident we could enjoy our adventure while staying safe.

Charting the Course: A Road Trip Through America’s Heartland

Our road trip was a well-thought-out journey through some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States, packed into eight days and seven nights. Here’s a breakdown of our route:

1. Chicago, IL to Rapid City, SD:

We began our journey from Chicago, driving through the vast Midwest to reach Rapid City, South Dakota. The long stretches of highway gave us a true sense of the open road and the freedom it brings.

2. Badlands National Park, SD:

The Badlands greeted us with its rugged, otherworldly landscape—a mesmerizing maze of jagged peaks, towering spires, and deep canyons painted in hues of red, orange, and gold. It was as if we had stepped onto another planet.

3. Mount Rushmore, SD:

Standing before Mount Rushmore, I felt a profound sense of connection to the history and ideals these faces represent. The monument’s grandeur was awe-inspiring, a testament to the enduring legacy of American leadership.

4. Rapid City, SD:

After a day of exploration, we returned to Rapid City for the night, resting up for the journey ahead.

5. Yellowstone National Park, WY:

Yellowstone was the crown jewel of our trip. We spent several days immersed in its natural wonders, from the explosive power of Old Faithful to the vivid colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring and the untamed wildlife that roams the park.

6. Jackson, WY:

The charming town of Jackson, with its Western flair and stunning surroundings, was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the local culture before heading back into the wilderness.

7. Salt Lake City, UT:

Leaving Yellowstone, we headed to Salt Lake City. The city’s unique blend of modernity and history offered a refreshing change of pace from the wild landscapes we had been exploring.

8. Bonneville Salt Flats, UT:

The vast, surreal expanse of the Bonneville Salt Flats left us in awe. The stark, white landscape stretched endlessly, providing a sense of peace and solitude that was unlike anything else on our journey.

9. Omaha, NE:

Our final stop before returning home was Omaha, Nebraska—a welcoming city that provided a great place to rest and reflect on the journey before us.

10. Chicago, IL:

As we drove back into Chicago, the sense of accomplishment and the treasure trove of memories we had collected made every mile of the trip worth it.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure

This road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park was a dream come true, combining the thrill of the open road with the awe-inspiring beauty of America’s national parks and landscapes. If you’re considering a similar journey, embrace the adventure and savor every moment.

Planning is key, especially when dealing with the added challenges of a pandemic, but the rewards are incredible. From the rugged beauty of the Badlands to the geysers of Yellowstone and the surreal expanses of the Bonneville Salt Flats, this road trip offered a little bit of everything.

So, what are you waiting for? The open road is calling—beckoning you to step out of your routine, embrace the unknown, and create your own story of adventure and discovery. The world is full of incredible sights, and there’s no better time to explore them than now.

Planning for the Trip and Places to Visit

Embarking on a road trip of nearly 4,500 miles across some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States requires meticulous planning. The key to a successful journey lies in balancing the thrill of the open road with the richness of the destinations you’ll explore along the way. Our goal was to maximize both travel and exploration time, ensuring that each day was not only productive but also filled with memorable experiences.

To achieve this, we set a practical driving limit of no more than 14 hours per day. This allowed us to cover significant ground while still leaving ample time to immerse ourselves in the incredible sights along our route. By planning our days carefully, we ensured that every moment of our journey—from the wide-open highways to the hidden gems of our destination—was as enjoyable as it was unforgettable.

Here’s a list of the must-visit places we planned to cover on our journey from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park and back:

1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Our journey’s first major stop was the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park, a landscape of rugged terrain, deep canyons, and towering spires that seemed to rise from another world. The park’s stark beauty and mysterious allure make it a destination like no other. For photographers, the dramatic scenery is a dream come true, offering endless opportunities to capture the park’s striking contrasts of color and texture. The hiking trails here invite you to step into the landscape, where you can experience the otherworldly formations up close and feel the ancient forces that shaped this land.

2. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

No road trip through the American Midwest would be complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore. The colossal carvings of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln are not just a tribute to these four U.S. presidents but a powerful symbol of the nation’s history and ideals. We planned to spend time absorbing the grandeur of this iconic monument and exploring the surrounding Black Hills, a region rich in history and natural beauty.

3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The crown jewel of our journey, Yellowstone National Park, promised a world of natural wonders and unforgettable wildlife encounters. As the first national park in the world, Yellowstone holds a special place in the hearts of travelers and nature lovers alike. We looked forward to marveling at the geothermal spectacles like Old Faithful and the vibrant hues of the Grand Prismatic Spring, while also taking in the serene beauty of Yellowstone Lake and the dramatic vistas of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. This park, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, offers endless adventures for those who seek to explore its vast wilderness.

4. Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

On our return journey, we planned a stop at the Bonneville Salt Flats, a place as surreal as it is spectacular. This vast expanse of white salt, stretching endlessly beneath the sky, creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere that feels disconnected from the rest of the planet. Known for its flat, smooth surface, the Bonneville Salt Flats are famous as the site of numerous land speed records. The chance to stand in such a unique and historic location, where the horizon seems to blur into infinity, was sure to be one of the highlights of our trip.

Day 1: September 6th, 2020

Our journey began in the early hours of September 6th, 2020, as we left Chicago with the rising sun, filled with excitement for the open road ahead. The destination for our first day was Rapid City, South Dakota, a solid 13-hour drive that would take us across the vast stretches of the Midwest. With such a long day of driving ahead, we knew we had to be smart about our stops to make the most of our time on the road.

To keep ourselves on track, we packed a homemade lunch and an assortment of snacks, which allowed us to minimize breaks and stay focused on the journey. Throughout the day, we made just three brief stops—two quick runs through Starbucks drive-throughs for much-needed coffee, and one rest area stop where we took a moment to stretch our legs and enjoy our packed lunch. This strategy not only kept us energized but also helped us cover the miles efficiently, ensuring that we reached Rapid City as planned.

As the day turned to dusk, we finally arrived at our hotel in Rapid City. The weariness of the long drive was tempered by the satisfaction of knowing that we had successfully completed the first leg of our journey. After checking in, we craved something warm and familiar to end the day, and the simple comfort of Maggi noodles, which we had brought along, provided just that. Preparing the meal in our hotel room added a touch of home to our travels—a reminder of the comforts we carry with us, no matter how far we roam.

Exhausted but content, we settled in for the night, eager to rest and recharge for the adventures that awaited us on the road ahead. The day had been long, but it was only the beginning of the incredible journey that lay before us.

Day 2: September 7th, 2020

We eased into Day 2 with a more relaxed start, knowing that our itinerary was less demanding yet packed with some of South Dakota’s most iconic sights. The overcast skies that greeted us that morning added a touch of drama to the day, enhancing the stark beauty of the landscapes we were about to explore.

First Stop: Badlands National Park

Our first destination was the breathtaking Badlands National Park, a place where rugged peaks and deep valleys create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. As we drove into the park, the moody, cloud-covered skies cast a soft, diffused light over the terrain, accentuating the rich layers of color in the rock formations. The contrast between the jagged peaks and the muted tones of the sky created a scene that was both eerie and beautiful.

We spent the morning winding through the park’s scenic drives, stopping frequently at various viewpoints to take in the vast, expansive views. Each stop offered a new perspective on the Badlands’ unique geological formations, and we couldn’t resist snapping countless photos to capture the park’s rugged beauty. Despite the cloudy weather, or perhaps because of it, the Badlands left us in awe, their stark beauty etched into our memories.

Second Stop: Mount Rushmore

In the afternoon, we made our way to one of America’s most enduring symbols—Mount Rushmore. As we approached, the colossal faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln emerged from the granite cliffs, their features carved with precision and grandeur. The overcast sky lent a solemnity to the scene, making the monument seem even more majestic as it stood proudly against the gray backdrop.

We took our time exploring the visitor center, delving into the rich history behind this monumental work of art. Learning about the vision and effort that went into creating Mount Rushmore deepened our appreciation for this American landmark. Standing before these towering figures, we felt a profound connection to the ideals and history they represent.

Recommendation for Stays:

After a day filled with awe and exploration, we returned to our hotel in Rapid City, SD, where we had based ourselves for this leg of the trip. The hotel offered the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, providing a welcoming retreat after a day spent immersed in the great outdoors. Rapid City proved to be an ideal location, giving us easy access to South Dakota’s most iconic attractions while offering a cozy place to relax and recharge for the adventures still to come.

Day 3: September 8th, 2020

Our third day began in the early hours, filled with anticipation as we set out with the goal of reaching Yellowstone National Park early enough to experience its renowned landmarks. The journey itself was far from just a means to an end—it was a scenic adventure that treated us to stunning landscapes at every turn, making the long drive a pleasure rather than a chore.

Arrival at Yellowstone National Park

As we arrived at Yellowstone, we were greeted by a large herd of elk grazing beside the road, providing a majestic reminder of the wild beauty of the park. We stopped to capture the moment by taking photos of these magnificent creatures against the backdrop of the vast wilderness, setting the tone for the natural wonders that awaited us.

Exploring Bridge Bay Lake

Our first stop at Bridge Bay Lake provided a serene introduction to Yellowstone’s diverse beauty, with tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding environment and creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Old Faithful Geyser and Upper Geyser Basin Trail

Eager to witness one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, we made our way to the Old Faithful Geyser Visitor Center. After consulting with the rangers and picking up some maps, we headed to the viewing pavilion with growing excitement. We were lucky enough to secure a front-row spot just in time to witness the legendary eruption of Old Faithful. As the geyser shot a powerful stream of water high into the sky, we watched in awe, captivated by this natural spectacle that has fascinated visitors for generations. It was a moment of pure wonder, one that will forever be etched in our memories.

With the geyser’s performance still fresh in our minds, we decided to explore more of the geothermal wonders by taking a leisurely walk along the Upper Geyser Basin Trail. The trail loop offered an intimate view of Yellowstone’s remarkable geothermal features—bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vibrantly colored pools, each more fascinating than the last. Walking amidst these natural marvels, we couldn’t help but feel a profound connection to the ancient forces that shape our planet.

Heading to Jackson

As the day began to draw to a close, we made our way south towards Jackson, WY, where we had planned to spend the night. The drive out of Yellowstone was nothing short of magical, with the fading light casting a warm, golden glow over the rugged landscape. The sight of the sun dipping behind the mountains, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, provided a perfect ending to a day filled with awe and adventure.

Day 4: September 9th, 2020

Day 4 began with an early start, as we were eager to explore the charming town of Jackson, WY, before venturing back into the wild beauty of Yellowstone National Park. The crisp morning air and the promise of new adventures set the tone for the day.

Exploring Jackson

Our first stop was a cozy Starbucks in downtown Jackson, where we grabbed our morning coffee. With cups in hand, we took a leisurely stroll around the city square, allowing ourselves to soak in the town’s quaint, welcoming atmosphere. Jackson’s Western charm was evident in every detail—from the iconic elk antler arches framing the square to the rustic storefronts that lined the streets. The unique shops and lively vibe of downtown Jackson made it a delightful start to our day, offering a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant culture.

Journey to Yellowstone

With Jackson’s charm still fresh in our minds, we set out for Yellowstone National Park, opting to enter through the south entrance. The drive itself was nothing short of spectacular. As we wound our way toward the park, we were greeted with stunning views of the Grand Teton peaks rising majestically in the distance. The sight of these rugged mountains, their snow-capped summits touching the clear blue sky, filled us with a renewed sense of awe.

Detour to Grand Teton National Park

Unable to resist the magnetic allure of the Tetons, we decided to take a brief detour to Grand Teton National Park for a closer look at these magnificent peaks. The landscape was nothing short of breathtaking—the sharp, jagged edges of the mountains contrasted beautifully against the deep blue sky, creating a scene that felt almost surreal. We stopped several times to capture the incredible views, each photo a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of this iconic range. This impromptu detour added yet another unforgettable highlight to our road trip, reminding us of the joy of spontaneous exploration.

Grand Prismatic Spring Visit

After capturing stunning photos of the Grand Teton peaks, we hopped back into our vehicle and headed toward the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Our main goal for the day was to visit the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of Yellowstone’s most iconic and breathtaking features.

The Grand Prismatic Spring is a sight to behold, with its vibrant hues of blue, green, yellow, and orange creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding landscape. There are two primary ways to view this natural wonder, and the best vantage point is from the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. However, reaching this spot requires arriving early to secure parking and beat the crowds. With this in mind, we parked near the Midway Geyser Basin Trailhead and set off on the trail that leads to the overlook.

Trail Experience

We started our hike with high hopes, eager to witness the Grand Prismatic Spring from above. The trail offered beautiful scenery, and we enjoyed the fresh air and the anticipation of seeing one of nature’s most spectacular sights. However, our excitement was tempered when we reached the overlook, only to find that it was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. This unexpected setback was a bit disheartening, especially after the effort we put into the hike.

Despite the closure of the overlook and the disappointment of missing the best view of the spring, we made the most of our time on the trail. The scenic views along the way were still beautiful, and the experience reminded us of the unpredictability of travel during these times. Even though we couldn’t see the spring from above, the journey itself—the hike, the fresh mountain air, and the moments of quiet reflection—was still rewarding.

Food and Dining

With many attractions and dining options closed due to health safety measures and roadwork, we were grateful for our foresight in packing plenty of food. Most restaurants within the park were closed, with only the visitor center restaurant offering takeout. Our packed meals became essential, ensuring we were well-fed and ready to continue our exploration without worrying about where our next meal would come from. It was a simple but effective way to stay self-sufficient and maintain our energy for the adventures that lay ahead.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is one of Yellowstone’s most unique and captivating geothermal features, renowned for its intricate terraces and stunning geothermal formations. The springs are a must-see for any visitor to the park, and we were eager to explore this natural wonder despite knowing that the hike to fully appreciate the springs could be quite strenuous.

We decided to take on the challenge of the Mammoth Terraces Trailhead, making our way up to the top of the terraces. The hike was indeed demanding, with steep inclines that tested our endurance, but every step was rewarded with increasingly breathtaking views. As we ascended, the terraces revealed themselves in all their glory—layer upon layer of chalky white limestone, sculpted by the constant flow of hot, mineral-rich water. The contrast between the stark white formations and the vibrant colors of the algae that thrive in the hot water created a mesmerizing, otherworldly landscape.

Reaching the top provided a panoramic view of the terraces, showcasing the intricate beauty and complexity of the geothermal activity below. The sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring, a testament to the incredible natural forces that continue to shape Yellowstone’s landscape.

As we continued our journey, we approached the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park, often considered the most beautiful and grand entrance to the park. This historic gateway, marked by the iconic Roosevelt Arch, not only serves as a symbolic entrance to the wonders of Yellowstone but also connects four states, with the north entrance located in Montana. Passing through this entrance felt like stepping into a different world, where nature reigns supreme and the awe of the park’s vast wilderness awaits.

Gardiner, Montana

Just outside Yellowstone’s north entrance lies the charming town of Gardiner, a delightful spot that perfectly complements the rugged beauty of the park. After our hike at Mammoth Hot Springs, we took some time to explore Gardiner, starting with a visit to the iconic north entrance arch. This historic gateway, framed by the majestic mountains and the open sky, is a symbol of Yellowstone’s enduring legacy. We couldn’t resist capturing the moment with photos, immortalizing both the majestic views and the significance of this storied entrance.

After our photo session, we wandered through Gardiner’s quaint streets, eventually settling in for a cozy dinner at a local eatery. The town’s welcoming atmosphere and the warmth of the local flavors provided the perfect ending to our day. As we savored our meal, we enjoyed the simple pleasures of good food and good company, reflecting on the incredible experiences we had already encountered on our journey.

Journey to Jackson

With our hearts and stomachs full, we set off for Jackson, Wyoming, ready to continue our adventure. The drive from Gardiner to Jackson was nothing short of spectacular, with the road winding through some of the most scenic landscapes in the region. As we journeyed south, the fading light of the evening cast a soft glow over the mountains and valleys, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere. The quiet of the road gave us time to think back on the day’s highlights—the challenging hike, the awe-inspiring views, and the peaceful moments in Gardiner. It was a time to appreciate the beauty of the journey itself, knowing that more adventures awaited us in Jackson.

Day 5: September 10th, 2020

As we prepared to leave the breathtaking Yellowstone National Park behind, our journey shifted gears, taking us toward the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. This leg of our road trip marked the beginning of a new chapter, filled with the promise of discovering yet another of nature’s marvels.

Journey to Bonneville Salt Flats

The drive from Yellowstone to the Bonneville Salt Flats was charged with anticipation. The changing landscape reflected the diversity of the American West, transitioning from the lush forests and geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the stark, expansive deserts of Utah. Along the way, we couldn’t resist pulling over to capture some fun and memorable photographs, each stop adding a new layer to our adventure. As we ventured further south, the scenery gradually opened up, and the familiar greenery gave way to the vast, open expanses of the Utah desert. The anticipation grew as the landscape hinted at the surreal terrain we were about to encounter.

Bonneville Salt Flats

Arriving at the Bonneville Salt Flats felt like stepping onto another planet. The expansive white salt crust stretched out endlessly, creating a surreal and striking contrast against the deep blue sky. The sheer vastness of the flats was awe-inspiring, and we found ourselves momentarily lost in the beauty of this unique landscape. The flats, famous for their otherworldly appearance and the land speed records set here, provided a perfect backdrop for some stunning photos. We spent time exploring the area, taking in the silence and the almost alien terrain that seemed to defy the typical images of Earth. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating—a reminder of the incredible diversity and beauty that our planet has to offer.

By late evening, we arrived at the Bonneville Salt Flats, a major highlight of our trip. Arriving at least two hours before sunset gave us ample time to explore the area and carefully set up for the astrophotography session we had eagerly anticipated.

The Bonneville Salt Flats, with its expansive, mirror-like surface, created a stunning and almost surreal backdrop for our photos. As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, the salt flats began to take on a magical glow, the white crust reflecting the warm hues of the setting sun. The landscape was transformed into a canvas of soft pastels and sharp contrasts, enhancing the ethereal beauty of the scene.

As the day faded into twilight, the sky deepened into rich blues, and the first stars began to appear. The vast, open expanse of the salt flats, combined with the incredibly clear skies, made this the perfect spot for capturing the night sky. We carefully set up our cameras, adjusting our settings to make the most of the low light and wide-open sky.

The experience of being out there, under the vast dome of the night sky, surrounded by the silent beauty of the salt flats, was both humbling and exhilarating. We spent the evening completely immersed in the serene environment, snapping photos that captured the stark contrast between the dark sky and the reflective surface of the flats. The Bonneville Salt Flats truly lived up to its reputation as one of the most unique and spectacular locations we visited on our journey, offering an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and photographic opportunity.

September 11th, 2020:

We hit the road early for what was to be a marathon driving day, covering approximately 15 hours as we made our way back across the heart of the country. The landscape gradually shifted as we left the vast expanses of the West behind, moving into the more familiar terrains of the Midwest. By late evening, after a long but satisfying day on the road, we found a comfortable place to rest for the night in Nebraska, grateful for the chance to recharge before the final leg of our journey.

September 12th, 2020:

After a well-needed rest, we set off once more, ready to complete the final stretch of our epic road trip. The drive back to Chicago was a bit shorter, and by the afternoon, we found ourselves pulling into our driveway, marking the end of an unforgettable nine-day adventure.

Our road trip from Chicago to Yellowstone National Park and back was more than just a journey across miles; it was a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes this country has to offer, past iconic landmarks that tell the story of America’s natural and cultural heritage. Along the way, we created cherished memories that will last a lifetime—memories of awe-inspiring vistas, the thrill of discovery, and the simple joy of being on the open road. As we unpacked and settled back into our routine, we couldn’t help but reflect on the beauty and diversity of the places we’d seen, and the incredible experiences we’d shared. This adventure, filled with its highs and challenges, will always hold a special place in our hearts.