A great cross country trip has many little elements, every day, that build over time and the miles. Certain natural elements grab your attention and speak to the soul. This road trip started in Florida, west through TX to NM and NV, up and East through Denver, East to TN, GA and NC and then back to Florida. Great trip! ~5500 miles of travel.
The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. It is a huge landscape with many rare and endangered species of animals and plants. It is a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve with many sightseeing and visit opportunities. Hiking, biking, canoe/kayak, camping, swamp buggy, airboat and many other opportunities to experience and see this great, unique outdoor reserve stretching from Lake Okeechobee to the tip of mainland Florida.
Tallulah is one of the most amazing canyons in the eastern U.S. Hiking the rim and across it's bridges is a tremendous, awe inspiring experience. Beautiful overlooks and a suspension bridge with wonderful views. The 10 mile mountain biking trails are amazing ways to see the back area of the park. Don't miss the Jane Hurt Yarn Center with exhibits, film and shops.
We went for a concert but ended up coming back the next day when empty. In Morrison, Colorado the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a great place to see shows, but seeing it when a show isn't there you can really see the surrounding red rocks that tower above and amazing views of the surrounding Denver valley area beyond. On a clear day you can see all the way to the airport way out east. This is a great entry point to the mountains of Colorado for many other recreational uses, both cold and warm weather.
Amazing recreation area near Truth or Consequences, NM. Camping there near the lake was wonderful and very peaceful. Area has camping, fishing, and boating in this well maintained state park. Some beautiful sandy beaches, restrooms, picnic areas, playgrounds, and RV sites. Location is at about 4500 feet so some nice cool eves during hot summers when were were there.
Lake Mead NPS Area is in Nevada and Arizona. It hovers around the Colorado River from the Grand Canyon. The many reservoirs on the river have been created by the Hoover and Davis Dams. Lots of opportunity for outdoor activity: boating, swimming, fishing, hiking etc. Don't miss a tour of the Hoover Dam. Amazing. It was hot in the summer. Recommend fall or spring time with some cooler nights.