Opportunity presented itself.

National Parks were still open, the weather looked promising, and school was back in session. With fast planning and quick execution I could see some of America's most spectacular stretches of nature. Another road trip was in the making!

I used two books to guide my planning: National Geographic's "Guide to the National Parks" and Reader's Digest's "The Most Scenic Drives in America". Focusing on the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau, I developed a path that took me through nine National Parks along eleven scenic drives.

From D.C. I drove to Northwest Montana to start my trek in Glacier National Park, then I wound my way south to the Grand Canyon where I was supposed to turn east in Flagstaff and return home. However, the call of Sedona and of Route 66 was too strong for me to ignore so I wove them into my plans.

Over the course of my trip I learned there are many more government protected jewels than just our National Parks. I stumbled upon many wonderful National Monuments, National Scenic Areas, and National Historic Monuments. They were all worth the detour and, with my Annual Pass, they were all free to visit. These added unexpected joy to my already amazing trip!

My drive home was filled with happy visits along Route 66. Finally I stayed in a Wigwam Motel (two, actually)! Drove to Oatman, AZ over Sitgreaves Pass. Visited with the owner of the Midpoint Cafe. Spent the night in the famous Blue Swallow Motel. Stopped by the Catoosa Blue Whale and much more!

All in all a FABULOUS trip for which I have my family to thank.

They’re the ones who support me and make it all possible.

I wonder where I’ll head to next ... :-)