Great Divide Route Map
Introduction
The Great Divide Route Map is a 3,083-mile-long scenic drive that runs from Canada to Mexico. It follows the Continental Divide of the Americas and offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, pristine lakes, and charming small towns. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, this route has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along the Great Divide Route Map.
Top Attractions
The Great Divide Route Map is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in North America. Some of the top attractions along the route include Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Banff National Park. These parks offer a wide range of activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and camping.
Hidden Gems
While the national parks are the main attractions along the Great Divide Route Map, there are also many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Some of these include the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve, the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark, the Enchanted Forest, and the Garden of the Gods. These hidden gems offer unique experiences that are off the beaten path and away from the crowds.
Food Scene
The Great Divide Route Map is home to some of the best food in North America. From farm-to-table restaurants to roadside diners, there is something for every taste and budget. Some of the must-try dishes include bison burgers, trout, elk steaks, and huckleberry pie. There are also many craft breweries and wineries along the route that offer tastings and tours.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The Great Divide Route Map can be an expensive road trip, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the experience. One of the best ways to save money is by camping instead of staying in hotels. There are many campgrounds along the route that offer stunning views and affordable rates. Another way to save money is by cooking your meals instead of eating out. Many campsites have fire pits and grills, making it easy to cook your own meals.
Outdoor Adventures
The Great Divide Route Map is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are countless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. Some of the best hiking trails include the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park, the Continental Divide Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Teton Crest Trail in Grand Teton National Park.
Historical Landmarks
The Great Divide Route Map is rich in history and culture. There are many historical landmarks and museums along the route that offer insight into the region’s past. Some of the must-visit landmarks include the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, the Santa Fe Trail, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the history of the American West.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Great Divide Route Map is a great destination for families. There are many activities that are fun for all ages, such as horseback riding, wildlife watching, and visiting amusement parks. Some of the best family-friendly activities include the Calgary Stampede, the Denver Zoo, and the Montana State Fair.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for unique experiences that are off the beaten path, the Great Divide Route Map has plenty to offer. Some of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences include visiting ghost towns, exploring abandoned mines, and taking a hot air balloon ride over the Rockies. These experiences offer a glimpse into the region’s past and are sure to create lasting memories.
Natural Wonders
The Great Divide Route Map is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in North America. From towering mountains to crystal clear lakes, there is no shortage of natural beauty along the route. Some of the must-see natural wonders include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Grand Prismatic Spring.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Great Divide Route Map may be known for its natural beauty, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are many bars, clubs, and music venues along the route that offer live music, dancing, and drinks. Some of the best nightlife spots include the Cowboy Bar in Jackson Hole, the Grizzly Rose in Denver, and the Palace Theatre in Calgary.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by visiting the local markets. The Great Divide Route Map is home to many farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and flea markets that offer locally made products and unique souvenirs. Some of the best markets include the Calgary Farmers’ Market, the Boulder Farmers’ Market, and the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market.
Beaches and Mountains
The Great Divide Route Map is unique in that it offers both stunning beaches and towering mountains. Some of the best beaches along the route include Whitefish Lake in Montana and Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park. Some of the best mountains include Mount Elbert in Colorado and Mount Assiniboine in British Columbia.
Cultural Immersion
The Great Divide Route Map is home to many different cultures and traditions. From Native American culture to cowboy culture, there is no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Some of the best cultural experiences include attending a powwow, visiting a working ranch, and exploring the local art scene.
Art and Music Scene
The Great Divide Route Map is home to many talented artists and musicians. There are many galleries, museums, and music venues along the route that showcase the region’s art and music scene. Some of the best art and music venues include the National Music Centre in Calgary, the Denver Art Museum, and the Santa Fe Opera.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the Great Divide Route Map is on foot. There are many walking tours along the route that offer guided tours of the local attractions and landmarks. Some of the best walking tours include the Ghost Tour in Banff, the Art Walk in Santa Fe, and the Historic Downtown Walking Tour in Denver.
Architectural Marvels
The Great Divide Route Map is home to many architectural marvels that are worth visiting. From historic buildings to modern masterpieces, there is no shortage of stunning architecture along the route. Some of the best architectural marvels include the Banff Springs Hotel, the Denver Union Station, and the Santa Fe Opera House.
Historical Sites
The Great Divide Route Map is rich in history and there are many historical sites along the route that offer a glimpse into the region’s past. Some of the best historical sites include the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, the Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, and the Fort Laramie National Historic Site.
Biking Routes
The Great Divide Route Map is a popular destination for cyclists. There are many biking routes along the route that offer stunning views and challenging terrain. Some of the best biking routes include the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park.
Wellness Retreats
The Great Divide Route Map is a great destination for those looking for a wellness retreat. There are many spas, yoga retreats, and wellness centers along the route that offer a wide range of services such as massages, meditation, and yoga classes. Some of the best wellness retreats include the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa, the Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes, and the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa.
Adventure Sports
The Great Divide Route Map is a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts. From skiing to snowboarding to rock climbing, there is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities along the route. Some of the best adventure sports include heli-skiing in Banff, ice climbing in Montana, and whitewater kayaking in Colorado.
Conclusion
The Great Divide Route Map offers a wide range of experiences for travelers of all interests. Whether you are looking for natural beauty, adventure sports, or cultural immersion, this route has something for everyone. We hope that this travel guide has inspired you to explore the Great Divide Route Map and discover all that it has to offer.