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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesGreat Northern US 2
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Great Northern US 2 Road Trip

Bangor - Bethel - Burlington - Montreal - Ottawa - North Bay - Sault Ste. Marie - Escanaba - Duluth - Grand Forks - Williston - Shelby - Kalispell - Spokane - Wenatchee - Seattle

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Great Northern US 2 Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages15 km5,209 h/stage4.9

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Great Northern US 2 Road Trip in United States?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 945EUR drive & more 700EUR sleep & more 1,661EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,873EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,818EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,134EUR drive & more 938EUR sleep & more 2,497EUR eat & more 2,268EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,703EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,837EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,890EUR drive & more 1,275EUR sleep & more 4,158EUR eat & more 3,024EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 8,457EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 10,347EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,725EUR drive & more 1,413EUR sleep & more 1,155EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,080EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,805EUR
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Great Northern US 2 Road Trip Itinerary

The Great Northern US 2 Road Trip is a 5,209 km journey that starts in the city of Bangor, United States and ends in Seattle, United States. Along the way, you will travel through Bethel, Montreal, North Bay, Escanaba, and Grand Forks. Each of these towns has its own unique attractions and activities, such as Bethel's beautiful lakes and mountains, Montreal's vibrant culture and nightlife, North Bay's historic sites, Escanaba's scenic lakeshore, and Grand Forks' award-winning restaurants. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, when you can enjoy the excellent road conditions and the various activities that each town has to offer. Please note that there is a border crossing along the route, and you should plan accordingly. This road trip is suitable for any driver, and can be managed on a moderate budget. It provides a high level of experience and memories that will last a lifetime. So why not pack your bags and get ready for the Great Northern US 2 Road Trip!
number of days 21 number of days
route length 5,209 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Bangor

Distance 5,209 km Driving time 74.1 h Pace: fast 1,562.8 kWh Airports BGR
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Bangor is an ideal starting point for the "Great Northern US 2 Road Trip", located in the state of Maine, between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains of the Appalachian Trail. It is the third largest city in the state and is located on the Penobscot River. The city of Bangor offers a range of interesting sights and activities. The Paul Bunyan statue is a must-see and symbolizes the city's deep connection to the lumber industry. Tourists can visit the Bangor Museum and Center for History, which offers a look into the city's rich past, or the Penobscot Theatre, which stages various performances year-round. For outdoorsy types, Bangor is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Maine, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to enjoy. The closest international airport to Bangor is Bangor International Airport (BGR), offering car rentals and easy access to the city. From there, visitors can start their "Great Northern US 2 Road Trip" by car, taking in the stunning views along the way. Bangor is an ideal starting point for the "Great Northern US 2 Road Trip", offering a range of interesting sights and activities to explore. With the Bangor International Airport (BGR) providing easy access to car rentals, visitors can easily embark on their journey and take in the stunning views of the region.

1 Bangor - Bethel

Distance 238 km Driving time 10.9 h Pace: slow 54.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Bangor to Bethel? This 148 mi journey will take you less than 11 hours and is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Start your journey in Bangor, a city with a rich history and culture. Visit the Bangor Museum and Center for History to learn more about the city's past and take a stroll through the Paul Bunyan Statue Park. Continuing on your journey, you will reach Brewer, a vibrant city with a variety of activities. Make sure to visit the Brewer Auditorium for a unique theatrical experience. Next, you will reach your destination, Bethel. Here, you can explore the Bethel Historical Society and the Bethel Mill. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!

2 Bethel - Burlington

Distance 246 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: fast 73.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! We are delighted to have you join us for the Bethel to Burlington stage of your journey. This leg of your trip is only 153 miles and should take you less than 4 hours to complete. Your starting point is Bethel, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains. Here you can explore the Bethel Historical Society, which houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs from the town's rich history. As you continue your journey, you will pass through the town of Littleton, which is home to the Littleton Opera House, a beautiful venue that hosts a variety of plays and musicals. Your destination is Burlington, a vibrant city located on the banks of the Winooski River. Here you can visit the Ethan Allen Homestead, the birthplace of the Revolutionary War hero, and the Robert Hull Fleming Museum, which showcases a wide array of artwork, artifacts, and natural history specimens. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. We hope you enjoy your Bethel to Burlington journey!

3 Burlington - Montreal

Distance 158 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 47.3 kWh View map Itinerary
border crossing
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Burlington in the United States to Montreal in Canada? This stage of your journey will be a 98 mi (158 km) drive that will take you no more than 3 hours. As you cross the state border, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in both Burlington and Montreal. In Burlington, you should visit the Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, as well as the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, a historic house museum. In Montreal, you should visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a magnificent gothic-style church, and the Mount Royal Park, a large urban park with stunning views of the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

4 Montreal - Ottawa

Distance 203 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: fast 61.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options border crossing
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a fun and exciting 203 km journey from Montreal, Canada to Ottawa. This stage of your tour will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you will even cross the provincial border. While in Montreal, you must visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, the beautiful Mount Royal Park, and the lively Jean-Talon Market. In Ottawa, you can explore the stunning Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Rideau Canal. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

5 Ottawa - North Bay

Distance 359 km Driving time 4.1 h Pace: fast 107.6 kWh View map Itinerary
border crossing
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Are you ready for an adventurous road trip from Ottawa to North Bay? This stage of your journey will take you across the Ontario-Quebec border, and will be approximately 359 km long, with a driving time of fewer than 5 hours. On the way, you will pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, and even have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places in these two cities. In Ottawa, you can explore the Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. In North Bay, you can visit the Discovery North Bay Museum, the Chief Commanda II Lake Cruise, and the North Bay Waterfront. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and enjoy your road trip from Ottawa to North Bay!

6 North Bay - Sault Ste. Marie

Distance 437 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: fast 131.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from North Bay to Sault Ste. Marie? This 437 km drive will take you less than 5 hours. Start your journey in North Bay, a city full of history and culture. Make sure to visit the North Bay Museum and the Capitol Centre, home to many arts and culture events. Heading to Sault Ste. Marie, you will find plenty of attractions to visit. Don't miss the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, where you can learn about the area's history and aviation. Take a stroll in the Roberta Bondar Park, a beautiful park located on the St. Mary's River. Finally, explore the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, one of the oldest buildings in the city. This is only one of the stages of this incredible road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

7 Sault Ste. Marie - Escanaba

Distance 317 km Driving time 6.6 h Pace: modest 82.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips border crossing
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Sault Ste. Marie, Canada to Escanaba? This 317km journey will take you fewer than 7 hours, so you can make the most of your time. As you drive, you will cross the border from Canada to the United States, so make sure you have all the necessary documents. Along the way, you can visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, the Mackinac Bridge, and the Fayette Historic State Park. All of these places offer unique sights and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure!

8 Escanaba - Duluth

Distance 463 km Driving time 6.1 h Pace: fast 139.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Escanaba to Duluth? This stage of the tour will take you 288 miles, and you can easily complete it in less than 6 hours. Start your journey in Escanaba, where you can explore the Ludington Park, the Delta County Historical Museum and the Bonifas Arts Center. Then, you can take a break in Iron Mountain, to visit the Pine Mountain Ski Jump and the World War II Glider and Military Museum. Continue your trip to Marinette, where you can explore the Peshtigo Fire Museum and the Menominee County Historical Museum. Then, you can take a break at the Wisconsin-Michigan border, to explore the Potawatomi State Park. Your next stop is Superior, where you can visit the Fairlawn Mansion and the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center. Then, your final destination is Duluth, where you can explore the Canal Park and the Glensheen Historic Estate. Remember that you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your unforgettable road trip from Escanaba to Duluth!

9 Duluth - Grand Forks

Distance 430 km Driving time 4.8 h Pace: fast 129.1 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Duluth to Grand Forks? This 267 mi journey will take you less than 5 hours and will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. Start your journey in Duluth, a city known for its breathtaking views of Lake Superior and its unique atmosphere. Here, you can explore the Canal Park, the Lakewalk, and the Enger Tower, as well as the many restaurants and shops in the area. Continue your journey to Grand Forks, the third-largest city in North Dakota. Here, you can explore the University of North Dakota campus, the Grand Forks Air Force Base, and the Sertoma Butterfly House. You can also take a stroll along the Red River, or visit the North Dakota Museum of Art. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

10 Grand Forks - Williston

Distance 539 km Driving time 5.4 h Pace: fast 161.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Grand Forks to Williston! This 335-mile journey will take you fewer than 6 hours, so you can make the most of your time and explore the best of both cities. Start your journey in Grand Forks and visit the Empire Arts Center, a hub of culture and the arts. Then, take a walk around Town Square to admire its amazing architecture. Afterward, drive to the Grand Forks Air Force Base to learn about the history of the city. Continue your drive to Williston and explore the North Dakota Oil Museum for a fascinating look into the history of the oil industry. Then, pay a visit to Fort Buford to learn about its role in the Indian Wars. Finally, take a stroll around the Williston State College campus to admire its beautiful architecture. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip from Grand Forks to Williston!

11 Williston - Shelby

Distance 658 km Driving time 7.1 h Pace: fast 197.5 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options
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Welcome to the Williston-Shelby road trip stage! This is one of the most exciting stages of a larger tour, as it will take you through some of the most interesting places in the United States. The journey is 409 miles long and can be completed in fewer than 8 hours, so prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience! The first stop is Williston, where you can visit the Fort Buford State Historic Site, the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center, and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, to name a few. Don't forget to check out the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, the Williston Basin Speedway, and the Williston Basin International Airport. The next stop is Shelby, where you can explore the Marias Museum of History and Art, the Shelby Civic Center, and the Shelby Rodeo Grounds. Make sure to visit the Marias River, the Missouri River, and the Montana State University-Northern. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

12 Shelby - Kalispell

Distance 254 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 76.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Shelby, United States, to Kalispell, a 158mi drive which should take no more than 3 hours. In Shelby, take some time to explore the historic downtown and visit the Marias Museum of History and Art. You can also take a stroll in the beautiful Shelby City Park and enjoy the picturesque views from the Shelby Golf Course. On your way to Kalispell, make sure you stop in Great Falls to visit the C.M. Russell Museum, a renowned art museum dedicated to the works of Charles M. Russell. The museum also hosts a variety of educational programs and events. In Kalispell, you can visit the Conrad Mansion Museum, a historic home built in 1895, and the Hockaday Museum of Art, which houses a large collection of artworks by local and regional artists. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

13 Kalispell - Spokane

Distance 416 km Driving time 7.6 h Pace: modest 108.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Embark on a road trip from Kalispell to Spokane and explore the best of Montana and Washington! This 259-mile journey will take you less than 8 hours to complete and will be one of the most memorable stages of your tour. Start your adventure in Kalispell and visit the Conrad Mansion Museum, a historic house museum, and the Hockaday Museum of Art. Don’t miss the Flathead Lake and the Flathead National Forest, both of which offer a variety of outdoor activities. Continue your journey to Spokane and explore the Spokane Riverfront Park, the Spokane Falls, and the Manito Park. Don’t forget to visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, the Mobius Science Center, and the Riverfront Park Looff Carrousel. For a more detailed description of the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great time!

14 Spokane - Wenatchee

Distance 266 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: fast 79.7 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! You are about to embark on a stunning journey from Spokane to Wenatchee. This 165mi drive will take you no more than 4 hours, so make sure to bring some snacks and drinks for the road. Your first stop should be the Manito Park in Spokane, where you can enjoy the beauty of the Japanese Garden, the Duncan Gardens, and the Conservatory. Then, continue your journey to the Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world. After that, you can admire the amazing views of the Columbia River from the top of the Dry Falls. The next stop is the Icicle Creek Canyon, where you can explore the Wenatchee National Forest, the Enchantments, and the Leavenworth Ski Hill. Finally, arrive in Wenatchee, where you can visit the Ohme Gardens, the Pybus Public Market, and the Wenatchee Riverfront Park. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

15 Wenatchee - Seattle

Distance 225 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 67.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready to hit the road? Then buckle up and get ready for an amazing road trip from Wenatchee to Seattle! This 140mi journey will take you less than 3 hours, and you will have the chance to explore some of the most interesting places in the area. In Wenatchee, make sure to visit the Ohme Gardens, a stunning landscape of gardens, rock formations, and panoramic views of the Columbia River. After that, you will drive through the beautiful landscapes of the Cascade Mountains, where you can stop and take some pictures of the breathtaking views. When you arrive in Seattle, you will be able to explore the city's many attractions, such as the iconic Space Needle, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Museum of Pop Culture. You can also take a tour of the city's historic waterfront and visit the famous Pike Place Market. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip!

  Seattle

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If you're planning a road trip through the northwestern United States, Seattle should be your final destination. Located in the Pacific Northwest region, Seattle is one of the most charming cities in the US. It is a vibrant city filled with outdoor activities, stunning views, and great food. Begin your exploration of Seattle at the iconic Space Needle. This observation tower offers stunning views of the city below, and is a great place to start your trip. The nearby Seattle Center is home to the Museum of Pop Culture, the Pacific Science Center, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Explore the city's outdoor offerings with a visit to the beautiful parks of Seattle. The Washington Park Arboretum is a great place for a walk or a picnic. The Olympic Sculpture Park offers views of the waterfront and Puget Sound. And the Seattle Waterfront offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. When it's time to eat, Seattle has plenty of delicious options. Visit Pike Place Market for fresh seafood, delicious desserts, and artisanal goods. Or, try one of the many excellent restaurants in the city. End your road trip in Seattle by taking in the views of the skyline and Puget Sound. The city is easily accessible via car, but if you're flying in, the closest international airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). No matter what kind of trip you're looking for, Seattle has something for everyone. From outdoor activities to delicious food and stunning views, this city is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Make Seattle your final destination on the Great Northern US 2 Road Trip.

Great Northern US 2 Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the iconic Great Northern US 2 Road Trip, an extraordinary 5,209 kilometers (3,237 miles) voyage that traverses the diverse landscapes of the United States from the charming city of Bangor, Maine, to the vibrant metropolis of Seattle, Washington. This adventure is a treasure trove of natural splendors, rich cultural encounters, and opportunities to delve into the bustling life of the cities along the way.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Bangor: Begin your odyssey in this historic city, where you can explore the legacy of author Stephen King and the serene beauty of the Penobscot River.
  • Bethel: Venture into this picturesque town in the White Mountains region, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with its panoramic vistas and recreational opportunities like hiking and skiing.
  • Montreal: Immerse yourself in the French-Canadian charm of Montreal, where cobblestone streets meet contemporary art, and culinary delights abound.
  • North Bay: Discover the gateway to Northern Ontario's wilderness, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the Canadian Shield's rugged landscapes.
  • Escanaba: Unwind along the shores of Little Bay de Noc on Lake Michigan, where sandy beaches and lighthouses offer a tranquil respite.
  • Grand Forks: Savor the culinary scene of this North Dakota city, where farm-to-table dining reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

Best Time to Go:

The prime window for the Great Northern US 2 Road Trip is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is most favorable, and an array of festivals and events bring these destinations to life.

Potential Risks:

  • Border Crossing: Have a valid passport and check visa requirements when planning to navigate the US-Canada border.
  • Wildlife: In rural stretches, especially near national parks, remain vigilant for animal crossings.
  • Weather: Pack for variability, as mountainous and coastal regions can experience dramatic shifts in weather conditions.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Historical Significance: US Route 2 is known as the `Great Northern` in commemoration of the pioneering transcontinental railRoad that once connected the East to the West.
  • Scenic Byways: The route includes stretches designated as Scenic Byways, offering captivating views of America's landscapes, such as the High Plains of Montana.
  • Longest State Stretch: The longest continuous section of US 2 runs through Montana, covering approximately 1,073 kilometers (667 miles) of the state's varied terrain.
  • Varied Ecosystems: Travelers will encounter a range of ecosystems, from the Acadian forests of Maine to the Rocky Mountains, and finally the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.

A good choice for:

Whether you're seeking the thrill of adventure, the depth of cultural immersion, or simply the joy of the open Road, the Great Northern US 2 Road Trip is a journey that promises rich and varied experiences. With each mile, travelers will collect memories that paint a picture of the vast and vibrant tapestry that is North America.

Facts for safer driving in United States

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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