America's Backbone the US 50 Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on the ultimate American road trip with America's Backbone, the US 50 Road Trip! From the nation's capital Washington D.C. to the rolling hills of Cincinnati, to the capital of Missouri, Jefferson City, to the Wild West of Dodge City, to the breathtaking red rock formations of Moab and finally to the City by the Bay, San Francisco, this 5071 km journey has something for everyone!
This 21-day road trip is best enjoyed during the warmer months of the year, when the landscapes and sights along the way are at their most vibrant. From the iconic monuments of D.C. to the wide open plains of the Midwest, to the majestic mountain ranges of the West, the US 50 Road Trip offers a unique view of the country that can be experienced nowhere else. The roads are in excellent condition, making the drive comfortable and safe.
No matter your budget, this road trip provides a very high level of experience and memories that will last a lifetime. So pack up your car and hit the open road for an unforgettable journey along America's Backbone, the US 50 Road Trip!
21
number of days
5,071 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Baltimore
Distance 5,071 km
Driving time 60.6 h
Pace: fast
1,521.3 kWh
Airports
BWI
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IAD
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Baltimore, Maryland is a great starting point for the America's Backbone the US 50 Road Trip. With its scenic harbor, historic attractions, and vibrant culture, this city has plenty to offer. When visiting Baltimore, be sure to check out the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, and the American Visionary Art Museum. One can also take a stroll along the Inner Harbor, where you can find restaurants, shops, and entertainment. There are also plenty of historical sites to explore, including the USS Constellation, Fort McHenry, and the Edgar Allan Poe House.
For those coming to Baltimore by air, the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is the closest international airport. There are car rentals available at BWI, making it easy to get around and explore Baltimore and the surrounding area.
Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Baltimore is a great place to start your America's Backbone the US 50 Road Trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful harbor, Baltimore is sure to be a memorable experience.
1
Baltimore
- Washington D.C.
Distance 75 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
22.4 kWh
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Are you ready for an awesome road trip? Take a journey from Baltimore to Washington D.C, only 46 miles apart, and explore the best of both cities! The drive is only 1.5 hours, and you'll be able to take in the sights and sounds of these two great cities.
In Baltimore, visit the Baltimore Museum of Art, the National Aquarium, and the Baltimore Inner Harbor. In Washington D.C., explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Mall, and the White House.
On your journey, you'll pass by historical sites, so keep an eye out for interesting landmarks. Be sure to take plenty of pictures to capture your journey.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get your car and take off on this awesome road trip!
Washington D.C. - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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2
Washington D.C.
- Clarksburg
Distance 393 km
Driving time 5.9 h
Pace: fast
118.0 kWh
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Welcome to the Washington D.C. - Clarksburg road trip! This stage of your journey will take you across the states of Maryland and West Virginia, over a distance of 244 miles that can be covered in under 6 hours.
In Washington D.C., make sure to visit the Washington Monument, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the National Gallery of Art. If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a walk around the National Mall and explore its many museums and monuments.
Your next stop is in Clarksburg, a city full of history and culture. Here, you can visit the Darden Mill, the West Virginia Independence Hall, and the Robert C. Byrd Hilltop Office Complex. There are also many outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a great trip!
Clarksburg - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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3
Clarksburg
- Cincinnati
Distance 440 km
Driving time 5.3 h
Pace: fast
132.1 kWh
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Are you ready for a great road trip? Start your journey in Clarksburg, United States, and explore the city's attractions such as the Clarksburg Premium Outlets, the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and the Catoctin Creek Park. Then, hit the road and drive the 274mi to Cincinnati. Along the way, you can make stops at places like the historic town of Harpers Ferry, the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, and the city of Columbus.
Once you arrive in Cincinnati, you can explore the city's attractions such as the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Cincinnati Art Museum, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. There are also plenty of great restaurants, shops, and parks to explore.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, but you can make the most of it by visiting the most interesting places along the route. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Cincinnati - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedio - Wikipedia
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4
Cincinnati
- St. Louis
Distance 576 km
Driving time 7.4 h
Pace: fast
172.8 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Let's start in Cincinnati, United States, and take a 358mi drive to St. Louis. You can easily make this journey in fewer than 8 hours.
In Cincinnati, you can visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is one of the oldest zoos in the US. You can also explore the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which pays tribute to the history of the Underground Railroad.
Next, you can drive to Madison, Indiana, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Ohio River. You can also visit the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, which is a historic Greek Revival-style house.
You can then drive to Louisville, Kentucky and explore the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where you can learn about the history of baseball and get a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory. You can also visit the Muhammad Ali Center, which celebrates the life and legacy of the legendary boxer.
Finally, you can drive to St. Louis, Missouri and visit the Gateway Arch, which is the iconic symbol of the city. You can also explore the St. Louis Zoo, which is one of the oldest zoos in the US.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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5
St. Louis
- Jefferson City
Distance 222 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
66.5 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from St. Louis to Jefferson City. This 138mi journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and you will get to discover some of the most iconic places of the Midwest.
Start your adventure in St. Louis, the “Gateway to the West”. Here you can explore the iconic Gateway Arch, the world’s tallest arch, and the iconic Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Continue your journey to Jefferson City, the state capital of Missouri. There you can admire the State Capitol, a beautiful building with a dome and a Greek-style portico. Also, don’t miss the Missouri State Museum, where you can explore the history of the state.
If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, don’t miss the Runge Nature Center, which offers a variety of educational programs and activities.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and fun journey!
Jefferson City - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Jefferson City
- Kansas City
Distance 241 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
72.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Jefferson City to Kansas City? This 150-mile journey will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete and offers some of the most interesting places to visit.
Start your trip in Jefferson City and take a stroll around the Missouri State Capitol, the seat of the government of Missouri. Take a few pictures and enjoy the great architecture. Then, drive to the Katy Trail State Park, a rails-to-trails state park that offers recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
Once you reach Kansas City, you should visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, a tribute to those who served in World War I. You can also explore the Kansas City Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Don't forget to visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, a renowned art museum.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get in your car and explore the beauty of Jefferson City and Kansas City!
Kansas City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Kansas City
- Dodge City
Distance 550 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: fast
164.9 kWh
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Are you ready to explore the beautiful Midwest? Then join us on this amazing road trip from Kansas City to Dodge City! This journey of 342 mi and less than 6 hours of driving will take you through some of the most iconic cities and attractions of the Midwest.
Starting in Kansas City, the first stop of this road trip is the historic Union Station and its interactive science center. Afterwards, take a stroll along the banks of the Missouri River and admire the breathtaking views of the city skyline.
As you continue on your journey, you will reach Topeka, the capital of Kansas. Here, you can visit the State Capitol Building, the Kansas State Historical Museum, and the Topeka Zoo.
Your next destination is Manhattan, home to Kansas State University and the Flint Hills Discovery Center.
Finally, you will arrive in Dodge City, the legendary town of the Wild West. Here, you can explore the Boot Hill Museum and the Front Street Historic District.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your bags and join us on this incredible road trip from Kansas City to Dodge City!
Dodge City - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Dodge City
- Pueblo
Distance 436 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: fast
130.9 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road trip stage from Dodge City to Pueblo! This stage of your journey will take you 271 miles and fewer than 5 hours of driving.
In Dodge City, make sure to visit the Boot Hill Museum and the Kansas Teachers' Hall of Fame. Both places are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
As you drive through, you'll pass by the beautiful Lake Scott State Park. Take a break, have a picnic and explore the park's trails.
In Pueblo, you can explore the Rosemount Museum, which is home to a great collection of artifacts from the area. You can also visit the El Pueblo History Museum, which tells the story of the area from the early settlers to the present day.
Along the way, you'll also find plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive or a hike, you'll find plenty of options.
At the end of your journey, you'll be rewarded with the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Pueblo - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Pueblo
- Moab
Distance 629 km
Driving time 7.8 h
Pace: fast
188.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip? Let's explore the journey from Pueblo to Moab! This route is 391 miles long and takes less than 8 hours of driving. It will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the US, with incredible views of the Rockies and the great plains. You'll be able to take in the beauty of the San Luis Valley, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the Colorado Plateau. Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery, make stops for photos, and explore the area.
When you reach Moab, you'll find plenty of opportunities for adventure. You can explore the Arches National Park, experience the beauty of Dead Horse Point State Park, and take in the stunning views of the La Sal Mountains. There are also plenty of great restaurants and accommodations to choose from.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, so make sure to keep an eye out for more interesting places to explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience the best of Pueblo to Moab!
Moab - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Moab - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixabay
Moab - United States - North America - Road Trip - Flickr
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10
Moab
- Ely
Distance 630 km
Driving time 7.1 h
Pace: fast
188.9 kWh
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Are you ready to take the road trip of a lifetime? Starting in Moab, United States, you'll be heading to Ely, a journey of 391 miles that should take you fewer than 7 hours. Along the way, you'll be able to take in some incredible views, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for any scenic roads!
The first stop on your journey should be at Dead Horse Point State Park, where you can take in the stunning views of the Colorado River and the canyonlands from the overlook. From here, you can continue on to Goblin Valley State Park, where you can explore the unique hoodoos and rock formations.
Next, you'll be heading to Fishlake National Forest, where you can take a break and explore the lush forests and enjoy some of the best fishing Utah has to offer. After that, you can make your way to the historic town of Green River, where you can learn about the area's history and enjoy some of the local restaurants and shops.
Finally, you'll be arriving in Ely, where you can explore the city's many attractions, including the White Pine Public Museum and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum.
Remember, more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore and have the adventure of a lifetime!
Ely - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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11
Ely
- Carson City
Distance 527 km
Driving time 6.4 h
Pace: fast
158.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Ely to Carson City? This journey of 328 miles will take you fewer than 7 hours, so you can easily make it a day-trip. Start your journey in Ely and make sure to take the scenic road to enjoy the beautiful views of the Nevada desert. Along the way, you will pass through the charming town of Austin, where you can visit the Austin Museum and take a tour of the Austin Historic District. You will also drive through the beautiful town of Eureka, where you can explore the Eureka Sentinel Museum and the Eureka Opera House. Finally, you will arrive in Carson City, where you can visit the Nevada State Capitol and the Nevada State Museum. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Carson City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Vikipedija
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12
Carson City
- Sacramento
Distance 210 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
63.1 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Carson City to Sacramento? This 131-mile drive will take you fewer than 3 hours, so you can easily make it a day trip. Enjoy the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and pay attention to the steep ramps and the historical sites along the way. You'll be able to take some great pictures of the beautiful landscapes, and you'll also be able to visit some of the most interesting places in both Carson City and Sacramento. In Carson City, don't miss the Nevada State Capitol building and the Nevada State Museum. In Sacramento, the California State Capitol and the Crocker Art Museum are must-sees. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Sacramento - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Sacramento - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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13
Sacramento
- San Francisco
Distance 142 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
42.6 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Sacramento to San Francisco and discover the hidden gems of Northern California! This 88-mile journey will take you less than two hours and will show you the best of both cities.
Start your journey in Sacramento and explore the city’s rich history. Visit the California State Capitol Museum, the Governor’s Mansion, and the Old Sacramento State Historic Park.
Continue your drive towards San Francisco and take a break to admire the picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way.
Once you reach San Francisco, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Don’t forget to take some time to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods and vibrant culture.
Be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of the road trip for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
San Francisco - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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San Francisco
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San Francisco is a must-see destination for all travelers looking for a memorable experience in the United States. Located at the end of America's Backbone the US 50 Road Trip, San Francisco is a vibrant and exciting city filled with cultural attractions, stunning views, and plenty of activities to keep visitors busy.
As the most densely populated city in the US, San Francisco offers a plethora of activities, landscapes and experiences to explore. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the winding streets of Chinatown, the city is filled with historical sites, stunning architecture and unique galleries.
If you're looking for a taste of traditional American culture, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Fisherman's Wharf and visit the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, try an afternoon at the Palace of Fine Arts or wander the enchanting gardens of the Japanese Tea Garden.
For travelers arriving by car, there are plenty of parking options near all the popular attractions. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
No matter how you choose to spend your time in San Francisco, you're sure to find something amazing. From a breathtaking sightseeing tour to a leisurely cruise along the bay, the city promises a memorable experience for everyone.
America's Backbone the US 50 Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Baltimore
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End:
San Francisco
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Distance:
5,071 km
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Stay:
21 days
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Getting there:
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI),
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The US 50 Road Trip, also known as America's Loneliest Road, is a classic 3,200-mile (approximately 5,150 km) journey across the United States. Starting in Ocean City, Maryland, and ending in Sacramento, California, this Trip can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, depending on the pace and depth of exploration. It offers a unique blend of urban excitement, small-town charm, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Ocean City, Maryland: Begin with the coastal charm of this popular beach destination.
- Washington D.C.: Dive into the nation's history with its iconic landmarks, including the Capitol, the White House, and the Smithsonian museums.
- Cincinnati, Ohio: Experience the cultural richness, from music to food, amidst the city's rolling hills.
- St. Louis, Missouri: Witness the Gateway Arch and explore the city's vibrant blues scene.
- Kansas City: Get a taste of renowned BBQ and jazz music.
- Great Basin National Park, Nevada: Be amazed by the ancient bristlecone pines and the stunning Lehman Caves.
- Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: Indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and skiing in this pristine alpine lake setting.
- Sacramento, California: Conclude your Trip in the historic capital of California, rich with Gold Rush-era sites.
Best Time to Go:
The best time for this Road Trip is from late spring to early fall, taking advantage of the milder weather. This period is ideal for enjoying both the cities and the diverse landscapes, from the Eastern Seaboard through the Rocky Mountains and into the deserts of the West.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of potential risks such as varying weather conditions, especially when crossing mountain passes or desert regions, where temperatures can be extreme. It's also important to plan for the remote stretches of highway where services are sparse.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- US Route 50 has been nicknamed `The Loneliest Road in America` by Life magazine due to its long, remote stretches through Nevada.
- The route crosses the historic Pony Express trail, offering opportunities to visit museums and stations once used by the horseback mail service in the 1860s.
- Annapolis Rock on the Appalachian Trail is a noteworthy detour for hiking enthusiasts looking for panoramic views.
A good choice for:
The US 50 Road Trip is an epic adventure that allows travelers to experience the heartland of America. This cross-country voyage is a celebration of the nation's vastness and variety, offering a tapestry of experiences that capture the essence of the American spirit. With strategic stops, a flexible itinerary, and an appreciation for the open Road, explorers can embark on a memorable journey that encapsulates the beauty of the United States.
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