The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Colorado to Portland, Oregon

Are you looking for an adventure on the open road? One of the best ways to experience America's natural beauty is by taking a road trip, and a trip from Aurora, Colorado to Portland, Oregon is a must-do for any lover of the great outdoors. With so many amazing sights to see and places to visit, it can be hard to narrow down your options. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Aurora, Colorado to Portland, Oregon.

Before you hit the road, make sure to pack plenty of snacks, fill up your gas tank, and prepare for a journey that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and cities in the United States.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Your road trip begins in Aurora, Colorado, and there's no better place to start your journey than the Rocky Mountain National Park. Once you leave the denser city areas of Denver, you will drive up the winding mountain roads and be greeted by wildlife such as bighorn sheep and elk.

This national park offers some of the most stunning landscapes that you will see on your journey. Some of the top attractions include Trail Ridge Road (which spans up to 12,183 feet), Bear Lake, and Longs Peak. Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, or simply soaking in natural beauty, Rocky Mountain National Park will not disappoint.

Salt Lake City, Utah

As you make your way northwest, your next stop is Salt Lake City, known as the "Crossroads of the West." Salt Lake City is a great place to take a break from driving, stretch your legs, and explore a bustling modern city.

Some popular attractions here include Temple Square, where you can learn about the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Utah State Capitol Building and the Great Salt Lake are other places worth checking out. If you have time, take a short drive outside of the city to Antelope Island State Park, where you will find stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

As you continue your journey, the landscape around you changes and you enter a volcanic wilderness. This is the Craters of the Moon National Monument, a stunning expanse of lava fields formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led activities.

You'll be amazed by the abundance of unique geological formations and lush vegetation in an area that appears barren and otherworldly. Be sure to stop at the visitor center to learn more about the region's fascinating geologic and human history.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington

Mount St. Helens is a must-see destination for any nature lover and one of the most iconic landmarks of the Pacific Northwest. The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is home to over 110,000 acres of protected land.

The volcano, which erupted in 1980, provides visitors with an up-close view of a raw and beautiful landscape. Head to the Johnston Ridge Observatory for a panoramic view of the strata that erupted in 1980.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

As you near the end of your road trip, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon is the perfect last stop. This area boasts some of the most spectacular views of the Columbia River and the surrounding mountains, and the lush greenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Check out the Multnomah Falls, which cascades down over 600 feet of two-tiered drops and visit the quaint town of Hood River, where you can find some of the best local eateries and boutique shops in the area.

Conclusion

So there you have it, our list of the top places to see when driving from Aurora, Colorado to Portland, Oregon. This road trip is filled with amazing scenery, unique landmarks, and an abundance of natural beauty. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring unique geological formations, or simply admiring natural landscapes, this journey has it all. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture every moment, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.