Operation North America: The Ultimate Continental Expedition
As a completionist and an avid lover of ambitious goals, I decided to take my previous goal of visiting all 50 US states to the next level by embarking on an expedition to explore the entire continent of North America. This grand endeavor encompasses the 10 provinces and 3 territories of Canada, as well as the 31 states of Mexico. It’s more than just a travel goal—it’s a mission to immerse myself in the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that make up this vast and varied continent.
First Stop, Canada:
Planning a trip to visit all 10 provinces and 3 territories of Canada by train and car is an ambitious yet exhilarating endeavor. I’ve thoroughly researched popular rail routes like VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” and the Rocky Mountaineer, which will take me across the heart of the country, offering comfort and the chance to witness the diverse landscapes in a way that driving simply cannot replicate. While the cost of this journey can be quite steep, ranging from as low as $500 to as high as $4,000, I firmly believe that the experience will be worth every penny. Once I arrive in Canada, I plan to rent a car, which will enable me to explore remote areas and traverse the parklands at my own leisurely pace. Canada boasts an impressive 48 national parks, each offering a unique blend of landscapes and ecosystems. Many of these parks, such as Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Waterton Lakes, and Fundy National, are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies to the misty shores of the Atlantic, every national park will offer new adventures and memories.
Next Stop, Mexico:
Navigating Mexico presents a bit more of a challenge. The primary obstacles are logistical, linguistic, and safety-related. While the majority of Mexican states are generally safe, there are a few regions that have been flagged for safety concerns, including Guanajuato, Baja California, Mexico State, Michoacán, Chihuahua, Jalisco, and Sonora. I’m still in the early stages of planning the Mexican leg of this journey, but it appears that planes, buses, and cars will be the most practical and reliable modes of transportation. I’ll need to meticulously plan routes and accommodations to ensure a smooth and secure experience while exploring Mexico’s diverse regions. Each of Mexico’s 31 states offers unique historical, cultural, and geographical experiences, ranging from the beaches of the Yucatán to the mountains of Chiapas. I’m thrilled about the prospect of immersing myself in the country’s rich heritage and exploring various attractions, such as the vibrant cities of Mexico City and Guadalajara, the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza.
This journey across North America promises to be an unforgettable adventure, testing my endurance and curiosity while providing an opportunity to truly comprehend the immense cultural and geographical diversity of this extraordinary continent.
Touring America: My Journey Through All 50 States!
Image from Britannica.com
Traveling to all 50 states wasn’t exactly something I set out to do from the start—it happened almost by accident. One day, I was jotting down all the places I’d visited in the U.S. when I realized I was only about 15 states short of seeing them all. At that point, I figured, “Well, I’ve come this far—I might as well see the rest.” And so, my journey to visit every state began.
Planning the Trip: Breaking It Down by Region
The Midwest – A great place to start, as the states are relatively close together and connected by a network of highways. While not the most scenic region overall, it has hidden gems, including the Great Lakes, rolling farmland, and iconic cities like Chicago and Minneapolis.
The South – Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, the heat. If you visit in the summer, be prepared—it can be brutally hot and humid. From the beaches of Florida to the bayous of Louisiana and the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina, the South has plenty to offer.
The East Coast – By far the easiest region to tackle, thanks to the smaller states and well-connected public transportation. You can drive through multiple states in just a few hours. The East is rich in history, from the colonial towns of New England to the bustling cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C.
The West – The most breathtaking region, with dramatic landscapes that range from deserts and red rock formations to towering mountains and lush forests. This is where the journey gets longer, as states are much larger and more sparsely populated. However, the reward is stunning scenery in places like Colorado, Utah, Montana, and the Pacific Northwest.
Alaska & Hawaii – The final challenge. These states require a separate trip, but they’re more than worth it. Alaska is an outdoor lover’s paradise with glaciers, wildlife, and the northern lights, while Hawaii offers volcanic landscapes, tropical beaches, and a rich Polynesian culture.
Things Worth Seeing Along the Way
1. National and State Parks
If a state has a national park or a notable state park, go see it! The U.S. National Park system is one of the greatest treasures of the country, preserving some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Here are just a few must-visit parks:
• Yosemite (California) – Home to giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and stunning waterfalls.
• Grand Canyon (Arizona) – One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth.
• Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina) – A mist-covered mountain range full of wildlife and scenic drives.
• Yellowstone (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho) – Geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, including bison and bears.
• Acadia (Maine) – The rugged coastline and stunning views make it a gem of the Northeast.
• Everglades (Florida) – The only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist.
2. Major Cities
While cities share similarities, each state has its own distinct vibe. Exploring a state’s major city is a great way to experience local culture, from food and accents to unique traditions. Some standout cities include:
• New Orleans, Louisiana – Jazz, Creole cuisine, and the famous French Quarter.
• Seattle, Washington – A mix of urban culture and nature, with great coffee and waterfront views.
• Chicago, Illinois – Deep-dish pizza, iconic architecture, and a thriving arts scene.
• Dallas, Texas – Vibrant arts and culture scene, world-class museums, delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Boston, Massachusetts – A history lover’s dream, with cobblestone streets and historic sites.
3. The Unusual & Quirky
Every state has its oddball attractions, and they’re often the most fun stops along the way. Some unique finds include:
• The World’s Largest Ball of Twine (Kansas) – Because why not?
• Carhenge (Nebraska) – A replica of Stonehenge, but made entirely of old cars.
• Cadillac Ranch (Texas) – A row of half-buried Cadillacs covered in graffiti.
• Mystery Spot (Michigan) – A place where gravity seems to go haywire.
• UFO Museum (New Mexico) – Located in Roswell, the heart of alien conspiracy theories.
4. Borders and Dividing Lines
I love finding places where I can be in two places at once, so discovering unique borders became one of my favorite parts of the trip.
• Texas/Mexico River Border – There’s a river where you can technically stand in both the U.S. and Mexico. But be careful—border patrol keeps a close eye on the area.
• Minnesota/Canada Water Border – Paddle across a lake and halfway through, you’ll be in Canada.
• The Center of the Contiguous U.S. – Located in Lebanon, Kansas, at 39°50’N latitude and 98°35’W longitude. Not the most exciting place, but a cool landmark for geography lovers.
• The Center of All 50 States – Found in South Dakota at 44°58′N 103°46′W.
Lessons Learned from Visiting Every State
• Road Trips Are King – While flying can be convenient, some of the best parts of the journey happen on the road. If you have the time, drive.
• Plan Around Weather – The South in summer? Brutally hot. Northern states in winter? Expect snow and freezing temps. Timing matters.
• Small Towns Have Big Charm – Big cities are fun, but don’t skip the small towns. Some of the best food, friendliest people, and most unique experiences happen off the beaten path.
• Respect Nature and Locals – Places like Alaska and Hawaii are stunning but also fragile. Locals in many places prefer to keep their landscapes pristine, so be respectful and minimize your impact.
Some of My Favorite States
It’s hard to pick favorites, but a few that stood out include:
• Washington & Oregon – Stunning forests, mountains, and coastline.
• Utah & Colorado – Some of the beautiful landscapes in the country, mountains, valleys, rivers, and wildlife.
• Maine & Vermont – Quaint towns, fall foliage, and great seafood.
• Florida & Louisiana – Vibrant culture, amazing food, and unique ecosystems.
• Michigan – The Great Lakes are truly impressive and offer some of the best summer destinations in the U.S.