Road Trip Itinerary: Minneapolis to Compton, California via National and State Parks

Day 1: Minneapolis to Badlands National Park, SD

Morning: Depart from Minneapolis early and drive towards Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Enjoy the scenic route and prepare for hiking and photography opportunities.

Afternoon: Explore the unique geological formations, scenic overlooks, and trails like the Door Trail in Badlands National Park.

Evening: Stay overnight near Badlands or in the nearby town of Wall, SD. Enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.

Day 2: Badlands to Mount Rushmore & Custer State Park

Morning: Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial early to avoid crowds and take iconic photos of the presidents’ carvings.

Afternoon: Head to Custer State Park to drive the Wildlife Loop Road and spot bison, elk, and other wildlife. Optional short hikes available.

Evening: Relax in the park’s campgrounds or nearby lodging, enjoying the peaceful Black Hills environment.

Day 3: Custer State Park to Devils Tower National Monument, WY

Morning: Depart for Devils Tower National Monument, the first national monument in the U.S., known for its striking rock formation.

Afternoon: Hike the Tower Trail around Devils Tower or participate in ranger-led programs if available.

Evening: Overnight in the nearby town of Hulett or camp to experience a quiet night surrounded by nature.

Day 4: Devils Tower to Salt Lake City, UT

Morning: Begin a longer driving stretch towards Salt Lake City, Utah. Consider stopping at small local parks or points of interest en route for breaks.

Afternoon: Arrive in Salt Lake City and explore Antelope Island State Park in the Great Salt Lake to see wildlife and unique landscapes.

Evening: Stay overnight in Salt Lake City and enjoy local dining or a rest before the next day’s journey.

Day 5: Salt Lake City to Zion National Park, UT

Morning: Drive to Zion National Park, arriving by mid-morning to make the most of your visit.

Afternoon: Hike popular trails like the Riverside Walk or partial Angels Landing if experienced; enjoy the stunning canyon views.

Evening: Overnight in nearby Springdale, UT, or camp inside Zion for an immersive experience.

Day 6: Zion to Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Morning: Depart Zion and drive toward Joshua Tree National Park in California, appreciating the changing desert landscapes.

Afternoon: Explore Joshua Tree’s unique flora, rock formations, and popular spots like Hidden Valley or Cholla Cactus Garden.

Evening: Stay overnight in the town of Joshua Tree or camp within the park to enjoy stargazing.

Day 7: Joshua Tree to Compton, CA

Morning: Take a relaxed morning exploring any missed sights in Joshua Tree.

Afternoon: Drive toward Compton, California, completing your cross-country journey.

Evening: Arrive in Compton and unwind after a memorable road trip through some of America's most iconic parks.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Badlands National Park: 3-4 hours; Entrance fee ~$25 per vehicle
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: 2 hours; Free entrance, parking ~$10
• Custer State Park: 3-4 hours; Vehicle entrance fee ~$20
• Devils Tower National Monument: 2-3 hours; Entrance fee ~$25 per vehicle
• Antelope Island State Park: 2-3 hours; Entrance fee ~$15 per vehicle
• Zion National Park: 4-5 hours; Entrance fee ~$37 per vehicle (7-day pass)
• Joshua Tree National Park: 3-4 hours; Entrance fee ~$30 per vehicle (7-day pass)
• Fuel and Miscellaneous Costs: Approximate for full trip ~$300

Total Estimated Cost: $462

Tips

For extending the trip: Consider adding extra days in Zion and Joshua Tree for more extensive hiking, photography, or ranger-led activities. You could also include Bryce Canyon National Park after Zion for breathtaking hoodoo formations.

For reducing the trip: Skip Devils Tower and Antelope Island to cut down on distance and time. Limit stays to 1-2 national parks such as focusing on Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Zion, and Joshua Tree for a more direct and shorter experience.