Epic Nature Road Trip: Orlando to Vermont through Philadelphia, Cape Cod, and Maine

Day 1: Orlando Nature Start

Orlando, FL, USA on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Se7en Bites

Enjoy a hearty Southern-style breakfast featuring fresh pastries and farm egg dishes to fuel your day of travel and outdoor adventure.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Depart for Ocala National Forest

Drive north to Ocala National Forest (about 1 hour from Orlando), one of Florida's finest natural preserves perfect for hiking and camping.
USD6 (parking fee), 1h

11:00am

Nature Hike in Ocala National Forest

Explore the Juniper Springs trail and enjoy the lush Florida forest, clear springs, and abundant wildlife.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Black Bear Wilderness Loop Trailhead

Pack a picnic or grab food from nearby cafes before hiking the trail to enjoy a nature-immersive lunch among the forest.
USD10, 1h

3:30pm

Camping Setup at Juniper Springs Campground

Set up your campsite in the well-equipped Juniper Springs campground, enjoy nearby springs for a swim and unwind in nature.
USD20, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner - Campfire Cookout

Prepare a campfire meal using supplies purchased in Orlando or nearby and enjoy the serene environment under the stars.
USD15 (food supplies), 1h

Day 2: Philadelphia Urban Nature

Philadelphia, PA, USA on May 21, 2025

7:00am

Depart Ocala for Philadelphia

Begin the drive north to Philadelphia, PA (approx. 14-hour drive), stopping intermittently to stretch and enjoy roadside parks.
USD40 (fuel estimate), 14h

9:00am

Breakfast on the road

Stop at roadside diners for breakfast during the drive to keep energy up.
USD10, 30m

8:00pm

Check into Camping at Philadelphia

Set up camp at Sesquicentennial State Park or nearby campground allowing for nature access within city limits.
USD30, Overnight

8:30pm

Dinner at Sabrina's Cafe

Enjoy a vibrant farm-to-table dinner with midnight-themed cuisine offering organic and local ingredients.
USD25, 1h

Day 3: Cape Cod Coastal Experience

Cape Cod, MA, USA on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Depart Philadelphia for Cape Cod

Drive about 6.5 hours northeast to Cape Cod, prepare for coastal nature and beach camping.
USD30 (fuel estimate), 6.5h

8:30am

Breakfast in Providence, RI

Stop in Providence for breakfast at Nick’s on Broadway to enjoy fresh bagels and coffee.
USD12, 1h

3:30pm

National Seashore Hiking & Camping

Explore Cape Cod National Seashore trails such as the Great Island Trail and set up camp at a nearby campground like Nickerson State Park.
USD15 campground fee, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar

Taste classic New England seafood dishes at this iconic local spot before heading back to camp.
USD30, 1h

Day 4: Acadia National Park Adventure

Bar Harbor, ME, USA on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Depart Cape Cod for Acadia National Park

Drive 5.5-6 hours northeast to Acadia National Park, a spectacular spot for coastal cliffs, forests, and mountain views.
USD30 (fuel estimate), 6h

9:00am

Breakfast stop in Portland, ME

Enjoy hearty breakfast at The Holy Donut with creative flavors made from local potatoes.
USD12, 1h

3:00pm

Acadia National Park Hiking and Sightseeing

Hike the Jordan Pond Path and visit Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
USD35 per vehicle entrance fee, 3-4h

6:30pm

Camping at Blackwoods Campground

Set up camp at Blackwoods Campground inside Acadia for easy access to hiking trails and ocean views.
USD30, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner - Campfire and Local Provisions

Cook simple meals at your campsite using fresh local produce and seafood purchased on route.
USD20, 1h

Day 5: Vermont Forest Retreat

Vermont, USA on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Depart Acadia for Vermont Green Mountain National Forest

Drive about 5.5 hours west to Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest, known for its hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
USD30 (fuel estimate), 5.5h

9:00am

Breakfast on the Road

Stop for breakfast in central New Hampshire at a cozy local café like The Common Man before continuing west.
USD12, 1h

3:00pm

Hike and Explore Green Mountain National Forest

Enjoy several hiking trails including the Long Trail, soaking in Vermont’s mountains, waterfalls, and dense forest.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Camp Overnight at Green Mountain NF camping sites

Set up camp at a designated camping area inside the Green Mountain National Forest with basic facilities and natural beauty.
USD20-25, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner - Prepared Campfire Meal

Relish a simple but hearty campfire meal prepared with local Vermont ingredients and enjoy the peaceful wilderness setting.
USD15, 1h