Fair warning; We did not initially intend to drive the entirety of the Dempster Highway. This detour started on a whim as my sister and I we’re driving from Anchorage, AK to San Diego, CA. She had just wrapped up a seasonal position as a kayak guide and I came along for the ride as she made her way back down the west coast.

Acadia National Park is one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the Northeast, and for good reason. With rugged coastline, granite peaks, and vibrant fall foliage, it offers something for every type of traveler, whether you're hiking, biking, camping, or exploring by van.

If you're road-tripping up the East Coast, the Outer Banks (OBX) of North Carolina is a no-brainer. This stretch of barrier islands is packed with wild history, stunning beaches, and enough lighthouses to make your camera roll dizzy.