Raleigh NC to St Louis MO | Day 1 | West Coast RV Road Trip
We started our road trip early this morning at 5:30am from Raleigh to St Louis, MO. Due to COVID-19 Travel considerations and restrictions, I did not want to fly out to Denver, so we decided to take 2 days to book it out there by driving. When researching costs to rent and RV for the trip, and realizing RV’s are rented by both a nightly and per mile charge, the 2K miles between Raleigh and Denver seemed like a waste to spend on an RV. For the first duration of the trip, I rented a Dodge Caravan to get us from Raleigh to Denver, CO.
Scenic Views
The road trip from Raleigh to St Louis is a 12 hours drive. Rolling green hills and mountains of North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Missouri capture your view and provides a beautiful scenic setting.
We were unfortunate to drive through rain most of the day through Tennessee and Missouri. But it did not slow us down and in fact we made such great timing with a second wind, we continued to drive all the way to Kansas City! 16 hours in one day, but adrenaline and pure wanderlust pushed us through!
Rule of the Road
Tennessee was a difficult state to cross due to the aggressive driving nature of truck drivers in that area. They rule the roads and were not shy about cutting you off or passing you if they were trying to get to their destination.
Mountains and Bluffs
Missouri was exceptionally beautiful, and unexpected in many ways. Very green and lush, with beautiful cliffs and bluffs. My cousin explained to me that these cliffs/bluffs were actually formed by wind! So interesting 😉
Tomorrow I get to see my nephews and I could NOT be more excited! With my nephews living in Denver, and with me living in Raleigh, they have only met my dog Brody on video chat. They are going to be so excited to meet Brody in real life! 🙂
Accommodations
We rented a room at a nice pet-friendly hotel in Kansas City, MO called Stoney Creek Hotel. This hotel was pet-friendly, great discount on Expedia, and was very clean and customer friendly. I would definitely recommend this hotel if you are travelling across Kansas City, as it is also very conveniently located to the highway.
Driving Route
Noteworthy Stops from Raleigh to St Louis
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Near Asheville, NC)
 The journey commences with the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Asheville, NC. Here, the mist-shrouded peaks and winding trails create a picturesque prelude to the adventures ahead, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Appalachians.
Biltmore Estate (Asheville, NC)
Transitioning from the mountainous landscapes, the road leads to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, a grandeur-laden marvel that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and sprawling gardens. As visitors traverse the estate, they’re transported to an era of opulence, exploring the magnificent mansion and its meticulously manicured surroundings.Â
Nashville, TN
Continuing westward, the harmonious tunes of Nashville, TN, beckon, marking a vibrant shift to the heartbeat of country music. From the historic Ryman Auditorium to the lively honky-tonk bars along Broadway, Nashville invites road trippers to soak in the city’s musical legacy and dynamic energy.
Mammoth Cave National Park (Near Bowling Green, KY)
Venturing further, Mammoth Cave National Park near Bowling Green, KY, offers a unique subterranean landscape, where intricate caverns and underground passages unveil the mysteries of the Earth’s depths. Guided tours lead adventurers through a surreal world of stalactites and stalagmites, creating a striking contrast to the open landscapes left behind.
Louisville, KY
As the road winds into Louisville, KY, the landscape transforms into a cultural mosaic. Louisville boasts the iconic Churchill Downs, home to the Kentucky Derby, and the innovative Louisville Mega Cavern. Each stop is a chapter in the city’s rich history and contemporary vibrancy.
St. Louis, MO
Culminating in St. Louis, MO, the journey reaches its zenith with the iconic Gateway Arch dominating the skyline. This architectural marvel becomes a symbolic transition point, inviting travelers to ascend its heights for panoramic views of the city and the mighty Mississippi River. St. Louis, with its blend of history, culture, and modern allure, serves as the final captivating chapter in this road trip narrative. Each stop paints a vivid picture, contributing to an unforgettable cross-country odyssey filled with diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Route 66 Attractions (Throughout MO)
Drive a portion of the historic Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions and nostalgic Americana.
Meramec Caverns (Near St. Louis, MO)
Discover the stunning underground formations of Meramec Caverns, known as the “Cave State.”
Shaw Nature Reserve (Gray Summit, MO)
Enjoy the tranquility of the Shaw Nature Reserve, offering hiking trails and beautiful landscapes.
Mark Twain National Forest (Throughout MO)
Finally, experience the natural beauty of the Mark Twain National Forest with opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities.
Remember to plan your route and stops based on your interests and the time available for the road trip.
