[KenWittlief]

not going alone is a wise move. It can be dangerous to travel by yourself.

Id recommend you have some idea of what you want to do when you get to various places: map out trails you want to hike, specific things you want to see and explore, things you want to learn about.

Otherwise you could end up mostly driving around, with no clear goal or purpose.

And dont be afraid to take formal tours or do things that might seem touristy at the surface. I grew up in Buffalo, and have been to Niagara Falls many times, but it was not until 5 years ago when I took a couple from England to see the falls, that I went on the Maid of the Mist for the first time.

Seeing the falls from the bottom, looking up, in the middle of the river totally blew me away. Talk to people who have been to the places you are going, or talk to the park rangers and such, to make the most of your time, and to find the best ways to experience the places you go.

I read once that 90% of the people who goto Yellowstone never even get out of their cars!