This book is a complete guide for those who are keen to explore the American great outdoors as an independent traveller The book celebrates the American national parks, extols the virtues of long distance road trips, and examines the concept of Americana. The book includes nine long-distance road trips featuring the most famous and most accessible national parks, and other notable sites. Each chapter includes advice about being on the road, accommodation, things not to miss, and critically discusses some of the wider cultural aspects of American society. All the chapters are peppered with examples of road-related Americana, designed to enhance an American great outdoors experience. Readers are invited to explore how the American great outdoors can open up opportunities, not just for recreation, but also re-creation - of the mind and spirit.