The 10 Strangest Records Set Traveling the U.S.

Crossing the United States from coast to coast is a challenge that has captivated adventurers, dreamers, and record-breakers for centuries. The vast expanse of the country, stretching thousands of miles from ocean to ocean, has served as both a proving ground for physical endurance and a blank canvas for creative, unconventional feats of travel.

While most people think of road trips, trains, or flights when it comes to traveling across America, some individuals have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, using unexpected methods and sheer determination to set records that range from inspiring to downright bizarre.

Here are 10 of the most unusual and astonishing world records set while traveling across the U.S., each proving that there’s more than one way to conquer America’s vast landscape.

Related: Ten “World’s Oldest” Recordholders

10 Fastest Journey Across the U.S. on a Skateboard

In 2013, long-distance skateboarder Dave Cornthwaite set a record for the fastest journey across the U.S. on a skateboard. Cornthwaite traveled an impressive 3,618 miles (5,822 km) from Miami, Florida, to Portland, Oregon, over the course of 90 days. Averaging roughly 40 miles (64 km) a day, he pushed through extreme heat, rough pavement, and traffic hazards to complete his unconventional trip.

The journey was part of Cornthwaite’s “Expedition 1000” project, where he aimed to complete 25 trips of 1,000 miles (1,609 km) or more using non-motorized methods of transportation. Along the way, Cornthwaite relied on the kindness of strangers for food and shelter, often drawing curious crowds in small towns who marveled at his skateboard’s rugged endurance. His record not only showcased a rare method of long-distance travel but also brought attention to sustainable and adventurous modes of exploration.^[1]

9 Longest Unicycle Journey Across the U.S.

In 2010, Cary Gray earned a world record for the longest unicycle journey across the United States. Gray traveled over 4,500 miles (7,242 km), beginning in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and winding his way to San Diego, California. Balancing on a single wheel for months, he faced grueling conditions, including strong winds, steep mountain climbs, and the monotony of endless stretches of road.

Gray’s journey was as much about mental resilience as it was about physical endurance. He carried camping gear, a first aid kit, and supplies on his back, often setting up camp wherever he could find shelter for the night. Passersby were frequently astonished to see someone riding a unicycle on major highways, leading to spontaneous interviews and local news features. Despite numerous challenges, including flat tires and the need for constant balance, Gray’s record cemented his reputation as one of the most determined and quirky travelers in cross-country history.^[2]

8 Fastest Coast-to-Coast Barefoot Run

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9F01JqhaoAU

In 2013, runner and endurance athlete Andrew Snope set the record for the fastest barefoot run across the United States, completing the trek in 114 days. Starting in Tybee Island, Georgia, and finishing in Santa Monica, California, Snope ran roughly 30 miles (48.3 km) per day without wearing shoes. His goal was to prove the viability of barefoot running and explore its benefits for the human body.

The journey was grueling, particularly on gravel-strewn roads and searing hot asphalt in the Southwest. Snope dealt with blisters, swelling, and heat exhaustion but continued undeterred. He relied on a support crew for water, nutrition, and logistics, and he frequently shared updates on social media, inspiring a growing following of barefoot-running enthusiasts. His record brought attention to alternative running methods while showcasing an extraordinary level of physical endurance and pain tolerance.^[3]

7 Fastest Cross-Country Trip on a Scooter

The record for the longest time it took to cross the United States on a kick scooter is 21 days, 9 hours, and 57 minutes. Daniel Nielsen of the United States set the record by traveling from San Diego, California, to Jekyll Island, Georgia.
The first cross-country trip on an electric scooter was a 4,000-mile ((6,437-km) journey from Yorktown, Virginia to Florence, Oregon. The trip took two months and involved using six Ninebot KickScooter MAX e-scooters. The riders swapped out scooters when the battery ran out to reduce charging times.^[4]

6 Fastest Cross-Country Trip on a Horse

Lucian Spataro embarked on a remarkable 3,000-mile horseback journey across the United States in 1989, traversing the country from Los Angeles, California, to Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. The ride spanned 150 days and took him through 15 states, making it one of the most extensive equestrian journeys completed with the same horses. Spataro’s expedition was not merely a test of endurance and skill but also a profound tribute to the spirit of adventure and the bond between rider and horse. Covering diverse terrains, from arid deserts to lush forests, the journey highlighted the challenges and beauty of the American landscape. The feat was particularly notable for its meticulous planning and execution, with Spataro ensuring the well-being of his horses throughout the arduous trip.

The journey had a broader purpose beyond its physical and logistical challenges. Spataro used his ride to raise awareness about environmental conservation and to inspire others to engage with the natural world. Traveling through rural communities and urban centers, he connected with people across the country, sharing his message about preserving the environment and the importance of sustainable practices. His ride symbolized a bridge between nature and humanity, emphasizing the need to respect and protect the landscapes that support both. Today, Spataro’s journey stands as a testament to the power of determination, the human-animal connection, and the enduring allure of exploring the world on horseback.^[5]

5 Fastest Coast-to-Coast Journey on Rollerblades

In 2012, Kacie Fischer achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the fastest person to inline skate across the United States. She completed the journey from Solana Beach, California, to Jacksonville, Florida, covering approximately 2,500 miles in just 47 days. This accomplishment surpassed the previous official record of 69 days set by Rusty Montcrief in 2002. Fischer’s journey was not only a testament to her physical endurance and determination but also served a philanthropic purpose, as she used the endeavor to raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics, inspired by her cousin Matthew, who is autistic and benefited from the organization’s programs.

Fischer’s cross-country skate presented numerous challenges, including harsh road conditions, extreme weather, and physical strain. In Western Texas, she encountered chip-sealed roads and strong headwinds that significantly slowed her pace, testing her resilience. Beyond this record-breaking achievement, Fischer is recognized as a world-ranked tower runner, competitive runner, personal trainer, and CrossFit coach, exemplifying her diverse athletic prowess and dedication to promoting health and fitness. Since Kacie’s trip, others have also attempted this daunting feat.^[6]

4 First Journey Across the U.S. on a Lawn Mower

In 1999, Brad Hauter undertook a unique and groundbreaking journey, traveling from Atlanta, Georgia, to Los Angeles, California, on a lawn mower. This unconventional cross-country trip, covering over 4,000 miles (6,437 km), was part of a campaign to raise awareness and funds for environmental initiatives, specifically benefiting Keep America Beautiful, a nonprofit organization focused on waste reduction and community improvement. Hauter’s journey combined an extraordinary feat of endurance with a quirky and memorable method of advocacy, attracting media attention and inspiring communities along the way.

The journey was not without challenges, as Hauter faced varying weather conditions, mechanical issues with the lawn mower, and the sheer physical toll of long hours on an unconventional vehicle. Despite these obstacles, his determination to highlight environmental conservation and engage with people across the country kept him motivated. His lawn mower ride became a symbol of creative activism, demonstrating how even unconventional approaches can make a powerful impact in raising awareness for important causes.^[7]

3 Running Across the U.S. in Record Time

In 2016, ultramarathoner Pete Kostelnick set the record for the fastest run across the United States, covering 3,067 miles (4,935 km) from San Francisco to New York City in just 42 days, 6 hours, and 30 minutes. Averaging an astonishing 72 miles per day—nearly three marathons daily—Kostelnick began his journey at the steps of San Francisco City Hall and ended at New York City’s City Hall. He ran on highways, backroads, and city streets, often starting before dawn and continuing until late at night.

The journey tested both his physical and mental limits. Kostelnick endured injuries, dehydration, and extreme fatigue, but he meticulously planned his route and support system to overcome these obstacles. His crew followed him in a van, supplying food, water, and encouragement as he logged mile after mile. The toughest stretches came in the Midwest, where harsh headwinds slowed his progress, and in the deserts, where temperatures soared above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Kostelnick’s accomplishment was not just a physical feat but a demonstration of his unmatched determination and endurance, earning him a permanent place in running history.^[8]

2 Fastest Crossing of the U.S. on a Bicycle

In 2014, professional cyclist Christoph Strasser broke the record for the fastest coast-to-coast bicycle ride in the United States. Strasser completed the 3,000-mile (4,828-km) journey from Oceanside, California, to Annapolis, Maryland, in just 7 days, 15 hours, and 56 minutes as part of the Race Across America (RAAM). Known as one of the toughest endurance cycling challenges in the world, RAAM requires participants to ride nearly non-stop across a mix of grueling terrains, including scorching deserts, steep mountains, and unrelenting plains.

Strasser’s ride was as much about strategy as it was about strength. He slept for fewer than three hours per day, maximizing his time on the bike to maintain a blistering pace. His support team played a critical role, following him closely with a vehicle stocked with food, hydration, and spare bike parts. He faced brutal conditions, including the 120-degree heat of the Mojave Desert and the high-altitude climbs of the Rocky Mountains, yet he managed to persevere. Strasser’s achievement solidified his status as one of the greatest endurance cyclists in the world and pushed the boundaries of what is humanly possible on two wheels.^[9]

1 Most Consecutive Days Hitchhiking Across the U.S.

In 2015, adventurer and writer Matt Green embarked on a record-setting journey to hitchhike across the continental United States for 150 consecutive days. Starting in New York City and eventually reaching San Francisco, Green relied on the generosity of strangers to complete his trek, hopping in cars, trucks, and even farm vehicles to travel thousands of miles across the country. His goal was not just to set a record but to document the kindness, diversity, and quirks of American culture through his unique method of travel.

Green kept meticulous notes, photographs, and videos along the way, capturing stories from his drivers and the towns he passed through. His journey wasn’t always smooth—he faced long waits on remote highways, inclement weather, and the occasional driver with less-than-friendly intentions. However, the majority of his experiences highlighted the warmth of strangers, from truckers who bought him meals to families who offered him a place to sleep. By the end of his journey, Green had completed one of the longest verified hitchhiking trips in modern history, providing a rare and heartwarming glimpse into the spontaneous connections that can arise during a truly unconventional form of cross-country travel.^[10]