Breathtaking road trips in America everyone should take
Introduction
Road trips have long been an iconic way for Americans and international travelers alike to explore the vast beauty and diversity of America’s landscapes. Whether you enjoy scenic coastlines, towering mountains, or wide-open plains, there is a perfect road trip route waiting to be discovered.
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Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), Northern California
Let’s start with one of the most famous driving routes in the world – Highway 1 along Northern California’s Pacific Coast. Winding alongside breathtaking ocean vistas for over 650 miles from Leggett in Mendocino County down to Dana Point in Orange County, this scenic highway hugs the rugged cliffs and dramatic shoreline of the Pacific Ocean. Some of the top highlights along the way include:
- Redwood National Park: Home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, a drive through this park is an awe-inspiring experience. Be sure to stop at Tall Trees Grove to glimpse true giants over 300 feet tall.
- Sonoma and Mendocino Coasts: Quaint beach towns, rolling hills dotted with vineyards, and rugged cliffs meet the sea in this beautiful region, perfect for beachcombing, hiking, and wine tasting.
- Big Sur: Otherworldly vistas of rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and the meeting of land and ocean make Big Sur one of the most stunning stretches along the highway. Be sure to stop at overlooks like McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge for breathtaking views.
- Hearst Castle: Tour this opulent estate perched high on a hill overlooking the Pacific that once belonged to newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
For the full experience, allow at least 4-5 days to slowly meander along the coast, stopping frequently to admire the ever-changing scenery. The best times to travel are spring and fall to avoid crowds and summer fog, though winter storm watching has its charms as well. Be prepared for winding mountain roads with limited services in many areas. Allow extra time and be cautious in adverse weather conditions.
Distance: Approximately 650 miles from Leggett to Dana Point
Route 66, Illinois to California
No journey through America’s open road history would be complete without time traveling along the “Mother Road” – Route 66. This iconic highway once connected Chicago to Los Angeles, carrying migrants and road trippers alike in the early to mid-20th century in search of opportunity and adventure out West. Though much has changed since its heyday, many surviving remnants still allow an imaginative glimpse into its storied past. Some top recommendations include:
- Pontiac, Illinois: Kicks off the journey with the Route 66 Hall of Fame museum and restorations of historic buildings lining the route.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: Picturesque adobe architecture, Native American art, and the luminous landscape make this a highlight. Be sure to visit the La Fonda at the Plaza Hotel.
- Tucumcari, New Mexico: Its once bustling downtown has faded but still charms with classic Route 66 neon signs and murals. Spend the night at the Blue Swallow Motel for vintage charm.
- Seligman, Arizona: “The friendliest town on Route 66” remains much as it was in the early 20th century. Stop at the Snow-Cap Drive-In for burgers and root beer floats under the neon sign.
- Los Angeles: Follow in the tire tracks of those who migrated to find their fortune and end the journey in the bright lights of Tinseltown.
Plan to take at least two weeks to fully experience this historic route. Later spring through early fall offers the best weather and events. Be prepared to navigate changing road conditions as remaining sections have been rerouted or paved over in places.
Distance: Approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles
Maine to Georgia Coastal Route
For a scenic East Coast road trip filled with diverse landscapes, colonial history, and seaside charm, nothing beats this 3,000-mile coastal journey from Kittery, Maine, all the way down to St. Marys, Georgia. Along the way, you’ll pass through:
- Acadia National Park, Maine: Explore lakes, granite mountains rising from the sea, and dramatic ocean vistas on hiking trails like Ocean Path before watching the coastal sunset.
- Rehoboth and Dewey Beaches, Delaware: Sunny beaches, boardwalks, and family-friendly resort towns offer a glimpse of laidback East Coast summertime.
- Outer Banks, North Carolina: Sparsely populated barrier islands feature historic lighthouses, wild ponies, and unspoiled beaches for spotting seashells and offshore wildlife.
- Savannah, Georgia: Explore America’s first planned city on foot, taking in Spanish moss-draped oak trees and antebellum architecture. Be sure to stroll down to scenic River Street.
This route can be comfortably explored over 2-3 weeks, stopping often to soak in small coastal towns and parks. Summertime offers the best weather and activities, though spring and fall are less crowded. Be flexible, as hurricanes can occasionally impact coastal travel plans.
Distance: Approximately 3,000 miles from Kittery, Maine to St. Marys, Georgia
Rocky Mountains, Colorado
For jaw-dropping mountain scenery and iconic outdoor adventures, it’s hard to top the Rockies of Colorado. A well-planned Rocky Mountain road trip loops through these diverse and scenic areas in around ten days:
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Hike emerald green trails among snowy peaks, glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife are featured in this park, featuring Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest continuous paved roads in America.
- Estes Park: Charming mountain village at the park’s eastern entrance, serving as a wonderful Rocky Mountain base camp.
- Ouray and Silverton: Nestled high in picturesque mountain valleys, these former mining towns now offer hot springs, scenic drives, and stunning alpine vistas.
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Marvel at otherworldly narrow canyon walls plunging over 2,000 feet at certain points.
- Colorado National Monument: Hike through narrow sandstone slots and gaze over sweeping desert vistas from the rim overlooks.
Plan your visit for summer or early fall for the best weather and a full range of activities. Be prepared for higher elevations, possible snow into June, and mountain weather unpredictability year-round. With diligent planning, Colorado’s iconic natural and scenic wonders can be experienced in all its grandeur from the comfort of your vehicle.
Distance: Approximately 1,500 miles looping through Colorado’s top parks and towns
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming
For a truly spectacular mountain destination delivering unprecedented natural wonders at every turn, the parks of Wyoming rank among America’s finest. Highlights of a road trip here include:
- Yellowstone National Park: Witness volcanic features like Old Faithful, herds of wildlife from bison to bears, and primeval forest landscapes. Allow three full days to explore its vast terrain.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The park’s dazzling signature hot spring dazzles with concentric rings of vibrant color.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: Follow the boardwalk to view the terraced limestone formations in gorgeous pastel hues.
- Grand Teton National Park: Peer up at the rugged crystalline peaks rising abruptly from the valley floor, with opportunities for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing in dense forests.
- Jackson Hole Valley: A scenic mountain village surrounded by the towering Teton Range makes an attractive western base camp.
Plan your visit between June and early October for open roads and facilities. Be cautious of wildlife, rapidly changing weather, and thermal areas in Yellowstone. With careful planning, you’ll return home with unforgettable memories of America’s natural crown jewels.
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Distance: Approx. 200 miles looping through both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Moab and Arches National Park, Utah
For otherworldly sandstone formations and unparalleled outdoor adventures amid vibrant red rock landscapes, Moab and Arches National Park take top honors. Some must-see sights here include:
- Arches National Park: Hike through the world’s densest concentration of natural sandstone arches, including iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch.
- Dead Horse Point State Park: Take in sweeping vistas of the Colorado River 3000 feet below from this dramatic overlook.
- Canyonlands National Park: Separated into distinct districts, including Islands in the Sky, explore mesas, buttes, and remote canyon backcountry.
- Moab: Recreation hub for world-class mountain biking on trails like Slickrock, hiking in nearby parks, rafting, Four Wheeling, and stargazing under night skies.
Spring and fall offer mild weather without the summer crowds. Moab’s recreation scene and small-town vibes combined with close access to national parks make it an ideal home base for multi-day explorations. Give yourself 4 to 5 days to experience some of the top trails and overlooks across these iconic red rock destinations. Be aware of summer’s extreme heat and prepare for frequent wind gusts that can kick up sand year-round.
