14 Epic Road Trips Everyone Should Take Across the U.S.
A road trip is one of the best ways to see the United States, offering a mix of natural beauty, small towns, and famous landmarks along the way. From winding coastal highways to mountain passes and historic routes, each drive has something unique to offer. Here are some of the most unforgettable trips worth taking across the country.
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Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, stretches along California’s rugged coastline and delivers some of the most stunning views in the country. Travelers can cruise past Big Sur’s cliffs, stop in Monterey for fresh seafood, or wander through Santa Barbara’s beaches. Each curve in the road brings another postcard-worthy sight, from crashing waves to sun-drenched coves.
Along the way, towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Malibu invite leisurely stops filled with charm and style. Road trippers often time the drive for spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are lighter. With its mix of coastal beauty, lively cities, and iconic viewpoints, this drive feels like a journey that defines California itself.
Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” is one of America’s most nostalgic drives. Starting in Chicago and stretching all the way to Santa Monica, it passes through small towns, roadside diners, and quirky attractions that embody mid-century Americana. Murals, neon signs, and vintage motels keep the history of the route alive.
Travelers can stop at spots like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, or the Wigwam Motel in Arizona. Each stop tells a story of how the highway connected the country during its golden age. Although many stretches are now bypassed by interstates, the old road still draws people looking for a slice of history on wheels.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains and is famed for its endless scenic overlooks. It runs for nearly 470 miles, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Rolling hills, misty valleys, and wildflowers line the route.
In autumn, the drive transforms into a tunnel of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in the country. Hikers can take detours on trails that branch off the parkway, while music lovers can explore Appalachian culture in towns along the way. It’s a slow-paced road that rewards travelers who want to take in every detail.
Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
The Overseas Highway links the Florida Keys by a series of bridges and causeways that stretch over turquoise waters. Starting near Miami and ending in Key West, the drive feels like gliding across the ocean itself. Palm trees, fishing boats, and sandy shores set the mood along the way.
Highlights include Bahia Honda State Park, known for its beaches, and the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the most iconic stretches of road in the U.S. Many travelers stop for fresh seafood at casual waterside restaurants or take side trips for snorkeling. The relaxed pace of island life makes this drive unforgettable.
Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for more than 3,000 miles across ten states. It’s less about speed and more about exploring small towns, farmland, and river views. From its headwaters in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the route offers a mix of history and scenery.
Travelers can stop at Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Missouri, enjoy jazz in New Orleans, or taste regional dishes along the way. Each state offers a different perspective on the river’s role in shaping culture and commerce. With so much variety, the journey can be broken into segments or enjoyed in full.
Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Going-to-the-Sun Road runs through Glacier National Park and is often described as one of the most breathtaking drives in America. The narrow road climbs steep mountainsides, hugging cliffs while offering views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. Wildlife sightings, including mountain goats and bighorn sheep, are common.
This road is typically open only in summer due to heavy snow at higher elevations. Visitors often stop at Logan Pass, the highest point, which offers trails leading into alpine meadows. Though the drive is short at just 50 miles, it leaves an impression far larger than its length suggests.
Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
Beartooth Highway is often called “the most beautiful drive in America.” It cuts through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, topping out at nearly 11,000 feet. Jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower meadows make every mile a scenic highlight.
The route leads travelers toward Yellowstone National Park, making it an ideal prelude to the wonders inside the park itself. Due to its high elevation, the highway is generally open from late May through mid-October. The crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas make it a favorite for adventurous drivers.
Highway 12 (Utah)
Highway 12 in southern Utah is a red rock showcase that winds through some of the state’s most remarkable landscapes. It connects Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef, passing through canyons and mesas that look like natural works of art. Towering cliffs and arches appear around nearly every corner.
One of the most dramatic stretches is the “Hogsback,” where the road narrows to a ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides. Scenic byways lead to hidden slot canyons, while small towns like Escalante offer places to rest. With its blend of natural wonders, this drive is a true desert adventure.
The Loneliest Road (U.S. Route 50, Nevada)
U.S. Route 50 across Nevada is known as the “Loneliest Road in America.” Long stretches of desert highway seem to stretch endlessly, with few cars in sight. Yet the emptiness is part of the allure, offering big skies and wide horizons.
Along the way, ghost towns, old mining camps, and quirky roadside stops break up the drive. Stargazers find some of the darkest skies in the country here, perfect for watching the Milky Way. What might feel desolate to some becomes a place of quiet beauty to others.
The Alaska Highway (Canada to Alaska)
The Alaska Highway begins in British Columbia, passes through the Yukon, and ends in Alaska, making it a legendary road trip for adventurers. It was originally built during World War II and now serves as a bucket-list drive. The scenery ranges from forests and rivers to glaciers and mountain ranges.
Wildlife sightings add to the thrill, with moose, bears, and caribou often spotted near the roadside. Remote towns along the way provide fuel, food, and stories from fellow travelers. This road is less about quick stops and more about embracing the wilderness on a grand scale.
Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)
The Kancamagus Highway, often called “the Kanc,” runs for just 34 miles through New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Despite its short length, it offers some of the best mountain scenery in New England. Rivers, covered bridges, and mountain overlooks make it a favorite drive.
Autumn is the most popular time, when the forests burst into shades of red, orange, and gold. The route has no gas stations or restaurants, which makes it feel like a true escape into nature. Its mix of rugged beauty and peaceful atmosphere keeps travelers coming back.
Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)
The Natchez Trace Parkway follows a historic trail once used by Native Americans, traders, and early settlers. Today, it’s a peaceful drive through forests, farmland, and rolling hills. The road stretches for 444 miles with plenty of pull-offs for scenic views.
Travelers can explore historic sites, Indian mounds, and charming southern towns along the route. Biking and hiking trails also connect with the parkway, offering more ways to enjoy the landscape. It’s a road that combines natural beauty with deep history.
Highway 101 (Oregon & Washington Coast)
Highway 101 hugs the coastline of Oregon and Washington, offering rugged seascapes and evergreen forests. The route is lined with state parks, lighthouses, and fishing villages. Waves crash against cliffs, while tide pools reveal sea life at low tide.
Cannon Beach in Oregon and Olympic National Park in Washington are highlights that attract countless visitors. Small towns provide cozy inns and seafood shacks perfect for a restful stop. Every stretch of the road feels like a mix of wild beauty and coastal charm.
The Black Hills & Badlands Loop (South Dakota)
Driving through South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands offers a mix of natural wonders and historic landmarks. Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park are just a few of the sites along the way. The dramatic rock formations of Badlands National Park add a sense of otherworldly scenery.
Wildlife sightings are common, from bison roaming open prairies to prairie dogs darting across the ground. Scenic drives like Needles Highway wind through tunnels and granite spires. This loop blends culture, history, and natural beauty into one unforgettable trip.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.