The United States is a country filled with landscapes you can only experience by car. It offers an up-close and personal encounter that a flight won’t give you. We’re talking about the amazing coastlines and national parks that you’ll meet along the way. Today, we’re giving you the 12 best road trips you need to experience in the US.
12. The Great River Road
Following the Mississippi River in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico as a finale is a fever dream. That’s what the Great River Road will give you, as it’s not a single highway. It’s a collection of federal, state, and local roads that trace along the river. This is the perfect road trip as it spans 2,000 miles with ten states and bustling cities like St. Louis and New Orleans.
11. The Enchanted Highway
Just off I-94 in North Dakota is this 32-mile stretch of road that feels like driving in a giant sculpture park. The Enchanted Highway features seven colossal scrap-metal sculptures with the world’s largest “Geese in Flight,” which stands 110 feet tall and weighs around 78.8 tons. It was Gary Greff who created the art to draw visitors and visit his hometown of Regent.
10. Pacific Coast Highway
Just imagine driving by the edge of the continent with the Pacific Ocean on one side and a cliff on the other. That’s the Pacific Coast Highway for you, which is a 1,600-mile journey through the American West. The route stretched through cities, beach towns, and ancient redwood forests. Just check for road closures, especially in the Big Sur area.
9. Route 66
You’ve gotta cruise around the legendary Route 66, which has been a classic traveler’s road trip. The historic highway stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, which is like a journey into the past during the golden age of American car culture. While driving, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and diners that will bring you nostalgia.
8. Blue Ridge Parkway
If you’re someone who loves mountains, then the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect road trip route for you. It cruises along America’s oldest mountains with a 469-mile scenic drive of architecture, mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The parkway also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing. You’ll even find yourself in the ancient Appalachians and discover the mystery behind it.
7. Natchez Trace Parkway
If you want to taste the past, then the Natchez Trace Parkway is the way to go. It’s a 444-mile scenic train that follows a historic route by Native Americans, European settlers, and soldiers. It runs from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi. Along the way, you’ll see ancient burial mounds, hike portions, and the original Natchez Trace.
6. Badlands–Black Hills Loop
Want to see the American West? The drive over to the Badlands – Black Hills Loop, which is a 330-mile drive through South Dakota. In here, you’ll be able to drop by Badlands National Park and the pine-covered peaks of the Black Hills. In this region, you’ll find the Mount Rushmuch and the Crazy Horse Memorial!
5. Florida Highway 1
The Florida Highway 1 takes you along the route of the state’s Atlantic coast. This 475-mile journey through the coastal culture will bring you on an adventure. We’re talking about the historic streets of St. Augustine to the nightlife of Miami’s South Beach. The final stretch will lead you to the Overseas Highway, which features bridges and causeways.
4. San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop located in southwestern Colorado. It features a trip through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It even includes the Million Dollar Highway with alpine forests and historic mining towns. The route connects towns like Durango, Silverton, and Telluride. The skyway also provides access across the Mesa Verde National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In here, you can explore the cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people
3. Scenic Byway 12
Enjoy the landscapes of Southern Utah on Scenic Byway 12. This 122-mile route connects the Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks. Along the way, you get to discover small towns, ancient petroglyphs, and hiking opportunities. One of the coolest features of the road is its clinging to the side of cliffs and traversing narrow ridges.
2. Richardson Highway
Head north to Alaska to experience the Richardson Highway, which is also the state’s oldest highway. It’s a 364-mile route from Fairbanks to Valdez. Prepared to be struck by the towering mountain ranges, massive glaciers, and Alaska’s wilderness. The Richardson Highway is the gateway to Alaska’s natural wonders while giving you the opportunity for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile road located at the heart of Glacier National Park in Montana. It’s not for the faint of heart, tho, as it’s one of the most challenging terrains to cross in North America. As you climb the Logan Pass, you’ll be rewarded with views of snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes.
