The United States is a land of vast and diverse landscapes, each region offering its unique beauty and charm. There’s no better way to explore this incredible diversity than by hitting the open road. Whether you’re driving along rugged coastlines, through majestic mountains, or across sweeping plains, America’s scenic road trips promise unforgettable adventures and breathtaking vistas. Here are the top 10 scenic road trips across the USA that every road trip enthusiast should experience.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, offers one of the most iconic and picturesque drives in the United States. Stretching from Dana Point in Orange County to Leggett in Mendocino County, this route hugs the rugged California coastline, providing stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Big Sur: Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves along this rugged stretch of coastline.
- Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Visit the historic Cannery Row and the beautiful Carmel Mission.
- Hearst Castle: Explore the opulent estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” winds its way through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This 469-mile drive offers stunning vistas, lush forests, and a rich cultural heritage.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Skyline Drive: The northern section through Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking views and abundant wildlife.
- Mabry Mill: A historic gristmill that’s one of the most photographed spots on the parkway.
- Craggy Gardens: Known for its spectacular rhododendron blooms in late spring.
3. Route 66, Illinois to California
Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road,” is a legendary road trip that takes you from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This historic highway, established in 1926, covers 2,448 miles and offers a nostalgic journey through America’s heartland.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Cadillac Ranch: An art installation in Amarillo, Texas, featuring half-buried Cadillacs.
- Santa Fe: Explore the rich cultural heritage and unique architecture of this New Mexico city.
- Oatman: A quirky old mining town in Arizona where wild burros roam the streets.
4. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
The Great River Road follows the course of the mighty Mississippi River for 3,000 miles, from its source in Minnesota to its delta in Louisiana. This scenic route takes you through ten states, offering a diverse array of landscapes, cultures, and historic sites.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Minneapolis and St. Paul: Explore the vibrant Twin Cities at the start of your journey.
- Mark Twain’s Boyhood Home: Visit the home of the famous author in Hannibal, Missouri.
- New Orleans: Experience the lively culture, music, and cuisine of the Crescent City.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a spectacular 50-mile drive through Glacier National Park in Montana. This engineering marvel traverses the Continental Divide, offering jaw-dropping views of glacial valleys, towering peaks, and pristine lakes.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Logan Pass: The highest point on the road, providing stunning panoramic views.
- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
- Lake McDonald: A crystal-clear lake surrounded by majestic mountains.
6. Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway, also known as U.S. Route 1, connects the Florida mainland to the Keys, culminating in Key West. This 113-mile drive features numerous bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, and offers breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: The first undersea park in the U.S., offering excellent snorkeling and diving.
- Bahia Honda State Park: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
- Key West: Visit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and explore the vibrant nightlife and historic sites.
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7. The Loneliest Road, Nevada
U.S. Route 50, dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” stretches across Nevada from the Utah border to Lake Tahoe. This remote and rugged route offers vast open spaces, mountain ranges, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Great Basin National Park: Explore ancient bristlecone pines and the stunning Lehman Caves.
- Ely: Visit this historic mining town with its well-preserved buildings and murals.
- Sand Mountain: A massive dune that’s popular for off-roading and sandboarding.
8. The Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway follows an ancient trail used by Native Americans, early European settlers, and traders. This 444-mile scenic drive from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, offers a journey through rich history and beautiful landscapes.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Emerald Mound: One of the largest ceremonial mounds in the U.S.
- Tupelo: The birthplace of Elvis Presley, with a museum dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
- Jackson Falls: A picturesque waterfall along the route.
9. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway, a stretch of U.S. Route 550, runs through the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. This 25-mile drive from Silverton to Ouray is known for its dramatic scenery, cliffs, and hairpin turns.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Red Mountain Pass: Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
- Ouray: Known as the “Switzerland of America,” with its hot springs and charming downtown.
- Box Canyon Falls: A stunning waterfall tucked away in a narrow gorge.
10. Alaska Highway, Canada to Alaska
The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, stretches 1,387 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. This historic route offers an epic journey through some of North America’s most remote and wild landscapes.
Highlights of this road trip include:
- Muncho Lake: Known for its striking jade-colored waters.
- Kluane National Park: Home to Canada’s tallest peak, Mount Logan, and abundant wildlife.
- Tok: The first major town you encounter in Alaska, offering a glimpse of Alaskan hospitality and wilderness.
Conclusion
Embarking on a scenic road trip across the USA is a quintessential American experience, offering the freedom to explore diverse landscapes, connect with local cultures, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re winding along the Pacific coast, crossing the Appalachian Mountains, or journeying through the heart of the country, these top 10 road trips promise adventure, beauty, and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of the United States. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and hit the road for the journey of a lifetime.
Read more: Discover the Hidden Gems of America’s National Parks
