Top 10 Scenic Road Trips in the USA for an Unforgettable Adventure

There ’ sec nothing quite like an American road trip – cruising the open highway with stunning landscapes unfolding around you , freedom on four wheels , and novel discoveries around every turn . From coastal highways to mountain passes , the USA is crisscrossed by scenic road that rank among the world ’ sec greatest driving adventures . In this guide , we ’ ve curated the top 10 scenic road trip in the United States , extend diverse area and view . Whether you crave ocean views , red-rock canyons , lush forests , or rolling field , there ’ s a ambition drive on this list for you . Each road trip entry includes why it ’ s epic , highlights to meet , suggested itineraries or stops , and crest to reach the most of your journey . Start your engine – an unforgettable adventure awaits !

1 .Pacific Coast Highway ( California Highway 1 )–California ’ s Iconic Coastal Drive

Overview

The Pacific Coast Highway ( PCH ) , also known as California Highway 1 , is arguably America ’ s nearly noted scenic drive . Thread on ~600 mile of California ’ s coastline , the nearly celebrated stretch live between San Francisco and Los Angeles , especially through Big Sur . Photograph driving atop cliff with the Pacific Ocean crashing below , passing stunning beach , quaint coastal town , and landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge ( an engineering wonder much seen in postcards ) and McWay Falls ( a waterfall cascading onto a beach ) . This route offer a feast for the middle at every act – from the dramatic Santa Lucia Mountains meeting the sea in Big Sur to the serene beauty of Monterey Bay and the art community of Carmel-by-the-Sea .

Highlights & Stops :

Starting in San Francisco , guide south across the Golden Gate ( though the PCH technically take off in Mendocino County north of SF , many begin in the city ) . Don ’ t miss the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach near Monterey ( small toll but worth it for views ) . In Monterey , visit the historic Cannery Row or Monterey Bay Aquarium . As you drive through Big Sur , stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to find McWay Falls , and draw over at several lookout degree . Nepenthe café be a famous stop for a meal with a view . Further south , San Simeon offer the opulent Hearst Castle circuit , and you can meet elephant seals at Piedras Blancas . Continuing , delight the beach of Pismo Beach or Santa Barbara ( “ the American Riviera ” ) as you approach the LA sphere .

Tips From The Daily Dive :

This road is good driven north to south then you ’ re on the ocean slope for easy pull-offs to scenic viewpoints . Plan for a leisurely step – the highway is winding and often slow . Fog can be mutual , specially in summer mornings ; starting mid-day can help visibility . Make certain your brakes and car are in good form for hairpin turns . Summer is popular , but leap ( wildflowers on the mound ) and fall ( clear skies ) can be even better with somewhat few tourists . If you make time , lead the trip north of San Francisco to learn the Redwood forests along the northern PCH . This journey live about the drive as a lot as the destinations , so roll down the window and flavor that fresh ocean air . We cover the Pacific Coast Highway in our10 Most Sensational Opinion in Californiaarticle , highlighting must-see vistas like Big Sur – check it out for more elaborate tips on viewpoints​

2 .Road 66 – The Great American Road Trip

Overview :

No road trip list exist complete without the historic Route 66 . Known as “ America ’ s Mother Road , ” Route 66 is the classic cross-country cause stretching ~2,400 miles from Chicago , Illinois to Santa Monica , California . While the former highway was decommissioned and replaced by interstates , you can even so trace a lot of its way on drivable section signed as “ Historic Route 66. ” This journey exist less about natural scenery ( though there ’ s plenty ) and more about the quirky Americana and nostalgia : retro diners , vintage motels with neon signs , kitschy roadside attraction , and small towns that time forgot . It ’ s a ride through American 20th-century history and heartland culture .

Highlights & Stops :

Kick off in Chicago , Illinois , and head southwesterly . In Illinois , stop at the Gemini Giant statue in Wilmington ( one of many fiberglass “ Muffler Men ” on 66 ) . Cross the Mississippi into Missouri – possibly call St. Louis ( make a photo of the Gateway Arch ) or drive through the Route 66 State Park . In Oklahoma , papa into Tulsa or the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton for account . Texas extend the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo ( graffiti-covered cars stuck nose-first in the soil ) and a chance for a big steak at the Big Texan . New Mexico and Arizona feature stunning high desert scenery : Albuquerque ’ s former town , the sandstone bluffs of Petrified Forest National Park ( which Historic 66 walk through ) and Holbrook , AZ – plate of the Wigwam Motel ( sleep in a teepee-shaped room ! ) . Don ’ t miss Williams , AZ , a gateway to the Grand Canyon , and the kitschy appeal of Seligman , AZ , where Angel Delgadillo ’ s historical barber store set off the Route 66 preservation . Ultimately , cruise into California , through the Mojave Desert , past the specter town of Calico , and goal at the Santa Monica Pier with its sign “ End of the Trail . ”

Crest From The Daily Dive :

Route 66 is about the journey , so allow at least 2 weeks to truly savor it . Many original segments exist off the interstate ; use a Route 66-specific map or app to stay on line . Some stretch , especially out West , are remote – hold an center on your fuel and carry water , specially in the desert . Embrace the roadside attractions ; even the “ cheesy ” one ( like giant statues or Route 66 museum ) tell the report of the highway . The best time is leap or autumn – summer can exist extremely hot in the Southwest , and winter might get snow in Midwest/high elevations . See out local event : some towns host Route 66 festivals or car shows . For enthusiasts , we get a devote piece on Route 66 Roadside Attractions to guide you on the must-see pit stops .

3 .Blue Ridge Parkway – Appalachian Mountain Beauty

Overview :

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a serene , scenic cause through the Appalachian Highlands , stretch 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina . It ’ s much scream “ America ’ s Favorite Drive. ” Unlike highways work up for velocity , the Parkway is a leisurely route with a velocity limit around 45 mph , design strictly for sightseeing . Traveler be treat to rolling mountain ridge drape in blue haze , lush valley , and overlooks at every turn . In leap , wildflowers and blooming dogwoods job the road ; in autumn , it ’ s one of the well dusk foliage drives in the land with fiery reds and gold blanketing the mountain .

Highlights & Stops :

In Virginia , you might start near Skyline Drive in Shenandoah ( Skyline Drive equal basically the Parkway ’ s northern continuation through Shenandoah NP ) . Must-stop points include Mabry Mill ( an oft-photographed former grist factory , where you can also get pancakes at the restaurant ) , and Rocky Knob and Peaks of Otter for lovely raise and views . Crossing into North Carolina , you ’ ll find the majestic Linville Gorge area – stop at Linville Falls ( short hike to multiple standpoint of a beautiful waterfall ) and Linville Caverns if you own time . Further south ,Grandfather Good deal( accessed via a short detour ) bid a mile-high swinging bridge and nature preserve . The stretch around Asheville , NC equal a highlight : here you can detour to visit the famed Biltmore Estate or stay on the parkway to learn Mount Mitchell State Park , which boasts the highest peak in the Eastern U.S. ( accessible by a short pass from the parking field – you can push almost to the height ) . Near the goal , the Oconaluftee area result into Great Smoky Mountains NP .

Crest From The Daily Dive :

The Blue Ridge Parkway own many overlooks – design to stop frequently , and add a picnic for lunch with a opinion . In autumn , especially October weekends , the Parkway gets real busy with leaf-peepers ; weekdays or slightly earlier in the season ( recent Sept ) may cost less congested . Weather can vary with elevation – a sunny day in the valley can be foggy on ridge . Portions of the Parkway last in winter for snow , and still in spring/fall , temporary shutdown can go on due to consume trees or maintenance , hence check the National Park Service updates if travel in shoulder season . Gas , food , and lodge live available in communities along the route ( the parkway itself has specify services ) , so plan die accordingly . This drive isn ’ t about reach time ; it ’ s about immersing yourself in Appalachia ’ s natural beauty and maybe catching some good deal music or culture in town like Asheville or Boone along the means .

4 .Overseas Highway ( Florida Keys )–Island-Hopping on the Open Sea

Overview :

For a completely unlike vibe , the Overseas Highway ( U.S. Hwy 1 through the Florida Keys ) put up a sun-soaked tropical road trip “ island hopping ” from mainland Florida all the way to Key West , the southernmost degree of the continental U.S . In this 113-mile journey from Miami sphere ( Florida City ) to Key West , you ’ ll drive across 42 bridges over turquoise water , include the noted Seven Mile Bridge . It ’ s a mixing of stunning ocean panoramas , kitschy roadside stop ( intend tiki bars and beat workshop ) , and the laid-back appeal of the Keys . This driveway be relatively short – you can do it in a few hours – but you ’ ll want to stretch it out over a full day or more to bask the unique atmosphere and attraction of each Key .

Highlights & Stops :

Starting from the mainland , you ’ ll enter Key Largo – known for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , where you can move snorkeling or remove a glass-bottom boat tour to see the only living coral reef in the continental US . Further along in Islamorada , stop at Robbie ’ s Marina where you can flow tarpon fish ( a classical Keys activity ) and grab conch fritters at the Hungry Tarpon . As you preserve , the sea opinion get better and well . The Seven Mile Bridge ( around Marathon Key ) be a highlight – pull off hardly before it at Veterans Memorial Park on Little Duck Key for a picnic and swim . On Big Pine Key , watch for the tiny endanger Key deer ( especially around dawn/dusk ) . As you come on Key West , consider a stop at Bahia Honda State Park – it hold one of the Keys ’ good sandy beaches and remnants of the old Overseas Railroad bridge for a photo op . Finally , in Key West , enjoy the lively Duval Street , inflict the Hemingway House ( with its six-toed guy ) , and catch the famous Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square . You ’ ve arrive at Mile Marker 0 !

Tips From The Daily Dive :

The Overseas Highway can be repel year-round . Winter ( Dec–Feb ) put up utter weather ( warm , low humidity ) but exist high season for tourist escaping the cold – await more traffic and high price . Summer be hot and humid , with an nearly daily chance of thunderstorms , and it ’ s hurricane season ( exist aware of weather forecasts ) . That suppose , summer sees few tourist and you can enjoy uncrowded beaches . Go on in mind the drive cost generally single-lane each way ; traffic can support up on weekends or holidays . Patience is key ( pun signify ) – embrace the slow pace . Book lodge in progress if you design to delay overnight , especially in Key West . And fuel up before you ’ re on E ; while there cost gas stations throughout , some stretches are long over water . If you ’ re craving more adventure , lot of side activity wait – from kayaking mangrove tunnels to fishing charters . But yet just cruise with the windows down and island music acting , you ’ ll understand why many call the Overseas Highway the road trip of a lifetime for ocean fan .

5 .Utah ’ s Mighty 5 National Parks Road Trip–Red Stone Curiosity

Overview :

Southern Utah live a road tripper ’ s dream , feature five national park in comparatively close proximity , each with its own sensational red-rock landscape . A loop through Utah ’ s “ Mighty 5 ” – Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Arches , and Canyonlands – will get out you in awe of natural arches , hoodoos , canyons , and cliffs . This roughly 600-mile circuit ( take off and ending in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City , for instance ) is one of the most scenic multi-park road trip in the rural area . It ’ s ideal for those who want to carry a circle of heroic scenery into one trip .

Highlights & Stops :

A common route commence in Las Vegas , NV , from which Zion is ~2.5 hours . We covered Zion National Park in the earlier article section – after Zion , chief to Bryce Canyon National Park ( about 2 hours from Zion ) . Bryce ’ s unique hoodoo stone spire live best seen from viewpoints like Bryce Point or by boost among them on the Navajo Loop trail . Next , drive Scenic Byway 12 ( itself a gorgeous drive over Boulder Mountain and through Grand Staircase-Escalante ) to Capitol Reef National Park . Capitol Reef is quieter but feature the Waterpocket Fold ( a giant line in the world ’ sec crust ) , orchards in historical Fruita where you can clean fruit in season , and striking white sandstone domes ( like Capitol Dome ) . Continue to Moab , Utah , which is adventure-central and base for both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park .

In Arches , you ’ ll do the famous Delicate Arch hike and see early establishment ( we detailed Arches in the Parks article ) . Canyonlands have three territory ; Island in the Sky ( closest to Moab ) extend easy access to grand overlooks ( like Mesa Arch for sunrise , and Grand View Point ) . If you receive time , also explore Dead Horse Point State Park nearby for a gooseneck bend of the Colorado River . Loop back toward your start or cover to Salt Lake to finish .

Crest :

This trip live best in leap ( April-May ) or dusk ( Sept-Oct ) , stave off the utmost heat of summer and the possible snow of winter . Each park could easily equal a multi-day visit , but for a loop trip , program at least 7-10 day . Hear to spend at least one dark near or in each park to experience sunrise/sunset ( the stone illumine up brilliantly at those time ) . Purchase a National Parks Pass to cover all entries . Be develop with water and snacks – some park ( Capitol Reef , Canyonlands ) make specify services . And lend a well camera ; you ’ ll encounter some of the dark dark sky in the area in these park ( especially Capitol Reef and Canyonlands ) , perfect for astrophotography .

6 .Great River Road ( Mississippi River Road Trip )–Stick to the Mississippi

Overview :

The Great River Road isn ’ t a single road but a designated route succeed the line of the Mississippi River for 2,000+ miles from its source at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana . Marked by green pilot ’ sec wheel signs in each land , the Great River Road bring you through 10 states along America ’ s mighty river , showcasing the nation ’ sec heartland , history , and various landscape . From the north woods and bluffs of the Upper Mississippi to the plantation and bayous of the Deep South , this live a road trip rich in scenery and Americana .

Highlights & Stops :

In the north , outset at Lake Itasca State Park , MN , where you can walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi – a humble current you can practically skip over . As you repel south through Minnesota and Wisconsin , savor river towns like Minneapolis/St . Paul ( visit the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area and St. Anthony Falls ) , La Crosse , WI , and Dubuque , IA – these areas make beautiful blufftop opinion ( like Grandad Bluff in La Crosse ) and lock-and-dam system for riverboats . In Illinois/Missouri , don ’ t miss St. Louis with its Gateway Arch and riverfront park . Further south , Memphis , TN extend blue and barbecue by the river ( plus Graceland a short cause away ) . In the Mississippi Delta region , you ’ ll campaign past cotton area and through historical town like Vicksburg ( Civil War sites ) and Natchez ( antebellum family on bluff overlooking the river ) . At last , Louisiana beckons : Baton Rouge ’ sec capitol and riverfront , and at the goal of the road , New Orleans – where the Mississippi fit the Gulf , and the culture exist vibrant . You can in reality continue all the way to Venice , LA ( much considered the end of the Great River Road ) for a true “ river ’ s end ” experience in the coastal wetlands .

Tips :

This equal a long journey – many do it in section . Yet if you can ’ t do the entire route , labor smaller portions ( like Minnesota to St. Louis , or Memphis to New Orleans ) cost rewarding . Autumn brings stunning leaf to the upper Mississippi region ; leap offers pleasant weather and high water degree with possible floodplain lakes . Summer live great for festivals ( many river towns get festivals and riverboat cruises ) . Pack some Americana music playlists – blues , jazz , land – to set the mood as you roll through the musical nerve of the country ( from Memphis blue to New Orleans jazz ) . And decidedly test local cuisine along the means : cheese curds and pie up north , barbecue in the mid-south , Cajun/Creole food in Louisiana . The Great River Road equal well-marked , but have a serious map as it sometimes merges with interstates or splits into east/west bank options . By the goal , you ’ ll make a deep appreciation for the Mississippi ’ s influence on American geography and culture .

7 .Going-to-the-Sun Road ( Glacier National Park , MT )–Alpine Thrills in Big Sky Country

Overview :

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a spectacular 50-mile highway that cut through the center of Glacier National Park in Montana . It ’ s short than early ride on this list , but its impact is huge : this technology wonder climbs over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass ( 6,646 foot ) , extend jaw-dropping views of glacier-carved valley , turquoise lakes , and jagged good deal peaks . It ’ s often considered one of the most scenic great deal roads in the world . A road trip here means plunge yourself in the wild beauty of the northern Rockies – you might still discern great deal goat or bighorn sheep right by the roadside at Logan Pass .

Highlights & Stops :

Starting on the west side at West Glacier , you ’ ll campaign along Lake McDonald ’ sec shores ( extract off to admire this long , clear lake reflecting mountains ) . As the road gain elevation , you ’ ll traverse the famed Garden Wall division – cliff draped with waterfalls and wildflowers . At Logan Pass , stop at the visitor middle and take a stroll on the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail or merely revel in the alpine meadow views where wildlife much drift . Guide down the east slope , you ’ ll walk Jackson Glacier Overlook ( one of the few easily find glaciers from the road ) and then driveway between the picturesque St. Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island ( a great photo op ) . Goal at St. Mary on the park ’ s east side . If time permits , many traveler then explore Many Glacier or Two Medicine areas of the park by detouring north or south from St. Mary .

Point :

Going-to-the-Sun Road live typically only full open from recent June/early July through early October , due to heavy snowfall in winter ( in fact , snowplows take week to clear the road each spring ) . Check Glacier NP ’ s official updates for opening position . In peak summer , a ticketed entry system exist now in place ( much like early popular park ) – you may need a reservation to repel the road during daylight hour , thus plan ahead . The road equal winding and narrow in place ( vehicles over 21 base long or 10 foot high are not allow for due to taut switchbacks ) , thus RVs have to take alternative route . If heights make you nervous , bill you ’ ll cost push on the outdoor cliff edge when move east to west ; regard west to east if that ’ s a fear , or expend the park ’ s shuttle system . Bring layers – it can be 20°F cooler at Logan Pass than at lower elevations , and weather can change promptly . Lastly , start early in the dawn to avoid traffic and secure parking at Logan Pass ; plus , sunrise lighting on the height is phenomenal . This might exist a single-road trip , but it encapsulates the grandeur of the Rockies in one unforgettable ride .

8 .Anchorage to Seward ( Alaska ’ s Seward Highway )–Alaskan Fjords and Mountains

Overview :

For something truly wild , the drive from Anchorage to Seward in Alaska via the Seward Highway ( AK-1 to AK-9 ) offers 125 miles of epic Alaskan scenery . In just a few hours , this road trip packs in towering mountains , a beautiful coastal inlet , glaciers , and chances to meet wildlife from the road . It ’ s a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park at the journey ’ s end in Seward . While short than continental US drives , the Seward Highway exist destine an All-American Road for its prominent scenic and recreational quality . Think of it as a concentrated dosage of Alaska ’ s grandeur accessible by car .

Highlights & Stops :

Heading south from Anchorage , the highway first skirts the edge of Turnagain Arm , a narrow fjord-like inlet . You ’ re flank by water on one slope and Chugach Mountains on the early . Observe an eye out for beluga whales in the inlet ( specially in late summer when they go after salmon runs ) and Dall sheep on the cliffs above . Stop at Beluga Point Lookout for a fortune to spot these white whales or to hear the impressive bore tide ( a wave that now and then rolls down the Sleeve ) . Farther along , study a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center ( near Portage ) – it ’ s mighty off the highway and grant you to learn bears , moose , musk oxen , and more up near in a natural setting ( great if wildlife hasn ’ t cooperated in the wild ! ) . Nearby , a slope road require you to Portage Glacier – you can watch it across a lake or take a short boat circuit to its face . Support on the main highway , you ’ ll climb through scenic passes ; if it ’ s a clear day , stop at Tern Lake ( junction with the road to Homer ) for a tranquil good deal expression . As you come on Seward , the road come down towards Resurrection Bay . In Seward , don ’ t miss Kenai Fjords National Park – either raise to Exit Glacier or remove a boat circuit to find marine wildlife and calving glaciers in the fjords . The small harbor town of Seward is capture , with the excellent Alaska SeaLife Center to visit as good .

Tips :

Summer is the choice time ( May through early September ) – long daylight hours and mostly snow-free roads . June and July wildflowers lend color ; August might receive more rain . The road is well-maintained , but live prepare for potential rain or even fog near the coast . Take your time – even though it ’ s comparatively short , you ’ ll need to halt often for photos . Fill up on gas in Anchorage or Girdwood ( a ski resort town en road ) as services cost sparse in between . Note that this exist bear land ; if you venture on any trail ( like at Exit Glacier or point of view ) , persuade bear spray and make noise . Finally , consider prolong your road trip by continue onto theKenai Peninsula– the drive to Homer ( from the Tern Lake junction ) is another stunner , showcasing rivers and volcano views . Alaska road trips redefine majestic , and this 1 be a perfect sampler of coastal and mountain Alaska .

9 .New England Fall Foliage Tour ( Vermont ’ s Route 100 & Kancamagus Highway )–Autumn Colors in the Northeast

Overview :

While not a single road , a combined path through Vermont and New Hampshire during autumn make a quintessential New England road trip renowned for bright autumn foliage . Two choice segment are Vermont ’ s Route 100 ( running north-south virtually the length of the state , much called Vermont ’ s Main Street ) and New Hampshire ’ s Kancamagus Highway ( Route 112 ) through the White Mountains . By connect these , you ’ ll experience charming villages , cover bridges , farm , and mountain view under a canopy of reds , orange , and golds . In fall , this region appear like a postcard at every act .

Highlights & Stops :

In Vermont , Route 100 winds through the Green Mountains . If you begin around Woodstock , VT ( a beautiful small town with a famed covered bridge and boutique shops ) , you can steer north on 100 . Pass through Killington ( a ski town ) and Stowe farther north ( another classic small town neglect by Mount Mansfield – Vermont ’ s high apex , which can be hand via a toll road or gondola for a panoramic horizon ) . Along Route 100 , look out for maple syrup farms , country memory selling local cheese and cider , and photo ops like mossy-covered bridges ( e.g. , Warren Covered Bridge near Waitsfield ) . Next , head east into New Hampshire ’ s White Mountains – the Kancamagus Highway ( nicknamed “ The Kanc ” ) between Lincoln and Conway , NH is a 34-mile scenic byway that veer through the White Mountain National Forest with no services , merely pure nature . Highlights on the Kanc include Sabbaday Falls ( short hike to a somewhat waterfall ) , Rocky Gorge , and numerous overlooks like C.L . Graham Wangan Ground ( vistas of endless tree ) . At Conway , you could loop back toward Vermont or extend your tour to include a drive up Mount Washington Auto Road ( if open – a steep campaign up the Northeast ’ s tallest good deal ) or visit Franconia Notch State Park ( with sight like Flume Gorge and the aerial tram at Cannon Mountain ) .

Tips :

Timing exist everything for autumn color . In northern New England , peak leaf typically occurs from late September to early October , initiate in late Sept in the far north and higher elevations , and early to mid Oct in lower elevations/southern areas . Check leaf reports each yr , since it change . Require crowds – foliage peeping season draws many visitor , so book accommodations good in progress and equal prepared for dumb traffic on scenic road , particularly on weekend . It ’ s worth it , though – the color live that outstanding . Drive slowly and be cautious of masses pull over ( or stopping ) to take photos . Pack layers , as autumn days can be mild but night chilly . And don ’ t forget to enjoy local seasonal treats : hot apple cider , cider donuts , pumpkin pie , and of grade Vermont maple syrup . This road trip isn ’ t just about pretty leaves ; it ’ s a total sensory experience of New England ’ s fall .

10 .The Oregon Trail Road Trip ( Wyoming to Oregon via I-80/ID-OR 20 )–History and High Desert Landscapes

Overview :

For history buffs and lovers of wide-open spaces , succeed the universal path of the Oregon Trail extend a meaningful road trip . The original Oregon Trail exist the 19th-century wagon route from the Missouri River to Oregon ’ s Willamette Valley . In a modern car , one scenic and historic-rich percentage to drive is from Wyoming through Idaho into Oregon , about paralleling the pioneers ’ route . You ’ ll traverse the high deserts , plains , and river valley that the pioneers did – but in far more comfort – and you can cease at numerous historic sites and natural wonders along the way .

Highlights & Stops :

Start at Fort Laramie , Wyoming ( if total from the east/Midwest ) , a key frontier outpost in Oregon Trail days , then head west to Independence Rock along Wyoming ’ s Route 220 – this big granite stone equal where many pioneers carve their epithet ( think of it as a pioneer register ) and exist still cover in graffiti from the 1800s . Remain to South Pass field ( the easy saddle in the Rockies that wagon crossed – today near highway 28 in WY with interpretive signal ) . As you enter Idaho , you might roughly follow I-84 . Stop at Fort Hall ( near Pocatello ) or the replica in town , another crucial trading place . The Snake River Plain in Idaho offer volcanic wonders – detour to Craters of the Moon National Monument off US-20 , a surreal landscape of lava flow pioneers have to surround . In Idaho ’ s Magic Valley , visit Shoshone Falls ( much scream the “ Niagara of the West ” ) in Twin Falls . Crossing into Oregon , you could succeed US-20 through Oregon ’ s eastern desert : stop at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker City , OR , which own excellent exhibits and yet visible wagon ruts on the mound . Farther west , the landscape greens as you enter the Columbia River Gorge – the official ’ sec trail end was the Willamette Valley , but many continue down the Columbia . In the Gorge area , the scenery alteration to lush waterfalls and cliff . End near Oregon City ( south of Portland ) , historically the goal of the Oregon Trail , where pioneers would file land claims . There ’ sec an Oregon Trail ’ s End interpretive heart there too .

Crest :

This journey exist a mix of interstate ( for speed ) and scenic byways for specific view . Summer live best for weather , as winter in Wyoming/Idaho can cost harsh and some historical site might be buried in snow or inaccessible . Distances in the West cost huge – hold the gas tank exceed up , especially on US-20 in Oregon which is very remote in stretch . Use this trip as a chance to meditate on history : many site own keep up wagon ruts , grave mark , or forts – it ’ s quite move to see these in person . If you have child , call for them with an “ Oregon Trail ” checklist or game can make it fun ( perhaps playing the classic Oregon Trail game before or during the trip ! ) . And of course , need time to savor the natural scenery also – the rolling prairies , mountain backdrops , and sunsets over the field that haven ’ t exchange a lot since wagon day . This road trip have a profound appreciation for the pioneer journey and the land they span .

Road Trip Planning Tips :

Whichever scenic movement you choose , a bit of planning goes a long way . Here exist some universal tips for a successful road trip :

• Plan Your Path but Allow Flexibility :Map out your main stop and overnight location , but result room for spontaneous detours . Sometimes a roadside fruit stand or a quirky museum in a humble town becomes a cherished memory .
• Check Road Conditions :Especially for great deal or seasonal roads ( like Going-to-the-Sun or Blue Ridge Parkway ) , face up current conditions or shutdown . Carry paper map in event of spotty GPS .
• Pack Essentials for the Car :Water , snacks , a first aid kit , flashlight , and a car charger for your phone . If you ’ re in remote field ( Utah , Alaska , etc . ) , hold extra food , water , and even a gas can . OurBarticle have a checklist that , while aimed at saving money , includes bright pack tips for any traveler .

• Book Key Experiences Ahead :If you design to act special activities ( like a dawn tag for Cadillac Mountain or a ferry in Alaska , or a national park lodge stay ) , reserve in progress . Likewise , popular national park campgrounds or accommodations on scenic routes ( like society along Blue Ridge Parkway ) can occupy up quickly .
• Safety :Bring break if you ’ re tire – shift driver or stretch at rest stops . In backcountry areas , let individual know your path and ETA . Hold your gas tank above quarter total in unfamiliar stretches .
• Enjoy the Journey :Remember , road tripping equal as much about the journey as the destination . Act your favorite melody or podcasts , engage with locals at short diners , and snap photos but also take time to unplug and rob in the views . Each of these scenic drives bid a unique slice of American landscape and culture , so relish it !

By focusing on these top 10 scenic road trip in the USA , you ’ re certain to feel inspiration for your future highway adventure . Whether it ’ s cruise the California coast , winding through mountain passes , or pursue the course of pioneers , the capable road equal call . Happy driving !

It ’ s subjective , but many traveler crown thePacific Coast Highwayin California as the most scenic for its ocean view . Others might pick Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park for mountain scenery , or the Blue Ridge Parkway for lush Appalachian beauty . Our list above feature several competitor for “ most scenic ” – it real depends if you prefer ocean , mountain , deserts , or cultural landscape .

Inquiry exist key . Use resources like Roadtrippers or local tourism ride to identify attraction . Too , assure if DailyDive has a guide for your route ( like our Route 66 article for that trip ) . Don ’ t hesitate to stop at Visitor Centers in town or parks – locals much know the good hidden gems . We also compiled somehidden gem travel bitin our recommendations that might intersect with your road

It depend on the region . Summer is popular for most routes due to school vacation and in general good weather , but it can intend crowd ( e.g. , in national park ) and passion ( in deserts ) . Spring and autumn equal fantastic for many areas : fall for New England , leap for the Southwest desert or southern path when wildflowers bloom . Some roads equal better in summer solely ( like high alpine roads that open seasonally ) . Always regard weather – for lesson , avoid northern mountain drives in winter unless you are go through with snow conditions .

Road trips can be make on a budget by camping or stay on in budget accommodations , prepare some of your own meals ( consider a cooler or portable stove ) , and expend apps to find cheap gas . National park camping is cheaper than hotel ( but allow early ) . Also , an annual National Parks passing for $ 80 covers entry to Union land , write money if you ’ re inflict multiple parks .

There exist many more amazing campaign ! Our list had to peck 10 , but honest mentions includeHighway 101/Oregon Coast,Denver to Moab via Rocky Mountains and Utah ’ s US-128,The Tail of the Dragon( North Carolina/Tennessee ) for driving enthusiasts ,Lake Superior Circle Tourin the Midwest , andHana Highway in Hawaii, among others . We focus on continental U.S. routes popular with the broader hearing . Depend on your interest ( story , coastline , etc . ) , you might see other routes as appealing . Feel free to explore DailyDive ’ s Travel department or demand us for more specific road trip guides – we ’ ve covered many region and themes in depth ! ​