Road trips are an excellent way to explore new places and experience the freedom of the open road. While reaching your destination can be exciting, some journeys are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and scenic beauty, making the trip itself the highlight of the adventure. Here are nine of the most fun road trips where the journey is truly more scenic than the destination.
Pacific Coast Highway – California
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, is one of the most iconic and scenic drives in the United States. Stretching from San Diego in the south to the northernmost reaches of California, this route offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. As you wind along the coastline, you’ll pass through famous spots like Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea, and Hearst Castle, a historic estate perched on a hilltop. The journey also takes you through picturesque towns such as Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara, each offering its own unique charm and character. The ever-changing seascape, coupled with the road’s twists and turns, makes this drive a visual feast and a quintessential road trip experience.
Route 66 – Illinois to California
Often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 holds a special place in American history and culture. Spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic route offers a nostalgic journey through a diverse array of landscapes, including rolling prairies, desert vistas, and charming small towns. Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, vintage diners, and historic landmarks that evoke the spirit of mid-20th-century travel. Highlights include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, a collection of graffiti-covered cars buried nose-first in the ground, and the Painted Desert in Arizona, where colorful rock formations create a stunning desert landscape. Driving Route 66 is a journey through time, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
The Great River Road – Minnesota to Louisiana
Following the course of the Mississippi River, The Great River Road is a captivating route that showcases the diverse beauty and cultural heritage of the American Midwest and South. Starting in Minnesota and winding down to Louisiana, this scenic drive takes you through charming river towns, lush forests, and expansive wetlands. Along the way, you’ll pass through historic cities like St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch, and New Orleans, known for its vibrant music scene and rich culinary traditions. The route also offers picturesque views of the Mississippi River, with opportunities to explore riverfront parks, enjoy riverboat cruises, and learn about the region’s history at various museums and historical sites. The Great River Road offers a journey that combines natural beauty with cultural and historical exploration.
Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina to Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that stretches through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Renowned for its stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and serene valleys, this road trip is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Along the route, you’ll find numerous overlooks and hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding countryside. The drive also takes you through charming mountain towns like Asheville, North Carolina, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture. The Blue Ridge Parkway is particularly beautiful in the fall when the foliage transforms into a tapestry of autumn colors, making it an ideal destination for a scenic road trip.
The Loneliest Road – Nevada
Known officially as U.S. Route 50, The Loneliest Road is a fascinating drive that traverses the heart of Nevada from Ely to Fallon. Despite its name, this route is far from boring; it offers an array of stunning desert landscapes, expansive salt flats, and rugged mountain ranges. As you journey along this remote stretch, you’ll pass through ghost towns and small communities that evoke the spirit of the Old West. Highlights of the trip include the Ely Renaissance Village, a quirky attraction that offers a glimpse into local history and culture, and the Great Basin National Park, where you can explore caves and hike to alpine lakes. The Loneliest Road is a unique adventure that showcases the stark beauty of Nevada’s wilderness and offers a sense of isolation and tranquility.
Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road, located in Glacier National Park, Montana, is a breathtaking drive that traverses the heart of one of the most pristine and rugged landscapes in the United States. Spanning 50 miles, this scenic route takes you through towering mountains, lush valleys, and stunning alpine vistas. The road is renowned for its dramatic switchbacks and panoramic viewpoints, including the iconic Logan Pass, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. Along the way, you’ll encounter pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, including bighorn sheep and mountain goats. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most spectacular national parks.
The Drive to Hana – Maui, Hawaii
The Drive to Hana on the Hawaiian island of Maui is a picturesque journey renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic coastline, and tropical beauty. This 64-mile road trip takes you from the resort town of Kahului to the quaint village of Hana, winding through rainforests, along steep cliffs, and past numerous waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning natural attractions such as the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch, where you can take a refreshing dip, and the black sand beaches of Waianapanapa State Park. The route is also dotted with charming local stands offering fresh fruit and homemade treats, adding to the experience of this scenic drive. The Drive to Hana is more than just a road trip; it’s an immersive experience in Hawaii’s natural splendor and cultural richness.
Scenic Byway 12 – Utah
Scenic Byway 12, also known as the “All-American Road,” is a remarkable drive through southern Utah that offers a captivating mix of desert landscapes, rock formations, and panoramic views. Stretching from the town of Panguitch to Torrey, this 124-mile route showcases the diverse beauty of the region, including the iconic Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park. The road winds through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, featuring striking geological formations and vibrant rock colors. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and charming small towns that provide a glimpse into the area’s history and culture. Scenic Byway 12 is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable road trip through some of Utah’s most stunning landscapes.
These nine road trips highlight the incredible diversity of scenic routes available across the United States, where the journey itself offers a visual feast that rivals any destination. Whether you’re driving along rugged coastlines, through majestic mountains, or across arid deserts, each of these routes provides a unique and memorable travel experience.
