The Best Road Trips in America: Routes Every Driver Should Experience

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in the United States, with endless miles of scenic highways and byways. Whether you’re in a classic car or a modern ride, America’s roads are calling. But which routes truly stand out as must-drive experiences?

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) offers one of the most iconic drives in America. Stretching over 600 miles from Southern California to the northern part of the state, it boasts dramatic coastal cliffs, ocean views, and stops like Big Sur. On average, over 6 million people visit the route annually to take in its breathtaking sights.

2. Route 66, Chicago to Santa Monica

Route 66 is the legendary “Mother Road” that stretches across 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic highway offers a glimpse into America’s past, with vintage diners, neon signs, and classic motels along the way. A 2021 report from the National Park Service noted that over 210,000 vehicles still travel sections of Route 66 every year.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains for 469 miles, offering stunning mountain views, vibrant fall foliage, and historical sites. Often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the parkway attracts more than 15 million visitors annually. It’s a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, with plenty of spots for hiking and picnicking.

4. Great River Road, Along the Mississippi River

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles through 10 states, from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from the northern forests to southern bayous. According to the Mississippi River Parkway Commission, more than 10 million travelers explore parts of the Great River Road each year.

5. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

The Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) stretches 113 miles from mainland Florida to Key West. Built over a series of islands and bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, this route offers stunning ocean views. The Florida Department of Transportation reports that over 3.5 million vehicles cross the Overseas Highway annually, making it a popular destination for road-trippers.

6. Tail of the Dragon, Tennessee to North Carolina

If you’re looking for a challenge, the Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of U.S. 129 with 318 sharp curves through the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a favorite among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts. The Tennessee Department of Transportation warns that over 100 accidents occur on this road every year due to its difficulty.

7. Alaska Highway, British Columbia to Alaska

The Alaska Highway runs 1,387 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. This remote and rugged route offers unparalleled wilderness scenery, with stops for wildlife viewing and historic WWII landmarks. About 300,000 travelers take on this drive annually, according to the Alaska Travel Industry Association.

8. Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado, known for its steep cliffs and hairpin turns through the San Juan Mountains. While the origins of the highway’s name are debated, the views are certainly worth millions. Approximately 2 million people drive this thrilling route each year, despite its reputation for being treacherous in winter.

9. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a 50-mile route that takes you across the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. The road offers breathtaking views of glacial lakes, mountain peaks, and wildlife. The National Park Service reports that over 3 million people visit the park annually, with the road being a highlight for many.

10. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee

The Natchez Trace Parkway follows a historic route used by Native Americans, spanning 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. It’s known for its quiet, scenic drive through forests, farmland, and historic sites. Around 6 million travelers experience this tranquil route each year, according to the National Park Service.

11. Beartooth Highway, Montana to Wyoming

The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile scenic byway that winds through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, offering some of the most dramatic alpine views in the U.S. The road reaches elevations of nearly 11,000 feet, making it one of the highest highways in the country. The Montana Department of Transportation estimates that over 300,000 vehicles traverse this route annually.

12. Highway 12, Utah

Highway 12, also known as Scenic Byway 12, cuts through Utah’s red rock country, linking Bryce Canyon National Park with Capitol Reef National Park. This 124-mile route offers stunning desert landscapes, slot canyons, and panoramic views. The Utah Office of Tourism reports that over 1 million vehicles travel this scenic route every year.

13. Loneliest Road in America, Nevada

U.S. Route 50, dubbed the “Loneliest Road in America,” stretches across the remote deserts of Nevada. This 287-mile route offers a quiet escape from civilization, with long stretches of road and minimal traffic. The Nevada Department of Transportation notes that while it’s one of the least-traveled highways, it attracts road-trippers seeking solitude.

14. Hana Highway, Hawaii

Hana Highway, also known as the Road to Hana, is a 64-mile drive along Maui’s northeastern coast, known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and narrow bridges. It’s a challenging but rewarding drive, with over 600 curves. Hawaii’s Department of Transportation estimates that more than 1 million people navigate this scenic but treacherous road each year.

15. The Black Hills, South Dakota

The Black Hills of South Dakota offer a 70-mile loop through Custer State Park, Needles Highway, and Iron Mountain Road. This drive features tunnels, switchbacks, and iconic views of Mount Rushmore. According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, over 2 million vehicles travel these roads annually, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

16. Scenic Byway 163, Arizona to Utah

Scenic Byway 163, which runs from Arizona into Utah, takes you through Monument Valley, one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West. The towering red sandstone buttes and wide-open desert make this a must-drive route. The Arizona Office of Tourism reports that hundreds of thousands of visitors drive this route each year, drawn by its cinematic scenery.

17. Columbia River Highway, Oregon

The Historic Columbia River Highway runs for 75 miles along the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, offering stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and the river itself. Built in the early 20th century, it’s a designated National Historic Landmark. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, more than 2 million vehicles travel this scenic route annually.

18. Highway 101, Oregon Coast

Highway 101 along the Oregon Coast is a 363-mile stretch that offers breathtaking ocean views, lighthouses, and coastal towns. This route is a favorite among road-trippers looking for a mix of scenic beauty and small-town charm. The Oregon Coast Visitors Association estimates that over 5 million people drive this iconic highway each year.

19. Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a 138-mile route along North Carolina’s barrier islands, featuring beaches, lighthouses, and coastal wildlife. This drive offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for those who want to explore the Outer Banks at their own pace. The North Carolina Department of Transportation reports that around 1.5 million vehicles travel this scenic byway annually.

20. Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado

Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile drive that takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most famous mountains. The road offers breathtaking views and a steep, winding ascent that’s not for the faint of heart. More than 500,000 people take this drive annually, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

21. Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee to North Carolina

The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile scenic byway that crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. This route offers sweeping mountain vistas and is a favorite among motorcyclists. The Tennessee Department of Transportation estimates that around 500,000 vehicles travel this peaceful, scenic road each year.

On the Road Again

There’s no shortage of incredible road trips across America, from coastal highways to rugged mountain passes. Which one will you tackle next?

Police Magnet: 7 Cars That Guarantee You’ll Get Pulled Over

Driving certain cars can make you more noticeable to law enforcement, even if you’re abiding by all the rules. Are you driving one of these “police magnets”? Here are seven cars that seem to attract more police attention than others. Police Magnet: 7 Cars That Guarantee You’ll Get Pulled Over

The Classic Cars That Were Total Clunkers

Nostalgia has a funny way of making the past seem better than it was, especially when it comes to cars. But here’s the hard truth: some of those “classic” cars your dad raves about were real clunkers. Here’s a closer look at why some of those so-called “classics” weren’t all they were cracked up to be. The Classic Cars That Were Total Clunkers

The Worst U.S. Cars Ever Made: A Retro List

The U.S. auto industry has produced some incredible vehicles, but not every model was a hit. Here’s a look back at 16 of the worst cars ever made in the U.S., each infamous for its own unique flaws. The Worst U.S. Cars Ever Made: A Retro List

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Joshua Resnick.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.

The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.