5 Most Scenic Road Trips in the USA
Traveling on a road trip through the United States, gives you access to a unique way of seeing the vast landscape, cultures, and obscure gems in one nation.
From the bumpy coastlines to the huge dunes, a few of the maximum scenic routes inside the globe are in the USA for the ones seeking an experience (and incredible views)!
Road trips give you the ability to explore at your leisure and the chance to see destinations that might get overlooked on a more conventional travel schedule.
Having said that, these are the 5 most beautiful road trips in USA.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California.
The Pacific Coast Highway or California State Route 1 is arguably one of the most famous road trips in the United States.
Running some 600 miles from the northern border of California to San Diego, this road showcases Pacific Ocean vistas, steep cliffs and coastal villages.
Highlights:
> Big Sur: The rugged coastal views, including the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, plus countless hiking trails make Big Sur an unforgettable experience.
Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: These quaint towns are walkable, with attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium and 17-Mile Drive.
> Santa Barbara: Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara has lovely beaches, Spanish-style architecture and a strong wine culture.
2. Virginia to North Carolina: Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic byway from Virginia to North Carolina, coursing through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Perfect for those who love nature or want to embrace the natural beauty of the Appalachian Highlands.
Highlights:
> Shenandoah National Park: This national park at the northern end of the parkway offers many hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.
> Linville Gorge and Falls: This gorge is sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of the East” for its dramatic vistas and rugged hiking trails.
> Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located at the southern end of the parkway, this park is famous for its biodiversity as well as its gorgeous, mist-filled mountains.
3. Route 66 — Illinois to California
What is the most famous road trip in America?
Spanning about 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this drive is a cross-section of the country’s midsection.
Highlights:
> Chicago, Illinois: A trip to the Windy City with its famous skyline, deep-dish pizza and lively cultural scene.
> Cadillac Ranch, Texas: An odd public art installation of half-buried Cadillacs covered in graffiti in Amarillo.
> Santa Monica Pier, California: Conclude your road trip at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can relax at the beach, visit the amusement park, and take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
4. The Great River Road: Minnesota to Louisiana
Over 2,000 miles (3,219 kilometers) long, the Great River Road runs a course close to that of Mississippi River, from the source at Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico at Louisiana.
It is a journey with a wide variety of landscapes, cultures and historical sites along the way.
Highlights:
> Itasca State Park (Minnesota): You can walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi River here.
> St. Louis, Missouri: Head to the Gateway Arch, a monument to westward expansion, then go have yourself an adventure.
> New Orleans, Louisiana Finish your travels in the vibrant city of New Orleans, famous for its culture, jazz, and food.
5. Alaska Highway, British Columbia to Alaska
The Alaska Highway, or Alcan Highway, is a legendary road trip that stretches over 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, to Delta Junction, Alaska.
This route traverses North America’s most isolated and stunning landscapes.
Highlights:
Kluane National Park, Yukon: A UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its breathtaking glaciers, jagged mountains and rich wildlife
> Whitehorse, Yukon: The Yukon capital provides insight into the Gold Rush era, as well as its lovely natural surroundings.
> Delta Junction, Alaska: The end of the Alaska Highway — and gateway to the incredible wilds of Alaska.
Final Word: Road Trips with the Most Scenic Views
Taking a road trip in the USA is an exceptional way to discover the vast beauty and diverse cultural heritage of the country.
So whether you’re trekking the stunning coastlines of California, the mountains of the majestic Blue Ridge, or the nostalgic Route 66, each road trip is sure to create memories of a lifetime.
Pack your bags, get on the open road and see the beauty and adventure that awaits on America’s most scenic road trips.
