Road trips in the United States offer a unique way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains. Let’s dive into some of the best road trips and scenic drives across the US:
- Pacific Coast Highway (PCH):
- Route: San Diego to Seattle (1600 miles; 8–12 days).
- Highlights: The PCH winds along the West Coast, passing through LA, Big Sur, San Francisco, and Redwood National & State Parks. You’ll experience stunning Pacific views, ancient redwood forests, and quirky California beach towns.
- Tips: Check for road closures, especially in the Big Sur area, where rockslides are common along the sea cliffs.
- Blue Ridge Parkway:
- Route: Cherokee, NC, to Waynesboro, VA (469 miles; 2–5 days).
- Scenery: This drive takes you through the heart of the oldest mountain range in the US. Enjoy rolling green mountains, hiking trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The Parkway passes through Pisgah National Forest and ends at Shenandoah National Park.
- Detour: Explore state and national parks along the way, and consult trail maps for top hiking routes.
- Route 66:
- Route: Chicago to Los Angeles (2250 miles; 1–2 weeks).
- Iconic: Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is the original US road trip. It crosses eight states, connecting travelers to national parks, roadside attractions, and vintage Americana.
- Fun Fact: Route 66 has left a lasting mark on international culture and imagination.
- Other Notable Drives:
- California’s Pacific Coast Highway: Stunning coastal views from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
- American Southwest: Explore Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico for desert landscapes and iconic national parks.
- Grand Teton, Yellowstone & Glacier National Parks: A nature lover’s dream in the Rocky Mountains.
- Washington State Road Trip: From Seattle to Olympic National Park and beyond.
- Florida Keys Road Trip: Drive through the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys.
- Northern California & Oregon: Redwoods, Crater Lake, and the Oregon coast.
- Washington DC to Asheville, North Carolina: Historic sites and scenic beauty.
- Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Sip your way through the Bluegrass State.
Remember, road trips are about the journey, not just the destination. So buckle up, enjoy the open road, and create unforgettable memories!
