The 15 Best Road Trips to Take in North America

If you're yearning for a scenic drive through the lush beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect choice. This 469-mile road trip stretches from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Prepare to be captivated by vibrant fall foliage, cascading waterfalls, charming mountain towns like Asheville, and awe-inspiring vistas from places like Grandfather Mountain and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

Step back in time and experience the nostalgia of America's most famous road, Route 66. This historic route stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, spanning over 2,400 miles. Along the way, you'll encounter classic diners, quirky roadside attractions, and remnants of a bygone era. Highlights include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and the kitschy charm of the Wigwam Motel in California.

Prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana. This 50-mile route traverses the heart of the park, offering jaw-dropping views of towering mountains, glacial lakes, and lush forests. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife like bears and bighorn sheep along the way. Don't miss the iconic Logan Pass and the opportunity to hike one of the park's stunning trails.

For a journey steeped in history and culture, hop on the Great River Road and follow the mighty Mississippi River through ten states. From Minnesota to Louisiana, this 3,000-mile route takes you past charming river towns, antebellum mansions, and important historical sites. Explore the vibrant music scene in New Orleans, visit Mark Twain's hometown in Hannibal, Missouri, and marvel at the impressive Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Overseas Highway, connecting the Florida Keys like a string of pearls. Starting in Miami, this scenic road trip takes you across 113 miles of bridges and causeways, offering breathtaking views of turquoise waters and lush islands. Explore the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or scuba diving and savor delicious seafood in Key West.

Experience the wonders of the Southwest on the Grand Circle road trip, encompassing iconic national parks and breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at the red rock formations in Arches National Park, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon and explore the mystical hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park. Don't miss Monument Valley's iconic mesas and the majestic waterfalls in Zion National Park.

Get ready for a picturesque journey along California's iconic Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Starting in San Francisco and winding its way down to San Diego, this road trip offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, charming coastal towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara, and famous landmarks such as the Big Sur and Hearst Castle. Don't forget to stop for a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean along the way!

Embark on a journey through the heart of the Black Hills in South Dakota. This 100-mile loop takes you through iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Immerse yourself in the region's rich Native American heritage, witness the beauty of the Badlands, and keep an eye out for herds of bison roaming freely.

Prepare for a thrilling ride along the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, renowned for its hairpin turns and breathtaking scenery. This 25-mile stretch, part of the San Juan Skyway, winds through the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains, treating you to towering peaks, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. Be captivated by the beauty of the historic mining towns of Ouray and Silverton.

Indulge in the natural splendor of the Canadian Rockies with a road trip along the Icefields Parkway. Stretching 144 miles from Jasper to Lake Louise, this route offers awe-inspiring views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Marvel at iconic attractions like the Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Falls while encountering abundant wildlife.

For an offbeat adventure, traverse the vast emptiness of Highway 50 in Nevada, aptly named "The Loneliest Road in America." This 287-mile stretch offers a unique glimpse into the state's stark beauty, with rugged mountain ranges, expansive desert landscapes, and quirky roadside attractions like the Shoe Tree. Embrace the solitude and revel in the untouched wilderness.

Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest with a loop road trip starting in Portland, Oregon. Discover the rugged Oregon coastline, explore the mystical forests of Olympic National Park in Washington, and soak in the charm of Seattle. Highlights include the breathtaking Cannon Beach, the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, and the vibrant Pike Place Market.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning desert landscapes of Arizona on the Apache Trail. This historic route takes you through the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest, offering breathtaking views of canyons, lakes, and towering saguaro cacti. Explore the ghost town of Goldfield, cruise along the edge of Canyon Lake, and visit the awe-inspiring cliff dwellings of Tonto National Monument.

Prepare to be captivated by the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest on the North Cascades Highway in Washington. This scenic route winds through the stunning North Cascades National Park, offering views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Make a stop at the picturesque Ross Lake, hike the enchanting Cascade Pass Trail, and keep an eye out for wildlife like bears and mountain goats.