Every year, travelers take to the open road in search of a new adventure. Epic road trips are a popular way to explore different regions across the U.S. Also, planning a long drive can be a great way to enjoy off the beaten track places and hidden gems! These epic road trip destinations make a great vacation option all year long!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drive through rural landscapes, national parks, lakes, rivers, or charming towns, there are plenty of epic road trips that are perfect to discover for new adventures and knocking some bucket list places off of your list!
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In the Northeast, you can find a variety of sights with the different seasons. In autumn colors glow among the mountainous landscapes or head south to the Gulf Coast for beautiful beaches or the Atlantic coast in Florida where temperatures and views of the ocean are mild and amazing. The weather is breezy and pleasant along the Pacific Coast, and there are plenty of charming coastal towns to explore.
This list of epic road trips goes from east to west across the United States. You’ll love these scenic drives if you want to see beautiful summer flowers or fall foliage and some sensational national parks and beautiful towns!
Don’t just save these trips for one season though! Our team loves them year-round. Each season offers something special!
Our Favorite Road Trips in the U.S. to Try
- Our Favorite Road Trips in the U.S. to Try
- 1. The Appalachian Trail Across Eastern U.S.
- 2. Route 1 Scenic Drive in Maine
- 3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- 4. Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia Scenic Drive
- 5. The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia
- 6. Epic Road Trip Miami to Key West
- 7. The Scenic Drive of Route 66
- 8. Great River Road from Minnesota to Louisiana
- 9. West Elk Loop Historic Byway in Colorado
- 10. The Epic Grand Canyon
- 11. Mount Charleston in Nevada
- 12. Lamoille Scenic Byway in Nevada
- 13. Colorado to Utah (Zion National Park)
- 14. Pacific Coast Highway in California
- 15. The Oregon Trail Scenic Drive from Oregon to Massachusetts
- Essential Road Trip Packing List Items:
- Bottom Line on Epic Road Trips to Try
1. The Appalachian Trail Across Eastern U.S.
The Appalachian Trail is a famous hiking trail that winds down to Georgia from Maine. The nature trail is over 2,200 miles long and can take committed hikers 5 to 7 months to complete.
You don’t have to hike it all though! Make an epic road trip along the Appalachian Trail. Autumn is a special time as there are amazing fall leaf colors to see on the trip. It’s also really enjoyable hiking in the cooler temperatures, but all year is great too.
Suggested Route:
- Start in Springer Mountain, Georgia, and follow the Appalachian Mountains through scenic states like North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, ending in Maine at Mount Katahdin.
Hidden Gems:
- Tinker Cliffs: Offers panoramic views of Virginia’s valleys and mountains, perfect for solitude and photography.
- Mount Rogers: Known for wild pony sightings, it provides a unique experience in a diverse ecological landscape.
Check out this great Road Trip Seat Organizer on Amazon for those long trips!
2. Route 1 Scenic Drive in Maine
If you want to see gorgeous coastal and autumn scenery, head to Maine. Maine is home to abundant natural attractions, including 5,000 miles of coastline and Acadia National Park.
Additionally, 65 lighthouses dot the landscape, and the state enjoys one of the largest harvests of blueberries in the United States. And don’t forget about the famous lobster rolls!
Start your trip by traveling Route 1 in Portland, taking in the lighthouses and magnificent mansions before venturing into Acadia National Park. This park is renowned for its incredibly vibrant autumn hues, particularly along the 40-mile span of the Acadia Byway.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Kittery and travel north along the coast up to Fort Kent. The route passes through quaint towns like Portland, Rockport, and Bar Harbor.
Hidden Gems:
- Owls Head Transportation Museum: Features vintage aircraft and automobiles, offering a historical perspective on transportation.
- Vinalhaven Island: A picturesque island with quiet beaches and a slower pace of life, accessible by ferry.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The fall is a fantastic time to be outdoors in the Smokies, as the weather conditions are pleasant. The heat of summer starts to decline around September.
Residents and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage as autumn approaches in the Smoky Mountains. The cooler temperatures in late September and early October give the leaves a stunning range of red, orange, and yellow hues.
The peak of the fall foliage season is usually in mid-October or early November when you can see the beautiful fall colors practically everywhere you look in the Smokies.
Traffic in national parks can be a hassle, but there are plenty of trails to take if you want to avoid it. Hiking allows you to get away from crowds and see beautiful scenery instead.
Suggested Route:
- Start from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and take the Newfound Gap Road to Cherokee, North Carolina.
Hidden Gems:
- Cataloochee Valley: Great for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to see elk.
- Ramsey Cascades: The tallest waterfall in the park, accessible via a rewarding hike through old-growth forest.
If hiking is part of your travel plans, we recently wrote about our favorite hikes, camping and fun in the Smoky Mountains and we found some great hiking trails in Little Rock, Arkansas!
Save money with the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Pass
4. Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia Scenic Drive
Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll see split-rail fences, old farmsteads, mountain meadows, and scenic overlooks as you drive.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is over 400 miles, so there are plenty of unique stops you can make along the way! Check out the numerous hiking trails or visit a local farm to pick some autumnal produce.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Cherokee, North Carolina, and follow the Parkway north to Afton, Virginia.
Hidden Gems:
- Graveyard Fields: Offers easy hikes to waterfalls and beautiful wildflower displays in spring and summer.
- Doughton Park: One of the largest parks on the Parkway, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
5. The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia
If you’re looking for a place to see beautiful fall foliage, don’t forget the southern parts of the United States. The Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia are a great option, with colors just as stunning as those in New England.
Several towns are worth visiting with beautiful state routes connecting them, so you’ll see stunning scenery as you drive from town to town. Tallulah Falls, Clayton, Helen, Hiawassee, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay are just a few that you should add to your itinerary.
Suggested Route:
- Start in Dahlonega and drive through towns like Helen, Blue Ridge, and ending in Blairsville.
Hidden Gems:
- Hardman Farm State Historic Site: Near Helen, offers insights into the area’s history with well-preserved buildings and a Native American mound.
- Raven Cliff Falls: A secluded hike leading to a dramatic waterfall.
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6. Epic Road Trip Miami to Key West
The drive from Miami to Key West is a beautiful tropical getaway that offers plenty of opportunities to stop and see the many attractions in Florida (we also have a new travel guide for South Beach Miami). You can drive across the famous 7 Mile Bridge that will take you across the beautiful water to Key West. [We have a recent review of Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo]
Once you arrive in Key West, there is no shortage of things to do. You can wander the narrow streets and explore the many colorful houses or take a boat ride out to the remote reefs. Our Key West in a day guide is a great way to start planning your trip!
Suggested Route:
- Start in Miami and follow the US-1 South all the way down to Key West, passing through the picturesque Florida Keys.
Hidden Gems:
- Bahia Honda Key: Known for pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling.
- No Name Pub: A unique local hangout full of character.
- Spot the Key Deer: Search for the endangered Key Deer on Big Pine Key.
- Blue Hole Tour: Visit this large freshwater sinkhole known for its wildlife.
7. The Scenic Drive of Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most iconic roads in the United States, so it’s worth exploring, even if you only make it a part of it. The highway has been featured in songs and movies! So there’s a good chance you’ll see some of those highlights along the way.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Chicago, Illinois, and follow Route 66 through states like Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arizona, ending in Santa Monica, California.
Hidden Gems:
- Oatman, Arizona: Famous for its wild burros and Old West feel.
- Blue Whale of Catoosa: A quirky roadside attraction in Oklahoma.
8. Great River Road from Minnesota to Louisiana
The National Scenic Byway along the course of the Mississippi River is nearly 3,000 miles long. It starts in northern Minnesota and goes down through Louisiana to the Gulf of Mexico. The byway offers beautiful views of the river banks and vast forests.
The Great River Road passes through 10 states and hundreds of river towns, making it one of America’s most iconic scenic routes. It is a beautiful place to travel in the fall. The colors are so vivid, and the scenery is incredible. Parks along the route offer great landscape views, making them perfect places to enjoy autumn while traveling.
Suggested Route:
- Start at Itasca State Park in Minnesota and follow the Mississippi River south to Venice, Louisiana.
Hidden Gems:
- Effigy Mounds National Monument: Preserves over 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans.
- Windsor Ruins: Beautiful ruins of a large antebellum plantation in Mississippi.
If a stop in New Orleans is in the plans on your scenic drive, make sure to check out our recent articles to make your planning easy:
- Best Haunted Places in New Orleans to Visit
- Free DIY Self-Guided New Orleans Cocktail Tour
- Surprisingly Nice Stay: Review of Stay at Kimpton’s Hotel Fontenot in New Orleans
- 9 Fun Things to do at New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival besides Music
9. West Elk Loop Historic Byway in Colorado
The most spectacular aspen grove in Colorado produces a stunning display of gold, orange, and crimson leaves every autumn. The Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley has a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities and fall festivals during the season.
The byway circles stunning scenery, including mountain ranges and alpine wildflowers. At the same time, the Black Canyon of Gunnison is the only canyon with such a narrow opening, steep walls, and gigantic depth.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Gunnison, loop through towns like Crested Butte, Marble, and Paonia before returning to Gunnison.
Hidden Gems:
- Marble, Colorado: Offers unique local crafts and peaceful hiking trails.
- McClure Pass: Known for spectacular autumn colors.
We also have a recent article on the best craft breweries in Colorado to visit!
10. The Epic Grand Canyon
Visiting the West Rim of the Grand Canyon is an excellent destination for travelers who want to avoid the crowds at the South Rim. Though it doesn’t offer as iconic views as the canyon offers many unique spectacular vistas and experiences, making it much more easily accessible from Las Vegas.
Several sights and attractions are located in the Hualapai area of Grand Canyon West, including the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk. It stretches 70 feet from the edge of Eagle Point and provides views 4,000 feet below. There are five layers of glass, so it’s safe to stand with other people and enjoy the views of the Grand Canyon!
Suggested Route:
- Start in Las Vegas, Nevada, and travel east toward the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, following the U.S. Route 93 South to Dolan Springs, then taking Pierce Ferry Road to Diamond Bar Road, which leads directly to the Grand Canyon West.
Hidden Gems:
- Eagle Point: Named for its rock formation that resembles an eagle with outstretched wings, this point offers less crowded views and cultural exhibitions by the Hualapai tribe.
- Guano Point: Known for its dramatic panoramic views, this spot offers a more rugged and natural experience of the canyon.
- Hike the Highpoint Trail for spectacular 360-degree canyon views.
- Hualapai Ranch: Experience the Old West with cowboy shows, wagon rides, and sharpshooting demonstrations. It’s a fun and interactive place that offers a different perspective of the Grand Canyon area.
11. Mount Charleston in Nevada
This beautiful mountain is a great place to take a break from the high energy of Las Vegas and it is a short road trip route so it can be combined with others that go through Las Vegas. It offers numerous outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, camping, and hiking.
Mount Charleston is a popular ski resort (Yes, in Las Vegas!) destination in the cooler months. The landscape is awash in bold strokes of color, and there is many paths to choose from.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Las Vegas and take the NV-157 W directly into the Mount Charleston area.
Hidden Gems:
- Ancient Bristlecone Pines: Some of the world’s oldest living organisms.
- Fletcher Canyon: Offers a peaceful retreat into nature.
- Valley of Fire State Park: Stunning red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs.
- Howard Hughes House: Tour the secluded home of the famous aviator.
- Seven Magic Mountains: Huge and colorful desert art installation that is a must-see and requires no reservation!
12. Lamoille Scenic Byway in Nevada
The Lamoille Canyon is the “Grand Canyon” of Nevada. It should be a must-see for anyone traveling on Interstate 80 through Elko. The 12-mile drive up the canyon whisks you away to 8,800 feet, following a U-shaped canyon flush with summer wildflowers and spectacular colors in the fall.
The scenery is breathtaking, the drive easy, and by visiting Lamoille Canyon, you’ll see a part of Nevada that only locals ever visit.
Suggested Route:
- Start in Elko, Nevada, and take the NV-227 to Lamoille, exploring the Ruby Mountains and returning the same way.
Hidden Gems:
- Angel Lake: A serene fishing and picnicking spot.
- Ruby Crest Trail: Less-traveled hiking paths with pristine alpine landscapes.
13. Colorado to Utah (Zion National Park)
Begin your journey through Colorado’s picturesque mountain towns such as Aspen and Vail, where the natural beauty of the Rockies is on full display.
As you continue westward, the landscape transitions dramatically as you enter Utah, culminating in the awe-inspiring Zion National Park, renowned for its steep red cliffs and forest trails.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Denver, Colorado, travel through Aspen, Vail, and Moab, and end in Zion National Park, Utah.
Hidden Gems:
- Maroon Bells: Famous peaks in Aspen, stunning for photography.
- Independence Pass: High altitude pass near Aspen with panoramic views.
- Kanarra Creek Canyon Hike: A lesser-known hike near Zion featuring slot canyons and waterfalls.
- Kolob Canyons: Quieter section of Zion with red rock formations.
14. Pacific Coast Highway in California
The road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is gorgeous. The winding roads and picturesque towns will take your breath away.
One route that is sure to please is the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The drive is just under 3,000 miles, but you will find stunningly beautiful landscapes.
Suggested Route:
- Start in San Diego and drive north to San Francisco, following the coastline through places like Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Big Sur
Hidden Gems:
- Carmel-by-the-Sea coves and beaches: Secluded spots for reflection or strolls.
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Offers stunning ocean views and wildlife sightings.
We compiled the best drive trip stops on Pacific Coast Highway here!
15. The Oregon Trail
Scenic Drive from Oregon to Massachusetts
The Oregon Trail road trip begins in Cannon Beach on the rugged coast of Oregon. It takes you through Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York before ending in the seaside community of Provincetown in Massachusetts.
You’ll also see various natural beauty, including mountains, wildlife, waterfalls, hiking trails, prehistoric fossils, and historic sites. You’ll also enjoy some of the best food you’ve ever had.
Suggested Route:
- Begin in Cannon Beach, Oregon, and follow a path similar to the historic Oregon Trail, passing through Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and ending in Provincetown, Massachusetts.
Hidden Gems:
- Scotts Bluff National Monument: Offers rich history and panoramic views.
- Allegheny Mountains: Less-traveled paths through beautiful mountains.
Essential Road Trip Packing List Items:
Packing the right items can make your road trip much smoother, safer, and much more enjoyable. Here are five essentials you’ll want to bring along on your next adventure.
- Portable Phone Mount – A sturdy phone mount is a must for easy access to navigation and hands-free calls. We love this budget-friendly one on Amazon!
- Reusable Water Bottle with Filter – A reusable water bottle (like this Brita one on Amazon) with a built-in filter ensures you’ll always have access to clean water and be well-hydrated.
- Compact Car Emergency Kit – From flat tires to minor injuries, you’ll want to be prepared with essential tools for being on the road!
- Travel Cooler Bag – A soft-sided, insulated cooler bag keeps drinks and snacks fresh and accessible, saving you time and money on stops. (Amazon)
- Portable Power Bank – This budget-friendly option (Amazon) can keep all your devices charged, and has a solar panel so everyone in the car can stay connected.
Bottom Line on Epic Road Trips to Try
Many road trips in the U.S. are worth taking at least once in your lifetime!
These road trips offer a blend of iconic attractions and hidden gems, making each journey a unique exploration of America’s vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature or bustling cityscapes, these routes promise adventures that cater to every traveler’s desires.
Have you tried any of these epic road trips or are you planning any? Let us know in the comments!
Also, if you don’t have time for a long trip check out our Quick Vacation Trip Ideas article!
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If Louisiana is on your travel list check out our new article on the Best Haunted Places in New Orleans to Visit!
