Most Popular Road Trips in the U.S.

The United States offers some of the most diverse and breathtaking road trips in the world. From winding coastal highways to scenic mountain passes, there’s a road trip for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the rugged landscapes of the West or the historical routes of the South, these journeys showcase the beauty and diversity of the country.

In this guide, we’ve curated 12 of the most popular and iconic road trips across the U.S. These routes take you through some of America’s most famous national parks, coastal highways, and historic towns, offering a unique way to experience the country’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Perfect for RV or car travel, these road trips provide adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Explore your next road trip below!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• 1. Route 12, Utah
• 2. Pacific Coast Highway, California
• 3. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
• 4. Route 66, Illinois to California
• 5. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
• 6. The Great River Road, Mississippi River
• 7. The Loneliest Road in America, Nevada (U.S. Route 50)
• 8. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway
• 9. The Oregon Coast Highway (Highway 101)
• 10. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
• 11. The Natchez Trace Parkway
• 12. Beartooth Highway, Montana to Wyoming

1. Route 12, Utah

• Route: Bryce Canyon National Park > Grand Staircase-Escalante > Capitol Reef National Park
• Duration: 3 days
• Distance: 124 miles (200 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)
• Highlights: Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Capitol Reef National Park, Hells Backbone Grill

Utah’s Route 12 is often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the United States, winding through towering red rock formations, vast canyons, and some of the country’s most famous national parks. Starting at Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its unique hoodoo rock formations, this road trip takes you through 124 miles of awe-inspiring landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the remote beauty of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a rugged and expansive wilderness filled with opportunities for hiking and exploration. One of the highlights of the trip is a stop at Hells Backbone Grill in Boulder, a renowned restaurant that blends local flavors with stunning views.

The journey concludes at Capitol Reef National Park, where dramatic cliffs and desert landscapes await. For a seamless road trip experience, rent an RV in Salt Lake City and explore Utah’s stunning landscapes with complete freedom. Compare the best RV rental options in Salt Lake City through our rental comparison service.

2. Pacific Coast Highway, California

• Route: San Francisco > Monterey > Big Sur > Santa Barbara > Los Angeles
• Duration: 5 days
• Distance: 655 miles (1,050 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Highlights: Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur cliffs, Hearst Castle, Malibu beaches

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is one of the most famous road trips in the United States, offering breathtaking views of the California coastline. Starting in San Francisco, this road trip takes you along the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, where the Pacific Ocean crashes against dramatic rock formations.

Along the way, stop in Monterey to visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and continue south to explore the iconic Hearst Castle in San Simeon. The drive through Big Sur is filled with postcard-worthy views, winding roads, and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.

Your journey ends in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, but not before passing through the laid-back beach towns of Santa Barbara and Malibu. Whether you’re interested in coastal hikes, exploring historic landmarks, or simply enjoying the views, the Pacific Coast Highway is a must for any road trip enthusiast.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

• Route: Shenandoah National Park, VA > Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC
• Duration: 4 days
• Distance: 469 miles (755 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)
• Highlights: Skyline Drive, Appalachian Mountains, waterfalls, Great Smoky Mountains

The Blue Ridge Parkway is often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” and it’s easy to see why. This scenic highway runs through the stunning Appalachian Mountains, connecting two of the most popular national parks in the U.S.: Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

Starting in Virginia, the parkway offers miles of peaceful, winding roads with panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and forests. You’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, including vibrant wildflower meadows in the spring and brilliant fall foliage. Along the way, stop for short hikes to scenic waterfalls and overlooks, or visit charming mountain towns like Boone and Asheville.

The trip culminates at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mist-covered peaks and diverse wildlife. The Blue Ridge Parkway is perfect for those looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the American South.

4. Route 66, Illinois to California

• Route: Chicago, IL > St. Louis, MO > Tulsa, OK > Amarillo, TX > Albuquerque, NM > Flagstaff, AZ > Los Angeles, CA
• Duration: 10 to 14 days
• Distance: 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November)
• Highlights: Historic towns, vintage diners, Cadillac Ranch, Santa Monica Pier

The Historic Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” is perhaps the most iconic road trip in the U.S. Spanning eight states and running from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 takes you through a rich tapestry of American history, from quirky roadside attractions to classic diners and motels.

Starting in Chicago, Illinois, the road winds its way through the heart of the country, passing through cities like St. Louis, Tulsa, and Albuquerque. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic stops like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and vintage gas stations that take you back to the golden era of road travel.

Your journey culminates in Los Angeles at the historic Santa Monica Pier, where you can celebrate the end of the "Mother Road" with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Route 66 is more than just a road trip—it’s a nostalgic journey through the heart of America.

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

• Route: West Glacier > Logan Pass > St. Mary Lake
• Duration: 1 to 2 days
• Distance: 50 miles (80 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Summer (July to September)
• Highlights: Logan Pass, St. Mary Lake, glaciers, wildlife viewing, alpine views

The Going-to-the-Sun Road takes you deep into the heart of Glacier National Park in Montana. This 50-mile road winds through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Rocky Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks.

Starting in West Glacier, the road ascends toward Logan Pass, the highest point on the route at over 6,600 feet. Along the way, you’ll pass pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and fields of wildflowers, with plenty of opportunities for photography and short hikes. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears.

The journey continues past the stunning St. Mary Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by towering cliffs, before ending at the park’s eastern entrance. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do for nature lovers and those seeking unparalleled mountain scenery.

6. The Great River Road, Mississippi River

• Route: Minneapolis, MN > St. Louis, MO > Memphis, TN > New Orleans, LA
• Duration: 7 to 10 days
• Distance: 2,000 miles (3,218 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October)
• Highlights: Mississippi River, historic river towns, New Orleans jazz, Civil War sites

The Great River Road follows the course of the iconic Mississippi River, taking travelers on a journey through the heart of America. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Minneapolis to New Orleans, this scenic drive offers a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Starting in the river’s headwaters near Minneapolis, the road winds its way south through quaint river towns like St. Louis and Memphis, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the history of the Mississippi River. Stop by Civil War battlefields, historic plantations, and museums that tell the story of America’s past.

The journey ends in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where the sounds of jazz, the flavors of Creole cuisine, and the lively French Quarter await. The Great River Road offers an unforgettable blend of culture and history, making it one of the most rewarding road trips in the U.S.

7. The Loneliest Road in America, Nevada (U.S. Route 50)

• Route: Carson City, NV > Fallon > Austin > Eureka > Ely
• Duration: 3 to 5 days
• Distance: 408 miles (657 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)
• Highlights: Desert landscapes, historic mining towns, Great Basin National Park, stargazing

The Loneliest Road in America, also known as U.S. Route 50, cuts across the heart of Nevada, offering a unique and isolated road trip experience. Stretching 408 miles from Carson City to Ely, this route takes you through vast desert landscapes, remote mountain ranges, and historic mining towns that feel frozen in time.

As you drive, you’ll pass through towns like Austin and Eureka, where remnants of Nevada’s mining boom are still visible. One of the highlights of this trip is a visit to Great Basin National Park, home to ancient bristlecone pines, the Lehman Caves, and some of the darkest night skies in the U.S.—ideal for stargazing.

Despite its nickname, the Loneliest Road offers plenty of hidden gems and breathtaking desert scenery, making it a road trip that captures the essence of the American West.

8. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway

• Route: Miami, FL > Key Largo > Marathon > Key West
• Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Distance: 113 miles (182 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Winter (December to February) and Spring (March to May)
• Highlights: Seven Mile Bridge, coral reefs, Key West’s historic district, turquoise waters

The Florida Keys Overseas Highway is a stunning drive that connects the mainland of Florida with the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys. Spanning 113 miles from Miami to Key West, this road trip offers incredible views of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and iconic bridges like the Seven Mile Bridge.

Start your journey in Miami and head south to Key Largo, known for its world-class snorkeling and diving spots. Continue through the small island communities of the Middle Keys, stopping at Marathon to visit the Dolphin Research Center or Bahia Honda State Park for a relaxing day at the beach.

The trip ends in Key West, where you can explore the historic district, visit Ernest Hemingway’s home, or simply relax at one of the many outdoor cafes. The Overseas Highway is perfect for those looking to combine adventure and relaxation in one of the most unique driving experiences in the U.S.

9. The Oregon Coast Highway (Highway 101)

• Route: Astoria > Cannon Beach > Newport > Florence > Brookings
• Duration: 5 to 7 days
• Distance: 363 miles (584 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Summer (June to August)
• Highlights: Cannon Beach, Cape Perpetua, lighthouses, coastal cliffs, sand dunes

The Oregon Coast Highway, part of U.S. Highway 101, is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the United States, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. Starting in Astoria, near the Washington border, this road trip takes you along 363 miles of spectacular beaches, cliffs, and charming seaside towns.

Some of the must-see stops along the way include Cannon Beach, famous for its towering Haystack Rock, and Newport, where you can visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium or the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Further south, explore the unique coastal ecosystems at Cape Perpetua and marvel at the dramatic sea cliffs and tidal pools.

The journey concludes near the California border in Brookings, a small coastal town known for its mild weather and beautiful beaches. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply want to experience one of the most iconic road trips in the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon Coast Highway is an unforgettable adventure.

10. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

• Route: Durango > Silverton > Ouray
• Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Distance: 25 miles (40 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Summer (June to September)
• Highlights: San Juan Mountains, Red Mountain Pass, historic mining towns, waterfalls

The Million Dollar Highway is part of U.S. Route 550. Stretching 25 miles between Durango and Ouray in southwestern Colorado, this short yet dramatic road trip offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains and historic mining towns.

Driving along this route, you’ll navigate steep cliffs, tight curves, and high-altitude passes, including the famous Red Mountain Pass at over 11,000 feet. Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming mining town of Silverton, where time seems to have stood still, with its historic buildings and old mining operations.

The Million Dollar Highway is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with waterfalls, dense forests, and towering peaks that seem to rise out of nowhere. This road trip is perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine scenery.

11. The Natchez Trace Parkway

• Route: Nashville, TN > Jackson, MS > Natchez, MS
• Duration: 3 to 5 days
• Distance: 444 miles (715 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Highlights: Historic sites, scenic overlooks, Native American history, Civil War battlefields

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive that follows the historic trade route used by Native Americans, European settlers, and Civil War soldiers. Stretching 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, this road trip offers a unique blend of history, nature, and Southern charm.

As you travel along the parkway, you’ll encounter numerous historic sites and markers, including ancient Native American mounds and Civil War battlefields. The drive also offers beautiful scenic overlooks, lush forests, and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna. Popular stops include Jackson Falls, the historic town of Jackson, and the serene Ross Barnett Reservoir.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is ideal for those looking to explore the rich history of the American South while enjoying a peaceful and picturesque drive through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes.

12. Beartooth Highway, Montana to Wyoming

• Route: Red Lodge, MT > Beartooth Pass > Yellowstone National Park, WY
• Duration: 1 to 2 days
• Distance: 68 miles (109 kilometers)
• Best Time to Travel: Summer (June to September)
• Highlights: Beartooth Pass, alpine meadows, glaciers, views of the Absaroka Range

The Beartooth Highway takes travelers through high alpine terrain and offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Starting in Red Lodge, Montana, the road climbs to the summit of Beartooth Pass at nearly 11,000 feet before descending into the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Along this 68-mile stretch, you’ll experience a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to stark alpine meadows, dotted with pristine lakes and towering peaks. The drive offers sweeping views of the Absaroka Range, and you may even spot glaciers as you ascend the mountain passes. This road trip is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to hiking, fishing, and camping along the route.

For those seeking dramatic mountain scenery and an unforgettable entrance to Yellowstone, the Beartooth Highway is a must-do road trip.