Are you ready for travel ideas that take you on the road and into nature? This guide will show you the top outdoor road trips in the United States. You’ll learn about famous routes, beautiful drives, places for activities, how to pack, and stay safe. Plus, you’ll get tips on budgeting and planning your trip.
Road trips are a favorite way to travel in America. They give you freedom and let you see different places, from the Pacific coast to the Sonoran Desert. Many parks and trails are managed by the National Park Service. For the latest on road conditions and closures, check your state’s Department of Transportation.
This article is about outdoor road trips you must see once in your life. It mixes amazing routes with useful stops and safety tips. Whether you love hiking, kayaking, or taking photos of wildlife, these routes will inspire you. They help you plan trips that match your interests and pace.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the Best Outdoor Road Trips of a Lifetime that combine scenery and outdoor activities.
- Use National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service sites for up-to-date trail and park info.
- Check state Departments of Transportation for road conditions and seasonal closures.
- Road trips offer unmatched freedom to explore diverse U.S. landscapes and wildlife.
- Plan for safety, packing, and flexible scheduling to make the most of your adventure.
Outdoor Road Trips You Must Experience Once in Your Life
Traveling by car is very freeing. These trips mix nature, culture, and amazing views. They are perfect for anyone looking for travel ideas.
Why these road trips belong on your bucket list
These trips are special because of their natural beauty and history. Places like the Grand Canyon and Route 66 are must-sees. They offer activities like hiking and wildlife watching.
They are also great for photos and exploring different landscapes. This makes the trip unforgettable.
How to choose the right trip for your travel style
First, think about how fast you want to go. If you like to stop and explore, choose a slower route. For faster travel, pick a quicker path.
What you bring matters too. Hikers need trails, climbers need access to rocks, and paddlers need places to launch. Your car should match your plans.
Think about what you need to bring. A sedan is good for paved roads. A 4×4 is better for rough paths. An RV is great for families.
Plan your trip’s length based on what you want to do. A weekend trip is good for a quick getaway. Longer trips let you see more.
Seasonal considerations and best times to go
Coastal drives are best in spring and fall for nice weather. Mountain roads open in late spring and close in winter. Desert roads are best in fall and spring to avoid heat.
Going in the shoulder season means fewer people and better photos. Always check road conditions before you go. A little planning can make your trip amazing.
| Region | Best Time to Go | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast | Late spring – Early fall | Mild weather, open coastal pullouts, peak wildflower bloom in spring |
| Rocky Mountains | Late spring – Early fall | Passes clear of snow, alpine trails open, abundant wildlife |
| Southwest Desert | Fall – Spring | Comfortable daytime temps, dramatic sunrise and sunset light |
| Northeast & New England | Fall foliage season | Colorful drives, harvest festivals, cooler temperatures |
| Southeast Coastal | Spring – Early summer | Warmer waters for paddling, lower hurricane risk early in season |
Top Adventure Road Trip Routes Across the United States
The United States has routes for every explorer. You can see coastal cliffs, high alpine passes, and more. Choose a route based on your time and gear. An adventure road trip can be short or long.
Iconic long-distance routes for thrill-seekers
The Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1) offers stunning ocean views. It goes through Big Sur. Plan for 2–4 days to see Pfeiffer Beach and Bixby Creek Bridge.
Route 66 is a historic drive from Chicago to Santa Monica. Spend at least a week to see key towns and classic diners.
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park has amazing views. It opens late June to early July. You might need timed entry reservations in peak months.
The Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Drive 469 miles. But take several days to enjoy the views and hikes.
Shorter adventure loops for weekend warriors
The Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood loop in Oregon is great for 2–3 days. Visit Multnomah Falls and Trillium Lake for a fun trip.
The Big Bend loop in West Texas is perfect for 2 days. See desert scenery and the Rio Grande. Focus on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and short hikes.
Olympic National Park’s coastal and rainforest loop in Washington is doable in 1–3 days. Explore Driftwood Beach, Hurricane Ridge, and Hoh Rainforest for a weekend adventure.
Off-the-beaten-path trails for rugged exploration
Utah’s Burr Trail and Scenic Byway 12 go through Capitol Reef and Grand Staircase–Escalante. You might need a high-clearance vehicle. Plan for unpaved stretches and photo stops.
The San Juan Skyway in Colorado offers alpine passes and backcountry access. Durango and Telluride are key stops. Some roads need careful planning and seasonal awareness.
The Outer Banks on the East Coast has wild beaches and barrier islands. Narrow roads and ferry ties mean book campsites early, especially in summer.
| Route | Typical Duration | Highlights | Vehicle/Permit Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) | 2–4 days | Big Sur, Bixby Creek, coastal cliffs | Standard passenger vehicle; watch for closures after storms |
| Route 66 | 7+ days | Historic towns, diners, roadside Americana | Good for all cars; map before detours and reroutes |
| Going-to-the-Sun Road | Half day to full day | Alpine views, Logan Pass, wildlife | Seasonal opening; possible timed-entry permits |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | 3–5 days | Overlooks, hiking access, fall foliage | No commercial traffic; passenger vehicles only |
| Columbia River Gorge & Mount Hood Loop | 1–3 days | Waterfalls, trailheads, volcanic landscapes | All vehicles fine; campgrounds fill fast on weekends |
| Big Bend Loop (TX) | 1–3 days | Desert, river access, scenic drives | Remote services; carry water and spares |
| Olympic NP Coastal & Rainforest Loop | 1–3 days | Rainforest trails, coastline, wildlife | Variable weather; reserve campsites in summer |
| Burr Trail & Scenic Byway 12 (UT) | 2–4 days | Red rock canyons, narrow switchbacks | High-clearance suggested; remote cell coverage |
| San Juan Skyway (CO) | 2–4 days | Mountain passes, historic mining towns | Snow closes some passes in winter |
| Outer Banks (NC) | 1–3 days | Wild beaches, lighthouses, barrier islands | Ferry connections; book campsites early |
Most Scenic Drives for Breathtaking Views
Driving on a road with amazing views is a special experience. Here are some of the best scenic drives in the United States. They offer great photo spots and tips for your next road trip.
Coastal panoramas
The Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) has stunning views and beaches. Oregon’s Highway 101 has rugged coastlines and lighthouses. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway (U.S. 1) has beautiful waters and islands.
Plan for sunset photos and whale watching in California. Also, watch for morning fog that makes the coast look magical.
Mountain passes and alpine vistas
Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is high up with great views. Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway (US 550) has narrow canyons and sharp turns. Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road has cliffs and lakes.
Check when roads open and watch for snow. Bring layers because it can get cold at high altitudes.
Desert highways and dramatic landscapes
Route 89A to Sedona shows off red rocks and Vermilion Cliffs. Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway has wide skies for night photos. Drives around Monument Valley have amazing buttes and sunrises.
Bring water and map out fuel stops. Time your photos for the golden hour for the best light.
These drives are among the best because they offer easy access to amazing views. Choose one for a memorable weekend trip.
Best Road Trip Destinations for Outdoor Activities
These road trip spots are near action. Choose routes to trailheads, waterways, and wildlife areas. Always check permits and local rules to stay safe.
Hiking and backpacking access points
Yosemite has great spots at Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Get wilderness permits for overnight trips. Check the National Park Service site for quotas.
Zion’s main spot is Springdale, with trails to Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons. The Narrows might need a permit on busy days.
Grand Teton has Jackson and trailheads at Jenny Lake and Teton Crest. Shenandoah National Park is on the Appalachian Trail. Use park websites for details and closures.
Water-based stops: kayaking, rafting, and swimming
Colorado River rafting in the Grand Canyon is thrilling. Guided trips are available. Sea kayaking in Kenai Fjords and San Juan Islands is great for calm waters and glacier views.
Hamilton Pool Preserve and Havasu Falls are famous for clear water. Book early for permits. Always bring safety gear when on water.
Wildlife viewing and nature photography hotspots
Yellowstone is great for bison and bear photos. Denali is good for moose and caribou. Everglades National Park has alligators and birds. Point Reyes is for elephant seals and whales.
Stay safe and follow park rules. Use bear spray and telephoto lenses. These spots are perfect for wildlife photos with care.
Packing and Preparation for a Successful Outdoor Road Trip
Good planning makes a risky drive fun. This guide helps you prepare for outdoor road trips. Use these tips to stay safe and comfy.
Essential gear and vehicle prep checklist
First, check your car: brakes, tires, oil, coolant, and windshield fluid. Don’t forget a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Also, bring jumper cables and a portable battery pack from brands like NOCO or Clore Automotive.
For camping and daily use, pack a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Bring layered clothes, rain gear, a headlamp, multi-tool, and a first-aid kit. Remember bear spray in bear areas and follow local rules.
Think about a roof rack or cargo carrier for big items. Check AAA for roadside help before long trips. Check tire pressure and fluid levels the day you leave.
Food, water, and emergency planning
Plan your water carefully. In dry places, use at least one gallon per person per day. Bring a portable water filter like Sawyer or Katadyn for water in the wild.
Take nonperishable snacks like nuts, energy bars, dried fruit, and jerky. If you cook, bring a camp stove, extra fuel, and any needed permits. Learn about local fire rules before using a stove or campfire.
Make an emergency plan. Note escape routes and local emergency numbers. Tell a friend or family about your trip and update them if you change your plans.
Plan your fuel in remote areas. Fill up when your tank is half full to avoid long gas station waits.
Apps and tools to enhance navigation and safety
Download useful apps before you go. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps for routes. For off-road, use Gaia GPS and AllTrails for maps and trails. Save maps offline when you have no cell service.
Discover stops with Roadtrippers and plan your day. Use the National Park Service app for park alerts and info. REI’s Co-op app helps track your gear and packing lists.
Check the weather with NOAA Weather Radar or Weather Underground. Carry a portable charger and a dedicated GPS like a Garmin inReach for messaging and SOS in emergencies.
| Category | Must-Have Items | Recommended Apps and Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Prep | Brake and fluid check, spare tire, jack, jumper cables, tire pressure gauge | AAA app, Car manufacturer’s maintenance app, Garmin inReach |
| Camping Gear | Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camp stove, fuel, rain gear | REI Co-op app, AllTrails, Gaia GPS |
| Safety & Emergency | First-aid kit, multi-tool, headlamp, bear spray, emergency blanket | National Park Service app, NOAA Weather Radar, Garmin inReach |
| Food & Water | 1 gal/person/day in dry areas, water filter, high-calorie nonperishables | Roadtrippers, offline Google Maps, water filter manufacturer guides |
| Navigation | Physical maps, compass, offline map downloads | Google Maps, Apple Maps, Gaia GPS, AllTrails |
Must-See Road Trip Stops and Local Experiences
Make your trip memorable by stopping at places that tell a story. Choose spots that mix history, food, and views. This way, your drive becomes a real journey. You’ll connect with communities and landscapes on many top road trip routes.
Historic sites and cultural detours
Begin with towns and museums that show how a place grew. On Route 66, you’ll find museums and motels from the past. In New England, Plymouth and Salem have exhibits and tours that make history come alive.
In the South, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute teaches about civil rights. Visit museums and cultural centers in the Southwest and Pacific Northwest to learn about local stories. Small museums and tours add depth and support local efforts.
Local food, roadside diners, and must-try meals
Food is key to local experiences and great road trips. Try New England clam chowder in a seaside spot. Along the Southern California coast, enjoy Baja-style fish tacos in surf towns.
In Texas and the Carolinas, barbecue is a must-try. Order fresh oysters and salmon in the Pacific Northwest. Visit farmers’ markets, food trucks, and diners to meet locals and taste recipes passed down through generations.
Scenic pullouts, viewpoints, and photo ops
Plan stops at famous lookouts for the best views. Bixby Creek Bridge on Highway 1 shows off Big Sur’s cliffs. Grandview Point on the South Rim captures the grand canyon at sunset.
Dead Horse Point Overlook in Utah is perfect for sunrise views. Bryce Canyon’s Sunrise Point gives hoodoos a warm glow at dawn. Always follow pullout etiquette: use designated areas, leave no trace, and let others enjoy the view.
Combine cultural stops, classic meals, and famous viewpoints for an unforgettable trip. Each stop adds to your story and shows the beauty of America’s road trip destinations.
Planning Tips to Maximize Your Road Trip Experience
Good planning makes a long drive memorable. Use a simple plan to keep days fun without rushing. Choose two to three big stops, add a day for rest, and plan activities in blocks. These tips let you enjoy the trip and find surprises along the way.
Creating an itinerary without over-scheduling
Start with the most important places first. Book campsites or lodgings in places like Yellowstone or Acadia. Then, find other places nearby in case you change plans.
Break long drives into shorter parts. Plan one big thing to do each day, like hiking or visiting a scenic spot. Always have a free afternoon for exploring or resting.
Budgeting tips for fuel, lodging, and activities
Use apps like GasBuddy to track fuel costs. Plan to fill up in big towns to avoid high prices near parks. Try camping on BLM land to save money where you can.
Balance free things like hikes with a few paid activities, like rafting or ranger programs.
Here’s a quick guide for daily budgets:
- Low: $60–$100 — campsite or budget motel, groceries, free hikes.
- Mid: $150–$250 — mix of midrange lodging, one paid activity, regular meals.
- High: $300+ — nicer hotels, guided adventures, dining out often.
Staying flexible: dealing with closures and weather
Check park alerts and state DOT updates before and during your trip. Have a list of backup routes and parks for quick changes if needed. For long or expensive trips, think about travel insurance.
Use these tips to plan trips that fit your dreams. This way, the practical parts of travel support the fun of outdoor adventures.
Bucket List Road Trips and Inspiration for Future Adventures
These dream routes will spark your travel dreams. Each trip has clear highlights and a good length. This way, you can pick a trip that fits your time and interests.
Dream routes to inspire your next trip
Alaska Highway and Denali access — 7–14 days. You’ll see endless taiga, wildlife, and hike around Denali National Park.
Trans-America Trail — 10–21 days. It’s for those who love off-grid adventures. You’ll test your vehicle and navigation skills.
Maine Coastal Route — 3–7 days. Enjoy New England charm, lobster, and lighthouses from Portland to Acadia.
Southwest national park loop — 5–12 days. See red-rock hikes, slot canyons, and amazing night skies in Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches.
How to adapt famous routes for different trip lengths
Shorten the Pacific Coast route to a 3-day San Francisco–Big Sur trip. Enjoy ocean views and hikes. Or, make it a 14-day drive to see Redwood forests and Cannon Beach.
Turn Route 66 into a 7-day Midwestern segment. See roadside culture from Chicago to St. Louis. Or, go coast-to-coast for 14–21 days to see historic towns and neon signs.
Sample mini-itineraries
- 3-day — San Francisco to Big Sur: See Golden Gate viewpoints, Santa Cruz boardwalk, Bixby Creek Bridge, and Pfeiffer Beach.
- 7-day — Midwestern Route 66 segment: Visit Chicago suburbs, Bloomington, Springfield museums, and St. Louis Gateway Arch.
- 14-day — California–Oregon extended coast: Start in San Diego, visit Los Angeles, Big Sur, Monterey, Redwood National Park, and Oregon coast towns.
Stories from travelers who completed life-changing drives
Travel stories in National Geographic Traveler, Outside, and Lonely Planet show big changes. Writers talk about how landscapes and people changed their views.
Community plays a big role. Park rangers, diner owners, and campers make trips unforgettable. Their stories inspire others to plan their own adventures.
| Route | Typical Duration | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Highway + Denali | 7–14 days | Wilderness, wildlife, Denali basecamp | Remote nature lovers |
| Trans-America Trail | 10–21 days | Off-road sections, overland challenge, solitude | Overland drivers |
| Maine Coastal Route | 3–7 days | Lighthouses, lobster, Acadia National Park | Relaxed coastal explorers |
| Southwest Parks Loop | 5–12 days | Red rock canyons, stargazing, iconic hikes | Hikers and photographers |
| Pacific Coast (short) | 3 days | Big Sur, coastal overlooks, short hikes | Weekend travelers |
| Pacific Coast (extended) | 14 days | Redwoods, Cannon Beach, varied coastal towns | Slow-paced explorers |
Look for local travel blogs and park stories for tips and inspiration. They offer planning help, road conditions, and ideas for unforgettable trips.
Conclusion
Outdoor road trips are special. They give you freedom, fresh air, and learning. You can see coastlines, mountains, and deserts. You can hike, swim, see animals, and learn about cultures.
To start your trip, choose a route that fits you. Pack what you need and make a safety plan. Book places to stay and download maps and apps.
Check out the National Park Service and state transportation sites for help. Plan stops each day to explore and enjoy.
Travel right: leave nothing behind, respect animals, and support local shops. Share your trip plans on social media. This way, you can inspire others.
These trips are about seeing amazing views and making memories. Use this guide to find the best trips. Make your drive an adventure you’ll never forget.
