Planning the Ultimate Road Trip Across America: 9 Scenic Routes
There's something about the call of the open road that stirs the soul. The idea of embarking on a cross-country road trip across the United States is a dream that captivates many.
Picture it: the wind in your hair, the freedom to stop wherever you please, and the chance to explore a real variety of diverse and stunning landscapes. It's an adventure of a lifetime, and in this blog post, we're going to help you plan the ultimate road trip across America.
Route Selection: 9 Scenic Options
America is a country of remarkable contrasts, from rugged mountains to sun-drenched coastlines, and there's no shortage of scenic routes to explore. Read on as we cover 9 breathtaking routes that will take your road trip to the next levels.
Coastal Drives: Where Land Meets Sea in Spectacular Fashion
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is the epitome of coastal beauty. Stretching for more than 650 miles along the California coast, this iconic route offers travelers a visual symphony of crashing waves, jagged cliffs, and an endless horizon of the Pacific Ocean. Key landmarks to embrace on this unforgettable journey include:
Big Sur: A rugged stretch of coastline that boasts dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views. The Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the tallest and most photographed bridges in the U.S., is a testament to human engineering blending seamlessly with nature's majesty.
Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco’s signature landmark, this magnificent bridge stands as a gateway to the bay and offers breathtaking vistas of the city and Alcatraz Island.
Redwood Forests: Towering ancient trees that tell tales of centuries past. Walking among these giants in places like the Redwood National and State Parks makes one feel both humbled and connected to the earth.
Best times to visit and travel tips:
- Opt for late spring through early fall for the best weather and clearer skies.
- Be prepared for occasional fog, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
- Avoid holiday weekends to escape heavy traffics.
2. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Embarking on the Overseas Highway feels akin to driving on water. This 113-mile road leaps from island to island, connecting the Florida Keys in a string of asphalt and iconic bridges. Unmissable stops include:
Key Largo: Known as the "Dive Capital of the World", this is a haven for snorkelers and divers keen to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems of the Florida reefs.
Seven Mile Bridge: This engineering marvel stretches over azure waters and offers unmatched sunset views.
Key West: The southernmost point in the continental U.S., this colorful town is known for its historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and rich literary heritage, once home to Ernest Hemingway.
Recommendations for stops and activities:
- Pause at Bahia Honda State Park for its beautiful beaches and scenic views.
3. Acadia All-American Road (Maine)
Maine's coastline is a testament to nature's artistry, where rugged cliffs meet the thundering Atlantic. The Acadia All-American Road captures this essence, providing travelers with a scenic tapestry of maritime beauty.
Highlights:
Bar Harbor: A charming coastal town, it’s the perfect spot for seafood lovers to indulge in fresh catches of the day, especially the famed Maine lobster.
Cadillac Mountain: As the highest point on the East Coast, it's an unparalleled location to watch the sunrise, being the first place it touches in the U.S.
Sand Beach: Nestled between mountains and rocky shores, this picturesque beach offers cool waters for a refreshing dip during summer months.
Mountain Passes: Majestic Peaks and Valleys Await
4. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Winding its way through Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is more than just a pathway—it's an experience of alpine grandeur. At 50 miles in length, this engineering marvel provides unparalleled views of the rugged Rocky Mountains, pristine alpine meadows, and dense forests.
Logan Pass: Situated at 6,646 feet, it is the highest point on the drive and serves as a gateway to vast meadows and rugged peaks. The visitor center here is a great spot to pause and soak in the surrounding beauty.
Jackson Glacier Overlook: Offering one of the few opportunities to easily see a glacier from the road, this spot provides visitors with awe-inspiring views of the slowly receding Jackson Glacier.
Best seasons to visit and wildlife sightings:
- Opt for mid-June to September for the most favorable driving conditions.
- Be alert for wildlife sightings, which can include mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and the occasional bear.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)
Often referred to as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway meanders through the heart of the Appalachian Highlands. This 469-mile-long scenic highway is a serene journey through time, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Shenandoah National Park.
Highlights:
Linville Falls: A breathtaking three-tiered waterfall plunging into Linville Gorge, offering multiple viewing platforms for visitors.
Craggy Gardens: Renowned for its rhododendron blooms in early summer, this area boasts panoramic views and picturesque hiking trails.
Mabry Mill: One of the most photographed spots on the Parkway, the mill offers demonstrations, a restaurant, and a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Cultural stops and traditions:
Explore the local craft heritage at the Folk Art Center in Asheville, showcasing the finest in traditional and contemporary crafts.
6. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
Dubbed the "Road to the Sky," the San Juan Skyway offers 233 miles of panoramic beauty in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. This loop takes adventurers through historic towns, alpine vistas, and the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Telluride: Once a Victorian mining town, now a world-renowned ski resort, Telluride is nestled in a box canyon surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks.
Million Dollar Highway: A stretch of U.S. Highway 550 between Silverton and Ouray, this section is both thrilling and scenic, with hairpin turns, steep cliffs, and unparalleled mountain views.
Tips for winter and summer trips:
- In winter, be prepared for snow-covered roads and ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires or chains.
- Summer offers a vibrant display of wildflowers and clearer paths, but always check local road conditions before setting out.
Desert Highways: Journey Through Vastness and Vibrancy
7. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
Once heralded as the "Main Street of America," Route 66 stretches over 2,400 miles, connecting Chicago to Santa Monica. This iconic highway has captured the imagination of countless adventurers, artists, and dreamers, symbolizing freedom, hope, and the spirit of discovery. While it was decommissioned as a U.S. highway in 1985, its cultural significance led to a resurgence in popularity, with many parts of the original road being preserved and revitalized.
Highlights:
Cadillac Ranch: Located near Amarillo, Texas, this quirky art installation features ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground—a must-see for every Route 66 traveler.
Petrified Forest National Park: In Arizona, this park showcases the vibrant colors of petrified wood, dating back over 200 million years, and offers a surreal landscape where time seems frozen.
Quirky roadside attractions:
- Wigwam Motels in Holbrook, Arizona, and San Bernardino, California, where travelers can sleep in teepee-shaped rooms.
Regarded as the emblematic heart of the American West, Monument Valley boasts a landscape dotted with immense sandstone buttes rising starkly from the arid desert floor, creating one of the most iconic views in the world.
Highlights:
East and West Mitten Buttes: These iconic formations, resembling hands or mittens, are often the poster image for the valley.
John Ford's Point: Named after the famous director who shot many classic Western films in the area, this lookout offers stunning panoramic views.
Native American history and influence:
- Monument Valley sits within the Navajo Nation Reservation, and the Navajo people offer guided tours, providing insights into the region's cultural, spiritual, and geological significance.
9. Death Valley Scenic Byway (California and Nevada)
Death Valley is a land of extremes, recognized as the world's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. This vast expanse of desert stretches out in a mosaic of salt flats, sand dunes, mountains, and canyons.
Highlights:
Badwater Basin: At 282 feet below sea level, it's the lowest point in North America, characterized by vast salt flats.
Dante’s View: A mountaintop viewpoint, it offers a breathtaking panorama of the valley below, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Safety tips for summer travel:
- The desert heat can be extremely intense, often reaching over 120°F (49°C). Ensure adequate water supply, avoid mid-day excursions, and always inform someone of your travel plans.
- Check the condition of your vehicle, especially the cooling system and tires, before venturing into the park.
Essential Tips for a Successful Road Trip
To ensure your road trip across America is both enjoyable and hassle-free, consider the following essential tips:
1. Planning and Preparation
Route and itinerary: Chart your primary route and identify key stops. However, allow for some flexibility to explore unexpected gems along the way.
Accommodation: If not camping, book hotels or lodgings in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Vehicle maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is road-ready. Check the oil, tires, brakes, and ensure you have a spare tire and necessary tools.
Local research: Familiarize yourself with the customs, regulations, and key attractions of areas you'll be traveling through.
2. Safety Considerations
Stay informed: Regularly check the weather forecast and road conditions, especially in areas prone to sudden weather changes or road closures.
Emergency kit: Pack essentials like first aid supplies, a flashlight, blankets, non-perishable food items, and drinking water.
Stay connected: Ensure your phone is charged, and consider carrying a portable charger. Share your itinerary with friends or family so someone knows where you are.
Avoid fatigue: Schedule regular breaks, rotate drivers if possible, and avoid driving at night or when excessively tired.
3. Packing Essentials
Smart packing: Opt for modular packing using packing cubes or bags. Include a cooler for snacks and drinks.
Thom Shackleford
10/6/2023