8 Must-Drive U.S. Road Trip Routes (And 6 That Aren’t Worth The Hype)
America’s highways offer some of the most breathtaking views and memorable adventures you can experience on four wheels. I’ve cruised countless miles across this beautiful country, discovering both hidden gems and overhyped stretches of asphalt.
Ready to hit the road? Let me share which routes deserve a spot on your bucket list and which ones you can confidently skip.
1. Pacific Coast Highway: California’s Coastal Masterpiece
Hugging the rugged California coastline, this legendary route delivers jaw-dropping ocean views at every turn. I still remember my first drive along PCH, watching massive waves crash against dramatic cliffs while sea lions lounged on beaches below.
You’ll wind through charming seaside towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and cross the iconic Bixby Bridge near Big Sur. The route feels like driving through a postcard, with plenty of pullouts for photos or whale watching.
2. Route 66: The Ultimate American Road Trip Experience
Nothing captures the spirit of American road travel quite like the historic Route 66. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary highway takes you through the heart of America’s small-town charm and quirky roadside attractions.
Vintage diners, classic motels with neon signs, and oddities like the Cadillac Ranch make every mile memorable. Though parts have deteriorated over the years, the preserved sections offer a nostalgic glimpse into America’s love affair with the automobile.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway: Appalachian Mountain Magic
Winding through the misty Appalachian Mountains, this 469-mile scenic route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The parkway was designed specifically for leisurely drives, with a lower speed limit that encourages you to savor the experience.
Fall brings a spectacular explosion of colors as the forests transform into a patchwork of reds, oranges, and yellows. Wildlife sightings are common – I’ve spotted black bears, deer, and wild turkeys while cruising along these gentle curves.
4. Great River Road: Mississippi River Adventure
Following the mighty Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, this route offers a fascinating slice of Americana. You’ll pass through 10 states, each with its own unique flavor and river culture.
Riverboat towns, antebellum homes, and blues music venues dot the journey. My favorite stretch runs through southern Louisiana, where you can explore plantations and sample authentic Cajun food in tiny roadside restaurants.
Wildlife enthusiasts will love the numerous wildlife refuges along the way, perfect for spotting herons, eagles, and even alligators.
5. Overseas Highway: Island-Hopping Through the Florida Keys
Driving across 42 bridges spanning the turquoise waters between the Florida mainland and Key West feels like flying just above the ocean. The Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest in the world, delivers some truly breathtaking moments as you cruise with water on both sides.
Stop at tiny islands along the way for fresh seafood, key lime pie, and laid-back beach vibes. Snorkeling opportunities abound, with some of America’s most vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Time your drive for sunset, when the sky erupts in pink and orange hues over the Gulf of Mexico.
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road: Glacier National Park’s Crown Jewel
If heaven had a highway, it might look like this 50-mile marvel cutting through Montana’s Glacier National Park. The road literally climbs the Continental Divide, taking you from valley floors to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers.
Mountain goats often perch on nearby cliffs, seemingly unimpressed by the engineering feat beneath them. The road is only open during summer months after crews clear massive snowdrifts that can reach 80 feet deep.
Logan Pass, the highest point, offers hiking trails where you might spot grizzly bears foraging in distant meadows.
7. Beartooth Highway: Montana’s Alpine Rollercoaster
Charles Kuralt called it “the most beautiful drive in America,” and after my first journey across this high-altitude highway, I couldn’t disagree. Climbing to nearly 11,000 feet with 20 peaks visible from the road, the views are absolutely staggering.
The 68-mile route features hairpin turns and switchbacks that seem to hang in thin air. Alpine lakes reflect snowy peaks even in summer, creating mirror-like vistas that look photoshopped in real life.
Wildlife watching is exceptional – I’ve spotted moose, mountain goats, and even wolverines during my drives.
8. Kancamagus Highway: New England’s Autumn Showcase
Affectionately called “The Kanc” by locals, this 34-mile stretch through New Hampshire’s White Mountains transforms into nature’s fireworks display every fall. The road follows an ancient Native American travel route, winding alongside boulder-strewn rivers and climbing through dense forests.
Numerous hiking trails branch off the highway, leading to waterfalls hidden just minutes from the road. Swift River offers perfect swimming holes for cooling off during summer drives.
For the best experience, visit mid-October when the maple trees reach peak color and roadside stands sell hot apple cider.
9. Lincoln Highway: America’s First Coast-to-Coast Road
Despite its historical significance as America’s first transcontinental highway, much of the Lincoln Highway has been absorbed by Interstate 80, losing its unique character. What remains often feels disconnected and underwhelming.
You’ll find occasional historical markers and a few preserved roadside attractions, but they’re separated by long stretches of ordinary driving. The eastern portion through Pennsylvania offers some charm, but western sections feel indistinguishable from any other rural highway.
History buffs might appreciate the concept more than the actual drive.
10. Trail Ridge Road: Rocky Mountain National Park’s Crowded Corridor
While the alpine views are undeniably spectacular, Trail Ridge Road suffers from extreme overcrowding during its short season. You’ll likely spend more time staring at the bumper ahead than admiring the scenery.
Parking at popular overlooks becomes a competitive sport, with frustrated drivers circling lots hoping for an opening. Wildlife sightings, which should be highlights, often create dangerous traffic jams as dozens of vehicles stop haphazardly.
If you must experience it, try early morning midweek visits in late September when crowds thin slightly.
11. Natchez Trace Parkway: Beautiful But Monotonous
Running 444 miles from Nashville to Natchez, this historic route promises a peaceful journey through three states. Unfortunately, after the first hundred miles, the scenery becomes repetitive – endless green tunnels of trees with few dramatic vistas to break the monotony.
The 50 mph speed limit and commercial vehicle ban create a tranquil atmosphere, but also contribute to the sense of crawling progress. Historical markers appear regularly but rarely offer compelling reasons to stop.
Consider driving just the northern or southern sections instead of committing to the entire route.
12. Seneca Trail: West Virginia’s Forgotten Byway
Despite promotional materials promising Appalachian charm and mountain vistas, much of the Seneca Trail (Route 219) runs through unremarkable countryside and struggling small towns. The few scenic stretches don’t justify the full journey.
Road conditions vary dramatically, with some sections poorly maintained and lacking adequate signage. Services like gas stations and restaurants are inconsistent, making trip planning frustrating.
If Appalachian exploration is your goal, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway delivers a far superior experience with better amenities and more reliable road conditions.
13. Million Dollar Highway: Colorado’s White-Knuckle Disappointment
Known for its dangerous reputation, this 25-mile stretch between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado features narrow lanes, sheer drop-offs without guardrails, and hairpin turns that challenge even experienced drivers. The problem? You’ll be too focused on not plummeting off the edge to enjoy the views.
Summer traffic creates nerve-wracking encounters with oversized RVs on blind curves. Winter driving borders on suicidal during snowstorms, yet the road rarely closes.
Similar mountain scenery can be enjoyed on safer routes like the nearby San Juan Skyway sections.
14. Cherohala Skyway: All Buildup, Little Payoff
Marketed as the South’s answer to the Blue Ridge Parkway, this 40-mile route connecting Tennessee and North Carolina falls short of expectations. After an investment of over $100 million, the road itself is beautifully engineered, but the views simply don’t deliver the promised wow factor.
Limited access points mean once you’re committed, you’re in for the entire journey. Fog frequently obscures the modest mountain views, especially during morning hours when most visitors arrive.
Nearby alternatives like the Foothills Parkway offer similar scenery with more varied experiences and better facilities.