The 16 Best Road Trips in the US to Spot Wild Animals

If you’re craving an adventure filled with wildlife encounters, hitting the road is the way to go. Across the U.S., scenic routes lead to incredible animal sightings, from roaming bison to playful sea otters.

Whether you’re driving along rugged coastlines or winding through dense forests, these road trips promise unforgettable moments in nature.

Let’s explore the best routes where breathtaking landscapes and amazing wildlife come together for the ultimate journey!

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

How thrilling it is to embark on a journey through Yellowstone National Park? Being the first national park in the US, it offers a unique chance to spot bison, elk, and bears. When you drive through, you might even catch a glimpse of the park’s iconic geysers.

Are you wondering when is the best time to visit? Spring and early summer provide optimal conditions. Wildlife becomes more active, and the vistas are spectacular. It’s a perfect family-friendly road trip that combines nature’s wonder with educational opportunities.

This road trip is an unforgettable adventure, inviting you to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Where else can you find mist-covered mountains and abundant wildlife? The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee offer a serene road trip. It’s a haven for those looking to spot black bears and wild turkeys.

Did you know that the park is a UNESCO World Heritage site? Its rich biodiversity is worth exploring. Driving along the scenic roads, you can stop for hikes and enjoy the tranquil landscape.

Hence, this road trip is not just about animal sightings; it’s a peaceful retreat into nature’s embrace, where every turn reveals something new.

3. Everglades National Park, Florida

Are you ready to explore the wild wetlands of Florida? The Everglades National Park offers a unique road trip and the chance to see alligators, manatees, and exotic birds.

Though some areas are accessible by car, consider a kayak tour. It brings you closer to nature and offers an intimate look at the ecosystem. The park’s diversity is astounding, with many species to discover.

This adventure beckons you to dive into the heart of the wetlands, providing a thrilling experience where water and wildlife meet.

4. Olympic National Park, Washington

If lush rainforests and rugged coastlines excite you, Olympic National Park is your destination. It’s home to Roosevelt elk and a rich array of marine life along the shores.

How often do you encounter such varied ecosystems in one place? The park offers something for everyone, from beaches to mountains. Driving through, you’ll find endless opportunities to stop and explore.

This road trip is a testament to nature’s diversity, offering glimpses of life in both terrestrial and aquatic realms.

5. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina

It’s easy to lose yourself in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This road trip connects the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, offering vistas of wildflowers and mountain peaks.

Do you enjoy spotting wildlife along the way? You might see deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional black bear. The road’s gentle curves invite you to take your time, savoring every view.

When you drive this route, you’re not just traveling; you’re embracing the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, with wildlife enriching the journey.

6. Denali National Park, Alaska

When you think of vast wilderness and majestic peaks, Denali National Park comes to mind. It’s the perfect place to spot moose, caribou, and grizzly bears.

Are you prepared for the rugged beauty of Alaska? The park’s unpaved roads offer a true backcountry experience. Guided tours enhance the adventure, providing insights into the wildlife and terrain.

This journey is a rugged escape into the wild, with the grandeur of Mt. McKinley looming overhead, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

7. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Did you know South Dakota offers incredible wildlife encounters? Custer State Park is a gem for road trippers. It’s famous for its bison herds and prairie landscapes.

Though the park is vast, the scenic drives are easy to navigate. Expect to see pronghorns and bighorn sheep along the way. It’s a journey that combines the beauty of the plains with the thrill of wildlife watching.

This road trip is a chance to connect with the American frontier spirit, where bison roam freely and sunsets paint the sky.

8. Route 66, Various States

Where history and adventure collide, Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey across America. Its diverse landscapes provide opportunities to spot coyotes and roadrunners.

Have you ever wanted to travel the iconic Mother Road? It offers more than just wildlife sightings. The roadside attractions and quaint towns add to the allure. It’s a cultural and natural journey.

This road trip invites you to explore the heart of America, where every mile tells a story and wildlife sightings are a delightful surprise.

9. Acadia National Park, Maine

This coastal gem in Maine is a road trip paradise. Acadia National Park offers stunning ocean views and the chance to spot harbor seals and peregrine falcons.

How often do you find such a blend of coast and mountains? Driving through, you’ll experience everything from rocky shorelines to forests. The winding roads lead to spectacular viewpoints.

This adventure is an invitation to embrace the ocean breeze and marvel at the wildlife that thrives in this northeastern haven.

10. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

If you’re seeking dramatic landscapes, Badlands National Park is your destination. It’s a land of stark beauty, home to bighorn sheep and prairie dogs.

Are you prepared for a journey through time? The eroded cliffs tell a story of ages past. Wildlife thrives in this unique ecosystem, offering ample opportunities for photography.

This road trip is a glimpse into the wild heart of America, where nature’s art is etched into the land and animals roam freely.

11. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

When you visit Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the US, you’ll be mesmerized by its intense blue color. But did you know it’s also a haven for wildlife?

Where else can you find bald eagles and black bears in such proximity? The park’s environment is perfect for spotting these majestic creatures.

This road trip offers a chance to connect with nature’s tranquility, exploring the landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and enriched with diverse fauna.

12. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Are you intrigued by desert landscapes and unique wildlife? Joshua Tree National Park combines both. Famous for its Joshua trees, it’s also home to desert tortoises and bighorn sheep.

Though the landscape seems harsh, life thrives here. The park’s trails and viewpoints offer glimpses into a desert ecosystem unlike any other.

This road trip is an exploration of contrasts, where the vastness of the desert meets the resilience of its inhabitants.

13. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

This park is a beautiful slice of the Appalachian Mountains. Shenandoah National Park invites you to explore its scenic drives and spot white-tailed deer and black bears.

How can you resist the call of nature? The Skyline Drive offers unparalleled views and a sense of tranquility. It’s a journey where every moment is filled with the sights and sounds of the wild.

This road trip is a chance to reconnect with nature, feeling the peace that only the mountains can provide.

14. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is a wonderland of rugged beauty. It’s a place where you can spot mountain goats and grizzly bears against a backdrop of icy peaks.

When was the last time you saw a glacier? The park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is a marvel, offering beautiful views and wildlife encounters at every turn.

This road trip is more than a journey, it’s a step into a world where glaciers shape the landscape and wildlife thrives in harmony.

15. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

How majestic are the Rockies? Rocky Mountain National Park is a treasure trove of wildlife, with elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots.

Are you drawn to alpine landscapes? The park’s trails and viewpoints offer stunning perspectives. Wildlife sightings are a common delight.

This road trip is a celebration of mountain grandeur, where every vista inspires awe and every encounter with wildlife enriches the soul.

16. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Have you discovered the beauty of Texas’s remote landscapes? Big Bend National Park offers a unique blend of desert and mountains.

Though seemingly barren, the park teems with life. Roadrunners, coyotes, and javelinas are just some of the wildlife you might encounter.

This road trip is an adventure into the heart of the desert, where solitude and wildlife offer a profound connection to nature.