The open highways, scenic views, and hidden gems that are all around every corner are a symbol of the classic American road trip. Sounds like a dreamy journey?
Even if you are looking for coastal sunsets, mountain air, desert landscapes, or charming small towns, the USA has a road trip for every kind of traveler.
Let’s explore some of the most scenic USA road trips..
Must-try USA Road Trips For Every Tourist
Road trips are a fun and budget-friendly way to explore the US.
But not sure which road to take.
Here are some amazing places with beautiful views that every road trip lover should add to their list.
- Glacier National Park to Stanley, Idaho
Glacier National Park to Stanley, Idaho, is an 800-mile route. If you drive the whole summer, you still will not be able to see everything.
You can visit Yellowstone and Glacier there, but early in the morning, as it is less crowded at that time. You can spend your morning kayaking on Lake McDonald. If you are lucky enough to find the weather good, the water will be so calm it will look like a mirror.
When you reach Yellowstone, you can also see Grand Prismatic Spring steaming and Old Faithful erupting. If you want to see grizzlies or wolves, you can go to Lamar Valley.
You can also see the Grand Teton if you drive along the stunning John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, these are one of the most beautiful mountains.
- Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park, right outside Moab, Utah, is the start of Utah’s famous slickrock area. The park is filled with amazing rock shapes like:
- Bridges
- Windows
- Towers
- Fins
- Arches
From the park entrance, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to the trailhead. If you don’t want to do the 3.2-mile moderate hike, there’s an easier viewpoint right by the road about a mile past the trailhead parking lot.
The rock formations here are unbelievable. Nature has created something special. The most famous one, Delicate Arch, is a big red rock arch that perfectly frames the snowy La Sal Mountains in the background, you’ve probably seen it on Utah’s license plates. Make sure you see this famous view when you visit.
You can also camp inside the park.
- Route 66
It is known as the ultimate American road trip, and it is often called the Mother Road. If you are planning your Route 66 adventure, you can also feel overwhelmed. It starts in Chicago, this famous highway goes through eight states and ends in Los Angeles.
It can actually take 3 weeks to drive it, but you can also do a lot of side trips to places like:
- Sedona
- The Grand Canyon
- Palo Duro Canyon
- Las Vegas
- Red Rock Canyon
- Monument Valley
- Page
- Palm Springs
You have to remember one thing: stay on the old Mother Road instead of the Interstates whenever you can. You will often see the highway running next to Route 66, but only use it if you really have to; some short parts of the route require it. Otherwise, stick to the original road for the full experience!
- Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is one of the most beautiful places in the western U.S. Yosemite National Park attracts people from all over the world like, tourists, climbers, and backpackers. It has something for everyone, no matter your age or fitness level.
The Valley is a mile wide and seven miles long, surrounded by huge granite cliffs and beautiful waterfalls. Many visitors only explore this area, but there’s so much more to see in the park!
You can also try hiking here, just like a Half Dome with a group, you can find it a difficult one, both physically and mentally.
If you’re thinking about doing the Half Dome hike, you have to take the warnings seriously. It will be an incredible and rewarding experience if you are prepared.
You can visit Yosemite any time of year, but each season offers a different experience. The Valley is open all year and looks completely different in each season.
- Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
When you first look at Snoqualmie Falls, you’ll be amazed by how powerful and beautiful it looks. The mist rises high, and the water flows in beautiful shades of blue and green, surrounded by tall evergreen trees. The sound of the rushing water is calming, and you might think this is the best view you’ll get.
But the real beauty shows itself as you follow the trail and discover new angles. Each stop gives you a different view that makes the waterfall even more special.
There are three main spots to view the waterfall.
- The upper viewing deck is just a short walk from valet parking. There’s also a shaded picnic area and benches where you can relax.
- The lower platform is about 500 feet from the lower parking area, or about a half-mile walk down from the upper parking lot.
- The third viewpoint is on the opposite side of the river and requires a longer hike.
Conclusion
The USA is full of unforgettable road trips that are waiting to be explored. You can enjoy the see red rock arches, towering waterfalls, or endless highways. No matter which route you choose, USA travel by road promises memories that will stay with you forever.
So, are you packing your bags for your next US road trip?
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FAQs
Q1: What is the #1 scenic drive in the USA?
Ans: Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming is known as the #1 scenic drive in the USA, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and exhilarating route.
Q2: Is a USA road trip worth it?
Ans: Yes! A road trip in the USA is worth it. There is no other way to see the country’s incredible scenery, towns, and villages so up close.
