The United States is filled with incredible natural beauty, from the towering mountains of the Rockies to the sandy beaches of Florida. One of the best ways to experience this beauty is by taking a road trip. With a car, a map, and a sense of adventure, you can explore the country like never before. But where should you go? Which routes should you take? In this article, we'll explore some of the best driving routes in the US.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Beauty of the US Road Trip
The United States is filled with incredible natural beauty, from the towering mountains of the Rockies to the sandy beaches of Florida. One of the best ways to experience this beauty is by taking a road trip. With a car, a map, and a sense of adventure, you can explore the country like never before. But where should you go? Which routes should you take? In this article, we'll explore some of the best driving routes in the US.
The Pacific Coast Highway
One of the most iconic driving routes in the US is the Pacific Coast Highway. This scenic route runs along the California coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. The drive takes you through charming coastal towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara, as well as major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Q: What is the best time of year to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
A: The best time to drive the Pacific Coast Highway is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
The Great River Road
The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile route that follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. Along the way, you'll pass through small towns, big cities, and beautiful natural landscapes. The route is perfect for history buffs, as it takes you through Civil War battlefields and historic sites like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
Q: How long does it take to drive the Great River Road?
A: It takes about 10 days to drive the entire Great River Road, but you can also do shorter sections of the route.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia and North Carolina. The route offers stunning views of the mountains and the forests, as well as access to hiking trails and campgrounds. The drive takes you through charming small towns like Asheville and Roanoke.
Q: Can you see fall foliage on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
A: Yes, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best places to see fall foliage in the US. The leaves typically change color in October.
The Loneliest Road
The Loneliest Road is a nickname for US Route 50, which runs from Maryland to California. The route is known for its desolate stretches of highway and lack of services, but it also offers stunning views of the mountains and the desert. The drive takes you through small towns like Ely, Nevada, and historic sites like the Pony Express National Historic Trail.
Q: Why is it called the Loneliest Road?
A: The Loneliest Road is called that because it runs through some of the most remote and sparsely populated areas in the US.
The Alaska Highway
The Alaska Highway is a legendary route that runs from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. The route is known for its rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife. The drive takes you through small towns like Whitehorse and Tok, as well as major cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Q: Do you need a special vehicle to drive the Alaska Highway?
A: You don't need a special vehicle to drive the Alaska Highway, but it's recommended to have a reliable car or truck with good tires and a spare tire.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many incredible driving routes in the US. Whether you're looking for natural beauty, history, or adventure, there's a route out there for you. So grab a map, hit the road, and see where the journey takes you!