Those who make frequent road trips in the US swear by these best cross-country road trip routes. There’s no experience quite like moving across gorgeous routes in America. After all, the nation was built on a series of stunning cross-country treks. A road trip across America costs very little if you have your own car and it’s in good condition. Get a USA road trip map and be on your way! However, let us help you out with at least some part of the planning by offering the best road trip ideas. Have a look at the most scenic and best cross-country road trip routes listed below. Pick a route that instantly calls out to you. Don’t forget to take your camera along to capture gorgeous shots on the road and off it!
Best American Road Trip Routes:
You can pick from some of the several best road trip destinations the US has to offer. However, instead of hurrying to the country on last minute flights, a detailed road trip USA planner will be better. Do enough research on the road trip destination, the cross-country route, and then finalize travel. If you plan on using your car, ensure to take it for a complete check beforehand. Else, you can hire one and enjoy some of the best cross-country road trip routes. Find the exciting options below!
1. Alaska Highway
Beginning in British Columbia, the stunning Alaska Highway makes its way across the Yukon Territory. While it originally ends in Delta Junction, you have the option to continue on toward Fairbanks. It’s one of the best cross-country road trip routes in America offering you the chance to enjoy remarkable scenery and spot wildlife along the way. Popular stops you can expect along the way include the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum and Liard River Hot Springs. Don’t forget to click some awesome pictures along the way!
2. Route 66 Road Trip: Chicago to California
With over 2500 miles, Route 66 road trip is the best one to enjoy. Among the most iconic American highways, Route evokes feelings of nostalgia as you pass by mom-&-pop gas stations, strip malls, and old-era motels. Kick off your road trip after having breakfast at the iconic Lou Mitchell’s. Off you go then on Route 66 which passes through 8 American states. You can stop by multiple gas stations, drive through Missouri, and cross the stunning Meramec River. You will come across prime historic spots in Texas and Oklahoma.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway
Managed by the US National Parks System, the gorgeous Blue Ridge Parkway connects Virginia’s popular Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina’s breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a 469-mile long drive that will take you through important historical and cultural traditions in the region. Think Cherokee traditions, Appalachian music-cum-arts, and the agricultural history of the place. Towering mountains, Linville Gorge, and white waterfalls contribute to making it one of the best cross-country road trip routes.
4. The Oregon Trail
Beginning in Independence in Missouri, the trail ends in Oregon City. Get down and have a close look at the Wagon Wheel tracks from when pioneers walked for endless weeks in search of good farmlands. Fort Laramie is a good place to visit and learn about the history of the Native Americans and pioneers who lived here. Cross the Snake River in Idaho, explore the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Eastern Oregon, and wind up in Portland. There are museums, microbreweries, restaurants, and shops to enjoy here.
5. Miami to Key West Overseas Highway
Although a bit short (just about 100 miles long), this is among the most scenic and best cross-country road trip routes ever! Scores of people book business class flights to visit Miami each year not realizing that a road trip to Key West from here is among the best things they can do on the trip. You start from Miami, pass through the absolutely gorgeous Florida Keys on scenic Route 1, and end up in Key West. There are about 42 bridges you’ll have to cross. Stop at beaches and eateries along the way. Relax and have a bit of Key Lime Pie.
6. Red Rock Scenic Byway, Arizona
Found North of Phoenix, the breathtakingly beautiful Red Rock Scenic Byway is among the very best cross-country road trip routes in USA. Stretching for approximately 15 miles, the desert road passes through the famed Coconino National Forest. Drive slowly and enjoy the beauty of the unique landscape. Take in sights of rocks and red sandstone formations as you move along the open road. Connecting to the road is the Red Rock State Park that’s definitely worth a visit. You should ultimately end up in the Grand Canyon National Park – a must for all travelers to USA!
Were you able to decide which one of these gorgeous and best cross-country road trip routes to enjoy first? If yes, then go ahead and book those flight tickets to USA! Get your car checked out or hire one. Come and enjoy the best ever American road trip!
