Due to uncertainty surrounding International travel, domestic trips have been growing in popularity, especially traveling by car. There is no need to be in airports and airplanes near other people, and safely social distance in your vehicle to your travel destination.
Whether traveling with family, friends or taking a solo adventure, road trips offer travelers new experiences without the hassle of flying. They can also stretch moderate travel budgets much further, especially as gasoline prices are at their lowest in more than four years.
With this in mind, InsureMyTrip has compiled a list of the most scenic road trips in America – including both long and short drives - to help inspire your next getaway. You can also check out the list below:
Midwest: Badlands Scenic Loop
The Badlands Scenic Loop is a section of South Dakota’s Route 240 and Route 44, which allows road trippers to effortlessly tour Badlands National Park. This 39-mile loop includes countless overlooks that highlight the one-of-a-kind geology Badlands National Park is known for. The park also offers backcountry hiking trails that take you deep into the remote wilderness for adventure travelers.
Region: Midwest
Best time to go: May – June, August – September
Distance: Approx. 39 miles
Leisurely Travel Time: 4-6 hours
Northeast: Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is the epitome of a scenic New England roadway. It follows the state’s Route 112 from Conway to Lincoln. Road trippers and motorcyclists alike enjoy the winding, tree-lined highway. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and sightseeing. Some highlights include the Albany Covered Bridge, the Russell-Colbath Historic Site, and Upper Lady’s Bath.
Region: Northeast
Best time to go: April – October
Distance: Approx. 56 miles
Leisurely Travel Time: 4-8 hours
Southwest: Scenic Byway 12
Utah’s State Route12 provides the ideal way to see the state’s renowned canyon country. The 123-mile trip connects Bryce National Park and Capitol Reef National Park. Boasting close proximity to several state and national parks and monuments, the rich history and unique natural landmarks make this route one of the most popular U.S. road trips.
Best time to go: April – May, September - October
Distance: Approx. 123 miles
Fastest travel time: 3 hours
Leisurely Travel time: 2-4 days
Northwest: Oregon Coast Highway
Highway 101 in Oregon takes travelers 363 miles along the state’s Pacific coastline. Stops include Astoria, Cannon Beach, Indian Beach Trail, and Coos Bay, to name a few. Picturesque beach towns and unique landmarks dot the roadway with plenty of rest stops for road trippers to take in the views.
Best time to go: June – September
Distance: Approx. 363 miles
Fastest travel time: 10-12 hours
Leisurely travel time: 2-4 days
Southeast: Blue Ridge Parkway
If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the ultimate way to experience it. The 469-mile stretch of road winds through Virginia, South Carolina, and North Carolina and showcases the Appalachian Mountains in all their glory. Easy access to hiking trails and plenty of unique wildlife makes the route ideal for animal and hiking enthusiasts.
Best time to go: May – September
Distance: Approx. 469
Fastest Travel time: 13-15 hours
Leisurely travel time: 2-4 days
West: Pacific Coast Highway
You can’t have a road trip list without the infamous Pacific Coast Highway. The 600+ mile stretch of road takes you by several famous landmarks and points of interest, including Point Bonita Lighthouse, San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Santa Monica. I advise planning ahead and make sure there are no last-minute road closures due to rockslides or severe weather.
Best time to go: May – October
Distance: Approx. 656 miles
Fastest travel time: 11-13 hours
Leisurely Travel time: 2-5 days
Please note, travel rules often change due to the current pandemic. U.S. citizens who wish to travel within the United States are currently not blocked from doing so by official nationwide advisories or restrictions but should consider the risks of being in crowded spaces and self-isolating at their destination if necessary.
Ahead of your travel, please check each official state or health department website for the most up-to-date information.
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