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There’s nothing quite like the open road, especially when that road takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. From the meandering beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the expansive wilderness of Alaska, America’s scenic highways offer a variety of stunning vistas, historic places, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an avid road tripper or just looking for a weekend getaway, these scenic drives should be on your travel bucket list.
One of my favorites is the stunning and exhilarating Beartooth Highway (U.S. Route 212), which stretches between Red Lodge, Montana, and the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This 68-mile route takes you over the Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet, offering jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, alpine plateaus, and pristine glacial lakes. I easily drove this in my 24’ Class C RV. Though the highway isn’t for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights. With steep climbs and hairpin turns, some without guardrails, those who are scared easily might want to opt for something a little less challenging.
However, if you’re up for the task, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever seen from my RV. Be sure to check road conditions before setting out. With much of the highway covering high altitudes, snow can close the road, even in summer!
The Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) is arguably one of the most iconic scenic drives in the United States. Stretching over 600 miles from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in Northern California, this route hugs the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular ocean views, charming seaside towns, and dramatic cliffs.
Dalton Hwy is my all-time favorite trip. This was a drive of a lifetime. If you’re looking for a truly remote and adventurous drive, the Dalton Highway in Alaska is a perfect choice. Stretching 414 miles from Fairbanks to Deadhorse near the Arctic Ocean, this route offers an unparalleled journey through the heart of Alaskan wilderness. The highway follows the Alaska Pipeline and traverses the Arctic Circle, providing a unique perspective on the Last Frontier.
Pro Tip: Visit in September to see the Alaskan tundra fall foliage. The rolling hills turn the most amazing shades of red. It’s a must see!
IMPORTANT Safety TIP: The 414 mile road is rough and remote (no cell signal and few gas stations). You’ll need to be prepared. Bring a spare tire and a way to get help, like a personal GPS device. Check out my video on SPOT SOV to see how this GPS locator works. Most people choose NOT to take their RVs. I did, and literally shook the cooing unit off my refrigerator and had to replace it. But no flat tires! Just drive SLOW and take your time to soak up the beauty. I did the trip in about two weeks.
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway meanders 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This drive is renowned for its rich history and scenic beauty, particularly during the fall when the foliage is on full display.
One drive that’s on my bucket list is the Going-to-the-Sun Road inside Glacier National Park. It’s a 50-mile drive that traverses the park from east to west. This engineering marvel takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Rockies, including glacial lakes, towering peaks, and lush forests. This route is NOT recommended for RVs over 20 feet!
Following the course of the mighty Mississippi River for 2,340 miles, the Great River Road takes you through ten states, from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route offers a diverse array of American history and landscapes. From the rolling hills of the Upper Midwest to the lush bayous of the Deep South, this is a journey of remarkable beauty.
No list of scenic drives would be complete without mentioning Route 66. Known as the “Main Street of America,” this historic highway stretches 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It’s a great way to experience true Americana. While many parts of the original road have been replaced by modern highways, numerous sections remain that capture the spirit of this iconic route.
Whether you’re seeking the rugged beauty of Alaska or the iconic coastal views of California, these scenic drives offer a little something for every traveler. Pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and hit the road to explore the diverse and breathtaking landscapes that the United States has to offer.
Do you have a favorite drive that I didn’t mention here? Let us know in the comments below!
Happy travels!
DISCLAIMER: Carolyn’s RV Life and Carolyn Higgins share her experiences, thoughts, opinions and ideas in this blog post and on this website for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, instruction or guidance. Viewers/Readers should consult with professionals before pursing any actions or behaviors exhibited in this video. Carolyn’s RV Life or Carolyn Higgins cannot be held liable in the event of any accident or injury that may occur as a result of application of procedures and information provided in this video.
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