There’s something inherently freeing about a road trip—the open road stretching out before you, the thrill of discovery around every bend, and the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures that make up North America. Road trips offer a unique way to experience the continent’s natural beauty and hidden gems, allowing travelers to connect with the land and its stories at their own pace. From winding coastal highways to expansive desert trails, North America is home to some of the world’s most scenic routes, each offering its own set of spectacular views and secret stops. Here are some of the best road trips in North America, perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or a bit of both.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, is one of the most iconic road trips in North America. Stretching over 650 miles along the rugged California coastline, this route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and picturesque seaside towns.
Highlights and Hidden Stops:
- Big Sur: Perhaps the most famous stretch of the PCH, Big Sur is a place where mountains meet the sea in a dramatic fashion. The road here winds along cliffs with sheer drops to the ocean below, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Stop at McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto a pristine beach, or hike the trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a closer look at the region’s natural beauty.
- Hearst Castle: Located near San Simeon, Hearst Castle is a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the opulent life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The mansion’s architecture and expansive art collection are impressive, and the surrounding gardens offer panoramic views of the coastline.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: This charming seaside town is known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and European-style architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along Carmel Beach, or explore the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where hiking trails lead to hidden coves and wildlife viewing opportunities.
2. Route 66, USA
Often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the most famous road trips in the world. Established in 1926, this historic route originally stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, covering nearly 2,500 miles. Although it has been replaced by modern highways, much of the original route remains drivable, offering a nostalgic journey through America’s heartland.
Highlights and Hidden Stops:
- Cadillac Ranch, Texas: Located near Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is an iconic roadside attraction featuring a row of half-buried Cadillacs covered in graffiti. Visitors are encouraged to add their own spray paint to the cars, making this a unique and ever-evolving art installation.
- Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: Just off Route 66, Petrified Forest National Park is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The park also features ancient petroglyphs and the Painted Desert, a landscape of vibrant, layered rock formations.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: A slight detour from the main route, Santa Fe offers a rich blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. Explore the city’s historic plaza, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, or take in the stunning adobe architecture that gives Santa Fe its distinctive character.
3. Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada
For those seeking breathtaking natural beauty, the Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a road trip like no other. This 144-mile stretch of road connects the towns of Jasper and Banff, passing through the heart of the Canadian Rockies and offering unparalleled views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks.
Highlights and Hidden Stops:
- Athabasca Falls: Just a short drive from Jasper, Athabasca Falls is a powerful waterfall known for its thundering roar and scenic surroundings. The falls are easily accessible, and several viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities.
- Columbia Icefield: One of the largest icefields in North America, the Columbia Icefield is a must-see along the Icefields Parkway. Visitors can take a guided tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, part of the icefield, aboard specially designed ice explorer vehicles. The nearby Glacier Skywalk offers a thrilling experience, with a glass walkway extending over the Sunwapta Valley.
- Lake Louise: Renowned for its striking turquoise waters and surrounding mountain peaks, Lake Louise is one of the most photographed spots in Canada. Whether you choose to hike around the lake, rent a canoe, or simply enjoy the view, Lake Louise is a highlight of any trip through the Rockies.
4. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada
The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile loop that winds through the rugged landscapes of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Known for its stunning coastal views, charming fishing villages, and vibrant autumn foliage, the Cabot Trail is a road trip that offers both natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Highlights and Hidden Stops:
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park: The Cabot Trail passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where the mountains meet the sea in a spectacular display of natural beauty. The park offers numerous hiking trails, including the Skyline Trail, which provides sweeping views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
- Pleasant Bay: This small fishing village is a great place to stop for a whale-watching tour. The waters off Pleasant Bay are home to several species of whales, including humpbacks, minke, and pilot whales, as well as seals and seabirds.
- Ingonish Beach: Ingonish is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. After a day of exploring, relax on the beach or take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic waters. Nearby, the Cape Smokey Provincial Park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the coastline.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA
Spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most scenic drives. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this road trip offers stunning mountain views, lush forests, and a wealth of cultural and historical sites.
Highlights and Hidden Stops:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The Blue Ridge Parkway connects to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in the United States. Explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, take in the views from Clingmans Dome, or visit the historic cabins and mills that dot the landscape.
- Mabry Mill: Located at Milepost 176.1, Mabry Mill is one of the most photographed spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This historic gristmill and sawmill dates back to the early 1900s and offers a glimpse into the region’s rural past. Visitors can tour the mill, enjoy demonstrations of old-time crafts, and even sample traditional Appalachian foods at the on-site restaurant.
- Craggy Gardens: A stop at Craggy Gardens is a must during the late spring and summer months, when the area’s rhododendron and wildflowers are in full bloom. The short hike to Craggy Pinnacle offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
