14 Best Road Trips in the USA: The Ultimate Guide to America’s Gems!

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The United States of America is….a HUGE country. Some states are even bigger than actual countries! So it’s always confused me on why so many American travelers shake their head at domestic travel. As if the US isn’t incredibly diverse in both landscape and culture. In fact, the best road trips in the USA are some of the best in the WORLD.

But I digress. I’m here to tell y’all to TRAVEL THE USA! And for those who love road trips, it’s one of the best countries to do it in – no passport required! I’ve rounded up some of the coolest states to have the best road trips in the USA!

Step One, find your road-tripping crew! If you want your road trip to be a group trip, the people you bring along can make or break your trip! But, if you’re unsure about your own travel style, take my travel-style quiz to get a jumping-off point!

-Land Acknowledgement-

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that when I write blog posts for specific cities or locations in the US, I like to mention which ancestral land it is occupying. For the very least, just as a nod of respect for the Indigenous land we all live and travel on.

But it is a little more difficult when discussing entire states. Because -again- Native American/First Nation/Indigenous is NOT a monoculture and there are thousands of different Nations, tribes, bands, and groups.

I’d recommend picking up one or two books from my Native American authors blog post before your journey. Those books can offer a unique and authentic perspective into the communities represented. Just a few of my favorite organizations to donate to are PWNA and NICCA, but you should look into the local grassroot organizations in your area as well.

So just as a general note, when you experience these incredible sites, also take a second to recognize that you are on stolen land and Indigenous communities are still fighting against broken treaties and their basic human rights.

A’ight – let’s hit the road for some of these best road trips in the USA! I’ve broken it up (roughly) by geographic regions. Hopefully, it helps. But if not, well. Idk what to tell ya. I’m sure you’ll be able to follow along regardless.

Midwest

Ahhh…the good ol’ open Midwest. Second MAYBE only to the Southwest in terms of scarily fast drivers, a road trip through the Midwestern states offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and…unique roadside quirks. Uh…you’ll see what I mean…

South Dakota

By Nicole from Suitcase and a Map

South Dakota just might be the perfect state for one of the best road trips in the USA! Visiting South Dakota during the first weeks of June is a great time to go. It won’t be too hot and you’ll beat the mid/late Summer crowds. If you aren’t able to visit in early June, September is another great time to go for the crisp autumn air and foliage!

Starting in Sioux Falls, a visit to Falls Park is a must! If you enjoyed reading the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder or even just watched Little House on the Prairie, visit the Ingalls Homestead! Make sure you leave time to ride in the covered wagon! 

Badlands National Park is an amazing cross between being on the surface of Mars and being surrounded by sandcastles! After visiting Badlands National Park, make sure to stop at Wall Drug. Wall was affectionally known as “the geographical center of nowhere” when the owners of Wall Drug decided to offer free ice-water to all the travelers coming through the area. Now, it’s almost a rite of passage to stop here.

An unusual stop is the world’s only corn palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. The Corn Palace does a great job planning for children and they have many interactive exhibits.

And a little bit of history too!

Naturally, a visit to South Dakota wouldn’t quite be complete without a stop at Mount Rushmore. In contrast, Dignity of Earth and Sky, a steel statue, is another incredible roadside stop. The statue offers visitors a chance to learn more about South Dakota’s Native American community (specifically the women of the Lakota and Dakota Nations) and decolonize the state’s history at the free onsite museum!

If you enjoy reading or watching anything related to the Wild West, then make plans to stop in Deadwood! There are regular gunfight re-enactments on Main Street and make sure to visit Saloon 10. Yes, it’s still an active saloon, but until 8pm it’s kid-friendly. Go inside and see the alleged chair where Wild Bill was sitting when he was shot by Jack McCall. Afterward, drive to Mount Moriah Cemetery to see where Seth Bullock, Wild Bill, and Calamity Jane are buried. 

Wyoming

By Laura from Live Adventure Travel

There is no denying it, Wyoming is the ideal US state for a road trip. The journey will take drivers through National Parks, Regional Forests and stunning countrysides. 

The road trip starts with (at least!) one-night stay near the United States first established National Monument, Devils Tower. The monument was founded in 1906 by president Roosevelt and has since become a popular spot attracting walkers from all over the world.

Following a day of exploring the grounds of Devil Tower, it is time to hit the road again on route to Cody, the gateway city to the famous Yellowstone National Park. It is possible to break up the long drive time by taking the scenic route through Bighorn National Forest.

Spend 2 or 3 days checking out Yellowstone’s famous geysers, hot springs, and hiking trails. The National Park is home to some of America’s most iconic landmarks such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Springs, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Only a short drive from Yellowstone lies the less famous, yet equally as beautiful Grand Teton. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park are the perfect road trip combination because both parks are very close to each other. Spend a day or two checking out Grand Tetons wildlife, pristine lakes, and snow-capped mountain range.

The final stop on this Wyoming road trip leaves us in Jackson Hole. This perfect little cowboy town is just a short distance from Grand Teton National Park. The town is known for its adventure sports and town square shootout performances. Plus, it’s the perfect ending to a Wyoming road trip!

East Coast

The birthplace of modern America! The East Coast has a stereotype of always being fast paced and on the go, but its natural beauty is usually overshadowed by Wall Street and D.C. But don’t worry, there are still some hidden gems worth road trippin’ on this side of the country!

Maine

By Diana from In Between Pictures

Spring and summer are both excellent seasons to visit Maine, but they can’t match the vibrant fall foliage. Visit in September for sunny days and milder temperatures or in October for the foliage peak season.

As you drive along the coast of Maine, you will find many quaint ports and fisherman towns – although some are small, they are full of history and charm. Stop by one on your road trip for lunch or a stroll. If you prefer something a little more hip, Portland is the place. With its many cool bars
and trendy restaurants, the lively city is the perfect place to start and end your road trip adventure.

But what makes Maine one of the best road trips in the USA? Besides charming old towns, you don’t even need to get out of your car to admire Maine’s beauty! The Pine Tree State has four byways for you to enjoy – which offers some of the most scenic drives in the country. Whether you choose Schoodic National Scenic Byway or the Acadia All-American Road, you are in for a treat!

Let’s not forget, Maine is the capital of Lighthouses! There are over 60 lighthouses along the coast that you can check out on your road trip. And if you are into quirky billboards, check out Lubec’s sign, which lets visitors know it is “The Easternmost Town in The U.S.”

Maine is also renowned for its incredibly fresh lobster and oyster – which you cannot miss – and their oh-so-delicious blueberry pie! No matter where you are in the state, make sure to try the local cuisine!

For a week-long trip, make sure to visit Camden, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Bold Coast on your loop around the state!

Vermont

By Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler and Amy from New England with Love

Vermont may be a tiny state (it’s the 6th-smallest by land area, in fact), but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing. On the contrary, Vermont is one of the best road trips in the USA.

Vermont is tucked away in New England, in the far northeast corner of the United States. This region is known for some pretty intense winters, so if it’s snow you’re after, Vermont will provide. But the best times to take a road trip in Vermont are in the early summer and in the fall. Easily, fall road trips in Vermont will make it your favorite state in the country. Late September and early October are the key periods.

This is when the fall foliage that Vermont is famous for is in full swing. The colors of the leaves during this season, especially at their peak, are absolutely incredible. You don’t need anything more than leaf-peeping as a reason to visit Vermont.   However, local food noshing or hiking in the summer or a Vermont winter ski season are hard to beat too. 

However, there are so many things to see and do in Vermont. On your road trip, visit the cities of Burlington, Manchester, and Stowe. Burlington is the state’s biggest city, and a hip and artsy place known for its craft beer, progressive attitude, and delicious farm-to-table food. Speaking of beer, Vermont has the highest number of craft breweries per capita of any state.  The Burlington Brewery Tour is a highlight for fans of world-class brews. Don’t miss the Farmer’s Market on Weekends or Church Street, the pedestrian-only shopping district.  

Moving outside of the city…

History buffs will want to stop at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller, Vermont’s only National Park, or Hildene, the expansive Lincoln family home, or Calvin Coolidge’s homestead in quaint Plymouth Notch.

As you drive north through the scenic Winooski River Valley, admire the stunning views of Camel’s Hump, the state’s second-highest mountain. Make sure to stop at Ben and Jerry’s in Waterbury for a taste and tour about Vermont’s most iconic ice cream.

Stowe is nestled right in Vermont’s most beautiful mountains. It is a perfect, charming small village that will give you the true Vermont experience. In Stowe, you’ll want to spend time hiking, visiting the Trapp Family Lodge, and enjoying the quaint Main Street. 

Finally, on your way south to Manchester, Vermont, you can opt for Route 100, one of the most scenic roadways in Vermont! Finish your trip with a drive through the Champlain Islands.  Enjoy the agritourism scene while you search the roadside for the miniature stone castles of South Hero Island. Rent a bike or a boat or just enjoy the many beaches.  

Virginia

By Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit

With the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive, the Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail, and many more, Virginia is one of the best road trips in the USA! While most visitors flock to the eastern side of Virginia, start your journey by checking out the amazing gems that await you on the western side. If you’re looking for a memorable adventure, you don’t want to miss this epic Virginia road trip along the I-81!

What makes this route so amazing? It’s got something for everyone! Start in the town of Bristol where you’ll find the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. And you can have one foot in both Virginia and Tennessee at the same time as the state line runs right through town! As you head north, you’ll find plenty of cultural icons like the Barter Theater in Abingdon! You will also glimpse the incredible views from the Big Walker Lookout just outside of Wytheville. And if your timing is right, you can catch the Friday Night Jamboree in Floyd which attracts visitors from all over the world!

However, the nature of Virginia will keep you coming back for more! Specifically, Back of the Dragon near Tazewell County, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the incredible Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park will leave you breathless.

No matter what you decide to stop and see, don’t forget to watch for Virginia’s iconic LOVEworks signs along the way.

West Coast

WEST COAST BEST COASTTTT!!! If you haven’t been following me for a while – hi, I’m Kay. I was born and raised in California (LA BABY), so I have a disturbingly large biased for anything and everything California. TBH, it’s hands down the BEST state to road trip in the country (in my humble opinion). In fact, it’s just the best state in general. But since I could talk for centuries about California, I’ve decided to purposely leave it out of this particularly list.

Enjoy all the other amazing places on the West Coast though! They are the second best 🙂

Hawai’i

By Noel from This Hawai’i Life

A road trip around the Big Island of Hawai’i is the perfect way to enjoy all of the fantastic attractions around the island. You can easily start from Kona or Hilo, both of which have airports and rental car centers to pick up your vehicles.

From Kona, you can base yourself there for a few days to see local attractions. Some easy day trips include driving the west side of the island and visiting Polulu Valley, historic western towns like Kapa’au and Hawi, or checking out the historic Heaui at Pu’ukohola – the stone temple built by Kamehameha that foretold his being the first king of Hawai’i after building this magnificent temple.

After staying in Kona, take a drive along the south road passing through some world-famous coffee plantations for a tour! You will also pass through another historic national park called the Place of Refuge or Puuhonoa o Honaunau. Next door is a fantastic snorkeling venue called Two-Step, which has some amazing tropical fish and corals to enjoy. If you base yourself in Kealekekua for the night, you will be in a great spot for snorkeling and kayaking!

Base your stay next in Volcano Village while you explore Volcanoes National Park. End your Big Island road trip in the town of Hilo, where you can enjoy small beaches and historic farmer’s markets. If you’re a fan of chasing waterfalls, you can hit up Akaka Falls and the stunning Hamakua coastline. Plus, the Big Island is family-friendly as well!

Or, hit up some of the other islands – Relax on the romantic beaches of Maui or settle down for some amazing Kauai sunsets!

Oregon

By Tiana from Passport of Memories 

Oregon is such an underrated state, but is one of the best road trips in the USA! so now is the perfect time to get out and discover all its beauty! Aim to visit either in the late spring or early fall – specifically the beginning of November boasts amazing weather with bright for fall foliage and without all of the crowds!

Start at the quirky capital city, Portland, for at least a few days. Portland is a foodie city, so there is no shortage of amazing eateries by world-renowned chefs from all over the world. In particular, Portland is known for its sweets, and is home to the original Voodoo Donuts and Salt & Straw! Also, since Oregon has no sales tax, you can shop your heart out at the many boutique stores, the bustling Saturday market, or Powell’s City of Books – the largest used bookstore in the world!

Then, your road trip begins!

Once you’ve had your fill of Portland, head east towards the Colombia River Gorge, where the real magic of Oregon begins! You will find hundreds of amazing trails and unreal waterfalls! The most iconic of which is Multnomah Falls, only a short paved walk from the parking lot. However, there are many (such as Bridal Veil Falls and Latourell Falls) that rival even Iceland’s famed waterfalls. Base yourself in Hood River while you explore the lush scenery, stunning lakes (such as Mirror Lake!) as you make your way to Mt. Hood!

And don’t forget the Oregon coast! If you are a fan of The Goonies, pass through the small town of Astoria, where the movie was filmed! From there, drive down Highway 1 that weaves through forests and hugs the dramatic cliffs of the coast. Plus, you’ll come across dozens of charming small towns such as Gearhart, Seaside, Tillamook! If you get a chance, stop by Molly Morgan for the most beautiful jewelry and unbeatable prices!

Cannon Beach is especially picturesque, and a must-stop along the coast for views of Haystack Rock! You can head all the way down to Brookings, Oregon at the southwest corner, or turn around midway in Yachats. If you have extra time, complete the loop by passing through Bend, Oregon, and stopping by Smith Rock State Park and Crater Lake National Park, Oregon’s only National Park!

Washington

By Marissa from Postcards to Seattle

Washington is one of the most scenic states in the country, and one of the best road trips in the USA due to its diversity. Start on the west coast of the state, on the Olympic Peninsula. You’ll be able to see the Pacific Ocean and enjoy walking (and camping!) on the beach.

Olympic National Park is also located here, featuring waterfalls, the largest rainforest in the Pacific Northwest, relaxing hot springs, and thousands of hiking trails. Plus, Forks, Washington is closeby for all of your Twihards! Budget for at least a few days in this region. If you are not a camper, Port Angeles has a handful of great hotel options while you explore the area!

The central part of the state is amazing to sample Washington’s food and beverages. If you visit either in late spring or early fall, you can see produce stands lining the freeway, giving you multiple opportunities to buy apples, corn, and more. Stay in Seattle as a home base while you tour the nearby areas! Most of the state’s wine and beer come from this region as well, and the cities of Yakima or Wenatchee are great pitstops for tastings.

The eastern part of the state is where you’ll want to go to enjoy the warm weather. Moses Lake is a popular destination to stop at to swim or float on the lake, and there are multiple restaurants to visit and grocery stores to stock up on supplies at. Then, end your trip in the southeast corner in Walla Walla to experience Washington’s more desert-like landscape!

South

The Dirty South – in the most endearing terms possible! I actually used to live in Alabama, though since I was young (and only there for three years), I didn’t get the opportunity to explore the region. However, it’s never to late! Check out these states for some of the best road trips in the USA!

Florida

By Lori from Travelin’ Mad

When it comes to good old-fashioned American road trips, the Sunshine State has so many choices. Given its massive size and varying climate zones, Florida is one of the best road trips in the USA destinations at any time of year.

North Florida has the woodsy terrain of the Deep South, mixed with deep Spanish colonial roots and gorgeous sugar sand beaches of the Emerald Coast along the Florida Panhandle. Check out the state capital of Tallahassee, then head east to the Atlantic beaches and St. Augustine, the oldest city in America. Beach-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the stretches of wild dunes, turquoise beaches, and abundant camping areas from Pensacola east to Apalachicola State Forest.

Central Florida may be known for its iconic theme park Disney World, but there is so much more for road trippers to explore. From Orlando, head east to Daytona, home of the Daytona Speedway, and tour Cape Canaveral on Florida’s Space Coast! You can also find an abundance of opportunities to frolic in nature, from kayaking in crystal clear springs, swimming with manatees, and even catching a mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Spring!

Further south, the weather in Florida turns hot, and you can bask in the tropical vibe any time of year. Head south on A1A from Ft. Lauderdale to Miami and experience Latin food and culture like nowhere else in the country. One of the most famous road trips — from Miami to Key West — explores the colorful Conch Republic. For a quieter beach setting, head to southwest Florida for world-class shelling on Sanibel Island and exploring the vast wilderness of Everglades National Park.

Georgia

By Lara from Both Feet On The Road

Georgia is probably not the first state that came to mind, but this Southern underdog is actually one of the best road trips in the USA!

The best seasons to visit Georgia would be fall and spring. These are the dryer months, with pleasant warm temperature. Summers can get quite warm and humid in Georgia. Some must-stops on a road trip through Georgia include Atlanta, Athens, Savannah, (at least!) one of the Barrier Islands, and The North Georgia Mountains.

In Atlanta, you will get the ultimate big city experience, while admiring the skyline and visiting some of the major highlights of the city such as the Coca Cola factory, the CNN building, and the Aquarium. For a slower pace, Athens is home to the University of Georgia and is a classic University town.

Savannah is one of the prettiest small cities in the US, and another underrated gem in terms of exploring America’s rich history and culture. Wandering through Savannah and admiring the beautiful architecture is one of the best things to do here. Plus, one of the fourteen barrier islands makes for a great stop for relaxation and beach time.

And lastly, a visit to the North Georgia Mountains to explore beautiful nature and waterfalls! Before you hit the roads in Georgia there are some rules to keep in mind. Georgia has a slowpoke law, meaning that you can be pulled over for driving too slow!

Texas

By Kate from Our Escape Clause

As the second-largest state in the USA, taking a Texas road trip is less about finding things to do than narrowing down what you’d like to see! The sheer variety of options and itineraries make Texas one of the best road trips in the USA!

If you have a week or more to road trip Texas, there is an enormous concentration of excellent places to visit in Texas in and around central Texas, including Austin (the live music capital of the world), San Antonio (home of the Alamo), Fredericksburg and Dripping Springs (Texas wine country), and New Braunfels (a popular place to float the river in Texas).

If you’d prefer to check out west Texas, consider admiring the art installations in Marfa, as well as exploring both of Texas’ national parks (Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Big Bend National Park). In the Northwest, you can find the second-largest canyon in the USA at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Plus, Ennis, just outside of Dallas, has incredible bluebonnets in the spring.

When planning a Texas road trip, keep in mind that there are a lot of wide open spaces in Texas, and that the state is bigger than all of western Europe combined! Unless you have months, there is no way you can cover all of Texas on a single trip, so plan ahead and try to choose locations that are semi-close together.

Also, fair warning: Texas drivers love to go fast, so pay careful attention as you go!

Southwest

Ah, the crown jewel of American road trips, mostly because of the sheer number of jaw-dropping National Parks. You could probably see half the country’s parks just in this region alone. Plus, they’re the most famous ones too (aside from California’s). But the Southwest has more than just nature to offer. See for yourself!

Arizona

By Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

The beauty of Arizona makes it easily one of the best road trips in the USA. Arizona is home to some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the country, including a handful of the most famous national parks such as Grand Canyon National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, and Saguaro National Park. 

Although it is not a national park, don’t forget to spend a day visiting Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon in Page, Horseshoe Bend is a gorgeous view of the Colorado River and there is nothing else quite like the Instagrammable Antelope Canyon. Or you could try your luck at snagging a permit to Havasupai Falls! Aside from beautiful national parks, Arizona also has a few must-see cities. Phoenix, Tempe, and Tucson are also more urban areas of Arizona, but offer fun hiking options and are great foodie towns. 

How to Make Sure You’re Buying Authentic Native American pieces?

While you’re on the road, be sure to stop by at the Navajo stands along the freeway. You’ll be able to buy souvenirs directly from the artisans, including jewelry, native sculptures, and more. Always double-check that any Native American jewelry has an official verification of authenticity to ensure that you are supporting the local communities.

The best time to visit Arizona is in the spring and fall for more moderate weather. The winters can be mild in Arizona however it does snow at certain elevations, often in Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Flagstaff. Summers can be rough in Arizona due to the intense desert heat, the temperatures are high and dehydration is definitely a risk especially when hiking in the desert. 

From Monument Valley to a meteor crater, Havasu Falls and The Wave, there is so much to see in Arizona, you’ll need to make the drive out there and see all of it in real life. Arizona is worth the road trip!  

Nevada

By Clare from Driving Me Nomad

Nevada is a great state for road trippers if you’re into natural beauty, night life, and just plain ol’ weird. The best months to drive through the state are either in the Spring and Fall when the temperatures are mild. But if you’re looking for a little diversity in weather, winter isn’t so bad either, just be sure to have chains.

There’s no denying that on any Nevada road trip, a stop in Viva Las Vegas is a must! Take a photo with the iconic “Las Vegas” sign, try your gambling luck on the strip, and take a peek at Old Vegas by visiting Fremont Street. One thing you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the Neon Boneyard – where all the iconic neon signs of Las Vegas’ past are stored. Or stop at the picturesque Seven Magic Mountains on your way to Red Rock Canyon!

Leaving the Strip…

After you get your fill of Vegas, leave the lights for the natural beauty of Nevada. Valley of Fire is a must, but temperatures are unbearable in the summer. Lake Tahoe and Great Basin National Park are Nevada are also great stops for nature lovers hitting the road. Luckily, the 400-mile highway connecting the two stops, known as the Loneliest Highway, is an attraction in itself. Just be warned, the highway shows little signs of civilization so gas up before you go… what looks like a rest stop may just be another ghost town. But the surprises are what make Nevada one of the best road trips in the USA!

And, if you’re into weird, you really can’t miss a visit to Tonapah, a town three hours north of Las Vegas. Why? Because it is home to the infamous Clown Motel. In case you’ve never heard of it, it’s a motel filled with clown memorabilia – right across from a graveyard, naturally. Even the rooms have framed art pieces of Pennywise! If you’re brave enough, feel free to book a stay and spend the night there… It’ll for sure be a memorable trip for the books!

New Mexico

By Umiko from Two Worlds Treasures 

Start your trip from Albuquerque, the heart of New Mexico. Early in the morning, follow the historical trails at the Petroglyph National Monument just outside of the city. Then, escape the heat by visiting one of the many cultural museums.

Three hours southeast, you will find Alamogordo. You can sled and make a snow angel at White Sands National Park. Then, shake out your boots at the New Mexico Museum of Space History to discover the state’s contribution to the space race. Nearby is McGinn’s Pistachio Farm, home to the world’s largest pistachio.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park isn’t too far away either! You could spend all day exploring the caverns, but if you only have time for one, opt for the Big Room Trail. From here, head to Tucumcuri in the northeast, the original portion of Route 66. Along the way, you’ll pass through Roswell, home of New Mexico’s famous UFO museum!

When you get your fill of Route 66, continue to Santa Rosa for a dive in the Blue Hole, the scuba diving capital of the southwest. From here, drive to the north-central New Mexico and spend a couple of nights in Taos. Taos is surrounded by beautiful nature and rich in Native American history and explore the Rio Grande Gorge!

You should end your New Mexico road trip in Santa Fe, the oldest and highest capital city in the U.S. Book a room at Hotel Santa Fe, the only Native-owned hotels in the city, which is in the downtown area and close to the best restaurants, bars, museums, and art galleries!

Before you leave, make sure to check out Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument early in the morning. Then come back to town, have a chile cheeseburger at Cowgirl BBQ.

Utah

By Jenifer from The Evolista

The diverse beauty of the Utah national parks makes it one of the best states for a US road trip. Plan at least 5 days to visit the Mighty 5 – Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks for amazing landscapes, hiking, and more. Spring and Fall are the best times to do this trip.

Arches National Park has over 2,000 arches in addition to sandstone pinnacles and interesting formations. Enjoy a range of hikes from family-friendly to the advanced Devil’s Garden Trail. The top 5 must-see arches are Double Arch, the North and South Windows, Turret Arch and Delicate Arch, the perfect sunset spot. 

Canyonlands, also in Moab, is extraordinary at dawn. Mesa Arch lights up at sunrise in a fiery orange, framing the stunning canyon below. Canyonlands is a much bigger park than Arches and you could spend days doing fun hikes, rafting and 4×4 off-road adventures.

On the drive from Moab to Bryce, stop at Capitol Reef National Park. After 200 miles in the car, the hike to Hickman Bridge will be a welcome activity. Bryce Canyon National Park is like nothing you’ve ever seen. From the rim, the red rock hoodoo canyon is jaw-dropping.

In the top 5 most visited National parks, Zion National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Coming from Bryce, you will enter the park with the most incredible views. The road has switchbacks descending down into the canyon with vistas you will remember for a lifetime.

Don’t miss the Narrows, Observation Point, and Angel’s Landing if you’re not afraid of scary hikes. Whether you are new to hiking or are an experienced backpacker, Utah is a great option for all outdoor lovers!

Best Road Trips in the USA: Conclusion

Well, I hope this blog post jam packed full of the best road trips in the USA sparked your wanderlust to explore the country! I definitely think that Americans mistakenly view domestic travel as “less than” when compared to international trips. That’s incredibly misguided. Especially considering a lot of states are bigger than entire countries. Or…all of Western EUROPE. But I digress.

If you want more guides on where to travel in the US, or destinations to add to your best road trips in the USA bucketlist, check out some of my posts on more underrated destinations!

• Underrated Relaxation Getaways in the US
• Underrated Foodie Destinations in the US
• Fun Artsy Cities in the US
• Culture Rich Destinations in the US

Which of these states do you want to visit? Let me know in the comments below!

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