Top 10 Road Trips in the US in 2027

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

California State Route 1's 656-mile run from Dana Point to Leggett ranks first because no other US drive packs this much continuous coastline, cliffs, redwoods, and walkable towns into one ribbon of pavement. The marquee Big Sur stretch, roughly 123 miles from Monterey to Morro Bay, includes Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach. The 17-Mile Drive near Pebble Beach costs an $11.75 toll.

This trip suits travelers with flexible schedules and a tolerance for scarce, expensive lodging near Big Sur, where booking months ahead is essential. It trades away the value of Utah's Mighty 5 loop, where one $80 pass covers five parks, for unmatched scenery density. Drive north to south to stay on the ocean side for pullouts, and target April–May for green hills or fall for clearest skies. Base yourself in Monterey or Cambria to manage lodging constraints.

2. Utah's Mighty 5 Loop

This roughly 800-mile loop linking Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands ranks second for delivering the most national-park scenery per dollar in the country. A single $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers all five parks, versus $35 per vehicle at each individually. Scenic Byway 12 between Bryce and Capitol Reef crosses the Hogback ridge with sheer drops on both sides. Plan 5–7 days minimum, or 10 for serious hikers.

This route suits budget-conscious travelers who prioritize park access over coastal luxury, trading the Pacific Coast Highway's ocean views for red-rock canyons and arches. Summer brings 100°F+ heat at lower parks, so spring and fall are ideal. Base yourself in Moab for Arches and Canyonlands, and Springdale for Zion, where a free shuttle runs into the canyon. Don't miss Zion's Angels Landing, now permit-required via lottery, and the Delicate Arch hike.

3. Route 66, Chicago to Santa Monica

The original Mother Road ranks third for its unmatched nostalgia and Americana, running about 2,448 miles across eight states from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier. Allow two weeks to drive it properly, hitting Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, the Wigwam Motels, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa. Much of the original alignment is now frontage roads beside I-40, so the EZ66 Guide by Jerry McClanahan is essential for navigating surviving segments.

This trip suits history buffs and kitsch lovers who value roadside character over raw scenery, trading the Mighty 5's canyon grandeur for diners and gas stations. Drive east to west to finish at the Pacific, and budget extra time for the joy of kitschy stops rather than miles. It demands fuel discipline across empty stretches, and a compressed one-week version misses many iconic stops. The well-preserved towns and Art Deco stations of the Texas Panhandle reward patient pacing.

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

This 50-mile engineering marvel inside Glacier National Park ranks fourth for being the most spectacular short drive in America, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass at 6,646 feet. It's typically fully open only from late June or early July through mid-October due to snow, and vehicles over 21 feet long or 8 feet wide are prohibited on the alpine section. Entry requires the $35 park pass plus a timed vehicle reservation (~$2) in peak season.

This drive suits confident drivers with modest vehicles, trading Route 66's long-haul Americana for a concentrated alpine experience. It trades away the Mighty 5's multi-park value for a single, intense park with strict vehicle limits. The short length means it's best as part of a larger Glacier itinerary, not a standalone trip. Summer is the only reliable season, and the timed reservation system requires advance planning. Nervous drivers should skip the narrow cliff sections.

5. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

America's longest linear park stretches 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains, ranking fifth for its gentle, fee-free scenic driving with a 45 mph speed limit that forces slow appreciation. There is no entrance fee for the parkway itself, making it an accessible budget option. Peak season is October leaf-peeping, when Appalachian hardwoods turn vivid colors.

This route suits relaxed drivers and families who prefer gentle curves over cliff-hugging thrills, trading Going-to-the-Sun's alpine drama for rolling forested vistas. It trades away the Pacific Coast Highway's ocean views for misty mountain layers and mountain crafts. Budget 3–4 days with overnights in Asheville and Roanoke, which offer dining and lodging. The low speed limit means a 200-mile day takes longer than expected, so pad your schedule.

6. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

The 113-mile drive from Miami to Key West ranks sixth for its unique island-hopping experience, crossing 42 bridges including the famous Seven Mile Bridge over turquoise water. Mile markers count down from MM 126 to MM 0 at Key West, guiding travelers to stops like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park at $8 per vehicle for snorkeling. It's a 1–3 day trip, perfect for a long weekend.

This trip suits warm-weather seekers who want a short, scenic escape rather than a multi-week haul, trading the Blue Ridge Parkway's mountain coolness for tropical humidity. It trades away the Mighty 5's canyon variety for a single, consistent coastal aesthetic. Drive carefully, as much of it is two-lane with heavy traffic, especially in winter. The route rewards slow, stop-heavy pacing at every beach and seafood shack. It's ideal for couples and families with limited time.

7. Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington

This roughly 330-mile loop on US-101 circling Olympic National Park ranks seventh for its unmatched ecological diversity, packing temperate rainforest, mountains, and coast into one drive. The $30 vehicle pass covers access to the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the few temperate rainforests in the US, plus Hurricane Ridge, Rialto Beach, and Lake Crescent. The Hoh receives over 12 feet of rain annually, creating moss-draped trees and lush ferns.

This trip suits nature enthusiasts who want variety in a compact area, trading the Overseas Highway's turquoise waters for moody, green wilderness. It trades away the Blue Ridge Parkway's gentle gradients for rugged, wet terrain that demands waterproof gear. Summer offers the most reliable weather, though the peninsula can be rainy any time. The loop's diversity lets you stand among old-growth trees in the morning and on a sea-stack-studded beach by afternoon.

8. The Loneliest Road, US-50 Nevada

The 287-mile Nevada stretch of US-50 from Fernley to Ely ranks eighth for its solitude and big-sky emptiness, a designation earned from Life magazine's 'Loneliest Road in America' label. Services are 60+ miles apart, demanding fuel discipline and tolerance for long empty stretches across basin-and-range terrain. Detour to Great Basin National Park, with free entry, for the Lehman Caves and ancient bristlecone pines.

This trip suits introspective travelers seeking isolation and wide-open landscapes, trading the Olympic Peninsula's lush diversity for stark desert minimalism. It trades away the Pacific Coast Highway's constant visual stimulation for hours of quiet contemplation. Cell coverage vanishes across much of the route, so download offline maps and carry extra water. The solitude is the draw, not the destinations, making it a meditative experience. It's best for experienced road-trippers comfortable with self-reliance.

9. Hawaii's Road to Hana, Maui

The Hana Highway runs about 64 miles from Kahului to Hana with 620 curves and 59 one-lane bridges, ranking ninth for its mile-for-mile beauty among the most spectacular drives anywhere. It's a full-day out-and-back or overnight trip, not a long-distance route, but the concentration of waterfalls and rainforest is unmatched.

This trip suits travelers seeking a dense, tropical adventure in a single day, trading the Loneliest Road's solitude for narrow, crowded jungle roads. It trades away the Mighty 5's multi-park scope for a focused, waterfall-rich experience. Start early and drive slowly, as locals commute this road and traffic builds by midday. The 620 curves demand attention, making it less suitable for nervous drivers. It's ideal for those with limited time who want a memorable, immersive Hawaiian experience.

10. Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

This 25-mile stretch of US-550 between Silverton and Ouray ranks tenth for its thrilling, cliff-hugging drive with narrow lanes, no guardrails, and the 11,018-foot Red Mountain Pass. It's part of the longer San Juan Skyway, a 236-mile loop also worth driving, with old mining-town stops in Ouray and Telluride. Best June through September, as winter brings avalanche closures. The switchbacks and sheer drops make it unforgettable for confident drivers.

This trip suits adrenaline-seeking drivers with steady nerves, trading the Road to Hana's tropical curves for alpine exposure at altitude. It trades away the Blue Ridge Parkway's gentle scenic driving for a white-knuckle challenge. The short length means it's best as part of a larger Colorado itinerary, not a standalone trip. Nervous drivers should avoid it, as the lack of guardrails and narrow lanes demand full attention.

How we ranked these

Rankings were determined by measuring scenery density per mile, road quality and safety, density of iconic stops, and how well the drive itself sustains interest independent of destinations. Each route was scored on a 100-point weighted scale, with scenery (30%), road quality (25%), iconic stops (25%), and drive experience (20%). Mileage, park fees, and seasonal access were verified against official sources.

Deliberately ignored were subjective factors like personal nostalgia, brand reputation, and social media popularity. Also excluded were routes requiring off-road vehicles or international border crossings. The focus remained on paved, publicly accessible drives suitable for standard rental cars. This approach ensures rankings reflect measurable, repeatable criteria rather than anecdotal acclaim or viral trends.

Related questions

What is the best road trip for seeing national parks?

Utah's Mighty 5 loop is the top choice, linking Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands in about 800 miles. A single $80 America the Beautiful pass covers all entry fees, making it the most park-dense route. Plan 5–7 days minimum, with 10 for serious hikers.

What is the most scenic coastal drive in the US?

California's Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is unmatched, with 656 miles of cliffs, beaches, and redwoods. The Big Sur stretch between Monterey and Morro Bay is the highlight. Drive north to south for ocean-side pullouts, and allow 5–7 days.

What is the best road trip for beginners?

The Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal, with a gentle 45 mph speed limit, no entrance fee, and 469 miles of Appalachian scenery. It's well-maintained and forgiving, with frequent overlooks. Budget 3–4 days, stopping in Asheville and Roanoke.

What is the most challenging road trip in the US?

The Million Dollar Highway (US-550) between Silverton and Ouray is the most demanding, with narrow lanes, no guardrails, and 11,018-foot Red Mountain Pass. It's best attempted by confident drivers in summer, June through September.

What is the best road trip for a long weekend?

Hawaii's Road to Hana, the Overseas Highway in the Keys, or the Million Dollar Highway all fit a long weekend. Each offers dense scenery in a short distance. For Hana, start early and expect 620 curves; for the Keys, plan for 42 bridges.

What is the best road trip for families?

Route 66 is family-friendly, with kitschy stops like Cadillac Ranch and the Blue Whale of Catoosa. The 2,448-mile route takes two weeks, but you can sample sections. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also easy, with no entry fee and gentle driving.

What is the best road trip for solitude?

US-50 across Nevada, the Loneliest Road, offers 287 miles of basin-and-range emptiness with services 60+ miles apart. It's perfect for those seeking big-sky solitude. Detour to Great Basin National Park for free entry and ancient bristlecone pines.

FAQ

What is the single best road trip in the US?

For most travelers, California's Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is the best overall, combining 656 miles of coastline, Big Sur cliffs, redwoods, and charming towns. Allow 5–7 days and check Caltrans for landslide closures around Big Sur before you go.

Which US road trip gives the best value?

Utah's Mighty 5 loop is the best value: a single $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers entry to all five national parks (Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands), versus $35 each. The scenery-per-dollar is unmatched.

How long do you need to drive Route 66?

Plan about two weeks to drive all 2,448 miles of Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica across eight states. You can do a compressed version in a week, but you'll miss many of the Americana stops that make the route worthwhile.

When is Going-to-the-Sun Road open?

The alpine section of Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically fully open only from late June or early July through mid-October, depending on snow clearing. A timed vehicle reservation is required in peak summer in addition to the $35 park pass.

Do I need a national park pass for the Mighty 5?

Yes, but the $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers entry to all five parks. Without it, you'd pay $35 per vehicle at each park, totaling $175. The pass pays for itself if you visit two or more parks.

What is the speed limit on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The speed limit is 45 mph throughout the 469-mile parkway. This forces a slower pace, ideal for enjoying overlooks and mountain views. There is no entrance fee, and the parkway connects Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks.

Is the Road to Hana worth it?

Yes, mile-for-mile it's among the most beautiful drives anywhere, with 620 curves and 59 one-lane bridges. It's a full-day out-and-back from Kahului. Stop at Twin Falls, Waiʻanapanapa State Park, and banana bread stands. Start early to avoid traffic.

What should I know about the Overseas Highway?

The 113-mile drive from Miami to Key West crosses 42 bridges, including the Seven Mile Bridge. Mile markers count down to MM 0. Allow 1–3 days, stop at John Pennekamp State Park ($8 per vehicle), and beware of two-lane traffic.

Can I drive an RV on Going-to-the-Sun Road?

No, vehicles over 21 feet long or 8 feet wide are prohibited on the alpine section. The road's tight switchbacks and narrow shoulders make it unsafe for large RVs. Consider a smaller rental or shuttle options within Glacier National Park.

Sources

• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/goingtothesunroad.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/upload/Going-to-the-Sun-Road-vehicle-reservation.pdf
• https://www.nps.gov/grba/planyourvisit/lehmancaves.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-the-hoh-rain-forest.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/trail_ridge_road.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit/navajo-loop.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/delicate-arch.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/vehicle-reservations.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/cali/planyourvisit/upload/Going-to-the-Sun-Road-vehicle-reservation.pdf

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