7 mesmerizing road trips in West America

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is one of the most iconic and breathtaking road trips in the world. Running along the Pacific Ocean in California, this 655-mile long route stretches from San Francisco to San Diego, taking you through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country. Along the way, you can stop at charming towns like Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Big Sur, hike in state parks, and take in the majestic views of the Pacific Ocean.

2. Highway 101 (Oregon and Washington)

Another stunning drive along the West Coast is Highway 101, which runs from the northern tip of Washington state to the southern border of California. In Oregon and Washington, this road trip takes you through a diverse landscape of rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and picturesque small towns. Highlights of this 363-mile long trip include stops at popular destinations like Cannon Beach, the Olympic Peninsula, and the charming city of Portland.

3. Route 66 (California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois)

Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is one of the most famous road trips in America. This historic route takes you through eight states, from Santa Monica, California to Chicago, Illinois. On this road trip, you’ll drive through both the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, pass through iconic cities like Albuquerque and St. Louis, and see a variety of landscapes, from expansive deserts to rolling farmlands.

4. Grand Circle (Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico)

For those looking for natural beauty, the Grand Circle road trip is a must-do. This 1,300-mile route takes you through some of the most stunning and diverse national parks in the country, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and Arches. Along the way, you can also stop at lesser-known gems like Canyonlands, Capital Reef, and Mesa Verde.

5. The Loneliest Road (Nevada)

For a different kind of road trip experience, consider driving the “Loneliest Road in America,” also known as Route 50 through Nevada. This 411-mile stretch of highway takes you through vast desert landscapes, ghost towns, and quirky attractions like the Shoe Tree and the Sand Mountain Recreation Area. While it may not have the same grandeur as some of the other road trips on this list, it offers a unique and peaceful journey through the heart of the American West.

6. The Alaska Highway (Alaska and Canada)

For a truly epic road trip, consider driving the Alaska Highway, which stretches 1,387 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska. This journey takes you through some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in North America, including the Canadian Rockies, Yukon Territory, and Denali National Park. Along the way, you can spot wildlife, hike, camp, and experience the unique culture of Alaska and northern Canada.

7. Red Rock Country (Arizona)

For a shorter, but equally stunning road trip, consider driving through Arizona’s Red Rock Country. This 145-mile loop takes you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the American Southwest, including Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, and Red Rock State Park. Along the way, you can explore ancient Native American ruins, go on scenic hikes, and see some of the most iconic red rock formations in the world.