The United States offers some of the world’s most scenic landscapes, historic towns, and breathtaking adventures, all waiting to be explored on the open road and epic ideas for a roadtrip. From desert landscapes to coastal drives and forested mountains, there’s something for every traveler in these epic routes. Here’s a guide to the best weeklong road trips to consider for your next getaway in 2024.
1. Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks
Highlights: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion
Explore Utah’s famous “Mighty 5” national parks on this iconic route. Perfect for a 7-10 day itinerary, this trip takes you through towering red rock formations, vast desert views, and hidden natural arches. Not-to-miss stops include Delicate Arch and Double Arch in Arches National Park, Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, and Bryce Canyon’s Scenic Drive overlooks.
2. Northern Arizona Wonders
Highlights: Page, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Sedona
For stunning desert and canyon views, head to Northern Arizona. Start in Page, home to Lake Powell and iconic spots like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Continue to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, where movies like Forrest Gump filmed. Sedona, with its red rock landscapes and spiritual vibe, makes a perfect end stop.
3. New England’s Fall Foliage
Highlights: Acadia National Park, Lake Winnipesaukee, Stowe, and the White Mountains
New England is unbeatable in the fall when vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows take over the landscape. Visit Acadia National Park to watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, explore quaint coastal towns like Bar Harbor, and hike in the White Mountains for some of the best views in the country.
4. The Ultimate Colorado Loop
Highlights: Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes, Million Dollar Highway, and Glenwood Springs
This Colorado loop starting in Denver covers mountain views, geothermal springs, and epic drives like the Million Dollar Highway. Check out the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, the sand dunes near Alamosa, and end with a soak in the hot springs at Glenwood Springs.
5. Wyoming and Montana’s Wild Wonders
Highlights: Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks
Start in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and explore the iconic jagged peaks of Grand Teton National Park. Continue to Yellowstone to witness Old Faithful and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. Head to Glacier National Park in Montana for unforgettable hikes to Iceberg Lake and stunning scenic drives.
6. California’s Coastal and Desert Gems
Highlights: Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and San Diego’s beaches
This Southern California road trip offers a blend of desert beauty and coastal relaxation. Visit Death Valley for unique desert views, including Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Head south to Joshua Tree for rock climbing and stargazing, then finish with some coastal time in San Diego or Los Angeles.
7. Nevada’s Desert Marvels
Highlights: Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Cathedral Gorge
Southeast Nevada is an underrated gem for road trippers. Start at Red Rock Canyon, just outside Las Vegas, for desert landscapes and epic rock climbing. Don’t miss the Fire Wave in Valley of Fire and kayak to Emerald Cove for a unique water adventure. Wrap up in the peaceful Cathedral Gorge and Great Basin National Park.
8. South Dakota’s Black Hills
Highlights: Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park
South Dakota’s Black Hills are a mix of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities. Visit Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial, explore the vast cave systems in Wind Cave and Jewel Cave National Parks, and finish with a scenic drive along the Needles Highway.
9. Texas’s Western Landscapes
Highlights: Guadalupe Mountains, Big Bend National Park, and Marfa
West Texas is ideal for those looking to explore remote, untouched landscapes. Visit the Guadalupe Mountains for epic desert views, soak in hot springs at Big Bend National Park, and don’t miss the art installations in Marfa, a quirky town known for its mysterious Marfa Lights.
10. The Pacific Northwest’s Natural Beauty
Highlights: Olympic National Park, the Oregon Coast, and Crater Lake
Starting in Seattle or Portland, explore the lush landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Visit Olympic National Park for diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to rugged coastlines. Drive the scenic Oregon Coast and head to Crater Lake for the deepest lake in the United States.
These epic road trips offer a variety of landscapes and experiences perfect for 2024. From iconic national parks to hidden gems off the beaten path, there’s no better way to explore the diverse beauty of the United States. So fuel up, pack your bags, and let the road take you to unforgettable adventures!
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