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There’s no better way to explore America’s diverse landscapes than from behind the wheel. National parks often sit near one another or along historic highways, making them perfect for multi-stop road trips. Whether you’re drawn to mountains, canyons, deserts, or the sea, these eight scenic routes take you through some of the country’s most iconic parks. Pack your gear, hit the gas, and soak in the beauty of the open road and wild public lands.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
Drive through the heart of the Appalachians on a winding 469-mile route connecting Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks. Explore dense forests, rolling hills, and historic overlooks. Stop in Asheville for artsy vibes and mountain views, then continue north along Skyline Drive. Best in fall, this drive explodes in red, orange, and gold an iconic American leaf-peeping experience.
Wyoming’s Best Hits
Start in Cheyenne and head west through wild, wide-open landscapes toward Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Between stops at hot springs, alpine lakes, and geysers, this 800-mile trip offers everything from cowboy history to dramatic peaks. Camp under the stars or stay in Jackson for a cozy base. Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and the Tetons’ rugged skyline make this drive unforgettable.
Beyond California’s Coast
This 130-mile route weaves through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia. Start with granite giants like El Capitan, then wind south past waterfalls and ancient forests to the land of giant sequoias. Highlights include the General Sherman Tree and alpine hikes above 7,000 feet. With high elevation roads and tight turns, this compact journey delivers epic scenery in every season.
Utah’s Mighty Five
Bryce, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef make up Utah’s “Mighty Five”—and they’re made for a road trip. Stretching 370 miles, this route delivers red rock canyons, natural arches, and sculpted sandstone. Start in Arches and end in Zion for a week of unreal scenery and hiking. Visit in winter for snowy desert backdrops or spring for warm days and wildflowers.
West Virginia’s Wonders
New River Gorge may be one of America’s newest national parks, but it’s already a road trip favorite. Start at Blackwater Falls and loop 200 miles to New River Gorge, taking in waterfalls, rock spires, and whitewater rafting. The Endless Wall Trail offers misty sunrise views over the gorge. It’s a perfect long weekend trip that showcases the Mountain State’s rugged charm.
Florida Keys
Begin in the wetlands of the Everglades and drive the Overseas Highway to Key West, stopping at Biscayne and ending at Dry Tortugas. This 150-mile trip blends subtropical wilderness, coral reefs, and coastal charm. Everglades and Biscayne are accessible by car and boat, while Dry Tortugas requires a ferry or seaplane. Expect marine life, mangroves, and old forts along this sun-drenched island route.
New Mexico to Texas
This 450-mile drive links White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains, and Big Bend. Expect gypsum dunes, limestone caves, desert peaks, and star-filled skies. Start in New Mexico’s dune fields, explore caverns, and climb Guadalupe Peak before finishing under Big Bend’s vast night sky. Ideal for stargazers and hikers who love dramatic, wide-open landscapes.
Olympic Peninsula Loop
Circle the lush Olympic Peninsula on a 335-mile drive from and back to Olympia, Washington. Olympic National Park packs alpine meadows, temperate rainforests, and wild beaches into one place. Hike Hurricane Ridge, wander the Hoh Rain Forest, and watch waves crash at Rialto Beach. Stay in Forks or Kalaloch Lodge for easy trail access and the sound of the ocean at night.