Epic Road Trip Ideas for Adventure Seekers
Road trips have long been a staple of adventurer’s journeys across the globe, providing a unique way to explore unknown places and see the world from the vantage point of a car windshield. From jaunts through city streets and resort towns to long treks through spectacular mountains, there is an endless list of possibilities for epic road trips. Adventure seekers will find plenty of suitable road trips to take, no matter their preferred genre of adventure. Here are some of the best epic road trips for the adventure seeking traveler.
Highway 1 Through California
Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is a classic example of an epic road trip route. Stretching from Dana Point, CA up north to Leggett, CA, the route snakes through two thousand miles of rugged coastline, offering unparalleled views of the rocky shoreline, as well as glimpses of lush forests and grassy hills. Along the drive, recent travelers can spot beach houses, lighthouses, and quiet fishing towns. There is also plenty of camping spots on the route, so travelers can quite literally sleep on the beach.
Greatest US Road Trip Through the Southwest
Another epic adventure seekers tour is the US’s most popular trip around the Southwest. From Las Vegas, NV, travelers can take a cruise along Route 66 and make pit stops in the cities of Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Phoenix, and San Diego, as well as other exquisite locations like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest. The trip along Route 66 serves as a perfect introduction to the incredible wilderness of the Southwest, showcasing features like towering mountain ranges, expansive deserts, and meandering rivers. Also home of numerous national parks, the Southwest is the perfect destination for adventure seekers looking for a fun and challenging road trip.
Big Sur Coastline Drive in California
For those looking for a more tropical adventure, the Big Sur Coastline drive in California should be at the top of the list. Starting from the city of Cambria and running up to the town of Carmel By the Sea, the route offers up some of the most spectacular coastal views in the United States. The drive encompasses both the northern and southern portions of Big Sur, taking passengers past majestic redwoods, over fog shrouded hills and through winding valleys. Travelers also have the unique opportunity to stay overnight at the beguiling Lucia Lodge, giving them a chance to experience the tranquil beauty of Big Sur without the hustle and bustle of the everyday world.
Drive Through the Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies are a sight to behold, boasting a breathtaking landscape of pristine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and lush evergreen forests. There are numerous routes that adventure seekers can take through the Rockies, allowing them to experience stunning vistas and hidden gems not accessible to the public. Passengers can stay overnight at rustic lodges, campgrounds, and quaint inns along the way, providing them with the opportunity to enjoy some of the region’s most remarkable sites with minimal interruption.
Scenic Byway 12 in Utah
For those looking for a journey peppered with dramatic canyons and rock formations, taking the Scenic Byway 12 in Utah is a must. Winding through the awe inspiring Escalante Canyons region and passing by scenic landmarks like Boulder Mountain, this route offers travelers a spectacular drive through some of the most rugged terrain in the United States. With towering red rocks, canyons, and forests, this road trip provides a thrilling journey that will have travelers wanting to keep going.
Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi
Natchez Trace Parkway through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee is a historical trek that takes one through landscapes featuring rolling hills and fields, towering canyons, and awe-inspiring forests. This was the route of boatmen, fur traders, and settlers all the way back in the early 19th century, and the journey remains much the same today. Passengers can spot evidence of the past in the numerous pioneer homes and old-fashioned plantations dating back to the era of steamboats and wagons. To make the experience even more unforgettable, the route also offers a host of panther-filled forests and natural areas.
Highway 101 Along the Oregon and Washington Coastline
Highway 101 along the Oregon and Washington coastline is the perfect way to capture the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Spanning from Astoria and running through Long Beach Peninsula and Olympic National Park, this drive offers stunning ocean views, lush rain forests, and dense fog shrouding the pine-filled landscape. Travelers can make stops at establishments like Tillamook Cheese Factory and Haystock Rock along the way and admire the remarkable beaches, forests, and cliffs.
Tips for Taking an Epic Road Trip
Taking an epic road trip is a great way to explore a piece of the world, but in order for the trip to be a success, a few essential tips should be taken into consideration:
• Bring all essentials: Before heading out on the open road, make sure you have all the essentials you’ll need, including a map, snacks, entertainment, and phone charger with you.
• Give yourself enough time: Don’t try to fit too much into your road trip. Give yourself plenty of time to take in the views and sightsee along the way.
• Make use of rest stops: Rest stops are a great way to break up a long drive and stretch your legs. They often offer amenities like clean bathrooms and free Wi-Fi and can be an unexpected source of relaxation.
• Travel with a companion: It’s always better to travel in pairs or with a friend. Not only is it more fun, but it’s also safer in case something unexpected happens.
• Avoid driving at night: Driving at night can be dangerous and tiring. If possible, try to plan your days so that you are never on the road after dark.
• Take your time: This is the key to a successful road trip. Don’t stress about getting from point A to point B, just relax and savor the journey.
Epic road trips offer adventure seekers the perfect opportunity to explore the world from the comfort of a car. Whether your journey takes you through the Southwest, along the Big Sur Coastline, or through the Rocky Mountains, there’s no shortage of epic routes that will provide the perfect escape to fantastic destinations. With these tips in mind, let the open road be your guide to unforgettable moments and new discoveries.
