If you’re somebody who prefers to travel by plane, it’s likely you’ve never experienced the adventure of a great road trip. Perhaps you just need to get off the beaten path to a more unique or remote destination before you appreciate all that the road trip experience has to offer.
Explore the best road trip destinations in North America and plan your next trip to one of the noteworthy places below. No matter how far you drive, the journey is sure to be worth it!
1. Hoh Rain Forest, Washington
If you’re headed to the pacific northwest, Hoh Rain Forest is a must-see destination. Located just off Highway 101, this temperate rainforest is part of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, an area that makes up the most northwest corner of the state.
Hike moss-laden trails and marvel at the giant 1,000-year-old cedar, spruce, and fir trees. Explore the Hoh River and look for Roosevelt elk. Then, travel north and finish your road trip in Forks, the town where Stephanie Meyer based her “Twilight” saga novels.
2. Monument Valley, Arizona
Monument Valley is one of the most iconic road trip destinations in North America. Home to the Navajo nation and the backdrop of many a movie scene, this picturesque valley is a must-see during any western road trip.
Start your journey in Las Vegas and drive to the Grand Canyon before heading to Monument Valley. Then, plan to travel onward and camp at scenic Lake Powell for a night or two. If you’re ambitious, you can complete the entire trip in four to five days.
3. Yoho National Park, Canada
The word “yoho” comes from the Cree word for “awe,” and once you’ve seen this stunning destination, it’s easy to see why. Located within the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park lies on the western slopes, offering exceptional hiking and some of the most gorgeous lakeside views in all of Canada.
Remember to check out the Burgess Shale fossils and take in Mount Wapta from the shores of Emerald Lake. Want to add another stop to your road trip? Banff is practically right around the corner, so you have the option to keep on trekking.
4. Death Valley National Park, Nevada and California
Most people who hear the name “Death Valley” might try and steer clear of this national park. However, if you go during the off-season, this destination isn’t nearly as treacherous as it sounds. Plan a trip in early spring to experience starry nights, unique landscapes, and the Old West as it’s been for millions of years.
Hike the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, explore Titus Canyon, and enjoy scenic drives throughout the park. There are plenty of places to stop and eat right off Death Valley Junction, so plan to take your time on this trip of a lifetime.
5. Key West, Florida
If you’d rather be by the sea, take a drive down to the Florida Keys. Begin your journey in Miami and head on down through Key Largo, Islamorada, and Duck Key, ending your trip in Key West, Florida’s southernmost tip. Along the way, you’ll pass over 42 bridges and take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic on both sides of the road.
Fly into Miami International Airport and rent a convertible to enjoy the warm ocean breeze. By the time you get to the beach, you’ll be ready for an ice-cold, authentic key lime cocktail. Cheers!
6. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
The Badlands of South Dakota are a photographer’s dream. Here, colorful buttes, spires, and pinnacles form otherworldy landscapes home to bison and bighorn sheep. It’s also home to the largest mixed-grass prairie in the United States, so you know the sunsets and sunrises are sure to be magical.
Start your trip in Rapid City and head to Mount Rushmore to see the presidents in stone. Continue on through Minneapolis and enjoy a grand finale in Badlands National Park.
7. Saguenay Fjord, Canada
If you’re in the mood for a shorter road trip, take the 448-mile journey from Quebec City to Saguenay Fjord and back. Experience the province’s intense glacial-carved landscapes from the comfort of your car or get out at Saguenay and experience it on an inner tube as you float down the Jacques-Cartier River.
Then, it’s on to the Route du Fjord. Keep your eyes peeled for beluga whales before finally making your way back to Quebec City. Take some time to tour the old-world-style streets and take in the cityscape from the hilltop chateaus while you’re there.
Planning the Perfect Roadtrip
Regardless of where you go, it’s important to plan your road trip well in advance. You’ll have to get your car inspected, map out an ideal route, book accommodations, and more, so you want to give yourself at least a few weeks to plan and prep.
Once you have an itinerary, you can spring into action, pack your bags, and hit the road. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, too! Plan to make multiple stops for gas and restroom breaks. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Road trips are supposed to be fun, remember?