The American West is a land of stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking national parks and scenic drives that attract visitors from around the world. Road trips and scenic drives offer a unique opportunity to explore the American West's vast landscapes and diverse cultures. In this blog post, we'll share the best road trips in the American West, including national parks and scenic drives that will take your breath away.
Best National Park Road Trips
Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica, California
Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, covering over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. The route passes through eight states, including Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Along the way, you'll encounter iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, and the Petrified Forest National Park.
Arches and Canyonlands National Parks: Utah
Utah is home to two of the most spectacular national parks in the country: Arches and Canyonlands. The road trip from Arches to Canyonlands takes you through a stunning landscape of red rocks, mesas, and canyons. The route includes the scenic Shafer Trail, which winds through the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park.
Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, known for its geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife. The road trip through Yellowstone takes you past some of the park's most famous sights, including Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Yellowstone River.
Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, and a road trip through the park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon offers stunning views of the canyon, while the North Rim is a less-crowded alternative with equally spectacular vistas.
Yosemite National Park: California
Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. The road trip through Yosemite takes you past iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
Best Scenic Drives in the American West
Pacific Coast Highway: California
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the country, offering stunning views of the California coastline. The route starts in San Francisco and winds its way down the coast to Los Angeles, passing through iconic destinations like Big Sur and Santa Barbara.
Beartooth Highway: Montana and Wyoming
The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile stretch of road that winds through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in Montana and Wyoming. The route offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and rugged valleys.
Million Dollar Highway: Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of road that winds through the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. The route offers stunning views of rugged peaks, deep canyons, and historic mining towns.
San Juan Skyway: Colorado
The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop that winds through the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. The route offers stunning views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and colorful fall foliage.
Trail Ridge Road: Colorado
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the country, winding through Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. The road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Tips for Planning Your Road Trip
Now that you know the best national park road trips and scenic drives in the American West, it's time to start planning your own road trip. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Best time to visit the American West
The best time to visit the American West depends on what you want to see and do. The summer months are the busiest, with the warmest temperatures and the most crowds. The fall and spring offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while the winter months offer opportunities for winter sports and unique winter landscapes.
Packing essentials
Be sure to pack for the climate and terrain you'll encounter on your road trip. This may include sunscreen, sunglasses, hiking boots, warm clothing, and rain gear. It's also important to bring plenty of water and snacks for the road.
Vehicle rental and maintenance
If you're renting a vehicle for your road trip, be sure to choose a reliable car or RV and check the rental company's policies and fees. If you're using your own vehicle, be sure to have it serviced before your trip and carry a spare tire and tools in case of emergencies.
Accommodation options
There are many accommodation options for road trips in the American West, including hotels, motels, campgrounds, and RV parks. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Conclusion
The American West offers some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the world, and a road trip through its national parks and scenic drives is an unforgettable experience. From the iconic Route 66 to the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, there are road trip options for every traveler. So start planning your own road trip adventure in the American West today!
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