west road trip ideas

30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe

Posted on Published: January 31, 2023  - Last updated: December 18, 2023

Ready for an epic road trip adventure through the American west? From amazing coastal views to stunning national parks, the western part of the USA has some truly unbelievable landscapes. If you’re looking for the best west coast road trip – here’s 30 routes you’ll absolutely love.

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Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely drive over a long weekend or plan an amazing adventure covering a lot of ground over 2 weeks, this list has a bit of everything.

Visit charming towns along the California and Oregon coast. Go hiking in the national parks out west and catch views of dramatic landscapes. Rugged coasts, dense forests, wide open spaces and outta-this-world desert scenes, you’re about to find your perfect road trip out west in this guide .

Let’s dive in!

Must-see video: west coast road trips

West coast road trip map

This map includes highlights of some of the destinations on the west coast road trip itineraries below. Check out the full guide on each destination below!

Oh and by the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve called in some help from some fellow travel writers to create these epic itineraries. Enjoy!

Essentials for your Road Trip USA west coast

Before we dive into the list of awesome road trips, make sure you’re prepared by packing the right gear. Here are some suggestions to make your road trip go smoothly.

• Collapsable cooler. Perfect for if you’re flying to a destination for a road trip, or just to store when you’re not using it. A collapsable cooler keeps your drinks and food cool, too.
• Appropriate clothing for weather. From tank tops to a winter coat, be sure to check the weather before you go and take the appropriate layers. If you’re hiking, this is my favorite medium hiking coat , rain jacket and sun hat .
• Emergency items like satellite communicator and first aid kit . We all think it will never happen to us – until it does! This 2-way satellite communicator comes with me on all road trips and hiking adventures. Take this first aid kit for your car or pack it for day hikes.

• GoPro. Capture the best photos and videos of the road (while another adult is driving) or take it for underwater adventures and swimming. This GoPro goes with me on every trip!
• Reusable water bottles. Pack one or two for each person to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles. Refill at restaurants, hotels and clean water stations at national parks.
• Right hiking gear. If you’re visiting any of the national parks in the west and stepping foot out of your car, you’ll want the right gear to be comfortable. These are my favorite hiking shoes , hiking socks , trekking poles and hiking backpack that accompany me to any hiking destination.

By the way, if you’ll need to rent a car for this adventure, try searching Discover Cars first. It’s free to use, the site searches the major car companies and I typically save 10-30% using Discover Cars .

US west coast road trip

Gahhh! I’m so excited for you! Epic adventures await on a west coast road trip. Starting off with a few of my favorites…

1. Oregon Coast road trip

Distance: 745 miles Recommended time: 5-10 days Best time of year: May through October

The Oregon Coast is perfect for road trips, with 363-miles of stunning coastlines and more than 15 not-to-be missed towns.

It’s perfect for a choose-your-own-adventure kind of trip, to accommodate your interests and the amount of time you have to spare. But if you have some flexibility, you could easily spend a week and a half exploring the coastline.

Start your trip in Portland and make your way to the northern portion of the Oregon coast. Cannon Beach should absolutely be on your bucketlist, home to the iconic sea stack, Haystack Rock. Here, you can explore tidepools, keep a lookout for puffins in the summertime, and have a bonfire right on the sand. 

Making your way south, stop at Pacific City Beach, which offers sweeping sand dunes and epic rock formations at Cape Kiwanda . If you’re brave, this is an excellent spot to take on the chilly Pacific waves at a surf lesson- it’s one of the most popular places along the coast to catch a wave!

Continuing south, the town of Florence has a charming historic downtown, with ice cream parlors and salt-water taffy stores. Florence is also home to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , a 40-mile stretch of rolling sand dunes that has earned the town the name “Sandboarding Capital of the World.”

At the southern tip of the Oregon Coast, you’ll find the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor in Brookings. This recreation area has rugged sea stacks, secluded beaches, and some of the most jaw-dropping vistas you’ll find on the West Coast.

Finally, make your way back to Portland, completing the 745-mile loop around the western portion of the state.

Summer is absolutely the best time to head to the Oregon Coast , thanks to the pleasant weather and clear skies. If you want to avoid the crowds, though, early fall (late September and early October) can be a good time to get most of the attractions to yourself and snag some decent deals on accommodations.

The Oregon Coast from Portland is certainly worthy of being on this list: road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

2. Pacific Coast Highway road trip: San Francisco to San Diego

Distance: 615+ miles Recommended time: 3-10 days Best time of year: November through April

You’ll want to keep this west coast road trip itinerary! The drive from San Francisco to San Diego, California is absolutely stunning.

From the rugged, untouched coast of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Southern California and charming towns in between, this is a bucket list road trip, for sure!

Fly into San Francisco and rent a car , drive the coast and fly back out of San Diego. You can do this trip in as little as 3 days, but 7-10 days is recommended.

There are over 30 fabulous stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip , so you’ll never run out of things to do.

Starting in San Francisco, be sure to visit the Golden Gate Bridge and hike the Land’s End Trail for spectacular views of the bay. Next up is Monterey, where you can shop and dine in the historic Cannery Row, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Monterey too, making this road trip option one of the best on this list for families.

A must-see along this US west coast road trip is Carmel-by-the-Sea. Charming architecture met with great beaches, this is a fun stop. This is a great spot for an overnight stay , because Big Sur is next and there’s not very many accommodations for a few hundred miles.

Fill up on gas in Carmel-by-the-Sea before hitting the road to Big Sur. This undeveloped stretch of land is where cliffs meet the ocean, where whale watching, sea lions and sea otters are prominent nearly year round.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur that every vacation style will love this region. Be sure to stop by the Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach.

As you make your way through Southern California, the charming towns of San Luis Obispo and Solvang make way for Malibu, Huntington Beach, La Jolla and finally to San Diego.

Ideally, you could spend 2 days in San Diego , visiting the highlight including Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego , the Gaslamp District and Coronado Beach.

This fun-filled road trip can be done any time of year. The Big Sur coast sees a lot of marine fog during the summer and early fall months, so winter and spring are the best times for views and the fewer crowds.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Washington National Parks

Distance: 600+ miles Recommended time: 7 – 14 days Best time of year: June through September

If you’re looking to see some of the most beautiful views on the western part of the United States, then a Washington state national parks road trip is a must!

On this trip, you’ll see the sites and hear the sounds of Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades National Parks, as well as see the Rainy City, Seattle.

Start the road trip in Mount Rainier, hit Olympic second, and then make your way towards North Cascades for a long , but totally worth it road trip. 

This trip can quickly become over 600 miles, so it’s recommended to have at least a week to complete it, but having 10 to 14 days is more ideal.

Starting in Mount Rainier, it’s a must to visit the Paradise area of the park, and spend some time hiking the trails, such as the Skyline Trail . The Nisqually Vista trail is one of the best beginner trails in the state.

After you’ve spent time enjoying the best things to do in Mt Rainier National Park , head north towards Olympic National Park. Start your visit on the western half, along the Pacific Coast. Visit Ruby and Rialto Beaches before heading to Hurricane Ridge.

From here, drive out of the park and stop in Seattle before the last leg of the trip. Spending just one day in Seattle , you can see the highlights like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture and the Olympic Sculpture Park. Be sure to take one of the Pike Place Market food tours while you’re in town!

North Cascades is your final destination, where you’ll be greeted with towering peaks. See the fabulous Diablo Lake and Washington Pass Overlook. Embark on the Maple Pass Hike or to Blue Lake.

Because this Washington road trip is through many mountains, it’s best done in the summer, as many roads close in the winter.

If you’re flying in, it’s best to fly into Seattle and then rent a car there. And don’t forget your America the Beautiful parks pass , as you’ll get good use out of it on this trip!

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

4. Anchorage to Seward, Alaska (one of the most scenic on this list of road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 125 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: April through September

The drive from Anchorage to Seward Alaska is arguably among the most beautiful stretches of road in the USA. On a map the distance between these two cities is just 125 miles, but with all the stunning views and beautiful places along the way it takes much longer than 2 hours to drive.

This road trip follows the Old Seward Highway which traces Turnagain Arm, a waterway that forms the northern boundary of the Cook Inlet off of the Gulf of Alaska.

On one side of the road is deep blue water with snow-capped mountains in the distance and on the other side are the stunning forest-covered Chugach Mountains with endless hiking trails to explore. Beluga whales can be spotted along this section from July through August.

Once you reach the town of Portage, the highway crosses onto the Kenai Peninsula, where the small harbor town of Seward is located. Here you will find Kenai Fjord National Park , which is accessible by both land and water. By land, hike up to Exit Glacier or, by water, spend a day on a glacier cruise into the park.

Other great places to stop on this road trip from Anchorage to Seward include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the Alyeska aerial tram in Girdwood and a boat ride to Portage Glacier in Portage.

This road trip is best in the warmer months, from April through September. Beginning in October, many businesses and tours begin shutting down for the season. Seward is a charming town to stay in with many lodging options ranging from hotels, quaint cabins by the water and bed and breakfasts.

This Alaskan adventure is undoubtedly one of the best west coast road trip itineraries!

Recommended by Susan of This Big Wild World

5. Arizona road trip: Phoenix to Tucson

Distance: 110+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

This US west coast road trip is based in Arizona, and you’re certainly in for a treat!

While Phoenix may be the official capital of Arizona, Tucson is the outdoor hub of the state. One hundred and twelve miles to the southeast of Phoenix, Tucson’s surrounded by mountains, saguaros and the only National Park protecting the sacred Saguaros – Saguaro National Park. 

The drive on Interstate 10 isn’t much to write home about, but when you begin to close in on the Tucson City limits, the fun begins. You’ll first reach the western half of Saguaro National Park, a pristine landscape covered in cacti.

This part is geared toward photographers and those without the need for handholding. It’s best viewed at sunset when Arizona’s famed skies put on a show.

After sunset, continue into the city for delicious Mexican food and your lodging. The following day you can explore Tucson , drive the 50 minutes up to Mt Lemmon, a 9,000+ foot goliath casting its shadow over Tucson, or head to the eastern end of town for the second half of Saguaro National Park.

If you choose the park, know it’s more developed, mountainous (trails go as high as 8,000+ feet), and has a visitor center. The eastern part is perfect for families and those looking for a moderate day hike. The main area isn’t large but offers a nice loop drive with various trailheads to start your walks.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months and looking to escape the heat, Mt. Lemmon is your best friend. On average, the top of the mountain offers visitors a 22-degree reprieve from the heat below . Here, you’ll find miles and miles of hiking and mountain biking.

After your adventure, stop by the famous Cookie Cabin for delicious pizza and an even more tasty Pizookie. Then, on your way down, stop by Windy Point and take in the sunset. Tucson’s known for putting on the best sky magic in the southwest. 

Lastly, be careful while driving on Mt. Lemmon’s scenic byway. It’s curvy and a favorite of cyclists in the area. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

6. San Francisco to Yosemite (iconic west coast road trip route)

Distance: 212 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

Visiting Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular weekend trips from San Francisco, and is a fantastic option for one of the best west coast road trips itineraries!

A scenic road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite is the best way to enjoy the area. The most scenic route to  Yosemite from San Francisco  takes CA-99 S and CA-140 E and goes through the towns of Merced, Mariposa, and Midpines to the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite National Park. 

The distance between San Francisco and Yosemite NP via this scenic route is just over 200 miles, and the average driving time is about 4.5 hours. 

However, making stops in Merced, Mariposa and Midpines on the way to Yosemite is a must-do. Therefore, choose to spend an extended weekend in Yosemite instead of a weekend.

Merced, called the “Gateway to Yosemite’, is about 130 miles away from San Francisco. Make a stop in Merced and do wine tasting at Vista Ranch , see the historic Merced County Courthouse Museum and visit the fabulous Merced Antique Mall. 

After a break in Merced, head to Mariposa, only 37 miles from Merced. The town Mariposa is such a charming Gold Rush town.

You might enjoy staying overnight in Mariposa . Choose a 2-hour zipline adventure at Yosemite Ziplines & Adventure Ranch from the mountain in Polaris Rangers to Downtown Mariposa. Afterward, indulge in delicious bites at Charles Street Dinner House and explore fantastic Mariposa wineries like Casto Oaks Fine Wine and Art and the Butterfly Creek Winery.

Continue to Yosemite after Mariposa, but make a break in Midpines, which is only 12 mi southwest of El Portal in Yosemite. Midpines is a lovely place for picnicking, swimming, rafting and fishing.

After Midpines, head to Yosemite. The stylish Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite is in Buck Meadows and on the way from Midpines to Yosemite Valley. Check-in at your room and start exploring the marvelous Yosemite National Park.

El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point viewpoint, Fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias await you! 

The best time to visit Yosemite is from May to September. 

Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

7. Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon

Distance: 726 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

One of the best road trips in the western USA is  Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon . Because Las Vegas airport has so many connections and fairly cheap flights, many people like to fly into Las Vegas and explore from there.

This road trip starts in Vegas and explores some of the amazing destinations northern Arizona and southern Utah has to offer.

You can do this road trip as a loop, or as a there-and-back trip. Starting out at Vegas head west towards Flagstaff and along the way you can stop off and enjoy Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Kingman Arizona.

From Flagstaff head north towards the Grand Canyon, one of the best stops on this road trip. After checking out the Grand Canyon, head north to Page, Arizona, which is a great stop-over city to spend the night.

The next morning head out to explore all the best sights near Page, such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. After touring these incredible places, you can start heading towards Zion National Park.

After hiking some incredible trails inside the park, grab a hotel room in Springdale , just outside Zion. The next day head out back towards Las Vegas, while stopping at Valley of Fire State Park on your way back.

Of course you can spend longer at any of these destinations, but if you’re short on time this road trip can be done in 3 days . 

The best time to do this road trip is in spring or fall. In the summer it can be incredibly hot in this part of the country. Zion in particular is one of the best national parks to visit in May , if you can arrange for it.

The winter is a great option if you really want to avoid the crowds, but some trails and roads could be closed so keep that in mind. Don’t forget to buy your Antelope Canyon tickets in advance, as they sell out really fast.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

8. Utah national parks road trip

Distance: 878+ miles Recommended time: 5 – 14 days Best time of year: anytime

One of the best American west coast road trip adventures is through the Mighty 5 in Utah. A stunning display of nature and endless views greet you on a Utah national parks road trip .

It’s best to start this road trip by flying into Salt Lake City and departing from Las Vegas. Rent a car, RV or camper van to explore these amazing national parks.

From Salt Lake City, travel about 4 hours to Moab. There, you’ll have access to Arches and Canyonlands National Park. Ideally, you’d have a few days to explore each park. But you can see quite a bit with just one day in Arches National Park .

Hike to Delicate Arch, the most famous arch in the world! Visit the Devil’s Playground, where you’ll see multiple arches in a short distance. The last major stop within the park is The Windows, where you see the huge Double Arch.

Canyonlands National Park has expansive views with many overlooks and hiking trails. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short walk to an arch overlooking the canyon, and perfect for a sunrise adventure. Be sure to check out the views at Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and White Rim Overlook.

The journey to Capital Reef is a fun drive along Utah Scenic Byway 24. Once there, be sure to check out the Fruita Historic District, Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail and take the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

For out-of-this-world views, you’ll love Bryce Canyon National Park. Check out the viewpoints at Inspiration Point and Bryce Point. This park has a shuttle system that’s convenient and prevents congestion within the park.

Be sure to take the shuttle to Sunrise Point, where you can start a phenomenal 3.2 mile hike, the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop . Walk through the funky hoodoos into the base of the amphitheater. So fun!

The last park on this US west coast road trip is Zion. This is one of the most visited national parks in the USA, and for good reason! Massive canyon views surround you throughout the park.

Take the Zion shuttle to hike The Narrows, or apply for a permit to hike Angels Landing . For a low-key trip to Zion with kids , you could hike the Canyon Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools or Pa’rus Trail.

After your visit to the Mighty 5 in Utah, take the 2.5 hour drive to Las Vegas. Fly out directly or spend a day or two exploring Vegas and the area’s many attractions.

Want to see more of Las Vegas? Check out what you must do in Vegas for first timers .

9. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone (perfect US west coast road trip)

Distance: 321+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through September

Salt Lake City is a beautiful place to start your road trip to Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, breathtaking views will greet you from the get-go.

The drive from Salt Lake City to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park is 321 miles and takes 5 hours to drive via I-15N. It’s one of the best west coast road trips USA!

If you’d prefer a more scenic route, consider taking a longer trip to the south entrance of the park through Jackson, Wyoming, via Highway 89. This longer loop (SLC to Yellowstone and back to SLC) includes 12 hours of road time, covering 734 miles.

Whether you have a few days to spare or all week, take this trip at your own pace.

The scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone detours through Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Jackson is a popular ski resort and has a charming wild west feel to the town.

If you’re looking for lodging in Jackson, consider staying at Elk County Inn , Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole or at The Lodge at Jackson Hole .

Grand Teton National Park is just miles away from Jackson. The beautiful park features amazing hiking trails and scenic views, including Inspiration Point Grand Teton . Most known for its beautiful mountains, the Teton Range is famous for its sharp peaks.

Once you’ve made your way to Yellowstone, best places to stay in Yellowstone are limited. Old Faithful Lodge and Cabins, Canyon Lodge and Cabins, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are great options for lodging. Keep in mind West Yellowstone and Gardiner are also great nearby areas to stay.

Most of the roads and amenities in Yellowstone are closed through May in the Tetons and in the park. May is a great time to visit because it’s less crowded, but most of the park, including the most popular attractions, is open.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger 

10. Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop

Distance: 530 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: June through September

Starting in  Salem  or Portland, you can easily visit the wide range of Oregon’s diverse terrain in a short time. This Oregon Highlights loop can be completed in less than 11 hours (530 miles) of driving time. 

You’ll want to spend a minimum of 3 days on this road trip, though it’s best enjoyed over a full week, or even longer.

While the trip can be enjoyed all year round, you may sometimes need chains or snow tires to drive through the mountain pass in winter. For the best road tripping weather in Oregon, aim for June through September. 

First, spend as much time as you want in Oregon’s largest cities – Portland or Salem, where you’ll find tasty eateries, urban hikes and cute shopping streets. 

Next, head East on I-84 through the impressive Colombia River Gorge with its many waterfalls, on your way to the trendy windsurfing town of Hood River. 

You can pick up treats from local apple farms as you head South through Mt. Hood National Forest and drive by snow-capped mountain peaks on your way to Central Oregon.

After enjoying your favorite outdoor adventure activities in the high desert, make your way back over the mountain range to Silver Falls State Park . This is where you can see 10 waterfalls on one trail – and even walk behind a few of the falls! 

Continue back into the Willamette Valley. Explore Oregon wine country around McMinnville, Oregon, taking your pick of scenic vineyards for wine tasting.

Then, continue West just 1 hour to reach the rugged Oregon Coast. You can climb the dunes at Pacific City and grab some crispy fish and chips. Make a final stop at the Tillamook Cheese factory on your way back to Salem or Portland.

Recommended by Michelle of Intentional Travelers

Can you believe this list?! Not even half done, there’s way more ideas to build your perfect west coast road trip itinerary coming right up!

11. Death Valley to Yosemite (find adventure with this road trip USA west coast route)

Distance: 319 miles Recommended time: 2-3 days Best time of year: September or October

The drive between Death Valley and Yosemite is an epic adventure through some of America’s most iconic national parks, and it’s one of the best west coast road trips!

The 2 parks have their own distinct personalities — Death Valley National Park is a desert expanse with hundreds of mountain ranges and some of the lowest elevation points in North America, and Yosemite National Park is filled with granite cliffs and waterfalls that provide majestic landscapes.

Start your trip at Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. You can stop along Highway 190 as it passes through Furnace Creek, but plan on stopping near Zabriskie Point for sunset views of the surrounding mountains and valley floor.

Then head north towards Mono Lake and stay overnight in Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes . End your trip in Yosemite Valley after driving through Tioga Road in Yosemite.

The drive from Badwater Basin to Yosemite Valley is 319 miles and takes 6 to 6.5 hours non-stop. You can finish the road trip within a day but it’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the parks and in between.

Highlights of this road trip include Lone Pine, Crowley Lake and Mammoth Lakes.

The best places to stay are inside Death Valley National Park and Yosemite National Park so you’ll get more time to explore the park. Since Tioga Road is closed from November through May and Death Valley gets scorching hot during the summer, the best time to do the road trip is in the fall. 

Recommended by Rasika of Bae Area And Beyond

12. Road to Hana, Maui

Distance: 52 miles Recommended time: 1- 2 days Best time of year: anytime

When you think of Hawaii, a road trip may not come to mind but driving the  Road to Hana  on Maui is one of the best ways to experience this island. The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the eastern side of the island to the town of Hana. 

While obviously not located in the Continental US, it’s a must-see on this list of best road trip USA west coast!

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one lane bridges, hairpin turns and curves. This road trip will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas before you embark on this journey.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, pristine beaches and through lush rainforest. Some highlights of this drive include Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, the awe inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park, Wailua Falls and Haleakala National Park.

Most people drive the Road to Hana and back in the same day but if time allows, stay the night in Hana town . If you stay at the  Hana Maui Resort  you’re in for a real treat.

This will give you a full day to experience the Road to Hana and to not feel rushed on the way back. Plus it’s not the most enjoyable drive at night on a narrow, winding cliffside road.

Since we are talking about Hawaii, you can road trip the Road to Hana anytime of the year. Just avoid this journey during heavy rains as flash floods can happen in the blink of an eye and parts of the road can get swept away.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit, water shoes and pack a lightweight towel because pulling off the side of the road to swim under a waterfall is the name of the game. Buckle up, enjoy the ride and prepare for a road trip of a lifetime.

Recommended by Jess of I’m Jess Traveling 

13. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

Distance: 323 Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: June through October

A road trip from the San Francisco Bay Area to Lake Tahoe is filled with gorgeous vistas and plenty of amazing things to do!

This road trip is 323 miles and can be done in only 2 days, but do yourself a favor and spend a few more to really soak up the beauty of the area! A road trip to Lake Tahoe can be completed in any season of the year, however summer or fall is recommended to avoid possible road closures due to snow.

Departing from San Francisco, travelers should head east on Highway 80 through Donner Pass, Truckee and then Tahoe City on the lake. 

Driving around the full length of Lake Tahoe is 72 miles of pure beauty. In summer, there are  many swimming beaches  such as Kings Beach, Zephyr and Sugar Pine Point Beach. 

The Tahoe East Shore Bike Trail is a 3 mile long paved path that runs from Incline Village to Sand Harbor either on bike or on foot. Many other hiking trails also provide a break from being in the car, such as Eagle Rock or down to Emerald Bay.

Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa and Hotel Azure Tahoe are both wonderful choices for lodging due to their lakefront locations, incredible views and lovely rooms.

After circling the lake, visitors are in for a fun day of adventure in Virginia City . This old silver mining town is filled with old saloons selling sarsaparillas, tours of underground mines and old schoolhouses, wooden sidewalks and plenty of cute shops. 

This Lake Tahoe road trip can end by taking an easy flight out of the Reno airport or travelers can head back on the scenic Highway 50 for another route back toward the Bay Area. No matter which route you choose, your San Francisco to Lake Tahoe adventure is sure to be one of the best west coast road trips!

Recommended by Sierra of Island and Alpine

14. Grand Teton to Glacier National Park (amazing sights on this road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 500+ miles Recommended time: 10 – 14 days Best time of year: August or September

The next road trip USA west coast is a must-see! A Wyoming and Montana road trip from Grand Tetons National Park to Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park is a great way to take in some of the most scenic and wild places in America.

At Grand Teton National Park, you’ll see the Teton Mountains, considered one of the most beautiful stretches anywhere in the Rockies.   Must-see in Grand Teton include Inspiration Point, Jackson Lake Beach and the Hike to Taggart Lake.

These parks are so amazing in late summer and early fall, Grand Teton made the list of one of the best places to visit in August in the US.

In Yellowstone, you’ll see some of the most famous landmarks in the country: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The wildlife, wide open spaces and scenic views are simply incredible.

And finally, in Glacier, you’ll see the park’s namesake glaciers, along with big horn sheep and, depending on the season, one of the most famous drives in America: the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Don’t miss the beautiful waterfalls in Glacier National Park , including Virginia Falls, Saint Mary Falls, Baring Falls and more.

You can start by basing yourself in Jackson, Wyoming, then move on to West Yellowstone, Montana, and end your trip in Whitefish, Montana. 

The trip is over 500 miles from start to finish, however, plan on putting many more miles than that on your car as you explore the parks. 

If you rent a car , you can fly into Jackson and fly out of Kalispell. Just make sure you get a car with unlimited miles!

Timing this road trip is the real challenge, as these parks are remarkably different from season to season.  

This trip is perfect for a shoulder season road trip since you’ll find smaller crowds in May and September than in the summer. 

However, watch for seasonal closures, as some of the highlights of the parks (especially Glacier) are only open in the late summer. If you want to be able to experience all of the best sites at each park, plan your trip for August or the first half of September and book early! 

While these parks can technically be visited in winter, highway closures combined with heavily restricted park access make these a winter destination for those with a true sense of adventure (and an ability to be flexible!).

Ten days is enough to get the highlights of each park, but, if you can spring for 2 full weeks, you won’t regret it! If you do end up with more time, you can even see more of the  National Park Sites in Montana  or Wyoming.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

15. Kauai road trip

Distance: 80 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: anytime

While not in the continental US, this is absolutely one of the best west coast road trips!

Home to the jaw-dropping NaPali Coast, you can’t actually circle the whole island via car, but you can drive most of the perimeter. This road trip takes you around as much of the island as you can drive from north, to south, then west and back north again.

Starting in Princeville, Hawaii on the north shore of Kauai, visit the famous Hanalei Pier , an iconic place in Kauai. Go snorkeling on Anini Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai . You’ll want to spend at least one day exploring the north shore, or more if you have the time.

Next stop is Kapaa, this eclectic beach town perfect for smoothies and swimming. Be sure to stop at Java Kai, one of the best places to eat in Kauai . Later that day, make your way south to Koloa.

Famous for Poipu Beach, this is typically the sunniest and driest part of the island. Visit Shipwreck Beach and hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail , where you’ll see the stunning southern coastline.

On your 3rd day touring the island, you’re in for a real treat! Drive about an hour northwest to the Waimea Canyon State Park. Also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the Waimea Canyon is a stunning, multicolored canyon and a must-see in Kauai.

There, you can spend some time at the overlooks or hike the Waimea Canyon Trail , which takes you into the canyon to a lush waterfall. So fun!

After seeing the Waimea Canyon, you’ll want to head to Koke’e State Park to witness the stunning NaPali Coast . Visit the Kalalau Lookout or Pu’u O Kila Lookout for amazing views of the rugged coastline. If you’re prepared with hiking boots and trekking poles , hike the Pihea Trail for even more views of the NaPali Coast.

This epic Kauai vacation and road trip around the island can be done anytime of year. You’ll want to spend as many days in Kauai as possible to experience the magic of the island, but at minimum 3 days and 4 nights to complete this road trip.

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

16. Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria

Distance: 275 miles Recommended time: 4+ days Best time of year: spring and summer

One of the best road trips in the western U.S. hits 3 of the best cities in the Pacific Northwest: Portland, Astoria and Seattle.

The entire route is only 275 miles and about 5 hours if you drive straight through. But you’ll want to spend 2-3 nights in each stop to enjoy each of these wonderful spots and their surroundings. This PNW road trip is the perfect combination of beautiful scenery, history, bucket list attractions and great food.

In Portland, stay at the Hyatt Centric and you’ll be in walking distance to Pioneer Courthouse Square, as well as some great restaurants. The City of Roses is one of the best food cities in America after all.

Make sure to eat some of the  famous foods of Portland  like a Voodoo Doughnut and local charcuterie from Olympic Provisions. If you have the time, a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge is worth an excursion.

Drive to Astoria via route 26. It’s worth the 5 extra minutes on your 2 hour trip for the scenery. The best part is you’ll see the northern Oregon Coast. Stop at Ecola State Park for stunning views of Cannon Beach.

When you arrive in Astoria on the Columbia River, stay at the Bowline Hotel . Spring for a riverfront room where you’ll have gorgeous views from your balcony. Stroll the Riverwalk, admire the Victorian architecture, and explore the historic gems of the Lewis and Clark expedition. 

When leaving Astoria, go across the Astor-Megler Bridge to follow the 101 to Seattle. This large port city has lots of museums, gardens, and coffee shops.

Although it’s touristy, go to the top of the Space Needle for incredible vistas and explore Pike’s Place Market to see whole fish being tossed back and forth at the fish markets. 

This American west road trip offers classic views of the ocean and the moody coastline. Plus it’s a road trip you won’t soon forget!

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

17. Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona (epic adventure: road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 850+ miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: March through May

Start and end this  epic 7 day southwest road trip loop  in Las Vegas. You’ll see 12 amazing natural features, including 4 national parks, and one modern engineering marvel. Not to mention any extra days spent exploring Vegas at the beginning or end of your trip!

Begin with a day trip out to Death Valley National Park. Return to Vegas for the night.

Next, explore the beauty of Red Rock Canyon scenic drive , a national recreation area in the morning and the fiery red swirls of Valley of Fire State Park in the afternoon. Drive to St George, Utah to spend the night.

Enjoy the next 2 days exploring Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks . Both have stunning hikes and views. Continue on to Page, Arizona.

Spend a day in this area visiting photogenic Horseshoe Bend, touring Antelope Canyon and paddling or hiking around Lake Powell.

Next, explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim in just a day . Take the scenic drive in from the east entrance and end the day at Mather Point viewpoint for stunning sunset views. Drive to Flagstaff, Arizona to overnight.

A quick morning visit to Walnut Canyon National Monument is worth it to see ancient cliff dwellings up close and personal. Then get on the road and drive to Hoover Dam, gaining an hour as it operates on PST, arriving in time to catch one of the afternoon Dam Tours.

Back in Vegas, use the evening to explore or catch a show!

Spring is the ideal season for this road trip. You’ll avoid the extreme heat of summer but also miss most of the snow and reduced winter hours at the higher elevation parks.

An America the Beautiful National Park Pass will save you hundreds of dollars on this road trip itinerary. It pays for itself several times over in just a week, and it’s valid for a year.

This amazing western USA road trip is busy and covers a lot of ground! If you can expand your time to 2 weeks, you take take a more leisurely pace.

Recommended by Rachel of Means to Explore

18. Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes, California

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 4-5 days Best time of year: spring or fall

Take an amazing American west coast road trip full of outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierras from Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes!

The drive north along US-395 is approximately 200 miles and takes about 4 hours straight through, but it’s definitely worth taking at least 4 or 5 days to fully explore all the areas along the way.

Start your road trip in Death Valley National Park , located along the border of Nevada and California. Death Valley is home to the highest recorded air temperature on earth, as well as the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.

Head from Death Valley to the town of Lone Pine, which is famous for being home to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental US. You’ll need a permit to hike Mt. Whitney , but if you’re lucky enough to snag one, standing on the 14,505 foot summit is a truly incredible feeling. If you just want a view of Mt. Whitney, camp in the Alabama Hills for a truly spectacular sight of the Sierra Nevada.

After you come down from that high, drive north to Bishop and partake in your favorite outdoor pursuit . This mountain town is home to plenty of hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing crags.

Finally, make your way to Mammoth Lakes where you can continue your outdoor adventures or take a break and soak in some of the many nearby hot springs . Be sure to check out the Crab Cooker if you like it hot! And say cheers to your epic road trip with a local beer at Mammoth Brewery.

Recommended by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

19. Alaska Highway (amazing idea for west coast road trips)

Distance: up to 1,390 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: May through September

Are you looking for an epic road trip USA west coast? Look no further than the Alaska Highway! Stretching 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska, this highway will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Canada and Alaska.

To get to the Alaska Highway (Alcan), you’ll need to take one of two ways to get to Dawson Creek: either up Icefield Parkway ( Banff to Jasper National Park ), or through British Columbia down the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Perhaps take one there and the other on your way back home!

When planning your road trip on the Alaska Highway, it’s important to consider how much time you want to spend on the road and where you want to stop along the way.

The highway can be completed in as few as 3 days, but that will feel very rushed. Even spending at least a week along the Alcan highway will feel too fast if you’re fully taking advantage of everything this incredible journey has to offer. 

While the Alaska Highway winds through some of the snowiest parts of the world, the road is open and maintained all year long. However, this amazing west coast road trip is best between May to September.

From wildlife viewing opportunities and breathtaking mountains, to roadside attractions like Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, there is something for everyone along the Alcan Highway. 

There are plenty of national parks, provincial parks and free remote camping spots along the way, as well as small hotels and inns in even the smallest of towns. Do keep in mind that peak season along the Alaska Highway is short and things book up fast, so the earlier you make reservations the better!

Recommended by Chris & Sara of Chris and Sara

20. Southern California road trip: Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego

Distance:  408 miles Recommended time:  4 days Best time of year:  spring or fall

If you’re looking for a Southern California sampler, this 4-day road trip itinerary is for you! On this looped route, you’ll see the best of Southern California including Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park, and San Diego for some city, desert and beach time!

Whether you’re traveling to Southern California as a couple, solo, with young kids or even exploring LA with teens , you’re going to love this road trip!

Because this route is a loop, you can easily start from Los Angeles or San Diego depending on where you can secure the cheapest flights. Spring and fall are the best times to visit all 3 destinations because of great weather and fewer crowds.

In Los Angeles, you’ll want to stay at least 2 full days to get a good taste of the city. 

First, visit the downtown LA area where at Grand Central Market, you can try many local favorites including strawberry donuts from The Donut Man and Mexican sweet and spicy fruit cups at La Frutería.

Also nearby is Angel’s Flight Railway, the Last Bookstore and the iconic Bradbury Building.

On your second day in LA, be sure to visit Griffith Observatory, which has great views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA. If you prefer another museum, the Getty is one of the best art museums in the city, or instead opt for a half day at the Santa Monica Pier to ride the ferris wheel at Pacific Park.

In Los Angeles, stay in Burbank for a more quiet location, or Silver Lake to be right next to the action downtown!

Next, take a  day trip to Joshua Tree National Park . 

Check out Barker Dam Nature Trail with authentic petroglyphs, Keys View for a one-of-a-kind view of ecosystems colliding, hike Lost Horse Mine Trail Loop to learn about the Western mining history in the park, and finally visit Cholla Cactus Garden with plants that you can only see here.

Joshua Tree has some phenomenal camping or check out the many unique vacation rentals nearby including those that look like spaceships!

San Diego is the final stop on this loop (or maybe first for you depending where you flew into). 

You can see the highlights of San Diego in one day including Balboa Park where there are over 20 local museums and gardens, the historic Gaslamp Quarter with a vibrant nightlife scene, and Cabrillo National Monument where you can explore the Point Loma Tide Pools and maybe spot some sea lion!

Be sure to check out the best things to do in Old Town San Diego as well, including the birthplace of California.

In San Diego, stay along the marina or near the Gaslamp Quarter for the most central location. The Horton Grand Hotel is a great affordable option with a beautiful courtyard!

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

More ideas for a west coast road trip

This final 1/3 of the list we’ll hit more of the west coast states, including Washington, California, Oregon and many more. Let’s keep going!

21. Denver to Moab

Distance: 348 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This is an American west coast road trip that offers a variety of views from the stunning Rocky Mountains to the desert landscapes in Utah.

Starting in Denver, Colorado, spend a day enjoying the city sights like Union Station, 16th Street Mall and the Denver Art Museum. From there, hit Interstate 70 through the gorgeous Rocky Mountains.

So many charming mountain towns greet you along the way. Be sure to stop and see lake Dillon, and Sapphire Point Overlook which is stunning, particularly in the summer sun.

Next stop by Vail for shopping and dining. This 4-season town is great for skiing in the winter, hiking and biking in the spring, summer and fall. Stay overnight at the Lodge at Lionshead to break up the long drive on this Denver to Moab road trip .

The next day, you’ll drive through more of the Rocky Mountains and Glenwood Canyon out to western Colorado. Swim at the world’s largest mineral hot springs in Glenwood Springs or grab lunch in the charming downtown.

On your way out of Colorado be sure to visit the Colorado National Monument, where this scenic drive provides hiking opportunities and the last of the dramatic landscape in Colorado.

Hop off I-70 and take the scenic highway 128 in Utah. Drive through rocky red desert scenes along the Colorado River to Moab.

Once in Moab, take a day or more to hike in Arches National Park and see the sights of Canyonlands National Park. From there, take a long day’s drive back to Denver, or go through the Mighty 5 in Utah and fly out of Las Vegas.

22. San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR (one of the most underrated road trips USA west coast)

Distance: 625 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through October

Taking a  Pacific Coast road trip  is a bucket list experience, and one of the most beautiful stretches is between San Francisco, California and Newport, Oregon.

Start to finish is about 625 miles and will take approximately 14 hours, so allow at least 3 days for this road trip. North of San Francisco, catch CA-1 and stop at Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s a great place to spot gray whales and elephant seals in the spring.

As you continue north, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Once you reach Mendocino, take some time to explore this charming coastal town. Enjoy the best Mendocino restaurants , Glass Beach, botanical garden and so much more.

Pick up Highway 101 when CA-1 ends in Leggett. When it’s time to stop for the night, you can camp at Sue-Meg State Park in Trinidad. It’s a verdant park with easy access to oceanfront trails.

Get an early start the next day, because you’re in redwoods territory. Plan to do some hiking in Redwoods National and State Parks. Since there are multiple parks, stop at the visitor center for maps and advice from rangers.

The next stretch of the coast is stunning! You’ll want to stop at every scenic overlook; there isn’t a bad view along the entire drive. This is especially true once you enter Oregon. 

Brookings is a good place for an overnight at Beachfront Inn . From there, Newport may only be 200 miles away, but it’s definitely going to take some time to get there. A few of the must-see spots include Spruce Island Viewpoint, Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint, and Heceta Head Lighthouse and Cape Perpetua. 

Once you’re in Newport, head to Mo’s Seafood and Chowder for some crave-worthy clam chowder. While there are now multiple locations, there’s nothing like a cup from the original.

With its incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, historic lighthouses, charming towns, and lush forests, a drive from San Francisco to Newport is one of the best west coast road trips , and an experience you’ll remember forever.

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

23. Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 5-7 days Best time of year: anytime

The Big Island of Hawaii is a bucket list destination and a must-see. A road trip to experience all the unique places should definitely be part of your Big Island itinerary . 

As most visitors land at Kona International Airport, this road trip starts in the beach town of Kona, then continues to the rainforest town of Hilo, followed by a visit to the Volcanoes National Park and then back to Kona.

A total of 5-7 days are recommended for this Big Island road trip to explore all the best sights. 

Plan to spend a few nights in Kona to experience the amazing beaches and snorkeling activities. Kona is the drier side of the Big Island and where all the brand-name resorts are.

The next stop is Hilo, which is around 2 hours drive from Kona. Hilo is where the amazing waterfalls are like Akaka falls and Rainbow Falls. Plan to spend a couple of nights in Hilo. 

Hilo makes for a great base to visit the Volcanoes National Park which is around 45 minute drive from Hilo.

There are amazing hikes here like the Kilauea Iki Crater hike, and you can see the lava glow depending on recent volcanic activity in the park. Visit the nearby black sand beach which is amazing to see. (Oh and if you love unique beaches, be sure to add the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico to your bucket list!)

Finally, make your way back to Kona to complete your road trip. 

In Kona,  King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel  is a great beachfront hotel at a prime location. In Hilo, the Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is a great oceanfront property. 

Although not on the continental US, you can definitely say this is one spectacular road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Anu of Destination Checkoff

24. Boise to Twin Falls (road trip USA west coast – perfect weekend getaway)

Distance: 285 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path road trip in Western USA, give Idaho a try.

From Boise to Twin Falls, you’ll walk on the Oregon trails where emigrants travelled in the early 1800s, discover lava tube caves and paddleboard on a crystal clear turquoise river.

Start in Boise, the capital city of Idaho . Make sure to walk around the city center, visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary and hike the Table Rock trail (a 3.5 miles hike).

Then, drive to Three Island Crossing State Park. It’s 73 miles away from Boise.

Stop at Y Knot Winery for a winery tour and a wine tasting. You can stop at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Site and see the original wagon ruts and Conestoga replicas. Or take a self-guided tour of the park.

The Three Island Crossing State Park has a nice campground if you’re camping.

The next day, drive to Twin Falls and explore the Thousand Springs State Park complex . Make a first stop at the Malad Gorge unit, where you can walk along the rim to the Devil’s Washbowl Overlook.

Next up, drive to the Ritter Island unit, where you can paddleboard around the island and admire Lemon Falls. When you are ready, drive to Box Canyon Springs. You can hike down to enjoy the Snake River.

End your day at the Niagara Springs unit before arriving in Twin Falls for the night.

Don’t miss the Perrine Coulee Falls, the Shoshone Falls and the Perrine Memorial Bridge in Twin Falls. If time allows, drive north to Shoshone and stop at the Mammoth’s Idaho Cave and the Shoshone Ice Cave.

Recommended by Emilie of Love Life Abroad

25. Portland to Yellowstone National Park

Distance: 800+ miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through August

A great road trip to take in the Western USA is from  Portland, Oregon to Yellowstone National Park , and back again.

There are 2 routes that are roughly the same distance, one which follows a southern route and one which follows a northern route. It’s the northern route that passes through some amazing landscapes.

Taking the northern route will cover over 800 miles and can be done in as little as 2 days. However, if you are combining it with a visit to Yellowstone National Park, visit the park first and take a leisurely drive back to Portland over several days, stopping at least once along the route.

From Portland, you take I-84, along the Columbia Gorge Creek. If you have time and are doing this route over a few days, stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most popular recreational places to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

After Columbia Gorge Creek, you will meet I-90 which travels through spectacular scenery and past Coeur d’Alene which sits on the northern end of Harrison Slough lake. 

From wide open country to mountain passes with slopes of trees on either side and then ranch country of Montana, the ever-changing landscape will leave you awe-inspired. 

Yellowstone National Park is your destination and it won’t disappoint. Don’t miss Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs.

On your return journey, spend a few nights in Missoula and enjoy leisure time in Caras Park, meditate among the statues of the Garden of 1000 Buddhas, or visit the National Bison Range. And then head back toward Portland.

This route is best taken during summer due to possible road closures due to snow/ice conditions during the winter. There are some steep mountain roads to pass which may be hazardous to drive. 

And be aware that later in summer, the landscape may not be completely visible due to forest fires. However, if you manage to avoid them, you will have a pleasurable drive along this US west coast road trip!

Recommended by Cath of Passports and Adventures

26. Anchorage to Fairbanks (gorgeous west coast road trip itinerary)

Distance: 360 miles Recommended time: 5 – 7 days Best time of year: June through September

Alaska offers an ideal road trip to visit its gorgeous national parks!

Starting in Anchorage, head north toward the small town of Trapper Creek for approximately 2 hours. You should stay 1-2 nights in the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. This quaint lodge is in a secluded area and has a few restaurants onsite.

From there, you can drive further north for 2 hours to Denali National Park or take the  McKinley Explorer train ride  from the nearby town of Talkeetna. This luxurious train offers double decks for upstairs seating under the glass dome windows and downstairs restaurant dining.

The scenic train journey (climbing from 350 to 1600 feet altitude) takes 5 hours and crosses many rivers.

Once in Denali National Park, you can stay at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge for 2 nights. This resort offers a huge main lodge, several restaurants and many gift shops.

You’ll want to spend at least 1 full day touring the nearby Denali National Park where you’ll see jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife such as grizzly bears, ground squirrels, golden eagles, Dall sheep or wolverines!

Onward to Fairbanks for a 2.5-hour drive, you can stay at the comfortable  Westmark Fairbanks Hotel which offers expansive views from the rooms.

One fun excursion to do in Fairbanks is the  Riverboat Discovery tour  which takes you on an eventful cruise on the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard an authentic sternwheeler boat. Observe sled dog training, bush pilot flying and visit a traditional village.

This is one of the best west coast road trip itineraries, and the best time of year to do it is in September to see the amazing Autumn colors!

Recommended by Jan of Jan Adventures

27. Southern California charm: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang

Distance:  130 miles Recommended time:  3-4 days Best time of year:  anytime

While this west coast road trip may be low in mileage, it takes you through some of the best spots in California! A route primarily along an ocean-front section of Highway 101, you’ll see Ventura, Channel Islands National Park, Santa Barbara and Solvang. 

Departing from Los Angeles, drive north roughly 2 hours to your first stop, Ventura. You’ll want to spend at least 2 nights here.

On your first evening, you should visit Ventura’s Main Street. This pedestrian-friendly street is full of theaters, boutiques, breweries, and restaurants . Check out TikiGirl for shopping and Rumfish y Vino for dinner. You could also visit the historic Spanish Mission San Buenaventura or grab drinks at the VenTiki Tiki Lounge.

Using the next full day, visit Channel Islands National Park . Departing from Ventura Harbor, take the official boat taxi, Island Packers, to see one of the least visited national parks in the country. Along the way, dolphin, sea lion, or other marine life sightings are nearly guaranteed. 

On your 3rd day, drive an hour north along the coast for your next stop, Santa Barbara . Two nights are also recommended here. Santa Barbara has a wide variety of activities.

From surfing to kayaking and hiking to wine tasting, there is no shortage of fun things to do . If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the action, try the Hotel Californian. Other recommended spots for food or drinks include Zaytoon, Handlebar Coffee Roasters, Loquita and the Santa Barbara Public Market.

Finally, your last stop takes you inland to California’s Danish town. Solvang is memorable for its windmills sprinkled throughout the walkable town.

A thematic experience, Solvang boasts many bakeries and hosts festivals celebrating its Danish heritage. It’s also within the Santa Ynez Valley, so you can visit many wineries and sample some of California’s best wines. If you like cycling, this area is also quite popular among cyclists and you can even do a wine and cycling tour . So fun!

Recommended by Taylor of Taytrum Travels

28. Portland to Southwest Utah (more amazing sights on this US west coast road trip)

Distance: 2,000+ miles Recommended time: 6+ days Best time of year: May or June

This is the West USA road trip for pacific northwest dwellers who are emerging from a long winter and craving sunshine!

The best time for this road trip is the last week of May or the first week of June. The parks are open and it’s hot in SW Utah but it is not the high season yet.

At just over 2,000 miles roundtrip, you will cover some ground. Plan on setting aside at least 6 days to complete the loop, and 8+ days if you have the extra time. 

Beginning in Portland, drive east to Boise, Idaho for your first night. Make sure to stop at Shoshone Falls on the way.

From Boise, continue to SW Utah, stopping in Salt Lake for lunch. Spend 3-5 days exploring all that Southwest Utah has to offer and soaking up the desert sun.

Stay at Under Canvas Zion for a luxury glamping experience, and/or at Zion EcoCabins for other worldly views from your A-frame or private hot tub. For details and more places to stay check out where to stay Near Zion National Park . 

Allocate at least 1 day to explore Zion National Park. Hike Angels Landing for sunrise and Canyon Overlook Trail in the afternoon.

The next day, venture to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area for incredible scenery and hiking, then hop over (5 minutes) to Quail Creek Reservoir to cool off. You can even rent paddle boards and kayaks. 

On your last day, begin your journey home and stop at Bryce Canyon National Park on the way.

Spend a few hours exploring the trails around Sunrise Point to get a feel for the park. The Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop offers spectacular scenery.

Continue on to Park City for your last night. Spend the evening strolling the picturesque streets. Rise early to make your way back to Portland.

Recommended by Jade of Well and Good Travel

29. Las Vegas to Death Valley

Distance: 298 miles (there and back) Recommended time: 1 – 3 days Best time of year: October through April

Unknowingly to most, Las Vegas is actually a perfect starting point for many west coast road trips itineraries. You can oftentimes find affordable flights to the McCarran airport which will start your adventure off on the right foot.

This Las Vegas to Death Valley road trip will take you to other-worldly landscapes, epic hikes and some of the best views. 

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center in Death Valley is located just over 2 hours from the airport and this road trip can actually be completed in just one day! Get an early start to your day so you can catch the breathtaking sunrise inside the park. 

After arriving in the park, head to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to watch the sun rise over the undisturbed and smooth sand dunes. You can choose to hike to the top of a dune or watch closer to the parking lot. Once the sun has risen, head to the Mosaic Canyon Trail for a 3.3-mile hike. 

Other stops on this road trip include lunch at Stovepipe Wells, marveling at the lowest place in North America , Badwater Basin, driving Artist Palette drive, Golden Canyon trail and watching the sunset over Zabriske point. 

It’s HIGHLY discouraged to visit this park in the summer months as the temperature rarely dips below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so this road trip is best done between October and April . If you’re wanting to extend your time in Death Valley, you can grab a room at one of the 4 on-site lodges or a campsite.

If completing this west coast road trip in a day, you will then return back to Las Vegas for a good night’s rest and to prepare for the rest of your L as Vegas adventures . No matter how long you choose to spend on the road trip, it’ll surely be one to remember for years to come.

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

30. Seattle to Glacier National Park (a favorite on this list of American west coast road trips)

Distance: 805 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This west coast road trip itinerary is one of the most scenic routes in the U.S! It passes through 2 national parks, varied landscapes, gorgeous lakes and quaint cities like Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. 

A perfect itinerary would be spending 1 full day hiking through Mount Rainer, exploring the best of Paradise Mt Rainier , including Myrtle Falls and Reflection Lakes.

The next day can be spent by driving to the Idaho panhandle. If you have the time, be sure to stop in Palouse Falls and Spokane City along the way.

Then spend one day in Coeur d’Alene, and 2 days exploring Glacier. Be sure to check out all the amazing things to do in Glacier National Park like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Avalanche Lake Trail , iconic Lake McDonald and going stargazing.

It’s optimal to take this road trip between April – October since the scenic roads at Mount Rainer and Glacier National Park are closed in the winter. 

To make the most of your time, make sure to leave early from Mount Rainer on day 2. There’s a lot of ground to cover between Mount Rainer and Coeur d’Alene, and you will thank yourself for finishing it in a single day.

Waking up in Idaho on day 3 will make the remainder of the trip much more relaxing.

In each National Park, there are lots of campsites available to reserve, but in between Mount Rainer and Glacier, one of the best places to stay is at One Lakeside Hotel , right at the heart of Coeur d’Alene.

Of course, if you have more time, you could add a day for each part of the journey, or spend one day in Seattle , too.

Recommended by Caleb of Pazook Travel Journal

US West coast road trip itineraries

Whew! What a list!

There are exciting adventures around nearly every curvy road, mountain, desert scene and coastal area in the American west. There’s simply so many breathtaking views along these routes in the west. How do you ever choose?!

Let’s recap that list one more time, in a quicker fashion…

Road trip USA West Coast ideas

• Oregon Coast
• San Francisco to San Diego
• Washington National Parks
• Anchorage to Seward
• Phoenix to Tucson
• San Francisco to Yosemite
• Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon
• Utah national parks
• Salt Lake City to Yellowstone
• Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop
• Death Valley to Yosemite
• Road to Hana, Maui
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
• Grand Teton to Glacier National Park 
• Kauai road trip
• Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria
• Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona
• Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes
• Alaska Highway
• Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego
• Denver to Moab
• San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR 
• Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii
• Boise to Twin Falls
• Portland to Yellowstone National Park
• Anchorage to Fairbanks
• Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang
• Portland to Southwest Utah
• Las Vegas to Death Valley
• Seattle to Glacier National Park

Related posts to read next: 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love 32 Amazing Stops on a San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip (You’ll Love) AMAZING Utah National Parks Road Trip (Map, Best Hikes, Scenic Route Between Parks + More) 12 Epic Scenic Drives Colorado (Map + Tips + Photos)

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Sunday 19th of February 2023

These all look like beautiful road trips! I think I would combine a few different ones and go for a couple of weeks of exploring!

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

Loooove this idea! So many good ones, it would be hard to choose. Wise to combine a few :)

Thursday 16th of February 2023

Marvelous places! I’d so loooove to ride my motorcycles on some of these roads, especially Death Valley!

Friday 17th of February 2023

Oh that would be so much fun Isabella! Sounds like a trip in your future ;)

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

This is an epic road trip guide through the American West Coast. We are planning to take a road trip from Seattle to San Francisco so this will serve as a great resource.

Oh that will be an awesome road trip! Love the coastal, moody vibes from Seattle to San Francisco. Have fun!!

Linda (LD Holland)

We do love a great road trip and these are some great choices on the west coast. We have talked about investing in a satellite communicator and really should follow up. And now day we will make it up to Alaska for a great summer road trip.

Linda yes! A satellite communicator is crucial when you're in areas with no cell phone coverage. And gosh, a road trip through Alaska sounds amazing too. Enjoy!

These all so incredible, I don't even know how I would choose! The Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon route looks out of this world😍

Right?! There's so many fabulous places in the western USA, it's really difficult to decide, that's for sure!

Ultimate USA West Coast Road Trip: 7, 10 or 15 Days Itinerary Ideas

Are you looking for the best US west coast road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places along the Pacific Coast? Our 7 to 15 days USA West Coast itinerary will help you explore this part of the country from the stunning Grand Canyon to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Visit Hollywood in LA, the Space Needle in Seattle, and gamble in Las Vegas while you road trip the Western USA. Read our ultimate West Coast of USA road trip itinerary now. You may also like our post on Best Places to Visit in the USA .

Welcome to our West Coast road trip planner.

West Coast USA road trip is a grand adventure.

This classic road trip has the ultimate Clint Eastwood Western meets Baywatch vibe.

Drive on lonely, dirt-caked roads and stumble upon mining ghost towns.

Discover millions of years old landscapes and rock formations.

Lose track of time in the utter stillness that surrounds you.

Fall in love with sleepy coastal communities and find your inspiration in Hollywood.

Sunbathe in Malibu and take in the beauty of Big Sur’s rocky coastline. 

But that is not all this trip has to offer.

Unique geographic sites are littered throughout the West Coast road trip map and nature reigns supreme here.

Visit the lowest and driest place in the continent at Death Valley.

Feel dwarfed by the 50 feet tall Saguaro cacti and 350 feet tall coastal redwoods.

Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and explore foggy cities along the Pacific Coast.

Climb up to active volcanoes and experience the earth’s geothermal activities along the Ring of Fire. 

Travel Tip – For a unique West Coast road trip, visit Alaska! Plan the ultimate Alaska road trip around Denali, Fairbanks, and Anchorage.

Walk-through history as it happened and discover momentous lands on the West Coast America road trip.

Explore the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Honor the first pioneers on the California trail at Donner Pass and see the first settlement on the West Coast at Old Town San Diego.

Understand the military importance of the Presidio of San Francisco and the Klondike Gold Rush that led to the fortunes of Seattle.

The USA west coast tour itinerary is an educational experience and perfect for a family summer vacation with kids. 

Epic West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Planner

Planning a West Coast itinerary is not easy.

And that’s why we have created this Ultimate West Coast road trip planner.

Use our suggested road trip route to plan an epic West Coast American road trip.

As always, we have included recommendations to customize this Western USA Itinerary based on your interests and the number of days you have.

Whether you want to begin in Las Vegas or San Diego and end in San Francisco or Seattle, we can help you plan a memorable and epic road trip.

We have linked this guide to our in-depth articles covering the region – Click on the names of cities and natural attractions to read more about them.

7 Day USA West Coast Road Trip

If you have just 7 days, you cannot see the entire West Coast.

You have a few options to either see the southwest and California or plan a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway in the Golden State.

Or see the highlights of the Pacific Northwest.

We have outlined these suggested Western road trip itineraries in this section.

Vegas Grand Canyon LA San Francisco

This West Coast USA tour itinerary covers the most visited attractions of the West Coast from the Grand Canyon to the Golden Gate Bridge.

If you can plan only one trip to the West Coast, then use this route. 

Las Vegas – 2 Days

Begin your West Coast driving trip in Las Vegas .

Explore the attractions of the strip including the beautiful Fountains of Bellagio and the Eiffel Tower ride in Paris Las Vegas.

Watch a concert or Cirque du Soleil show.

Gamble and enjoy the nightlife in Las Vegas.

See the scenic Valley of Fire State Park then head over to the Grand Canyon in the afternoon.

Grand Canyon National Park – 1 Day

Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the natural wonders of the world.

It is one of the essential attractions on a road trip to the West Coast.

On a visit, you can see the exhibits about the formation of the canyon at the visitor center and admire the expansive views of the Grand Canyon from the South Rim Drive.

Spot the wildlife in the Grand Canyon including mountain goats and buy Native American arts and crafts at Trading Posts.

If you have time see the beautiful Antelope Canyons in Page. 

Los Angeles – 2 Days

Then head over to Los Angeles .

See the Walk of Stars and the Oriental Theatre in Hollywood.

Take behind the scenes movie studio tours and visit Universal or Disney.

Visit Museum Row on Miracle Mile and admire the art at LACMA and fossils at La Brea Tra Pits.

Walk on the beach and enjoy a sunset on the Pacific Ocean during your road trip on the West Coast. 

San Francisco – 2 Days

End your West Coast trip in San Francisco .

Walk the Golden Gate Bridge and climb down Lombard Street.

Take a ferry to historic Alcatraz Island and admire the San Francisco skyline from Twin Peaks.

Enjoy delicious seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf and the dim sum in Chinatown.

Conclude your trip by wine tasting and shopping in Union Square.

Los Angeles to California via Big Sur

While this road trip is based only in California, it is one of the best west coast road trips.

It has plenty of diverse attractions from world-class cities, stunning natural areas, and sleepy coastal communities.

This road trip is said to be the most scenic in the world for its gorgeous views along the wild coast. 

After exploring the urban attractions of Los Angeles , head up north towards San Francisco along the coast.

Enjoy the beach life in Malibu and Ventura and admire the view of Santa Barbara from the clock house tower.

Feel the trendy vibe in the college town of San Luis Obispo and climb the dunes at Oceano Beach.

Go wine tasting in Paso Robles. 

Big Sur – 2 Days

Then comes the highlight – a drive through stunning Big Sur .

See the elephant seals at San Simeon and visit the Lime Kiln State Park.

Photograph the engineering marvel of Bixby Creek Bridge and see the stunning McWay Falls.

Go antiquing in charming coastal communities like Pismo Beach and Carmel by the Sea and take a whale-watching cruise in Monterey.

See scenic lighthouses along the foggy coast. 

The 90 miles of Big Sur is filled with beautiful beaches and coves.

It has numerous hiking trails along bluffs and campsites right on the beach.

You can see marine life including whales, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, and a variety of tide pool creatures.

Big Sur is also home to tall coastal redwood trees and blooms with beautiful wildflowers in the spring.

This region is a delight for nature lovers and a delightful stop on road trip USA West Coast.

San Francisco & Yosemite – 3 Days

Get your urban fix in San Francisco and end your West Coast trip USA on a high note at the Golden Gate Bridge.

Then explore the stunning Yosemite National Park and see the legendary granite faces of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited in the country and worth a visit on a West Coast roadtrip.

To plan this road trip, read our post on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary . 

Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Explore the Pacific Northwest on an ultimate road trip through hip cities, scenic drives, and open spaces.

See one of a kind geological landforms and eat plenty of seafood.

Go from the mountains to the beaches and drive through river gorges.

This road trip has plenty of hidden gems and underrated attractions. 

Portland – 2 Days

Begin your road trip in Portland and wrap your head around its ‘weird’ vibe.

Visit attractions such as the Japanese Garden and the Shanghai tunnels.

Eat the city’s famous doughnuts and visit the food truck pods.

Take a photogenic view of the Portland skyline with Mount Hood in the background from Pittock Mansion. 

Columbia River Highway – 1 Day

Then drive along the historic Columbia River Highway.

This scenic route has plenty of waterfalls and small communities.

The scenery here looks stunning in fall.

Visit the beautiful Multnomah Falls and admire the view from the Vista House Museum. 

Optional – Coastal Oregon & Washington

If you have more time, head to the coast and Cannon Beach.

See the beautiful haystacks before heading up towards Astoria.

Spend time admiring the seaport city from the Astoria Tower and understand about the Lewis and Clark Expedition at Fort Clatsop. 

Follow Highway 101 to Olympic National Park in Washington.

The park is a UNESCO Heritage Site and has attractions such as the Hof Rainforest and Sol Duc Hot Springs.

See the beautiful mountain views at Hurricane Ridge then tour the Washington State Capitol at Olympia as part of US road trip on West Coast. 

Also Read: Best Things to do in Washington State

Mt. Rainier National Park – 1 Day

Mt. Rainier National Park is a beautiful paradise in the Cascade mountains.

This active stratovolcano looks scenic when surrounded by wildflowers filled meadows in the summer.

One of the most popular regions to visit in Mt Rainier National Park is Paradise and Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center.

Sunrise road and the visitor center are also scenic and have beautiful trails. 

Tacoma – 1 Day

Then spend a day enjoying the cultural attractions of Tacoma.

A must visit in the city is the Museum of Glass and the Bridge of Glass which connects the museum and downtown Tacoma. This bridge has Dale Chihuly’s artwork.

Other good museums include the LeMay Car Museum and the Washington State History Museum which has a model railroad.

Take a stroll at the scenic Fort Defiance Park in Tacoma before heading to Seattle. 

Seattle – 2 Days

In Seattle , drink lots of coffee and visit the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market.

Visit the Seattle Center and climb up the observation deck of the Space Needle to see beautiful panoramic views of Seattle.

See the Chihuly Garden & Glass and enjoy the exhibits at Pacific Science Center.

Take a whale-watching excursion to the islands in Puget Sound before ending your road trip with a visit to the Museum of Pop Culture.

For more West Coast Road Trip Itinerary 7 days ideas, see our post on Best Road Trips to take along the West Coast . 

10 Day West Coast Road Trip

If you have 10 days to road trip the West Coast USA, then you can see many more attractions along the West Coast.

Here are our favorite comprehensive West Coast road trip ideas for the first time US visitors. 

Vegas to San Francisco via SR 395

While this road trip sounds similar to the one we mentioned earlier, you will be taking the much more scenic route through the Sierra Nevada and eastern California.

See the unique Death Valley National Park and reach Yosemite via the eastern entrance.

Then visit San Francisco and Los Angeles to complete your road trip in USA west coast. 

Explore the highlights of Las Vegas.

Walk along the Las Vegas strip and see the famous casinos including Bellagio, Luxor, Ceaser’s Palace, the Venetian, etc.

Explore the Freemont Street in downtown and take a photo with the Fabulous Las Vegas sign.

Hike the trails in Red Rock Canyon and see the Hoover Dam.

Grand Canyon – 1 Day

Either head for Grand Canyon on your 2nd day in Las Vegas or If you want to make a day trip, see the Grand Canyon from the western rim.

Grand Canyon West is not located in Grand Canyon National Park but on the Hualapai Indian Reservation.

At the western rim, visitors can walk over the glass panels on the Skywalk and see the Grand Canyon spread out before them.  

Death Valley – 1 Day

Then visit Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley is the aridest and hottest place in the country; it is also the lowest.

See the salt flats at Badwater Basin and the panorama from Dante’s View.

Hike along the Salt Creek trail and see the pupfish and sandboard the Mesquite Flat sand dunes. 

Then drive along SR 395 north towards Yosemite.

The best time to drive this road is from summer to fall; the rest of the year you may encounter snow and/or attractions may be closed.

See Alabama Hills, Manzanar historic site, Mammoth Lakes, Mono Lake, and enter Yosemite National Park through the eastern entrance.

This entrance is closed during winter and spring.

Yosemite – 1 Day

Drive along the Lee Vining Canyon Scenic Byway.

The road will take you to the Tioga Pass entrance into Yosemite’s high country.

This area is snowed over from late fall to spring but is incredibly scenic in the summer.

See the attractions like Tuolumne Meadows and the panorama at Olmsted Point Overlook.

Then check out the attractions in Yosemite Valley including Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome. 

After checking Yosemite, take the drive to San Francisco.

Walk or bike across Golden Gate Bridge and see the attractions in the Presidio of San Francisco including Crissy Fields, Fort Point, Walt Disney Museum, and the Palace of Fine Arts.

See the sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf and devour the chocolate at Ghirardelli Square. 

Big Sur – 1 Day

Take a short day trip through scenic Big Sur before heading to Los Angeles on this west coast of USA road trip.

You will need to leave on day 2 from San Francisco and reach Los Angeles late in the day to get the time for this side trip but it is totally worth it.

Explore Big Sur’s attractions including Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, Keyhole Rock, McWay Falls, the redwood groves, and Point Sur Lighthouse. 

In Los Angeles, take a movie studio tour or walk along the iconic Hollywood Blvd.

Snap a photo with the movie stars on the sidewalk and shop on Rodeo Drive.

See the movie star homes in Beverly Hills and see the museums.

Spend time on the Santa Monica Pier and people watch at Venice Beach.

Enjoy the SoCal vibe to make the most of your West Coast America road trip. 

10 Day California Road Trip

Spend the entire time in California, driving down the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego.

Then explore the state’s desert region of Joshua Tree and Death Valley.

Follow SR 395 through Alabama Hills and Mammoth Lakes to Lake Tahoe. 

San Francisco – 2 Day

Explore the best attractions in San Francisco including the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Lombard Street, and Alcatraz Island.

Take a ride on the historic cable car and dine in popular Fisherman’s Wharf.

San Francisco is very diverse and has something for everyone, whether you are visiting for the first time or a frequent traveler to the city.

Photograph the Victorian architecture and take a day trip out to Muir Woods.

Then drive down south along Pacific Coast Highway towards Big Sur. 

From the urban skyline of San Francisco, the scenery changes quite a bit even before you reach Big Sur.

Highway 1 will take you through communities such as Half Moon Bay and Pescadero before reaching beautiful Monterey.

Spend some time in Monterey at the Cannery Row. See sea lions or take a whale-watching cruise.

Visit the aquarium and hike in Point Lobos then head for Bixby Creek Bridge. 

Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park which is home to the beautiful McWay Falls.

Then visit the purple sand Pfeiffer Beach before checking out scenic landscapes in Garatappa State Park and Andrew Molera State Park.

Enjoy surfing on the crescent-shaped Sand Dollar Beach.

See the Point Sur lighthouse and the elephant seal rookery at San Simeon. 

Los Angeles – 2 Day

Then drive down California’s coast to Los Angeles.

Experience the city’s beach and movie culture.

Take a photo with the Hollywood sign and dine at Michelin starred restaurants.

Relax on the sandy beaches in Malibu and see stunning art at the Getty Center.

Visit the Griffith Observatory and see gorgeous views of the city from above.

Buy fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market and take pictures for the ‘gram at the Broad. 

From Los Angeles, drive to Death Valley National Park.

Located in California’s high desert, Desert Valley is a hostile environment.

This is the driest, lowest, and hottest place in the country.

It is home to stunning salt flats at Badwater Basin, mysterious moving rocks at Racetrack Playa, and unique geological landforms such as Artist’s Palette and Zabriskie Point.

See the nearby ghost town of Rhyolite while leaving Death Valley for Yosemite. 

Yosemite – 2 Days

Take the SR 395 north towards Lake Tahoe.

On your way, you will pass via attractions such as the alien landscape of Alabama Hills, the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, and Bodie, a mining ghost town.

Finally, arrive in Yosemite and take the Lee Vining Tioga Pass Road to Yosemite Valley.

Explore attractions such as Yosemite Falls and Tuolumne Meadows before driving back via the same road to Lake Tahoe. 

Lake Tahoe – 1 Day

The scenic Lake Tahoe is California’s favorite outdoor playground.

The lake is located on the Nevada California border and is stunning blue in the summer.

Take the Lake Tahoe Loop Road trip to explore attractions along the lake.

See Emerald Bay State Park and the Viking Castle.

Bike the famous Flume Trail and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. 

To plan this road trip, read our post on 10 Days in California . 

Portland to San Francisco

Another awesome option is to follow Oregon Highway 101, California Highway 101, and Highway 1 down the Pacific Coast.

You will be treated to stunning coastal views, rock formations, sandy beaches, waterfalls, marine life, coastal towns, whale watching, lots of history, and fresh seafood on this West Coast USA itinerary 10 days. 

Also Read the full post here: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary

Start this amazing road trip down the coast in Portland.

The city is best for foodies and you should sample local doughnuts and ice creams as well as food truck pods in the city.

Visit the independent bookstore Powell City of Books and tour the underground tunnels.

Visit Portland’s beautiful gardens including the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Lan Su Chinese Garden.

See the beautiful views along the waterfront. 

Columbia River Gorge – 1 Day

Take a day trip to Columbia River Gorge via the Historic Columbia River Highway.

The road is extremely scenic and has many attractions including waterfalls.

The most popular waterfall by far is the stunning two-tiered Multnomah Falls.

Walk up to Benson Bridge and see the iconic falls up close.

Visit the Multnomah Falls Lodge Visitor Center before driving all the way to Mount Hood to enjoy your trip. 

Northern Oregon Coast – 1 Day

Then it is time to head down to the coast.

Spend a day exploring the attractions of the northern Oregon Coast.

Start at the beautiful seaport city of Astoria. See the Goonies filming locations.

Then head down to Ecola State Park and Cannon Beach .

Take the iconic photo of Cannon Beach sea-stacks from the state park.

Have fun on the beach, then visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and try the fresh cheeses. 

Central Oregon Coast – 1 Day

There are many things to do on Oregon’s central coast.

Visit the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and enjoy the stunning views.

Hike through old-growth forests of giant Sitka spruce and see the Devil’s Churn.

You can also whale watch from the shores.

Explore the scenic towns of Yachats, Florence, and Newport, which is home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

Visit the Devil’s Punchbowl area and see the unique geological formation.

Tour the charming Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Heceta Head Lighthouse. 

Southern Oregon Coast – 1 Day

Continue the drive down Highway 101 through Southern Oregon.

Take a short scenic road trip along the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

This 12-mile long route has plenty of panoramic coastal views and pullouts to enjoy them.

See the lighthouses at Cape Arago, Cape Blanco, and Pelican Bay.

In southern Oregon, you can also see the giant coastal redwoods along the Oregon Redwoods Trail.

The southern coast also has lots of breweries and is a great place to drink craft beer. 

Northern California Coast – 2 Days

Then cross over the border into northern California.

Northern California is the best place to have a variety of redwood experiences including drive-through trees and single log cabins.

Use the two days to explore attractions such as the Avenue of the Giants, the Fern Canyon hike, the Glass Beach at Fort Bragg, the coastal city of Mendocino, and Point Reyes.

Eat the oysters at Tomales Bay and see the Birds filming locale in Bodega Bay.

Read our North California road trip itinerary to plan your 2 days in North California. 

Make your way down to the northern California city of San Francisco.

See the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and take the tour to Alcatraz Island.

See the famous federal prison and know about the prisoners incarcerated here including Al Capone.

See the oriental architecture in Chinatown and the murals in Balmy Alley.

Drive down twisting Lombard Street and dine at the Ferry Market Building.

See the city of San Francisco from the Marin Headlands and enjoy the laid back vibe of Sausalito. 

West Coast USA itinerary 2 weeks

If you have 2 weeks, then you are in for the treat of a lifetime.

You are going to drive through ever-changing landscapes and explore the diversity of the West Coast.

Start your road trip at the Canadian border near Seattle and go south till you reach the Mexican border in San Diego.

This USA west coast itinerary 2 weeks is the ultimate road trip adventure. 

While you won’t get time to see all of the natural attractions including Mt. Rainier, Columbia River Gorge, Yosemite, Big Sur, and Coastal Oregon-Northern California coast, we recommend picking a few of the attractions you most want to visit and dividing your days accordingly for this West Coast road trip 2 weeks. 

Start your 2-week West coast USA itinerary in the Emerald City of Seattle .

It is known for its coffee houses, wet winter season, and the iconic Space Needle.

Try out the city’s famous attractions and tour the Seattle Underground.

Visit the Chinatown-International District and enjoy shopping for knick-knacks and souvenirs.

Eat dishes such as pho, noodles, and Ramen.

Visit the Seattle Museum of Art and the free Olympic Sculpture Park along the waterfront.

Read our guide on Seattle to plan your trip. 

Optional: Mount Rainier National Park – 1 Day

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

The National Park is very close to Seattle and hence easy to see on a day trip.

If you are visiting from July to September, check out the Sunrise Visitor Center and hike the Sunrise Nature Trail or Sunrise Rim Trail.

During the rest of the year, visit the Paradise area and the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center.

The views from the Paradise area are also equally stunning and you can see the active volcanic peak of Mt Rainier, wildflowers, wildlife, and glaciers. 

Then make your way south to the hip and trendy city of Portland.

The Willamette River runs through this city and Tom McCall Waterfront Park is located along the river.

Check out the park and its memorials before checking out Portland’s attractions including the Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, and the Pittock Mansion.

Take a hike through Forest Park and discover the Witch’s Castle!

Go on a food spree and eat unique dishes all around the city. 

Optional: Historic Columbia River Gorge – 1 Day

It’s time for a historic trip down the Columbia River Gorge.

Take the scenic Columbia River Highway from Portland to Mt. Hood and explore the attractions along the 75-mile long route.

Start in the town of Troutdale and visit the historic McMenamins brewpub.

Then stop at the beautiful Multnomah Falls Scenic area. Hike along the falls and other famous hiking trails in the area.

See the panoramic views from Crown Point.

At the end of the road, continue along the Mt Hood Scenic Byway.

Return to Portland for the next part of the trip. 

Optional: Coastal Oregon and Northern California coast – 2 to 3 days

You can either drive down the coast for which you will need at least one additional day without stopping anywhere or fly from Portland to San Francisco for a fly and drive West Coast itinerary.

If you are driving, we recommend devoting 2 to 3 days to this stretch which is filled with redwoods, beautiful lighthouses, charming coastal cities, and more. 

In Oregon, must-see stops include Astoria, Cannon Beach, Tillamook Creamery, Yachats, Heceta Head Lighthouse, Devil’s Punchbowl, Cape Perpetua, and Samuel H Boardman Scenic Byway.

Read our post on Coastal Oregon road trip itinerary to know more about these attractions and plan the trip. 

In Northern California, some of the must-visit attractions include Redwood National and State Parks, Russian River, Avenue of the Giants, Leggett drive-through redwood tree, Napa/Sonoma County, Point Reyes, etc.

To see all the attractions, read our Northern California road trip guide. 

In the city, see the best things to do in San Francisco including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Lombard Street, Palace of Fine Arts, the Exploratorium, California Academy of the Sciences, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and other attractions.

Take a day trip to Napa or Sonoma wine counties and go wine tasting, see the geyser in Calistoga, check out the Bay area attractions in neighboring San Jose and Palo Alto, or see the redwood trees at Muir Woods in case you missed them further up the coast. 

Optional: Yosemite National Park – 1 Day

If you want to see the beauty of the Sierra Nevadas and the Sequoia trees, then go on a day trip to Yosemite National Park.

This is one of the most visited national parks in the country and has amazing scenery.

Start your visit in the Yosemite Village and see the valley.

See the highlights of Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, etc.

Drive around the national park and see the famous views of Tunnel View, Valley View, Glacier Point Road, and Olmsted Point Overlook.

See the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia trees and see the wildflowers on Tuolumne Meadows. 

Optional: Big Sur – 1 Day

Welcome to beautiful, bold Big Sur.

The beauty of California’s unspoiled central Coast has inspired artists, poets, and writers.

This is the place to visit for secluded beaches, lots of marine wildlife, tide pools, hiking trails on the coast, and waterfalls.

Visit small charming communities like Carmel by the Sea, Pismo Beach, and Morro Bay to understand and appreciate the relaxed life here. 

Then head down to Los Angeles and enjoy some of the best sunsets of your life.

The city is pretty huge and most of the landmark tourist attractions aren’t concentrated in one place but you can easily get cabs and rideshares to get around the city.

Start your day at Hollywood in Central LA and see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, Kodak Theatre which hosts the Academy Awards, and the Hollywood Museum which has movie props, scripts, and costumes.

See other attractions including Griffith Park and Observatory, Getty Villa, Rodeo Drive, and the museums. 

Optional: Anaheim – 1 Day

If you have kids or adults in your party that love theme parks, then make the stop at Anaheim.

Our favorites are the Disney theme parks – Disneyland and California Adventure.

Disneyland is perfect for younger kids who want to meet Mickey and friends and the princesses while California Adventure is more for older kids who like roller coasters and other thrill rides.

You can also visit Universal Studios to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

There are many other theme parks in Anaheim besides Disney and Universal and you are in for a fun day. 

San Diego – 2 Days

End your road trip in the sunny city of San Diego .

It is known for its warm sun, mild weather, and inviting beaches.

Explore Old Town San Diego and its historic buildings.

Eat delicious Mexican cuisine and walk along the waterfront Embarcadero.

Explore Balboa Park and its attractions.

See the museums housed in historical buildings and take a day trip either to Coronado island or the sunny beaches in La Jolla. 

USA West Coast itinerary 3 weeks

In 3 weeks you can cover a whole lot of the country.

Drive from border to border along the Pacific Coast, then make a beeline for the southwest.

Visit one of a kind attractions such as Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley.

Experience the best of Western USA on this epic road trip. 

If you look at the West Coast America road trip map, you will be covering an L shaped section of the western USA.  

To plan this road trip, follow our suggested route for the 2-week itinerary up to Los Angeles.

Then take the route to Las Vegas from Death Valley.

From Las Vegas, embark on a week-long southwest road trip to the Grand Canyon and beyond.

The itinerary will follow the route as follows:

There is no better place than Seattle to start your West Coast 3 week road trip itinerary.

You will begin near the northern border in Canada and explore the most vibrant city of the Pacific Northwest.

See iconic attractions of the Greater Seattle area including the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Waterfront.

Understand the history of Seattle and the Klondike Gold Rush at Historic Pioneer Square neighborhood.

Read our Seattle itinerary guide to plan your trip. 

Optional Mount Rainier National Park – 1 Day

After seeing Seattle, drive to Mt. Rainier National Park which is located to the southwest of Seattle.

The drive takes about 2.5 hours and is incredibly scenic.

At the end is your destination, the iconic Mt. Rainier. This is an active stratovolcano in the Cascade ranges.

At the national park visitor centers, you can see exhibits about the volcanic activity, plants, and animals in the National Park.

Then enjoy hiking along the park trails and enjoy the waterfalls in the Paradise region.

If the roads are open, drive to Sunrise Visitor Center to see Mt. Rainier from a different vantage point. 

Your next destination is Portland. Start your visit in Washington Park.

This urban park is home to Oregon’s many attractions including the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children’s Museum, and the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum.

It also has expansive gardens including the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum.

See the famous Pittock Mansion and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Visit the local Farmers Market, hike in Forest Park, and walk across the beautiful historic St. John’s Bridge. 

Today, you will be visiting one of the best places to see on the West Coast – the stunning Multnomah Falls.

The falls are 620 feet tall and are the tallest waterfall in the state.

The falls cascade from the basalt cliffs in two tiers.

The charming Benson Bridge overlooks the base of the first tier and has an excellent vantage point over the falls.

After seeing the falls, check out Hood River and other falls including Horsetail Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, etc.

Then drive down to San Francisco. 

As we mentioned before, spend 2 to 3 days on the course from Portland to San Francisco.

Start at the Lewis and Clark Expedition Site in Fort Clatsop in Astoria.

See the beautiful view from Ecola State Park and visit the Tillamook Creamery.

Hike Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and the Devil’s Punchbowl near Yachats.

See the cities of Newport and Florence before heading into Northern California.

In Northern California, hike in Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park and drive through the fog-covered Redwood Highway.

Sport elks and the other wildlife and view the scenic lighthouse in Crescent City.

Admire the Victorian architecture of Old Town Eureka and see the beautiful glass beach at Fort Bragg.

Read our Coastal Oregon road trip itinerary and Northern California road trip itinerary to plan a trip along this route.

Meander your way down the coast to the amazing city of San Francisco.

Enjoy its hip vibe.

If this is your multiple visit to the city, then discover hidden attractions such as the Grateful Dead house in Haight Ashbury neighborhood , the 16th Avenue tiled steps, and Mission Dolores Park in Mission District.

Eat your way around the egg tarts in Chinatown, Mission-style burritos, and sourdough clam chowder soup at Boudin’s Bakery. 

Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places to visit on the West Coast.

Take the scenic Highway 140 through Mariposa to Yosemite Valley.

Visit the museum and take a stroll around Yosemite Village.

Then explore the valley and its major attractions.

You can also see the valley on a guided tour given by the park rangers if you have less time.

Drive up to Tunnel View and see the beautiful panorama of El Capitan, Half Dome, and the Bridalveil falls.

Hike in the valley and explore the park’s wildlife before coming back to the coast. 

Optional: Big Sur – 2 Days

The drive through Big Sur is one of the most beautiful road trips in the world.

You will be driving parallel to the rugged coast and have awesome views of the coastal cliffs and the blue water of the Pacific Ocean.

There are many hiking trails and natural areas along the road including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Garatappa State Park, Lime Kiln State Park, etc.

Beautiful waterfalls, hidden beaches, and coves surround this area.

Stay at Big Sur village and enjoy the stunning beauty of Big Sur. 

Optional: Channel Island National Park

Channel Islands National Park is one of the least visited National Parks in the country.

Located off the coast of California, the park comprises five islands in the Pacific Ocean.

Visitors can either take a ferry or a plane to the Channel Islands, with the ferry being the more economical option.

The trips depart from Ventura where the park visitor center is also located. 

Two of the most visited islands include Santa Cruz and Anacapa Island.

On Anacapa Island, visitors can hike to Inspiration Point to get stunning views of the islands.

The lighthouse on Anacapa Island is also worth a visit.

In Santa Cruz, visitors can see sea caves including the Painted Cave.

The Channel Islands are also popular for diving among the kelp forests and seeing wildlife including seals and sea birds. 

From Ventura make the trip down along the Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles.

This is the second-largest city in the country and a must-visit while road tripping the West Coast.

Its many attractions include watching movie stars shop on Rodeo Drive, seeing their homes in Beverly Hills, taking a movie studio tour including Warner Brothers, Sony, and Paramount.

The city is a top cultural destination and has many noteworthy museums including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Getty Center, Getty Villa, and the Broad.

Also must try are the several renowned restaurants in Los Angeles. 

Anaheim – 1 Day

Anaheim, located in Orange County, is home to California’s theme parks.

The city also has sports stadiums as well as many free things to do besides theme parks.

In Anaheim, you will find Disney Parks, Universal Studios, Knotts Berry Farm, etc.

Foodies must visit the Anaheim Packing House, a renovated food hall.

Other free things to do include taking a stroll through the historic district and seeing the architecture and famous buildings. 

Optional: Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

After seeing Los Angeles and Anaheim, make the trip towards the southwest to the Sin City of Las Vegas.

Along the way, you can make the detour to Death Valley National Park.

As we mentioned, this is a park of extreme landscapes and weather.

It is the lowest, driest, and hottest place in the country. Death Valley is famous for its salt flats at Badwater Basin.

Other things to see at Death Valley include the Harmony Borax trail, the Mesquite Flats sand dunes, Artist’s Drive, and the 360-degree panorama at Dante’s View. 

Now it’s time to road trip the Death Valley Scenic Byway to Las Vegas.

The city is most famous for its casinos and the strip attractions including Bellagio Fountains, the volcano at Mirage, the canals at the Venetian, etc.

Other than the Las Vegas strip attractions, you can also check out hidden gems in Vegas including the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, Discovery Children’s Museum.

Also, take the time to explore outdoor Las Vegas including Seven Magic Mountains, Red Rock Canyon, and Valley of Fire State Park. 

Zion National Park – 1 Day

From Las Vegas, visit the stunning Zion National Park.

After checking out the Visitor Center, take the shuttle or drive along the Zion Scenic Drive.

This drive is spectacular and has stunning views of the red rock canyon landscape.

Hike along popular short trails such as the Emerald Pools, the Riverside Walk, and the Weeping Rock.

Or spend half a day to more strenuous hikes such as the Narrows or Angels Landing.

The hikes will show you stunning views of the Zion Canyon and the Virgin River through different vantage points. 

Optional: Bryce Canyon National Park – 1 Day

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of Utah’s most underrated National Parks.

It is famous for its spire-shaped hoodoo rock formations caused by weathering due to wind and rain.

In the famous area known as the Bryce amphitheater, you can see a variety of these hoodoo formations.

Hike the rim trail to see the hoodoos from above and hike down into the canyon using the Navajo Loop Trail to see the hoodoos from below.

Road trip the 21 miles long Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive and see the canyon from the lookout points. 

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend – 1 Day

Another must on an epic West Coast road trip USA!

The Antelope Canyons in Page, Arizona are the most beautiful slot canyons in the world.

The canyons are made of red sandstone and formed due to weathering.

The floodwaters from millions of years ago have left beautiful swirling patterns on the canyon walls and seeing the Canyons just as the sunlight lights them up is a delight.

Another popular attraction in Page is Horseshoe Bend overlook.

Here the Colorado River forms a beautiful horseshoe-shaped meander.

Visitors can see the scenic Horseshoe Bend from an observation platform. 

Optional: Monument Valley – 1 Day

If you have time, then venture into the beautiful landscape of Monument Valley on your road trip US West Coast.

This red sand desert region located in Arizona is probably one of the most photographed spots in the country.

Monument Valley has a fascinating landscape of red sandstone buttes that reach up towards the sky.

You can see all of these buttes on a scenic drive through Monument Valley. 

The views of the buttes are awesome and otherworldly.

Monument Valley is also a popular filming location and the movie Forrest Gump was filmed here. 

Grand Canyon National Park – 2 Days

End your memorable adventure in the Grand Canyon National Park.

The Grand Canyon is a majestic natural wonder and you will seldom see anything comparable to its vast scale ever again.

The Colorado River formed the Grand Canyon over millions of years of weathering action.

Visit the South Rim and enter the park through the popular Grand Canyon Village.

Check out the visitor center exhibits about the geological formation of the canyon and its natural resources.

Then go to Yavapai Point to see one of the most amazing viewpoints of the canyon.

Hike the rim trail and drive all the way to Desert View Watchtower. 

Optional – Phoenix

After seeing the Grand Canyon, you can either drive to Las Vegas or Los Angeles for the return flight or to see even more of the country, drive to Phoenix.

The route will take you through many attractions including historic Flagstaff on Route 66, the beautiful red rock landscape of Sedona, and the ghost town of Jerome.

In Phoenix, you can experience the beauty of Arizona’s deserts at the Desert Botanical Gardens.

In spring and early summer, the cacti will be blooming with beautiful colorful flowers.

Hike up to Camelback mountain for iconic views of the city.

Take the kids to see the Phoenix zoo.

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is also lots of fun for youngsters.

See the OdySea Aquarium and enjoy learning science at the Arizona Science Center. 

Art lovers should visit the Phoenix Art Museum to see Renaissance-era art and the Heard Museum to understand the Native American culture.

See the unique Musical Instrument Museum and the Hohokam Native ruins at the Pueblo Grande Archeological Park & Museum.

Architecture lovers should visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West in nearby Scottsdale. 

4 Week USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

If you have an entire month for the USA road trip on the West Coast , then we really envy you!

Very few lucky souls have that kind of time and even we hope to go on such a grand adventure one day. 

With 4 weeks in hand, follow our same route as above except take time to see each and every optional attraction.

Stop in cities like Bend in Oregon and Santa Barbara in California while coming down the coast. 

Drive south all the way down to San Diego before you venture into the Californian desert and American southwest.

See Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park both before going to Las Vegas. 

In Las Vegas, see Lake Mead and Hoover Dam plus the area’s outdoor attractions.

Spend two or more days in Zion and hike all its trails including the famous Narrows hike along the Virgin River.

Make the detour to Grand Canyon north rim after seeing Bryce if the roads are open. 

See both the upper and lower Antelope Canyons in Page.

Spend a day cruising on Lake Powell and see the Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

Camp in Monument Valley to see its dark sky and the silhouette of the buttes at night. 

In the Grand Canyon National Park, hike all the way down via the Bright Angel Trail or go river rafting in the Colorado River.

Get a permit and hike to the beautiful Havasupai Falls.

Drive down to Phoenix and spend some time exploring the Grand Canyon State on an epic Arizona road trip through Saguaro National Park and Petrified Forest National Park.

These are just a few ideas to make your road trip better!

The USA West Coast road trip is an adventure of a lifetime.

This road trip is more American than any road trip could ever be.

If you have any trip planning questions, let us know in the comments.

19 Epic West Coast USA Road Trip Ideas & Itineraries

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The western coast of the USA is a stunning haven, a perfect blend of big cities, national parks and au natural beaches. And the BEST way to explore this beauty is to take a road trip. In this post – 19 Best West Coast USA Road Trip Ideas, we have handpicked some of the awesome routes that you can undertake to explore the States and beyond – from city lights to the twinkling stars – experience it all!

The West Coast is also called the Pacific Coast and it is the coastline along which the continental Western United States meets the North Pacific Ocean. The West Coast of the USA comprises the coastal states of California , Oregon, Washington, and Alaska.

The west coast road trip itineraries listed below have routes, trip highlights, and duration of travel ranging from a short weekend trip to 10 days itinerary. The starting point is on the west coast and then drive to explore more of the USA.

19 Best West Coast USA Road Trip Ideas & Route Itinerary

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Reserve Car Rental: Prepare Ahead

If you need a car rental, we recommend comparing and checking prices on Discovercars.com to book yours.

Preparing for a road trip – Road Trip Packing List/Essentials

Before you embark on the Pacific Coast Highway road trip, it is important that you are prepared and carry the following essentials to make your journey less stressful and enjoyable.

• Emergency Car Kit – This 90 piece emergency car kit SHOULD be included when you start your trip. The kit comprises of portable air compressor, tow strap, jumper cables, and more. Buy your emergency car kit here
• First Aid Kit – Carry a small first aid kit (2-4 person or more, depending on the number of travelers). Buy a first aid kit here
• GPS or Offline Maps – Carry a GPS for road navigation. Buy GPS here . If you prefer an offline map system via your smartphone, then Maps.me is a good option. It is FREE as well.
• Car Adaptor – To charge your smartphone and/or other electronics. Buy your car adaptor here
• Phono Cable – To connect your cell phone or iPod to the music system inside the car (skip this if you are using a CD player or have wireless connectivity). Buy your phono cable here from Amazon
• Music – Great Playlist
• Clothes – Including a waterproof jacket. Buy my all-time favorite jacket here
• Scarf – To cozy up or as a cover-up
• Flip flops – To walk the beach. Buy your flip flops here
• Camera – Don’t forget your camera to capture your moments. Buy our mirror-less camera here
• Sunscreen and any OTC medications – Buy sunscreen here
• And of course, don’t forget car insurance and roadside assistance service Get this nifty holder to keep details 

Get the SHOPPING LIST on ToSomePlaceNew Amazon Site

Los Angeles to Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks 

ROUTE: Los Angeles – Death Valley National Park – Joshua Tree National Park – Los Angeles 

DAYS: 4 – 6 

ROUTE STOPS: Los Angeles to Death Valley to Joshua Tree to Los Angeles

MILES COVERED: 650 miles (1046 kms) round trip

ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP: 

California has no shortage of National Parks or road trip itineraries. If you are visiting Los Angeles, you can easily take a road trip to Death Valley National Park and Joshua Tree National Park before circling back to LA.

While you can make this journey in as little as four days, spending five to six days along this route works best. If you want to see more of Los Angeles, plan to spend an extra few days there before or after your road trip.

Los Angeles to Death Valley: The drive from Los Angeles up to Death Valley takes about four hours. Since Death Valley does not have many accommodations within the park, make sure to plan your visit ahead of time to stay at one of the few hotels inside the park or to stay outside of the park.

Staying outside of the park can mean an hour’s drive into the park again, so try to arrive in the evening if you plan to stay outside the park. Then you can spend the entire next day inside the park itself before moving on. Browse hotels in Death Valley here

Death Valley : Within Death Valley, make sure to stop and see the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes. The best time to visit Death Valley is in the spring or fall, but even then, visit the dunes near sunrise or sunset if possible. There is no shade during the summer heat, but the sand dunes also make for a perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Another must-see stop is the Badwater Basin , the lowest point in North America. The salt flats here stretch for miles, but you only have to walk about 10 minutes out to get past the dirty salt of the walkway. Before you leave, make sure to drive through Artist’s Drive to take in the colorful hills.

Joshua Tree : From Death Valley, the drive to Joshua Tree takes about four hours. Joshua Tree has plenty of accommodations nearby, and most of the popular spots to visit are near the north end of the park where the namesake Joshua Trees abound.

Start your day with sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden to enjoy the low sun shining through the garden. Then head back up to the White Tank Campground area to hike the short path out to Arch Rock. Take the road to the west entrance to see lots of great spots to stop for pictures of the famous Joshua Trees.

If you have some extra time, you can also visit nearby Palm Springs.

Back to Los Angeles : The drive from Joshua Tree back to Los Angeles is a shorter one at less than two and a half hours. Once you are back in Los Angeles, you can visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and check out the other famous sites, watch the sunset at the Santa Monica Pier, hike to the Hollywood sign, or enjoy the views from Griffith Observatory.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Christine from LiveLoveRunTravel

Key Activities and Tours at this route

• Los Angeles – Book Hollywood Hike Tour
• Get Hollywood Access Ticket Here 
• Downtown LA – Food and Culture walking tour. Book the 3 hour tour here

Southern California Desert – Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE: Orange County – Palm Springs – Salton Sea – Salvation Mountain and East Jesus – El Centro

ROUTE STOPS: 8

• Orange County to Palm Springs (100 miles) – Palm Springs Windmills
• Palm Springs to Salton Sea (64 miles) – Bombay Beach
• The Salton Sea to Salvation Mountain and East Jesus (21 miles) – Salvation Mountain
• Salvation Mountain to El Centro (40 miles) – Overnight in El Centro, CA
• El Centro to Imperial Sand Dunes (35 miles)
• Imperial Sand Dunes to Borrego Springs (80 miles)
• Borrego Springs to Orange County (122 miles)

MILES COVERED: 462 miles (or 743.5 kms) round trip

ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP:

This quick loop through the Southern California desert will bring you through some of the most interesting and desolate places you may have ever seen!

Day One Palm Springs : Palm Springs, which is famous for its windmills. The best spot for getting up close is on Garnet Avenue, near North Indian Canyon Drive.

Salton Sea : The Salton Sea was once a very popular place to escape to but is now basically deserted. Bombay Beach is the only community that still inhabits the Salton Sea. Check out the Bombay Beach Ruins and Drive-In Theater during this stop .

Salvation Mountain : This brightly-colored mountain is a unique sight to see. You can walk on top of the mountain and through little caves underneath. Follow the yellow brick road on your way up and don’t step on any areas you shouldn’t. 

East Jesus, or Slab City : This tiny town is in the middle of nowhere and apparently off-the-grid (not regulated by the government). Take a walk through the Art Garden to see the various used and recycled items that have been put together to create some very unique art.

El Centro: This is the closest city to rest for the night. 

Day two – Imperial Sand Dunes : Make a quick stop at the Imperial Sand Dunes. Watch the dune buggies, take some photos, and head on out. 

Borrego Springs : Borrego Springs, where you can find over 100 metal sculptures scattered throughout the desert. The most popular one is the Sea Serpent!

Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail: This short hike will give you a good sample of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Time to head back home, where you will be happy to be after experiencing all of that remoteness in the middle of the desert!

CONTRIBUTED BY:   Heather Saez from That OC Girl

• Enjoy aerial views – take an aerial tramway in Palm Springs
• Find hotel deals here  

Las Vegas to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Canyon 

ROUTE: Las Vegas – Springdale – Zion National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park – Page – Grand Canyon

ROUTE STOPS: 

• Las Vegas to Springdale Utah- 160 miles
• Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park – 85 miles
• Bryce Canyon National Park to Page – 153 miles 
• Page to Grand Canyon – 133 miles
• Grand Canyon to Las Vegas – 279 miles 

MILES COVERED:   810 miles (1303 kilometres) round trip approx.

ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP :

One of the classic road trips in the Western United States is the small loop starting and ending in Las Vegas: visiting Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Canyon. We did this road trip with eight people ranging in ages from one to 80, over the course of a week!

Las Vegas: Before we officially hit the road we had a day for arrival in Las Vegas, car rental, and grocery shopping.

Springdale Utah and Zion National Park : Drive 160 miles from Las Vegas to Springdale, Utah, on day 1 to access point to Zion National Park. After spending the night, we had a full day for exploring Zion, specifically the Westside with lots of family-friendly hikes, accessible via the free shuttle inside the park.

Bryce Canyon National Park : Following the second night in Springdale, we drove through the Eastern side of Zion National Park on our way to Bryce Canyon.

The views are spectacular but much of the road is small and windy making this 85 mile stretch take several hours. We made it in time to take in the sunset at the aptly named Sunset Point , a gorgeous introduction to Bryce Canyon.

Bryce Canyon National Park : Again we had a full day for hiking in Bryce Canyon National Park, and the following morning after a final visit to Sunrise Point, we started the long drive to the Grand Canyon. This driving day entailed 286 miles and took pretty much all day.

Page Arizona : We stopped in Page, Arizona, approximately half-way through for lunch. Just in time for the late afternoon sunlight, we had a first look at Grand Canyon Visitors Center and decamped to a hotel in Tusayan, Arizona.

Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam:  On our last full hiking day we did parts of the  Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Trail . Ending our week was the 280-mile drive to Las Vegas, with a final stop to tour the  Hoover Dam  just outside the city.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Daphna from A Tiny Trip

• Helicopter flight over Las Vegas at night. Book it here
• Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas
• Get awesome hotel deals in Las Vegas, click here to view 
• Read our 3 day Las Vegas Itinerary

San Francisco Bay Area to Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon

ROUTE: San Francisco – Klamath Falls – Ashland – Crater Lake National Park – San Francisco

ROUTE: From San Francisco to Crater Lake, one-stop in either Klamath Falls (southeast of the park) or Ashland (southwest of the park)

MILES COVERED : 800+ miles (1288 kilometres) round trip

San Francisco Bay Area to Crater Lake National Park: Road trips from the San Francisco Bay Area up to Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon are great for weekend trips. The distance is about 400 miles.

If you wish you can stop at Klamath Falls for the night before heading over to Crater Lake the next day. However, there isn’t really much to see in Klamath Falls so we would only recommend it for ease of access to the lake.

Ashland and Medford: Ashland and Medford, although located a bit further away, are two other towns in Southern Oregon that would make for excellent stops before or after visiting the national park. Ashland is home to the famous Shakespeare festival and it’s just a very quaint town that makes for an interesting road trip destination.

Drive to Crater Lake : Since there are no towns next to Crater Lake, you’ll either end up driving an hour and a half from Ashland/Medford or 45 minutes from Klamath Falls to reach the entrance.

If you go in the summer when there’s no snow, you should definitely complete the Rim Drive. This route takes you about two-thirds of the way around the crater and you can stop at numerous viewpoints along the way to take pictures.

If you visit Crater Lake during the winter months or any month where there’s a lot of snow, the Rim Drive will likely be closed. In this case, you’ll want to park at the main visitor center and walk around the outskirts of the crater.

Either way, a visit to Crater Lake will mostly consist of walking around, staring out into the distance, and appreciating the incredibly unique and picturesque views.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Michael from Passport Explored

• San Francisco Golden Gate Cruise  – Visit the Golden Gate National Recreation Area
• Visit Muir Woods and Sausalito on a half-day tour from San Francisco
• Get all the things to do in 4 days in San Francisco
• Find accommodation in San Francisco here  

Wine County One Day California Road Trip 

ROUTE: LA to Paso Robles and Santa Ynez Valley 

DAYS: 1 

ROUTE STOPS: Los Angeles to Paso Robles and Santa Ynez Valley 

MILES COVERED: 681 miles (1096 kms) round trip 

The secret is out. Paso Robles, roughly 200 miles north of Los Angeles, is producing some of the best wines in the world. And it doesn’t get much better than a quick romantic weekend getaway.

To say the area has become a hot spot is an understatement — today Paso Robles alone has over 300 wineries. Like surfing through Netflix, all these choices can be overwhelming. So we did the work for you and picked our top recommendations. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always Netflix. 

Los Angeles to Buellton, 138 miles: Hitching Post II Call it the Sideways effect — the 2004 cult wino movie with Paul Giamatti that put a spotlight on Santa Ynez’s Pinot Noir.

Many of the movie’s most memorable scenes were filmed in the restaurant Hitching Post II, best known for their filet mignon and Pinot Noir. Though something tells me the bartender has heard the classic line more than once, “If anyone orders Merlot, I’m leaving!” We recommend getting the Pinot Noir flight ($18) that includes four 2 oz pours. 

Buellton to Paso Robles, 100 miles: Wine Tasting at Daou Vineyards With so many wineries, how can we narrow it down to just one? Well, Daou is pretty special. Daou is located at one of the highest spots in the region with sweeping views.

The winery was founded by Georges and Daniel Daou, Lebanese brothers who immigrated to France when they were 10 and 14 years old to escape the civil war. They became fascinated by winemaking and the rest is history. Tastings are $40 per person. 

Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo, 35 miles: Evening at Petit Soleil Petit Soleil is one of our favorite hotels. It offers free wine and snacks, a big breakfast, and easy parking. Hey, we’re from LA… now that’s a luxury item! The boutique hotel is French-themed, right down to the room decor, and accordion music playing on the alarm clock/CD player. 

CONTRIBUTED BY : Phil & Kevin from Gourmet Globetrotter

• Explore more wine tours in the Santa Barbara Wine County

Utah Road Trip National Parks – West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE: Zion National Park – Bryce National Park – Capitol Reef to Arches/Canyonlands

DAYS: 5+ 

ROUTE STOPS: 4

• Zion National Park to Bryce National Park – 72 miles
• Bryce National Park to Capitol Reef – 112 miles
• Capitol Reef to Arches/Canyonlands – 136 miles 

MILES COVERED:   494 miles (795 kilometres) round trip

If you’re a fan of visiting national parks, then you’ll love this Utah road trip to visit all 5 national parks in the state.

Zion: Start the road trip at Zion National Park and spend 2 days exploring the park’s hiking trails. Drive along Highway 9 and Kolob Terrace Road to get away from the crowds in Zion Canyon.

Bryce Canyon: Next drive to Bryce Canyon National Park and spend one day. You’ll pass through Red Canyon on your way which gives you a sneak peek of what you’ll see at Bryce. Take the scenic drive road to the end at Rainbow Point without making any stops.

Spend half a day to drive from Rainbow Point to the Amphitheater and the other half walking the Rim Trail or Navajo Loop Trail to really experience all Bryce has to offer.

Capitol Reef: Drive toward Capitol Reef National Park via Highway 12. You’ll find some Utah State Parks along the way, so take your time on this road. One full day at Capitol Reef includes the scenic drive, hiking, and picking fruit in the orchard.

Arches and Canyonlands: Now it’s time to drive to Moab where you can explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. You’ll pass by Goblin Valley State Park which is a fun side trip. Take 1 to 2 days to enjoy and photograph the unique beauty of Arches while driving along the park road and hiking the trails.

Another 1 or 2 days can be spent at Canyonlands biking, hiking, off-roading, and river rafting. Be sure to visit Dead Horse Point State Park as a side trip near the entrance to Canyonlands Island in the Sky.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Jamie & Dave from PhotoJeepers

• From Moab to Arches National Park hiking and riding on a 4×4 – Book your tour here
• 7 day National Parks Tour in Utah, with camping and driving – Book your tour here

Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park Day Trip – West Coast Trip

ROUTE: Las Vegas – Amargosa Valley – Death Valley – Shoshone – Las Vegas 

ROUTE STOPS:  Las Vegas – Amargosa Valley – Death Valley – Shoshone – Las Vegas 

MILES COVERED: 450 miles (724 kilometres) round trip 

Making the round trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park is one of my favorite west coast road trips in the United States.  You can make the entire route in a single day, and still see many of the top attractions of the park, or you can add in a couple of overnight stops to make it into a vacation.  

Las Vegas to Death Valley : The route is about 125 miles from Las Vegas to Death Valley , and on a day trip, you will travel about 75 miles in the park.  It totals about 325 miles, but there are plenty of stops to make it an enjoyable day, and be back by evening.

If you choose to cross to the far side of the park and add in some overnight stays, it will be about 450 miles for the round trip.  Most often, we prefer the day trip.  

Amargosa Valley: We recommend using US Route 95 out of Las Vegas, and turning on Highway 373 at the Amargosa Valley .  You can’t miss the stop for refreshments at the intersection!

When you get to Death Valley Junction, you may want to visit the Amargosa Opera House before turning right to the park on Death Valley Road, route 190.  

Death Valley Road: On Death Valley Road the stops to make include Zabriskie Point, Furnace Creek, the Devil’s Cornfield, Mesquite Dunes, and Stovepipe Wells.  You will want to hike around a bit, or at least explore in each of these stops, so bring plenty of water along.

Turn around at Stovepipe Wells and head back to Badwater Road to visit Artists Drive and Badwater Basin, where you can get some amazing photos. 

Town of Shoshone: Your final stop of the day will be the little town of Shoshone, where you can see mining relics, and have dinner before heading back to Las Vegas.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Roxanna from Gypsy with a Day Job

• Full day tour from Las Vegas to the Death Valley

Portland OR to Yellowstone National Park – West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE: From Portland, Oregon to Yellowstone National Park, stopping in Richland, WA, and Missoula , MT

• Portland to Richland – 220 miles
• Richland to Island Park – 606 miles
• Island Park to Yellowstone – 77 miles 
• Yellowstone to Missoula – 313 miles

MILES COVERED:   1600 miles (2575 kilometres) round trip approx.

After watching a documentary about Yellowstone National Park , we knew we had to visit it. And in 2017, with flights, car hire, and accommodation booked, we set off from Portugal to visit this amazing National Park. 

Portland: We landed in Portland, OR after a long flight from the UK and hit I-84 east following the Columbia River along the Columbia River Gorge. The scenery was stunning.

We then turned north onto I-82 towards Richland where we stopped overnight. From Richland we headed onto US-395, joining I-90 at Ritzville. This road took us past Coeur d’Alene in Idaho, a beautiful lake surrounded by rich forests. We stopped at an interesting place called the 50,000 Silver Dollar Inn along the way to freshen up.

Missoula in Montana was our next stop for lunch, as we planned to do the 600 miles from Richland to Island Park, Idaho in one day. 

Island Park and Yellowstone National Park: Late in the evening, we finally arrived in Island Park, ready to start exploring Yellowstone National Park with our son over the course of four days. We saw bison, Old Faithful erupt, lots of springs, and a stunning sunset. Visiting Yellowstone with our son was our best holiday to date. And worth the 800 miles each way!

Missoula, Montana: On the return trip, we took the same route back to Portland, with a 3-day stop in Missoula, Montana to break up the journey. It was a town that surprised us with many things on offer for families like ours. Had we had more time, we would have spent time around Coeur d’Alene.

Mount Hood : Our original plan was to stop by Multnomah Falls on our return to Portland from Richland, but due to forest fires it and the entire Columbia River Gorge was closed, and we had to take a diversion around Mount Hood, which was very picturesque. 

CONTRIBUTED BY: Cath from Passports and Adventures

• Walking tour of Portland – Book your 2-hour tour here
• Multnomah Falls and Columbia Falls Gorgehalf day tour from Portland – Book here
• Willamette Valley Waterfalls & Wine tour – Book your full-day tour here
• Book a 7 day Yellowstone National Park Tour

Olympic Peninsula Coast Road Trip

ROUTE: South to North Coast – Kalaloch and Ruby Beach – Second and Third Beach – Rialto Beach – Shi Shi Beach

• Kalaloch to Second Beach- 48 miles
• Second Beach to Rialto Beach – 10 miles
• Rialto Beach to Shi Shi Beach – 65 miles 
• Shi Shi Beach to Olympic National Park – 81 miles

MILES COVERED:   204 miles (328 kilometres) round trip approx.

The state of Washington is known for its moody vibes and breathtaking mountainous forests. Surprisingly, one of the best things to do in Washington is to do a two-day road trip along the Olympic Peninsula Coast . The beaches are filled with sea stacks, driftwood, wildlife, and many sea anemones. The vibes and the views are outstanding. A road trip with many stops at the beaches is the perfect way to experience the Pacific Northwest. 

Kalaloch and Ruby Beach : If you are driving from the South coast to the North coast, your first stop is Kalaloch and Ruby beach. There, you can experience the exciting Tree Of Life . If you choose to, you can spend the night at the Kalaloch Lodge or drive north to First, Second, and Third Beach.

To access Second and Third Beach , you need to hike a few miles, but the effort is worth the hike with views of sea stacks and many wildlife. Second Beach is an excellent spot to the beach camp, don’t forget to obtain a permit. 

Rialto Beach : The next stop will be Rialto beach which is mainly known for the “Hole in the Wall” photography spot. It is also a great beach sunset location.

Shi Shi Beach: The last destination is the great Shi Shi Beach. Its 8-miles round trip hike makes it a bit more difficult than most. However, it is an excellent spot to backpack and camp. Just make sure to obtain the correct permits. 

CONTRIBUTED BY : Michelle from The Wandering Queen

• Seattle is a good starting point for this road trip itinerary. Seattle to Olympic National Park is 88 miles. 
• Seattle city exploration tour – Check it out here
• Seattle to Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour – Explore it here
• Explore Mount Rainier National Park in a small group tour – Book here
• The San Juan Islands is located 108.7 miles away from Seattle, one way. San Juan is a popular whale and Orcas sighting location. Take a private tour to the San Juan Islands

San Diego to Phoenix West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE : San Diego – Jacumba Hot Springs – Imperial San Dunes – Quartzsite – Phoenix

ROUTE STOPS :

• San Diego to Jacumba Hot Springs – 72 miles
• Jacumba Hot Springs to Imperial Sand Dunes – 79 miles
• Imperial Sand Dunes to Quartzsite – 89 miles
• Quartzsite to Phoenix – 129 miles

MILES COVERED : 366 miles one way

The drive from San Diego to Phoenix is actually only five and a half hours, but what many people don’t know is that there are a few fun places to stop so you can stretch the trip out.

This is the perfect road trip for anyone who loves the outdoors and off-the-beaten-path activities.

San Diego to Jacumba Hot Springs : There are many more opportunities for stops in the first half of the trip since it’s so close to San Diego. Right as you leave the city you can stop for a hike at Sunrise Highway.

Garnet Peak is one of the best and can range from 1 to 5 miles depending on the route you take. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking here.

Jacumba Hot Springs: There are many things to see here including the desert view tower, boulder park, and the hot springs. Exploring the tower does cost a small fee, but you can also rent the whole thing out for the night.

This is where we would recommend staying to break up your trip. Boulder park has different rock formations that have been molded and painted into different animal shapes.

Imperial Sand Dunes: Make a quick stop here to see the largest sand dunes in the state. You can hike around here as much as you like but if you have more time then go on an ATV tour. It’s one of the most fun things that you can do in the area!

Quartzsite to Phoenix: Quartzsite is the perfect jumping-off spot to explore the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a popular place for photography because of its stunning views and plentiful wildlife.

The drive from Quartzsite to Phoenix is pretty desolate so make sure you fill up on gas and your vehicle is in good shape. The scenic mountain views in the distance make the drive well worth it though.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Chelsey from Chelsey Explores

City and National Parks (SF to Las Vegas) West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE : San Francisco – Yosemite National Park – Sequoia National Park – Death Valley – Las Vegas

• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park – 191 miles
• Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park – 169 miles
• Sequoia National Park to Death Valley – 312 miles
• Death Valley to Las Vegas – 150 miles

MILES COVERED: 1391 miles (2239 kilometers) return trip SF to Las Vegas

This is a great trip because it combines two incredible (and very different) cities with three awe-inspiring (and very different) national parks.

SF to Yosemite National Park : Start with spending three days in San Francisco. In San Francisco, highlights include riding a cable car, visiting Chinatown, and seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Then drive to Yosemite National Park.  It takes about half a day to get there plus two full days in the park. In Yosemite, drive and/or hike to lookouts and admire El Capitan and Half Dome, dramatic rock formations that dominate Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park : Then another half day on the road to Sequoia National Park, where you can easily spend another two full days. 

Then a full day of driving, especially if you are in an RV, as you will have to backtrack to the north entrance of Sequoia National Park and go the long way around, to Death Valley National Park.  This drive takes you through much of the park. 

In Sequoia, home to the largest trees on earth, don’t miss the Congress Trail , the Big Trees Trail, and the adjacent Kings Canyon National Park, where you can see enormous trees such as General Grant, General Sherman, and Chief Sequoya.

Death Valley: Spend another two full days in Death Valley before heading to Las Vegas, where you can easily stay for three full days before heading home.  

Death Valley has sand dunes, salt flats, and mini- badlands among its many desert landscapes. It’s very hot in Death Valley, so avoid summer!

Death Valley to Las Vegas : Of course, Las Vegas has dozens of casinos on the famous strip, but even if you don’t gamble, seeing the themed features such as the New York’s roller coaster, the Bellagio’s fountains and the Mirage’s volcanic eruptions are fun.

This road trip really has something for everyone.

CONTRIBUTED BY: James from Parks Collecting 

• San Francisco to Yosemite and Wine County 3 day tour – Learn more about the tour here
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park – Book this 2 day tour 
• Explore the best of the West Coast in a guided tour – Learn more here
• From San Francisco to Lake Tahoe – 4 day guided tour

Oregon Coast Road Trip 

ROUTE: Astoria – Cannon Beach – Three Cape Route – Newport – Florence

DAYS: 3. Preferably 3 days but if you are pressed for time, the Astoria to Newport stretch can be done in a day.

ROUTE STOPS : From Astoria to Florence via Three Capes Scenic Loop 

MILES COVERED : 379 miles via Highway 101 (605 kilometers) round trip

With its old-growth forests, picture-postcard towns, towering cliffs, and unparalleled views of the great blue Pacific Ocean, the Oregon Coast is beyond beautiful. A drive from Astoria in the far north, near the Washington border, to Florence in Central Oregon will give you a taste of the best that this part of the world has to offer.

Astoria : Start with guzzling a few craft beers at Astoria, tasting the delicious seafood which includes the West Coast’s famous Dungeness Crab, visiting the Astoria Column, and, of course, taking photos of the famous iconic sea-green Megler bridge. Hike to the top of Neahkanie Mountain to be rewarded with some breath-taking views of the Oregon Coast.

Another gorgeous hike is Cape Perpetua, south of Newport.

Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach is a quaint town with cute cafes and mansions overlooking the Pacific Ocean. One look at this town and it isn’t so hard to guess why it is one of Oregon’s prime real estates!

The sunset is especially beautiful here; the soft pink blush of the setting rocks adds a tinge of magic to the Haystack Rock. You can spot puffins in the spring here.

At Tillamook, explore the Tillamook Dairy and indulge in loads of creamy ice cream!

Three Cape Route: The Three Cape Route is arguably one of the most beautiful routes in the world! The road climbs up along the cliffside and promises stellar views. At Cape Meares, visit the lighthouse and check out the magnificent Fresnel lens.

Stop by at Oceanside for a swim and at Agate Beach to do some beach-combing. If you’re lucky, you find slices of translucent agate in the sands!

Go on a whale-watching tour at Depoe Bay.

Newport: Newport’s historic bayfront is lined with restaurants, cafes, and galleries and it is delightful to wander through the narrow streets, past the pretty houses.

There are glass-blowing workshops and studios here, should you be interested in a lesson. Say hi to the sea lions before heading further south to Seal Rock where the beach is lined with impressive formations of basaltic rock.

Florence : Near Cape Perpetua is the famous Thor’s Well. During high tide, the ocean seems to drain away from it! The dunes and the sea lion rookery at Florence are a lovely epilogue to the trip.

It is 188 miles via Highway 101 from Astoria to Florence. You can stay at hotels and motels along the way. There are 4 campsites along the route: Fort Steven State Park, Warrenton, Nehalem Bay State Park, Cape Lookout State Park, and Beverly Beach State Park, Newport. 

CONTRIBUTED BY: Mohana & Aninda from Two-Together

• Explore Oregon Coast highlights in a day tour – Book tour here
• Eugene to Oregon Coast 2 day tour

Las Vegas to Zion National Park, Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Sierra Nevada 

ROUTE : Las Vegas – Zion National Park – Moab – Monument Valley – Las Vegas  – Bryce Canyon National Park  – Sierra Nevada mountains – San Francisco

DAYS : 7 – 14

ROUTE STOPS : Las Vegas to Zion, Moab, Monument Valley. Back to Las Vegas (you can complete the West Coast American road trip here or continue to) Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park, and San Francisco

MILES COVERED : 1632 miles (2626 kms)

ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP : 

This USA west coast road trip can be completed in one week or two weeks covering a wide variety of national parks, major cities, and natural landmarks. 

Day 1 in Las Vegas: Kickstart your itinerary in Las Vegas. Spend one day in Las Vegas covering the primary attractions on the Strip, go shopping, or catch a show. 

Day 2 – 3 in Zion National Park: Head to Zion National Park and spend 2 days here. Plan to camp, hike on the Angels Landing trail or just enjoy nature walks. You can go star gazing and take in the views of the amazing landscape of Zion. 

The driving time from Las Vegas to Zion is about 3 hours.

Day 4 in Monument Valley: Drive through southern Utah to get to Monument Valley, and spend one night here 

Day 5 and 6 in Moab: Next drive 3 hours to get to Moab and explore Canyonlands and Arches National Park. Enjoy hikes, paddleboarding, or just admire the towering rock formations.

Day 7 in Bryce National Park: Visit the Bryce National Park next. Go on easy hikes here, check the ‘hoodoos’, and see the unique landscape. The driving time from Moab is about 5 hours.

Day 8 and 9 in Las Vegas: You can drive back to Las Vegas and complete the road trip here, or continue on with the next leg of the journey. Spend 2 days in Las Vegas and explore more places in and around the city.

Day 10 in Sierra Nevada: Head to Sierra Nevada and camp overnight here

Day 11 to 13 in Yosemite National Park: Explore the best of Yosemite California in 3 days. Check off Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, and enjoy hikes and camping here before arriving in San Francisco on day 13.

Day 14 in San Francisco: Arrive in San Francisco and explore the city attractions like Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island sightseeing, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and beyond. Here is a complete one day in San Francisco itinerary

• San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
• SF: Alcatraz Ticket w/ 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Night Tour
• From San Francisco: Yosemite Park Guided Day Trip
• Las Vegas: Entry to Madame Tussauds with a Gondola Cruise
• Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Bus Tour with Hoover Dam Stop

Los Angeles to Palm Springs and California Desert Parks 

ROUTE: Los Angeles – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree National Park – Anza Borrego State Park – Palm Desert & Thousand Palms – Los Angeles 

ROUTE STOPS : 

• LA to Palm Springs – 106 miles
• Palm Springs to Joshua National Park – 38 miles
• Palm Springs to Anza Borrego State Park – 99 miles
• Palm Springs to Palm Desert and Thousand Palms – 21 miles for both
• Palm Springs to LA  -106 miles

MILES COVERED : 349 miles (562 kilometers) round trip

One of the most fabulous road trips you can do from Los Angeles is to the beautiful desert community of Palm Springs. Palm Springs is not only a desirable destination unto itself, it is also the perfect base for day trips to a couple of gorgeous California desert parks: Joshua Tree National Park, and Anza Borrego State Park.

LA to Palm Springs : Plan on five days for the road trip, including the drive from LA to Palm Springs and back. Start early on day one and do the drive to Palm Springs, which is about 106 miles, and takes about 3 hours in normal traffic.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Palm Springs. Discover beautiful examples of mid-century modern architecture, stroll downtown Palm Canyon Boulevard, or hike in nearby Indian Canyons.

Joshua Tree National Park : On day two, do a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park. There are lots of fun things to do in Joshua Tree National Park , including hiking, bouldering, watching the sunset from Keys View, and discovering the flora and fauna in the park.

The namesake Joshua trees and the cholla cactus are two examples of unique flora you can see in Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree is about 38 miles from Palm Springs, and you can do the drive in about one hour.

Although you can camp in the park or stay at Twenty-nine Palms just outside the park gates, accommodations in Palm Springs are much nicer.

Anza Borrego State Park : On day three, do a day trip to Anza Borrego State Park, which is about 100 miles away, a drive of about 1.45 hours. Especially if you visit in the spring of a super bloom year, Anza Borrego is a must-visit, with carpets of wildflowers providing color in the desert.

The park also features gigantic sculptures in metal, which are interesting to photograph. On the way, stop at the Salton Sea, an enormous body of saltwater with lots of birds.

Palm Desert & Thousand Palms: On day four, you can explore the communities of Palm Desert, which has some desert gardens and a zoo, and Thousand Palms, where you can do some desert hikes. These two places are just a few minutes drive from Palm Springs.

Drive Back to LA: Drive back to Los Angeles on day five, having experienced the magic of the California desert!

CONTRIBUTED BY: Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

• Take a day tour to Joshua National Park from Palm Springs
• One day tour from LA to Palm Springs and shopping outlets – Book your tour here

Yosemite Valley Road Trip Itinerary

ROUTE: Mariposa Grove to Tuolumne Meadows via the Tioga Pass

ROUTE STOPS:  Yosemite Valley Stops 

• Mariposa Grove to Tunnel View – 28 miles
• Mariposa Grove to Glacier Point – 34 miles
• Mariposa Grove to Tuolumne Meadows – 43 miles
• Mariposa Grove to Pacific Crest Trail  – 72 miles

MILES COVERED: 144 miles (231.75 kilometres) round trip

Yosemite National Park makes the perfect destination for a road trip. This Yosemite road trip can be completed in as few as 3 days or extended for as long as you like. All stops are found within the confines of the park. 

Mariposa Grove : Begin your road trip adventure at Mariposa Grove, near the park’s southern entrance where you can view some of the largest trees in the world. From here you’ll drive to the historic Wawona Hotel . This is a really pretty hotel with a great restaurant.  If you’re hungry, take advantage of the opportunity. This may be your last great meal for a few days. 

Tunnel View Lookout : After lunch, you’ll stop at the famous Tunnel View lookout. Find a parking spot and take your time, it’s worth every minute. After Tunnel View you’ll make your way into Yosemite Valley. Get settled into your accommodations and head back out to explore the valley.

Your next several stops can be seen on foot walking around the valley floor. Use your park map to locate Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

Mist Trail, Vernal and Nevada Falls : The next morning you’ll tackle the Mist Trail to see Vernal and Nevada Falls up close.

Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley: In the afternoon you’ll get back in the car to head up to Glacier Point. This is another famous lookout perfect for photographs. The drive up will take about an hour and 15 minutes each way. You can finish off your second night relaxing back in Yosemite Valley and viewing the stars on a clear night. 

Tioga Pass: The next morning you’ll head out on the infamous Tioga Pass. You’ll follow the Tioga Pass all the way out to Tuolumne Meadows. The drive can take 90 minutes, but the object is to take your time.

There are tons of lookouts and rivers and mountains along the way. Stop wherever looks interesting and enjoy this peaceful and serene side of Yosemite. I assure you, there will not be any crowds here. Bring lots of water and snacks with you as you will not find anywhere to purchase anything on the road. 

Tuolumne Meadows and Pacific Crest Trail : Once you reach Tuolumne Meadows you can have a picnic, walk around, or even hike part of the Pacific Crest Trail. Whenever you’re ready, you can begin the slow drive back to Yosemite Valley for your last relaxing night in the park.

CONTRIBUTED BY : Eden from Rock a Little Travel

• 3-day Camping Adventure at Yosemite National Park. Learn more here

Utah West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE: Moab – Arches National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park – Zion National Park

• Arches National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park – 246 miles
• Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park  – 75 miles 

MILES COVERED: 634 miles (1020 kilometres) round trip

Zion, Bryce, and Arches are three of my favorite National Parks in the world. Take it from a Park Ranger who has worked and camped in her fair share of parks, these Utah gems are frankly perfection. If you have not yet fallen in love with the fiery allure of the red rock desert, oh boy, get ready to fall hard.

That said, these three beauties are still deeply unique in their own ways. The starting point of the trip is Moab, Utah. 

Arches National Park : Arches, on the East side of the state, is the most like a desert, but with a jungle of towering red slabs and bizarre arches everywhere you look. Arches are in the coolest area, in my opinion; its gateway town of Moab is rad and full of fun adventure activities. The Moab Brewery has great food and even better beer. 

Bryce National Park: Bryce, in between the two, is known for its eerily human-like hoodoos, and feels almost like the Grand Canyon with its rim hikes and pine forests.

Zion National Park: Zion, famous for needing a shuttle bus most of the year because it’s just that popular, is named for “paradise” for a reason.

To properly visit these parks, I recommend at least two solid days in each and camping as often as possible. Luckily, the longest drive of this road trip—that between Arches and Bryce—is only 244 miles through some gorgeous terrain. The road trip in its entirety (not including exploring each park to your heart’s content) is only 317 miles in total. 

I’d spend the most time in and around Arches, and in and around Zion. Bryce is lovely, but smaller and more easily appreciated in a day or so. 

Besides that, you can’t go wrong with spending every spare moment hiking in each park. In particular, the Narrows and Angel’s Landing in Zion is literally world-famous, for good reason (you need a permit for the Narrows, so plan ahead).

You could do this Utah National Park trip in less than a week, or really take your time and stretch it out. I’ve done it both ways, and never been disappointed.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Kaisa from  Glam Ganola Travel

• Small group Zion and Bryce National Park Camping Tour – Book tour here
• Full day Arches National Park with Canyonlands and driving 4×4 tour – Book tour here
• Book a scenic flight tour over Arches National Park

Cannon Beach Oregon to the Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor

ROUTE:  Cannon Beach Oregon to Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor

• Cannon Beach 
• Cannon Beach to Yaquina Head Lighthouse –  155 miles
• Yaquina Head Lighthouse to Florence – 53 miles
• Floras Lake State Natural Area to Gold Beach – 39 miles
• Gold Beach to Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor – 14 miles

MILES COVERED: 298 miles one way

ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP ROUTE

Day 1: Cannon Beach

Spend the day in Cannon Beach. Time your visit right so you can visit Haystack Rock at low tide. Haystack Rock is one of the most iconic pictures of the Oregon Coast. It stands at 235 feet tall. 

At low tide, you can explore the tide pools home to starfish, green anemones, and crabs.  After exploring the tide pools, head to Ecola State Park for beautiful hiking trails and Hug Point for beautiful coast views.  

Day 2: Tillamook Creamery > Cape Kiwanda > Devil’s Punchbowl > Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Today you will start your drive down the beautiful Oregon coast. The first stop is Tillamook Creamery. It is a perfect road trip stop to stretch your legs and grab some freshly made ice cream and cheese. There is a massive cheese-making process hall with viewing windows where visitors can go on a self-guided cheese-making tour.

At Cape Perpetua Scenic Area there are beautiful views of the jagged coastline and the forest area that seems to fall straight into the ocean. The Cape Perpetua Visitors Center has lots of information about trails, camping spots, and viewpoints.

Devil’s Punchbowl is a large giant sea cave with a hole in the roof. The best time to visit the cave is at high tide when the waves crash in the bowl. It is a spectacular thing to watch from the viewing area above.

Your road trip along the west coast is not complete without a lighthouse visit. Yaquina Head Lighthouse along with the surrounding historic areas and tide pools make it a fun area to explore. Cobble Beach is a fun place to spend some time as well.

Day 3: Florence > Floras Lake State Natural Area  

Florence is a great place to either hit the sand dunes or go canoeing for the first part of the day. Then head down to Floras Lake State Park. There are not a lot of amenities there so pick up some food in Florence to take with you. The easiest beach access is at Boice-Cope Park.

Day 4: Gold Beach > Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Before heading to the scenic corridor, spend a few hours exploring Gold Beach. It is a small Oregon town with beautiful beaches like Meyers Creek Beach. You will want to leave the majority of your day to explore the Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

Some of the highlights are Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint, House Rock Viewpoint, Arch Rock, and Natural Bridges Viewpoint.

CONTRIBUTED BY: Candice from CS Ginger

San Francisco to Redwoods of Northern California West Coast USA Road Trip

ROUTE: Mendocino –  towns of Fort Bragg & Leggett – Humboldt Redwoods State Park

• San Francisco to Mendocino – 155 miles
• Mendocino to Fort Bragg  – 10 miles
• Fort Bragg to Leggett  – 43 miles 
• Leggett to Humbolt Redwoods State Park – 56 miles 

MILES COVERED: 500 miles (805 kilometres) round trip

One of the best road trips in California is the route between San Francisco and the redwoods of Northern California.

The trip takes approximately 4 days and will take you through the sleepy coastal towns of Mendocino and Fort Bragg before you reach your final destination at Humboldt Redwoods State Park (part of Redwood National Park, California). 

Mendocino : Mendocino is best known for its beautiful iconic cliffs that extend into the Pacific Ocean. Kayak into sea caves to explore inside the cliffs or hike along the cliffs at Mendocino Headlands State Park to take in the gorgeous ocean views. Check out the quaint downtown area for a small-town vibe and some fudge. 

Fort Bragg : Be sure to explore the colorful Glass Beach in Fort Bragg. It is famous in California for its amber, white, green, and sometimes blue sea glass. Noyo Headlands Park also offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Town of Leggett : Another place to stop on the way to the redwoods is the town of Leggett. Here you’ll find the Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree, a remnant of the bygone days when it was socially acceptable to saw through trees for cars to drive through as a road trip sight to see. 

Humboldt Redwoods State Park : Finally, you’ll reach Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest redwood trees in the world.

Don’t miss the drive through the Avenue of the Giants, nowhere else will you feel so small as you coast between giant redwood trees. The hiking trails within the park are also amazing, especially in Founders Grove and Rockefeller Forest. 

READ: Cities and beach towns to visit in coastal California

CONTRIBUTED BY: Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

• Redwoods and Wine County Tour – Learn more here

A love affair with Baja California (Los Angeles to Ensenada Mexico)

ROUTE: Los Angeles –  San Ysidro – Tuetano Taqueria – Tijuana – Ensenada

• LA to San Ysidro – 137 miles
• San Ysidro, the USA to Tijuana, Mexico – 4.5 miles
• Tijuana to Ensenada – 104 miles 

MILES COVERED : 245 miles (395 kilometers) round trip

If you grow up surfing in Southern California there’s no doubt that you have had a love affair with Baja California. The Baja Peninsula is visually stunning, the beaches are mesmerizing and the restaurant industry has grown into the envy of Mexico. 

LA to Ensenada: Ensenada has the soul of Baja but it’s only 200 miles from Los Angeles. It is perfect for a three-day weekend. Leave before daylight on Saturday morning and you will cruise through San Diego in less than two hours, cross the border quickly and be in Ensenada and surfing in just over three. 

San Ysidro : It is mandatory to buy Mexican car insurance. I prefer to stop in San Ysidro to buy it at the drive-through. It takes 5 minutes and there are great tacos a block away. Everybody on the US side is reselling the same policies from the three big Mexican insurance companies. The policy has to be from a Mexican company.

Tuetano Taqueria : The best birria tacos (chile-rubbed and slow-roasted beef served with a beef broth soup) this side of Tijuana. If Bill Esparza of @StreetGourmetLA fame is a fan then you should be too. 

Tijuana to Ensenada: The coastal highway from Tijuana to Ensenada is a toll highway with three toll booths that cost a total of about US$10 each way. It is fast, in perfect condition with views of the ocean most of the way. 

Ensenada: At the last toll booth before you enter Ensenada is the world-famous San Miguel surf spot. It’s a right-hand river mouth that breaks like Trestles but with a small fraction of the crowd. After surfing all morning you have to decide if you are going to head into Ensenada or up the hill to the Valle de Guadalupe wine region.

• Muelle 3 Restaurant – Located in the Ensenada Harbor just steps away from the seafood market, Muelle 3 is different from the rest of the seafood restaurants on the block. Excellent salads, grilled fish fillets, and European-style steamed mussels make this one of the best restaurants in town.
• Tostadas La Guerrerense – Fresh, exotic seafood cart tostadas that won a street food world competition in Singapore and enchanted Anthony Bourdain. La Guerrerense recently opened a sit-down restaurant in the Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City.
• Manzanilla Restaurant – Harbor to table and farm to table staple that helped define the regional cuisine. Celebrity chefs Benito Molina and Solange Muris are the husband and wife team behind this celebrated restaurant.
• Valle de Guadalupe – Sinaloan Ranch style breakfast made with local ingredients and lots of lamb. Highly regarded as one of the best meals in the Valle de Guadalupe the wait can go on for hours. Get here early.
• Cuatro Cuartos – Vineyard glamping with a rustic wine bar overlooking the pacific ocean. This is one of the most Instagram-friendly spots in the Valley because of the dramatic views of the coastline.

CONTRIBUTED BY : Paul Hudson from Playas y Plazas

• Canopy Tour at the Ensenada – Learn more about the tour here

We hope you enjoyed our West Coast America road trip itineraries. More USA Travel posts below

• USA Bucket list – Top places to visit in the USA
• East Coast Road Trips – East Coast USA Road trip itinerary
• USA Weekend Getaways – Top destinations for a quick 2 – 3 day trip in the East Coast
• Winter Destinations in the USA – Best places to visit in winter in the States
• Hotels Guide to Las Vegas – Where to stay in Las Vegas the USA
• Vegas for couples –  Romantic Things to do in Las Vegas 
• Grand Canyon National Park – which rim to visit?
• Grand Canyon Tours – Top 5 Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Day tours

Pin: USA West Coast Road Trip

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Bookmarking this! My partner and I have talked about doing a west coast roadtrip for years. We’ve been to a few spots before but haven’t spent nearly enough time. High on the bucket list are definitely Yosemite, Grand Canyon and driving the PCH. Can’t wait to head off on one of these routes someday soon – when we get back from our expat year living in Prague!

That’s awesome Riana! Thanks so much – I am sure you will have lots of FUN doing this road trip!

Happy Travels xoxo

Love this blog post and love your photography! I have been to a few of these places and they are just amazing!

Mayuri, thank you for this post! My boyfriend and I are currently planning a three-week roadtrip to the States with many of these spots in mind! We did Yosemite last year and part of Nevada this year, but so many of these spots are high up on our list and I can’t wait to dig deeper and refine our itinerary, now that I’ve downloaded your pdf version 🙂

So glad you found the post useful!

Love that you started the post off with essentials needed for a road trip! I would add to that – always make sure to have an extra bottle of water on hand. You never know if you may accidently get stranded somewhere. Great post!

Great tip about the water. We carry ours too!

Nice Post. very well written and very impressive

awesome post! what service do you use to create your map?

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The best usa west coast road trip: itinerary + ideas.

Planning a trip to the west coast and want to do an epic road trip journey? Check out this west coast road trip itinerary + ideas to help you plan your trip.

There’s nothing more American than a road trip! In fact, there are at least 25 American Road Trips that I think are essential to do before you die! One of them is the great west coast road trip.

I’ve lived in California most of my life, and driving the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) is a must when you live here at least once in a lifetime. It’s like a right of passage.

But there are even more incredible places to explore on the west coast of the USA.

If you’ve got a few weeks to cruise the western coast of the United States, you’ve made a good choice. This is some of the most stunning scenery in the world. You’ll spend time in the famous PNW (pacific northwest) and be venturing into the beautiful diversity that is California.

A west coast trip is a must, especially if you’re visiting the US for the first time. It’s so unique and classic, and something I hope everyone gets a chance to do in their lifetime! I hope that these west coast road trip ideas will help you when planning your trip and give you the confidence to drive the entire coast!

This loop ensures that you see all the most popular sites, while also getting off the beaten path and exploring hidden gems in each western state.

Here's a Short Cut

1. Safety Supplies for your West Coast USA Road Trip

2. get a good rate on a car rental, 3. be sure you have good insurance, 4. be sure to pack right, 5. don’t overdo it, 1. the pacific coast highway, 2. san diego to los angeles, 3. san francisco to yosemite national park, 4. southern california national and state parks, 5. portland to seattle, western us road trip driving map, south bound route, san juan islands, olympic national park, long beach peninsula, cannon beach, multnomah falls, bandon beaches, redwoods national park, point reyes national seashore, napa valley, san francisco, pismo beach, los angeles, crystal cove state park, palm springs, joshua tree national park, death valley national park, sequoia national park, yosemite national park, lassen volcanic national park, ashland oregon, crater lake national park, i hope this west coast road trip planner has been helpful, practical tips for your west coast road trip.

I wanted to share some practical information before diving into the road trip itinerary.

When you’re preparing for west coast travel, it’s always a good idea to keep a road safety kit in your car, in case of break-downs, accidents, or other emergencies. Even when my boys have to get out and “go” on the side of the road, I like to put up reflective warning road safety triangles like these ones , especially at night! I always like to have a good first aid kit on hand as well, not only when we road trip, but when we travel anywhere. You never know when it could be a literal life-saver!

If you’re renting a car for your west coast road trip, be sure to shop around for the best deals. We like to use Rental Cars to find the best rates and locations. Be sure to read the rental agreement too. Some rental car companies only give you a certain allotment of miles and if you’re going to do a massive road trip like this, you’ll want to make sure you pick a car with unlimited miles.

Be sure that you have good car insurance and also a good travel insurance. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been grateful to have travel insurance the the peace of mind it brings! If you’re driving your own car, be sure that you have enough insurance as well. The last thing you want to have to deal with on a road trip is fighting insurance companies if you get in an accident.

To prepare for your west coast road trip be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip.  I share all my best tips on how to plan the perfect road trip, including safety tips, ideas on how to keep kids entertained during a road trip, and the best apps to use for roadtripping! If you’ve ever considered doing a west coast road trip in a camper, check out these RV rentals in California.

It’s human nature to think we can do more than we actually can. Try to be realistic about how much time you have to do this itinerary. I would give yourself at least two weeks for this. One week in each direction.

Other West Coast USA Road Trip Ideas

If you don’t have time to do this complete itinerary, you can always pick one of these shorter west coast road trip ideas. These road trip routes are some that I’ve done in the past and most can be done in just a day or two.

This is the most iconic California road trip. If you’re shorter on time and can’t do the entire west coast, at least drive the PCH. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California is an incredible experience. The Pacific Coast Highway is a famous coastal road that runs along the Pacific Ocean, stretching over 600 miles from the north to the south of California. This scenic route is known for its breathtaking views, winding roads, and stunning beaches, making it one of the most popular road trips in the world.

This scenic highway, the PCH, runs from Dana Point in Orange County all the way up to Leggett in Mendocino County. The most scenic section of the highway is the stretch between San Francisco and Los Angeles, which takes you through some of the most beautiful areas in California, including Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and Malibu.

One of the highlights of driving the PCH is the incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll see rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and sparkling blue water. You’ll also pass through charming coastal towns, each with its own unique personality and attractions.

Another great thing about driving the PCH is the opportunity to stop at some of the state’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. For example, you can visit Hearst Castle, a grand mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Or you can explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is home to thousands of marine creatures.

The PCH is also known for its winding roads and steep cliffs, which can be a bit nerve-wracking for some drivers. However, the road is generally well-maintained and offers plenty of pullouts and viewpoints where you can safely stop and take in the views.

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is an unforgettable experience that offers some of the most stunning scenery in California. If you’re planning a road trip in the Golden State, the PCH is definitely a route you won’t want to miss.

Distance : 600 miles

A Southern California road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles is a great way to explore the southern coast of California. The drive takes you along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, which offers stunning ocean views and a chance to explore several charming towns and attractions along the way.

Starting in San Diego, you can head north on Interstate 5, which takes you through the coastal communities of La Jolla, Del Mar, and Encinitas, known for their beautiful beaches and oceanfront dining. Alternatively, you can take the scenic route and drive up the coast on the PCH, which takes you through the seaside towns of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Solana Beach, and Carlsbad.

As you continue north, you’ll reach the city of Oceanside, which is home to the California Surf Museum and the historic Oceanside Pier. Further up the coast, you’ll pass through the beach towns of San Clemente, Dana Point, and Laguna Beach, all offering beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and unique shops.

One of the highlights of the drive is the stretch of Highway 1 that passes through Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, where you can see some of the most expensive homes in California and catch a glimpse of the famous surf spot, the Wedge.

As you approach Los Angeles, you’ll pass through the charming coastal towns of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, all offering great places to grab a bite to eat or take a stroll along the beach. The drive will end in Los Angeles, where you can explore attractions like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica.

A road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles offers a chance to see some of the best beaches and coastal towns in Southern California. Whether you stick to the highways or take the scenic route along the PCH, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Distance : 130 miles

A road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is a popular way to experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and one of America’s most iconic national parks. The drive takes you through the heart of the Central Valley, a vast agricultural region, and into the Sierra foothills before arriving at Yosemite National Park. This road trip is full of outdoor adventures.

Starting in San Francisco, you’ll head east on Highway 580, which takes you through the East Bay and into the Central Valley.

Continuing east on Highway 205, you’ll pass through the city of Modesto, home to the Gallo Center for the Arts, before reaching Highway 99, which takes you through the agricultural heartland of California. Along this stretch of road, you’ll see vast orchards of almonds, pistachios, and citrus, as well as miles of fields growing crops like tomatoes and lettuce.

At Merced, you’ll exit Highway 99 and head east on Highway 140, which takes you into the Sierra foothills and toward Yosemite National Park. This scenic route will take you through the charming towns of Mariposa and El Portal, where you can grab a bite to eat or stock up on supplies before entering the park.

Once inside Yosemite National Park, you’ll be treated to stunning views of granite peaks, waterfalls, and lush forests. Some of the must-see sights in the park include Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. There are also plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy, from gentle walks to challenging climbs.

West coast road trips from San Francisco to Yosemite are a great way to experience the beauty of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains and one of the country’s most beloved national parks. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns, see breathtaking natural landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

Distance : 170 miles

You could spend weeks just in Southern California exploring the various national parks. Road Trips through Southern California’s national parks are a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the region.

Start your trip in Los Angeles and head east towards Joshua Tree National Park, located about two and a half hours away. Spend the day hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the stunning desert landscapes of this unique park.

After a day in Joshua Tree, continue southeast to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, about a two-hour drive. This park is known for its rugged terrain, stunning wildflower displays, and fascinating geological formations.

Next, visit Cabrillo National Monument, located on the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego. This park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay, as well as hiking trails, tide pools, and historic landmarks.

Drive north to Ventura, which is about three hours away, and take a ferry to Channel Islands National Park. This park is located off the coast of Southern California and offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities to observe marine wildlife such as seals and dolphins.

Distance : Varies

West coast road trips from Portland to Seattle are a fantastic way to explore the Pacific Northwest and take in the natural beauty of the region. The drive covers about 175 miles and takes approximately three hours, depending on traffic and the route you choose. Along the way, you’ll encounter gorgeous coastlines, charming towns, and iconic landmarks that define the Pacific Northwest.

Starting in Portland, head north on I-5 towards Seattle. About an hour into the drive, you’ll reach the city of Olympia, the capital of Washington State. Olympia is known for its stunning waterfront parks, including Percival Landing Park and Priest Point Park. Stop by the Olympia Farmers Market to sample local produce, crafts, and food, or explore the Washington State Capitol Campus, which features beautiful gardens, monuments, and historical buildings.

Continuing on I-5, you’ll pass through Tacoma, another vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest. Tacoma is home to the Museum of Glass, where you can watch glass-blowing demonstrations and admire works by renowned artists. The city’s waterfront area offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries.

As you approach Seattle, you’ll pass through the suburbs and get your first glimpse of the city’s iconic skyline. Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, music scene, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Take a stroll through Pike Place Market to sample local seafood, fresh produce, and artisanal goods, or visit the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Other must-see attractions include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Aquarium.

A road trip from Portland to Seattle offers a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest.

Distance : 175 miles

My Full West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

For this west coast trip, I’ve divided the west coast up into two routes so that you can drive in a loop. There is a coastal route, stopping at some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S., and an inland route, where you’ll visit famous national parks and mountainous roads.

In my opinion, this is the best west coast road trip and will allow you to see some of the most incredible sites in the region. You can drive this West Coast Road Trip Itinerary either way you like. You can even start in the middle and only do parts of this itinerary, but I prefer to drive from north to south if I can.

The weather becomes more temperate the farther down you go, and when you’re driving south along the coast, the passenger (usually me with the camera) gets all those gorgeous views out their window.

Driving south will also allow you to take the longer route down first, saving the faster route for the end. This interactive map will help you plan your west coast road trips.

This west coast trip map will help you navigate all the stops along the way.

You can begin or end your west coast road trip in Washington state. From the majestic, snow-capped Cascade Mountains, the bustling and hip town of Seattle, to the forested islands of the Puget Sound, Washington has beauty and variety that should not be missed.

Starting your west coast road trip off in Seattle is a great idea. Visit the Space Needle, a futuristic remnant from the 1962 World’s Fair, head to the century-old Pike’s Place Market, watch the fishmongers toss fish, grab a drink at the original Starbucks, and stock up on snacks for your epic journey! If you’re feeling brave you can make a visit to Mel’s Hole in Ellensburg before heading south.

From Seattle, grab a ferry to the San Juan Islands and enjoy a day or two of these stunning forested islands, where you can camp or stay in one of the Bed and Breakfasts along the islands. See wildlife, hike, swim, bike, kayak or just enjoy the scenery as you drive along the scenic byway of the San Juan Islands.

Download and follow this map of the scenic byway in the San Juan .

Spanning several different ecosystems, from the Olympic mountain range to the old-growth forests. Drive through the majestic national park and take it all in. Stop and hike, climb, picnic or just enjoy the ride!

Along these stunning beaches you’ll find sand dollars, driftwood, anemones, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot eagles, whales, dolphins and other coastal wildlife.

Be sure to visit these beaches in the Olympic National Park:

• Shi Shi Beach
• La Push Beach
• Rialto Beach where you can see the Hole-in-the-Wall rock arch during low tide

The Long Beach Peninsula is a 30 mile stretch of land with gorgeous white beaches just before the Oregon border. Visit the World Kite Museum and brave the winds by flying your own kite. If you’re making this west coast road trip in August, you’ll be just in time for the International Kite Festival.

Now it’s time to head south towards Oregon.

Welcome to Oregon! The northern Oregon coast has some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Home to more mountains, beaches, and some of the most incredible waterfalls in the world. It is a foodie mecca and home to more breweries than Scotland and the Czech Republic combined! Don’t miss these incredible stops along the Oregon coast:

Home to the ‘80s classic movie Goonies . Be sure to watch it before visiting, then you can see all the iconic scenes from the movie, including the infamous Goonies House.

Astoria is a historic city located on the northwestern tip of Oregon, at the mouth of the Columbia River. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture scene, and rich history. The city is home to a number of iconic landmarks, including the Astoria Column, a 125-foot tall monument that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Columbia River and its importance to the region.

Astoria is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, offering visitors a chance to experience the local arts and culture scene. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, explore the town’s museums and historic landmarks, or take a hike through the nearby Fort Stevens State Park for stunning views of the coast and surrounding forests. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural offerings, and unique history, Astoria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Oregon coast.

A charming little town and beach. Seaside is an amazing place to go if you want to spend some time by the ocean collecting shells, relaxing, and enjoying nature.

Seaside is a charming coastal town located on the Oregon coast, about 80 miles northwest of Portland. It is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic promenade, and family-friendly attractions. The town’s main attraction is the Seaside Promenade, a 1.5-mile long boardwalk that runs along the beach and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

In addition to the promenade, Seaside is home to a variety of family-friendly activities, such as the Seaside Aquarium, the Funland Arcade, and the Broadway Theater. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament, the Seaside Wheels and Waves Car Show, and the Seaside Jazz Festival. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town’s attractions, or participate in one of its many events, Seaside is a fun and welcoming destination for visitors of all ages.

Another iconic scene from Goonies where you can see haystack rock. My kids love this beach and it makes for an amazing photo backdrop.

Cannon Beach is a charming seaside town located on the Oregon coast, about 80 miles west of Portland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, towering rock formations, and picturesque lighthouse. One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is Haystack Rock, a massive monolith that rises over 230 feet above the beach and is home to a variety of seabirds and marine life.

In addition to its natural attractions, Cannon Beach is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, studios, and festivals showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint shops and restaurants, stroll along the beach, or take a hike through the nearby Ecola State Park for stunning views of the coast and surrounding forests. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural offerings, and laid-back atmosphere, Cannon Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Oregon coast.

Take a tour of the Tillamook Dairy Factory and learn where all that delicious, milk, cheese, butter, ice cream, and yogurt come from. Grab a giant ice cream cone and stock up on snacks for the next leg of your trip.

The Tillamook Cheese Factory is a popular attraction located in Tillamook, Oregon, about 75 miles west of Portland. The factory offers a free, self-guided tour that allows visitors to witness the cheese-making process firsthand, as well as sample a variety of cheeses and other dairy products. The tour includes a short video presentation, a viewing area overlooking the production floor, and a taste-testing area where visitors can sample Tillamook’s award-winning cheeses.

In addition to the factory tour, visitors can explore the Tillamook Creamery, which features exhibits on the history of Tillamook cheese and the local dairy industry. The creamery also includes a gift shop where visitors can purchase a variety of Tillamook products, as well as souvenirs and other gifts. The Tillamook Cheese Factory is a fun and educational destination for visitors of all ages, offering a glimpse into the art and science of cheese-making and the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest dairy industry.

You can choose to visit Portland on either route, north or south, or hit it twice, I don’t think you’ll mind. Be sure to eat everything in Portland, especially Blue Star Donuts and Salt & Straw Ice Cream.

Portland, Oregon is a vibrant and eclectic city located in the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and progressive values. The city is situated at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and scenic waterfalls.

Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses” due to its numerous rose gardens and annual Rose Festival. The city is also known for its thriving food and beverage scene, with a wide range of farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and coffee shops. Visitors can explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm, or take a stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, such as Washington Park or the International Rose Test Garden.

Portland is also a hub for arts and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city is home to the Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Historical Society Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, as well as several theater companies and music venues. With its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere, Portland is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Multnomah Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, just outside of Portland, Oregon. It is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over two million visitors each year. The waterfall is fed by underground springs and cascades over 600 feet in two tiers, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States.

The falls are accessible via the Historic Columbia River Highway and are surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. A footbridge spans the lower tier of the falls, providing visitors with an up-close and personal view of the cascading water. There are also several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to moderate, that allow visitors to explore the surrounding forests and discover additional waterfalls and scenic vistas. Multnomah Falls is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Portland area, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty and wonder of the Pacific Northwest.

There are several beaches in Bandon, Oregon, all amazing. Visit the lighthouse at Bullard’s Beach, and Face Rock to look for the famous Tufted Puffins. The beaches in Bandon are said to be one of the best places in the world for storm watching.

Explore more from this Oregon bucket list.

Once you’ve had your fill of Oregon beaches, you can continue your west coast road trip down into California.

Welcome to the Golden State. Be prepared for some more gorgeous views and stops. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out these California road trip stops. 

These protected forests and beaches along the northernmost coast of California are not to be missed. Spend time hiking or driving through the parks and taking in the trees, some of which are over 5,000 years old! Read more about visiting Redwood National Park with Kids. 

Redwood National and State Parks is a national park located in the northern coast of California, known for its stunning coastal landscapes and towering ancient redwood trees. It spans over 131,000 acres and is home to some of the world’s tallest trees, including the Hyperion tree, which stands at over 379 feet tall. The park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the coast, hike through ancient forests, and observe a variety of wildlife.

In addition to its natural attractions, the park is also known for its cultural significance. It is home to several Native American tribes, who have lived in the area for thousands of years and continue to practice their traditions and customs. Visitors can explore the park’s museums, attend cultural events, or take guided tours to learn more about the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. Redwood National and State Parks is a unique and awe-inspiring destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the northern California coast.

Located along the stunning Mendocino coast, Fort Bragg is known for its Glass Beach where you can see millions of colorful stones scattered along the shores.

Fort Bragg is a charming coastal city located in Mendocino County, California. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is situated on the rugged Mendocino coast, offering visitors stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, scenic beaches, and towering cliffs.

One of the most popular attractions in Fort Bragg is the Glass Beach, which is located near the city’s downtown area. The beach is covered with millions of colorful glass pebbles that were created over time from discarded glass bottles and other objects. You can take a stroll along the beach, collect glass pebbles, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

The city is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Skunk Train, a historic narrow-gauge railroad that offers scenic tours through the surrounding forests and hills. Fort Bragg is a charming and unique destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Mendocino coast.

These protected lands offer seashores, hiking trails, forests and a beautiful historic lighthouse. Stop into Point Reyes Station to wander the shops, eat some lunch, stay the night, and grab more snacks for your drive. Read more about Point Reyes here.

Point Reyes is a peninsula located on the coast of Northern California, about 30 miles northwest of San Francisco. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and historic landmarks. The peninsula is surrounded by the Point Reyes National Seashore, which offers visitors miles of unspoiled beaches, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the most popular attractions in Point Reyes is the Point Reyes Lighthouse, a historic landmark that has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Pacific since 1870. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance to the region.

The peninsula is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Point Reyes is a stunning and unique destination, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the Northern California coast.

Visit the Napa Valley wine region, where you can tour local wineries and do taste testing.

Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region located in Northern California, about 50 miles north of San Francisco. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, award-winning wineries, and gourmet food scene. The valley is home to over 400 wineries, ranging from small family-owned vineyards to large estates that produce some of the world’s most celebrated wines.

In addition to wine tasting, visitors to Napa Valley can explore the valley’s charming towns, such as Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga, which offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries. The valley is also home to a number of spas, hot springs, and wellness centers, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and foodies alike, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and world-class wines.

There is so much to do in this beautiful city, that it has its own post. Read more about it here.    We love San Francisco as its one of the nearest metropolitan areas where we live. It’s where we come when we need a little taste of city life and culture.

San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city located on the northern coast of California. It is known for its iconic landmarks, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city is home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Painted Ladies, as well as several world-class museums, theaters, and galleries.

In addition to its attractions, San Francisco is also renowned for its culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets offering a variety of cuisines and flavors. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, the Mission, and Haight-Ashbury, offer visitors a chance to experience the city’s unique culture and history. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and world-class attractions, San Francisco is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern California.

It’s time to start your trip down the iconic   Pacific Coast Highway!

Monterey is another area of California that requires its own post. There is so much to do here, but if you only do one thing, take the 17-mile drive for the most breathtaking coastal views. There’s so much to see in Monterey with kids . 

Monterey is a charming coastal city located on the central coast of California. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and world-class aquarium. The city is situated on Monterey Bay, offering visitors beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

Monterey is also home to several historic landmarks, such as Cannery Row and the Monterey State Historic Park, as well as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life and exhibits. With its beautiful beaches, unique culture, and natural wonders, Monterey is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to California’s central coast.

While you’re passing through Monterey, stop by the charming little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is famous for it’s fairytale cottages. Be sure to stop at the candy store for some road trip snacks.

This rugged stretch of California’s coast can be a little tricky to drive, with winding curves and nearly constant fog. Be careful while taking in the views. Big Sur is a rugged and stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline located on the central coast of California.

It is known for its towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Highway 1, which winds along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with the iconic view of Bixby Creek Bridge (above) or explore the area’s many hiking trails, such as the famed McWay Falls Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall and beach. With its rugged beauty and unspoiled natural landscapes, Big Sur is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of California’s central coast.

This classic Central California surf town has great beaches. Be sure to check out the Dinosaur Caves Park for stunning views of the Pacific.

Pismo Beach is a beautiful coastal town located in San Luis Obispo County, California. It is known for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing, or explore the area’s many hiking trails and nature reserves. The town also offers a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Wind your way down to LA, visit Venice Beach, climb to the Hollywood sign, drive through Beverly Hills, then skip town, trying not to hit too much traffic.

I mean, what’s a trip to California without visiting your favorite mouse? You’ll need to plan at least a full day or two for your trip to Disneyland. Read this to help you plan your trip.

One of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County, Crystal Cove State Park is worth the parking fee. Crystal Cove State Park is a beautiful coastal park located in Orange County, California.

It is known for its natural beauty. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, or explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding hills.

The park also offers several historic landmarks, including the Crystal Cove Historic District, which features 46 vintage beach cottages and a beachfront restaurant. With its idyllic coastal setting and diverse recreational opportunities, Crystal Cove State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Orange County.

There is so much to do in San Diego that is also deserves its own post. Check out this San Diego itinerary . 

This is also a great California road trip itinerary !

Congratulations, you’ve now hit the southernmost tip of your West Coast road trip itinerary and it’s now time to head north!

San Diego is a vibrant coastal city located in Southern California, known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and rich cultural offerings. The city offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Balboa Park, which houses several museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

You can also enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, such as La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach, or explore the nearby coastal towns and attractions, such as the Cabrillo National Monument and the USS Midway Museum. With its perfect weather, diverse cultural offerings, and beautiful beaches, San Diego is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southern California.

North Bound Route

If you’re ready for some desert R&R, this is the place. Take a step back in time and book a room at one of Palm Spring’s trendy retro hotels, soak up some rays and hang by the pool.

Palm Springs is a desert oasis located in the Coachella Valley, known for its hot springs, luxurious resorts, and iconic palm trees. The city offers visitors a variety of activities, including world-class golf courses, art museums, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which takes visitors on a scenic ride up the San Jacinto Mountains.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Joshua Tree National Park or relax at one of the many spas and hot springs in the area. With its beautiful weather, luxurious accommodations, and stunning natural landscapes, Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southern California.

Take a day trip or camp at Joshua Tree National Park where you can find rugged rock formations and twisted other-worldly Joshua trees.

Joshua Tree is a stunning national park located in Southern California, known for its unique desert landscapes, towering rock formations, and diverse wildlife. The park is named after the iconic Joshua Tree, a type of yucca plant that is native to the area and has become a symbol of the park.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and camping sites, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty and rugged wilderness of the desert. With its otherworldly landscapes and stunning vistas, Joshua Tree is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the beauty of the American Southwest.

Move from one desert park to the next and visit Death Valley’s ghost town and see North America’s lowest point.

Death Valley is a starkly beautiful national park located in Eastern California, known for its extreme temperatures, unique geological features, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to the lowest point in North America, as well as stunning sand dunes, salt flats, and canyons.

The area’s harsh environment supports a wide range of plants and animals, including coyotes, bighorn sheep, and several species of cacti. The park also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. With its stunning natural landscapes and unique features, Death Valley is a fascinating destination for anyone seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest.

Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is home to huge sequoia trees and underground Crystal Cave. Be sure to drive through the Tunnel Tree. Read more about Sequoia National Park here. 

Sequoia National Park is a stunningly beautiful park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, known for its giant sequoia trees, rugged mountain terrain, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several groves of giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree in the world by volume.

The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing, as well as several historic landmarks, such as the Giant Forest Museum and the historic Lodgepole Village. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Famed for its iconic vistas and epic granite cliffs, Yosemite offers hundreds of hiking trails. Read more about Yosemite here.

Yosemite National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, known for its towering granite cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, as well as several groves of giant sequoia trees.

The park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and fishing, as well as several historic landmarks, such as the Yosemite Valley Railroad and the Ahwahnee Hotel. With its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the natural wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Bordering the California and Nevada state line, Lake Tahoe is a deep blue lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The beaches, hikes and ski resorts are some of the best in the world. Take in the clear blue waters of the second deepest lake in the United States.

Lake Tahoe is a stunningly beautiful alpine lake located on the border between California and Nevada. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged mountain scenery, and year-round recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and boating, or simply relax and take in the stunning natural scenery.

The area is also home to several charming towns and villages, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the beauty of the American West.

Lassen Volcanic National park is rich in hydrothermal sites like Bumpass Hell and has acres of bubbling mud pots. Lassen Peak Volcano offers views of the nearby area.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a unique and breathtakingly beautiful park located in northeastern California, known for its fascinating geothermal features, rugged mountain landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including Lassen Peak, as well as numerous geothermal features, such as hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, take a scenic drive through the park’s various regions, or enjoy the park’s diverse recreational opportunities, such as camping, fishing, and winter sports. With its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Home to the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a charming mountain town, with trendy vibe, offering museums, restaurants, and parks that make this a great road trip stop to stock up on snacks again, especially after visiting all those national parks and hopefully doing a lot of hiking!

Known for the famous Crater Lake, formed by Mount Mazama, the now-collapsed volcano, Crater Lake National Park offers hiking trails and a rim road, which circles the famous lake.

Crater Lake National Park is a stunningly beautiful park located in southern Oregon. It is known for its pristine blue lake, which is the deepest in the United States, as well as its towering cliffs, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. You can explore the park’s hiking trails, take a boat tour of the lake, or participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and snowshoeing. With its breathtaking natural beauty and unique geological features, Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Pacific Northwest.

These famous falls just outside of Portland can get busy, so be sure to go early to find a good parking spot and beat the crowds. Take the short hike up to the bridge which bisects the two sections of the waterfall. If you visit during the spring you’re likely to get wet!

Visit Portland again! You’ll need some more good food by now!

Congratulations, you’ve made it back to Seattle!

Phew! What an epic West Coast road trip! I hope you’ve enjoyed some of the most iconic scenes and locations on the West Coast. I would love to know what your favorite was. If you’ve driven the West Coast, I’d also love to know what I’ve missed. Any hidden gems that you recommend?

I know that this is a massive trip and should not be attempted in a week!

It is a lot of driving, so be sure to prepare your car for this epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!

Wanderlust Crew

One thought on “ the best usa west coast road trip: itinerary + ideas ”.

Nice article! There is so much to see in California! I have been creating California itineraries of various duration and for various interests for 4 years. I have 35 now on my blog http://familyroadtripguru.com/ and I think we only explored just about 20% of the state 🙂

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Nomadic Neen

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13 Amazing Days Out West: US Road Trip Itinerary

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Looking to create a jam-packed itinerary and see a bunch of national parks out West in the United States? Look no further!

In May 2021, I took a road trip with my travel buddy, Doug, and one of his friends. We explored SIX different states and saw SIX different national parks in just 13 days. It was an exhausting but ever so rewarding trip.

To save you the time in creating a road trip itinerary for yourself, check out ours to use or use as a starting point to plan your own version of this road trip!

Day 1: Las Vegas, Nevada

Fly into Las Vegas, Nevada. Enjoy the Las Vegas Strip and nightlife for a fun and exciting start to the road trip!

Day 2: Las Vegas, Nevada

You’ll probably need a recovery day after your flight/nightlife adventures. Hang by the pool at your hotel and get that tan started.

To save yourself some time tomorrow when the road trip officially starts, go pick up your rental car. The LV Strip is extremely close to the LV airport, so you can take a cheap taxi or Uber there to pick up your car.

Day 3: Las Vegas, Nevada to Flagstaff, Arizona

Today is a jam-packed sightseeing day on the road trip! We’re going to make a few stops along our journey from Las Vegas to our final destination in Flagstaff.

When you’re leaving Las Vegas, make a quick stop at the infamous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign .

About a half hour from Las Vegas, you’ll be able to make a tiny detour and see the Hoover Dam ! Park your car, and take a quick walk over the pathway to take in the full sight. It’s quite marvelous.

Drive two more hours and welcome to Arizona. First stop in Arizona is Oatman . This town is something straight out of a movie. It is your typical old west town and there are donkeys roaming around the streets. Yup. Donkeys. This is one of the many stops along the famous Route 66.

About one hour further down Route 66 there is a cute rest stop called Hackberry General Store . They’ve got souvenirs and snacks and super clean bathrooms , which is a must while on a long road trip.

Three more hours in the car and you’ve arrived in Winslow, Arizona . Another town along Route 66. This one made famous from The Eagles’ song “Take it Easy”. This is the place to stop for some lunch. There is a 50s style restaurant called the Sipp Shoppe right across the street from the Eagles’ corner that has some great and affordable options.

Also in Winslow, there is the Meteor Crater , which is essentially just a giant hole in the ground, but still a pretty neat spot if you’re willing to spend $22pp on this giant hole.

Last stop for the day is Flagstaff, Arizona. There’s plenty to do here, but a must stop is the Lowell Observatory . This is a late night activity, so get a good nap in before, but it is a relaxing way to end your evening in Flagstaff.

Day 4: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Village

Rise and shine! Hop in the car and drive two hours to the Grand Canyon Village. Grand Canyon Village is about 10 minutes from the South Rim Entrance of the Grand Canyon . This one is pretty self-explanatory. You can hike, eat, or just admire the beauty of the Grand Canyon for the rest of the day.

Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Another day in the Grand Canyon… Again, self-explanatory…

Bring Arizona to your home with these adorable succulents!

Day 6: Grand Canyon Village, Arizona to Albuquerque, New Mexico

A decent amount of driving is on the schedule today, so plan to get up on the early side. We’re back on Route 66 now, and three hours of driving will bring you to Holbrook, Arizona , which is known for their dinosaurs. Basically there are dinosaur statues everywhere. Spoiler alert: they’re underwhelming.

Right outside of Holbrook is Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Dessert . Driving through and making stops throughout the park will leave you speechless.

Once you’re done staring at the colors of the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest, hop in the car and drive three hours east to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the night.

I recommend staying at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town. There is a Mexican restaurant right in the hotel that is to die for. You’ll thank me later.

Day 7: Albuquerque, New Mexico to Alamosa, Colorado

A fun morning in Albuquerque ahead, so fill your bellies with a delicious breakfast at Frontier Restaurant . Get anything with a tortilla. They’re made in house, and are perfect. Me and Doug still talk about them.

After breakfast indulge in a self-guided Breaking Bad tour . Starting at the Breaking Bad Store. Check out sites such as Dog House Drive In and Walter & Skylar’s house, but beware of the homeowners here. There is a woman who sits on a lawn chair on the front lawn with signs and threatening to call the cops at everyone taking pictures of her house.  

After the tour, drive approximately 4 hours to Alamosa, Colorado. Alamosa is the closest city to Great Sand Dunes National Park . This is the perfect late afternoon activity since the sun isn’t as strong. Pack your goggles and tie up your hair, because it can get WINDY.

Back in Alamosa, there is a delicious Thai restaurant called Siam Cuisine to end the evening at.  

Day 8: Alamosa, Colorado to Denver, Colorado

Alamosa has a bunch of chain restaurants to indulge in as well. One of my personal favorites, IHOP was our choice for breakfast before the four-hour drive to Denver, Colorado.

Spend the day enjoying the city. There is plenty to do. For lunch, enjoy a half-yard of beer at The Yard House with a delicious Bavarian pretzel too.

For dinner, head to Avanti , which is a pretty unique place in my opinion! It’s open seating, so first-come first-serve. There are waiters and waitresses wandering around to take your drink orders, but the food is all different stations/restaurants that you can order from by just walking over to whichever one you’re in the mood for! Pretty neat.

Day 9: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Another day another national park! Today is Rocky Mountain National Park , which is about 1.5 hours away from Denver, Colorado. It’s actually much closer to Boulder if you’re looking to stay in a closer city.

Take in the mountain views and hike around the trails and lakes. It’s one of the most beautiful, serene places out there. That’s coming from someone who doesn’t like snow and the mountains were covered in it.

Day 10: Denver, CO to Moran, Wyoming

Today is a road trip day. Pack the car with lots of snacks and make a good playlist. We have eight hours ahead from Denver to Moran, Wyoming, where we’ll be staying for our next few national parks.

The drive from Denver to Wyoming may be long but it is absolutely beautiful, so don’t dread it!

Once you arrive, settle into the Hatchet Resort , where you’ll feel nothing but comfortable. It’s a really homey little place, and I cannot recommend it enough. Hatchet is about 30 minutes from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. To get there you have to drive through Grand Teton National Park (don’t worry you’re not charged for this section), so the drive is unbelievably gorgeous and will leave you speechless.

Jackson Hole has some amazing restaurants to choose from and some great shopping. It’s a wonderful down to relax and wind down in after that long day in the car.

Day 11: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is a bit of a drive from Moran, but Moran is the closest place to the Wyoming entrance. It takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to arrive at the Yellowstone National Park entrance .

Heads up!!!! You HAVE to drive through and PAY for Grand Teton National Park if you are entering Yellowstone through Wyoming. This isn’t a problem for the annual pass holders of course, but if you are paying per park, each one is $35 to enter, so that’ll be a $70 day just to enter the park. Plan wisely.

Visit the famous Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring ! Take in all of the colors and smells of the springs. That’s right, did you know sulfur smells terrible because if not, you’ll learn really quick.

There’s an abundance to see in Yellowstone, so ensure you pick your spots and plan it out well to not waste anytime.

Day 12: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming to Salt Lake City, UT

Grand Teton National Park is an absolutely majestic place to see, and even though you drove through it to get to Yellowstone and drove by it each trip into Jackson Hole, I recommend taking a few hours to drive around the park itself.

You can see some more bison wandering around, an adorable family of grizzlies , and even a fox or two!

Make a stop at Jenny Lake and admire the glacier-blue, crystal-clear waters. Your whole world will stand still when you see the beauty here.

Once you’re done in Grand Teton, hop in the car and start your 5-hour journey to Salt Lake City, Utah.

This part can be adjusted, and I honestly recommend it to be. Flights out of Jackson Hole were not doable for us this time around so we went to SLC for better flight options, but you don’t have to.

Day 13: Salt Lake City, UT

Before heading to the airport, make a stop at Red Butte Gardens . The colors and aroma of the flowers is the perfect relaxing activity before boarding that plane. There are plenty of different flowers and plants to see. You might even see a bunny hopping around!

Grab some lunch and head to the airport. It’s time to go home and tell all of your family and friends about your amazing road trip out west!! 

Build your own adventure with this A-Frame Cabin!

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So glad you,re back!! You did something that I always wanted to do but didn,t. To this day I still regret it. however,you are keeping my dream alive with all your blogs and I sincerely want to thank you and say to you keep them coming!!

I am so happy that I can keep your dream alive for you! I promise to keep the content coming and interesting!! xoxo

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Planning a 10-Day West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Planning a 10-Day West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

Traveling along the West Coast of the United States  had been in my head since the day I found out I’d be moving there for work. Who hasn’t dreamed about a road trip across the Western US? For me, the landscapes that automatically come to mind are the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Death Valley among others, as we have seen again and again in a bunch of movies.

Grand Canyon

In addition to nature, the American West Coast also offers you visits to symbolic cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

My favorite part of this trip was definitely the National Parks where natural wonders of this incredible country are concentrated within. I had been taking note of them on a  Western US  map   for a long time so that I could visit them as soon as I had the chance.

That’s how I started planning the 10-day West Coast USA road trip that we took in August.

THIS WAS OUR 10-DAY WEST COAST USA ITINERARY:

Our 10-day West Coast USA road trip itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Las Vegas.  Beginning of our 10-day West Coast USA Road Trip.
• Day 2: Monument Valley + Antelope Canyon + Horseshoe Bend.  The most popular places in the Western USA.
• Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park. One of the less touristic national park in the West Coast USA.
• Day 4: Zion Canyon National Park. One of the places we like the most during our 10-day West Coast USA trip.
• Day 5: Grand Canyon,  a must-visit place on the West Coast.
• Day 6: Mojave National Preserve + Death Valley,  the best of our 10-day West Coast Itinerary.
• Day 7: Yosemite Valley, the best attraction in the Western USA.
• Day 8: Upper Yosemite Falls,  the best hike of our West Coast America road trip.
• Day 9: Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. You cannot skip this highlight of West Coast USA:
• Day 10: Return flight from San Francisco.  En of our 10-day Western US trip.

If a Western US road trip is also one of your dreams, you will find everything you need to prepare your trip here:

• 10-day West Coast USA Road Trip

Best places to visit in West Coast America

• Our West Coast USA 10-day itinerary
• How to plan a self-drive trip to the Western US

How much does it cost a West Coast USA trip?

• Map of Western US

10-day west coast USA road trip

One of the first things I am sure you will be wondering about is how long a West Coast trip could take. My opinion is that you could be discovering the American West Coast for months and would still have things to do.

Death Valley – Zabriskie Point

When looking at a West Coast USA map, it may initially seem that the best tourist destinations are close to each other. However, distances in this country are huge, and you will spend a lot of time on the road during your trip.

Keep in mind that the US public transportation system is very scarce outside of the big cities, so the only practical option is to rent a car and prepare for a West Coast USA driving holiday.

On our West Coast USA road trip, more than ¼ of the trip was spent driving and still, along with the Canadian Rockies trip , it was one of the best trips of our life.

Another highly recommended option is to take a West Coast RV trip , as this country offers all kind of facilities for those who like to travel with their motorhome. You can check the best RV rental companies in the USA here.

Although it takes a long time to travel across the West Coast in depth, if you don’t have too many days or prefer to combine them, I encourage you to spend in West Coast America at least 10 days.

Grand Canyon – Plateau Point

There are thousands of West Coast USA tours you can take, so the first thing you have to choose is a few must-see places. It may seem complicated to plan this trip at first, especially when you do not have much time.

To help you choose your perfect West Coast America itinerary, you will discover the main tourist attractions in this section. Then, you can design the West Coast USA holiday itinerary that best suits your needs.

I suggest that as you read through this article, write down  the things to do in West Coast America  that interest you most on a map to help determine the best itinerary.

SAN FRANCISCO

If you like to visit cities, one of the places you cannot miss on the West Coast America is San Francisco. This popular city of California, is characterized by the steep slopes and the well-known Lombard street.

The most popular thing to do in San Francisco is visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in the US and a classic in many American films, as seen in Godzilla and Superman.

In addition, another interesting activity to do is visiting the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary whose best-known prisoner was Al Capone. It was said that nobody could escape from this maximum-security prison island since the only way was by swimming almost two kilometers in cold and treacherous waters.

If you are visiting this city, stay in one of the best hotels in San Francisco.

Las Vegas,  also known as “Sin City”, is one of the American classics famous for its countless casinos, open container laws (aka public drinking), and legalized prostitution in nearby counties.

The largest city in the state of Nevada welcomes both domestic and global tourism, where vice is a right. It is not surprising to hear the old saying: What happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas.

Welcome Las Vegas

Whether you like gambling or not, it is a must-see Western American city. It is also a good place to celebrate your (fake) wedding if being married by Elvis is also one of your dreams. Here you can find the ultimate list of things to do in Las Vegas.

If you are visiting this city make sure you know where to stay in Las Vegas , since its hotels are some of the most amazing in the World.

Do not miss our Guide TO THINGS to do in las vegas

• Los Angeles

Los Angeles , also known as LA, is the most populous city on the West Coast of USA. The City of Broken Dreams and Hollywood stars is located in California.

The Walk of Fame and the Hollywood sign are probably the main tourist attractions in Los Angeles , although a visit to Santa Monica , the beach where Baywatch was filmed, is also recommended.

Another place of interest is the Warner Bros. studios , where you can visit the film sets of a lot of movies, as well as Venice , where the canals remind you of those from the Italian city with the same name.

LA is a stop that you cannot miss on your 10-day West Coast US trip if you happen to enjoy both cities and film. You can find where to stay in Los Angeles here.

Do not miss our Guide TO THINGS TO DO IN LOS ANGELES

Grand canyon.

If we had to choose just a single place to start, visiting the Grand Canyon  would probably be the first that we recommend to do in West Coast USA.

The Grand Canyon is in Arizona and was shaped by the Colorado River over millions of years. In some points, the Canyon reaches a depth of more than 5250 feet.

Grand Canyon – Helicopter Tour

If you don’t have much time, taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour is a good option, as we told you in that article about our experience. However, if you have several days, I advise going down the canyon  through one of the many different hikes to discover the Colorado River.

Do not miss our Guide TO THINGS TO DO IN GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK and best places to stay in Grand canyon

Havasu falls.

If you like adventure, visiting the Havasu Falls is an essential of West Coast USA.

The Havasu Falls, along with others in the area, belong to the Havasupai Indian Reservation and are guarded by a tribe of Native Americans. They are inaccessible by car, so you must be in excellent physical condition to visit as you will be hiking in and out.

Plan well in advance for your visit, since you will need a permit that usually runs out shortly after the beginning of the  reservation  period which starts in February of each year. In addition to the permit, you will have to book a camping spot, as it is mandatory to stay there when visiting the falls.

SANTA BARBARA

Back at the coastal area, Santa Bárbara, located 150 kilometers north of Los Angeles, can be another interesting stop.

The main beach largely resembles Santa Mónica, except Santa Bárbara is not as popular.

However, Santa Bárbara is not just a beach: its architecture with Hispanic colonial roots is an important tourist attraction.

MONUMENT VALLEY

Between Utah and Arizona, Monument Valley is another one of the supernatural landscapes in the American West. It is a huge valley where very interesting geological formations rose with reddish colors. This was also a scene featured in many classic western films.

Monument Valley

This desert valley is located within the Navajo Nation, a territory that belongs to the Navajo natives who are responsible for both maintenance of the reserve and collection of entrance fees, which is not included in the US National Parks pass.

The best time to photograph the valley is during sunrise when the sun is behind the monuments, or during sunset when the monuments are illuminated by the last rays of the sun. In addition, there are different hiking trails that bring you closer to the main monuments of the valley, or you can even take a Jeep tour with one of the Navajo guides.

Do not miss our Guide TO THINGS TO Do IN Monument Valley and WHERE TO STAY IN MONUMENT VALLEY

Page: antelope canyon and horseshoe bend.

Page is a town inside the Navajo Indian Reservation, located in Arizona.

The most interesting attraction here is the Antelope Canyon , a geological feature formed by consecutive floods throughout history, which eroded narrow labyrinths of sandy rock into its terrain.

Antelope Canyon

Do not miss our Guide to antelope canyon TOURS

In addition, if you visit Page, you cannot miss a sunset in  Horseshoe Bend, which is named after its shape. It is probably the most famous bend of the Colorado River.

Horseshoe Bend

Do not miss our Guide to VISIT horseshoe bend

Here we leave you the best guide to know where to stay in Page.

The Wave in Arizona is another attraction to see in Western America.

To see this solidified wave-shaped dune, you must have a permit issued  four months in advance and by lottery (only 20 visitors per day are allowed).

It is one of the few virgin wonders that remain in the United States, so if you missed the date of the draw, it is always a good idea to check if someone has canceled his or her tour on the calendar. Visit this booking website both to participate in the lottery and to check the calendar.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Bryce Canyon National Park is a reserve located in Utah and is popular for the peculiar rock formations also known as “Hoodoos”. This park should be included in any Western US National Parks itinerary.

Due to the reddish color of the terrain, the best time to contemplate the main amphitheater viewpoint is at sunrise and sunset.

Bryce Canyon

There are also several hiking trails that will take you through the formations, where you can discover some with very interesting forms and names like Thor’s Hammer or Queen Victoria.

Do not miss THE BEST HIKES IN bryce canyon and the BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRYCE

Close to the Mexican border, we will find San Diego, the second largest city in the state south of Los Angeles

This city is a good stop on your 10-day West Coast US road trip if you are more interested in beach areas. La Jolla Cove is the most popular beach and you can find all kinds of wildlife including sea lions there.

In addition to the beach, there are other places of interest, such as Old Town San Diego, where you can find original buildings of the first Spaniards that arrived here, and Balboa Park, where many museums are concentrated, or the Coronado Island , where you can find the best views of the city.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

In Utah, one of the most important landmarks of the state is  Zion National Park, where the main interest here is an 800-meter-deep canyon carved into the reddish terrain for 24 kilometers by the Virgin River.

There are different hikes that you can take in this park. One of the most popular is Angels Landing, where you can get a full view of the canyon after three hours of hiking and up the Via Ferrata section.

Zion Canyon

Another longer route is The Narrows , which can be completed in 8 hours or done over several days. The route goes through the narrow gorges carved in by the virgin river, so you always need to check river flow the day before at the visitor’s center, and also to get water shoes.

Do not miss THE THINGS YOU HAVE TO DO IN zion national park and WHERE TO STAY IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

Joshua tree national park.

Located in a desert area in southern California, Joshua Tree National Park stands out for its unique rocks and mountain shapes.

Although its name comes from the unique Joshua Tree , what makes this park really interesting are the infinite rock-climbing possibilities .

Whether or not you are a climber, if you decide to visit Joshua Tree National Park on your West Coast USA trip over 10 days, you will experience the feeling of finding yourself on another planet.

DEATH VALLEY

On your 10-day West Coast America self-driving tour, you cannot miss the Death Valley that is located in California.

Death Valley

This immense desert is famous for Badwater, a dry area with the highest negative elevation within North America, situated at 262 feet below sea level. In addition, it is one of the hottest places on earth during summer, with a maximum recorded temperature of 58ºC.

Zabriskie Point

If you are going to cross it, be sure to fill the fuel tank and bring plenty of water to survive the extreme desert temperatures during the day.

Do not miss tHE bEST tHINGS TO DO IN Death Valley and where to stay in Death Valley

Mojave national preserve.

The Mojave Desert  spreads across Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley, Lake Mead National Recreation Area (NRA) and the Mojave National Preserve.

While you will find Joshua trees all over in this vast extension of land, the world’s highest concentration is located within the Mojave National Preserve .

Mojave Desert

In addition to the flora, the fauna is abundant and diverse, from reptiles like snakes, lizards, and turtles to mammals like bobcats or hares.

Do not miss WHAT TO DO IN mojave desert

Arches national park.

Arches National Park , located in Utah, has the highest concentration of stone arches in the world, however, there is no record of how many arches there are in this extension. This is the reason why it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah.

In addition, we can find another type of geological formations that defy gravity here, such as the Balanced Rock, a rock that seems to be falling at any time, yet has been standing for thousands of years in the same position.

The best way to go across Arches National Park is through a park ranger-guided tour that takes you to the purest and most virgin area of the park, where you cannot access on your own. You can book it here.

This park is one of the most acclaimed by photographers since the impossible shapes of the arches are very easy to use in any composition.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

An essential stop in West Coast USA is Yosemite National Park , located in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California.

This park is remarkable for two of the most important climbing sites in the United States and the world: the big granite walls of El Capitan and the Half Dome. In addition, we can find the American Giant Sequoia, one of the largest trees in the world, as well as extensive fauna that includes raccoons and black bears in this park.

Yosemite Valley

If you are a lover of nature, outdoor activities, and camping , this is surely going to be one of your favorite places near West Coast of the United States.

Do not miss all you have to do in Yosemite and WHERE TO STAY IN YOSEMITE

Sequoia national park.

In Sequoia National Park, you can find the largest concentration of giant sequoias in the world. These are grouped within what is known as the Giant Forest.

The park is located about 10000 feet above sea level, a critical altitude for this type of trees to grow. However, it may be closed during the winter because of the snow.

In addition, here we can find the giant sequoia known as General Sherman standing at 275 feet. While it is the largest single-stem tree, the Hyperion , located in Redwood National Park, California, stands taller at 379 feet as the tallest living tree known in the world.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is the oldest national park in the United States. It stands out for the incredible volcanic activity in the area and for the abundant fauna that inhabits the park: buffalo, grizzly bears, black bears, moose… If you want to enjoy the authentic American wildlife and landscapes with a smell of sulfur taken from another world, Yellowstone is an essential place to visit on the American West Coast.

I didn’t visit it during my first trip to the West Coast in the United States in 10 days, but during my next trip in which I toured Yellowstone and Grand Teton for 10 days, a great plan if you are looking for an alternative itinerary.

Check WHAT TO DO IN YELLOWSTONE and WHERE TO STAY IN YELLOWSTONE

Grand teton national park.

The mountains of Grand Teton National Park are one of the most haunted landscapes by photographers on the West Coast. If you like wildlife, hiking, and want to flee the typical 10-day US West Coast itineraries , I recommend visiting this national park that promises a quiet vacation away from the masses even in peak tourist season.

Grand Teton adjoins Yellowstone National Park, so taking a 10-day tour of the US West Coast combining these two parks is quite popular.

Check what to do in grand teton and WHERE TO STAY IN GRAND TETON

Our 10-day west coast usa itinerary.

As we stated above, our West Coast USA trip was focused on national parks and all the natural wonders of this area in North America.

Cities in the west coast are for sure some interesting destinations, but, without a doubt, if we had had more than 10 days to travel the American West Coast, we would have kept exploring the natural places that this country offers, each one so different and full of contrasts.

DAY 1 – West Coast America Trip: FLIGHT TO LAS VEGAS

We arrived in Las Vegas at noon, picked up the rental car and made a quick route to see the highlights of the city.

After a mandatory stop to make the classic photo with the Welcome Las Vegas sign, we headed to Monument Valley (6 hours driving) where we spent our first night.

DAY 2 – West Coast America Trip: DAWN IN MONUMENT VALLEY + ANTELOPE CANYON + HORSESHOE BEND

We photographed the sunrise in Monument Valley to see the incredible geological formations of the Navajo Reservation tinted in beautiful reddish colors.

Monument Valley (Our 10-day West Coast USA Road Trip)

In the morning we went to Antelope Canyon , in Page (2 hours driving) to take both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon tours.

Antelope Canyon (Our 10-day West Coast USA Trip)

In the afternoon we had a rest at  Lake Powell. Then we went to Horseshoe Bend from where we watched and photographed an unforgettable sunset.

Horseshoe Bend (Our 10-day Western US Road Trip)

We drove 2.5 hours until our next stop on our 10-day route along the West Coast.

DAY 3 – West Coast America Trip: BRYCE canyon NATIONAL PARK

We woke up in Bryce Canyon National Park , where we took pictures of the twilight from Sunrise Point overlooking the amphitheater.

We hiked the Rim Trail, seeing different Hoodoos as Thor’s Hammer.

Bryce Canyon (Our 10-day WesternUSA Road Trip)

At night, we returned to photograph the amphitheater under the Perseid Meteor Shower, and camped inside the park.

Bryce Canyon – Sunrise Overlook

DAY 4 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: ZION NATIONAL PARK

We arrived in Springdale (2 hours driving), parked our car and took the shuttle to Zion National Park.

We did the Angels Landing trail to get the best views of the valley.

Zion National Park (Our 10-day West Coast USA Road Trip)

In the afternoon, we drove 4 hours to the next stop on our 10-day Western US trip.

DAY 5 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: GRAND CANYON

We watched the sunrise at the Grand Canyon from Mather Point in probably the most epic light display we have ever seen during a sunrise.

Grand Canyon (Our trip to West Coast USA for 10 days)

In the morning we take this tour , as we tell you in this article about Grand Canyon helicopter rides . Without a doubt, I enjoyed my visit the most.

In the afternoon, we descended the first section of the Bright Angel Trailhead trail.

In the evening we drove to the next stop of our 10-day Western US trip, Mojave National Preserve (4 hours driving), where we spent one of the best nights of our life camping in the wild desert.

Mojave National Preserve

DAY 6 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: MOJAVE DESERT + DEATH VALLEY

We photographed the first sun rays of the day through the branches of the Joshua trees in the Mojave National Preserve.

We filled the tank to cross the Death Valley and made stops at the main viewpoints.

Death Valley (Our 10-day West Coast USA Self-drive Trip)

We arrived at Yosemite National Park where we set up a bivouac to spend the night in order to get accommodation the next morning at the historic Camp 4.

This day we drove a total of 10 hours, more driving hours than any other day of the entire trip.

DAY 7 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

Once settled in Yosemite National Park valley we went to discover the main viewpoints of the valley, from which we would photograph the last sunrises and sunsets of our 10-day trip to the West Coast USA.

Yosemite (Our 10-day West Coast USA holidays)

We took the opportunity to enjoy the real camp life,  cooked on the bonfire at night and raccoon watched with our campmates so they didn’t eat our food.

DAY 8 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

On the eighth day, we did the most strenuous hike of our 10-day West Coast USA trip. We climbed to the Upper Yosemite Falls, where we had a bath in one of its natural pools.

Yosemite Falls (Our 10-day West Coast USA vacations)

In the afternoon we took refuge in the tent as a hail storm fell – remember that weather in Yosemite, like any high mountains, is quite unpredictable even during summer season.

DAY 9 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

On our 9th day, we decided to try one of the small hiking trails in Yosemite National Park, such as the hike that takes you to Bridal Veil Falls or the Taft Point viewpoint.

In the afternoon we visited Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, where we could see these giant trees.

Tuolumne Grove (Our 10-day West Coast USA self-drive holidays)

DAY 10 – WEST COAST AMERICA TRIP: FLIGHT BACK FROM SAN FRANCISCO

We left Yosemite National Park to head to San Francisco , where we took our return flight home.

Our initial idea was to have the last day to discover the city. However, we liked Yosemite so much that we ended up leaving just enough time to catch the flight back. It took us 4 hours to get to the airport.

How to plan an self-drive trip to the Western US

Although many travel agencies offer West Coast USA holiday packages, this destination seems more appropriate to be planned on your own (unless you are interested in photography and decide to take a photo tour to the West Coast America ).

In any case, we will explain step by step how you can plan a trip to the West Coast USA on your own in this section:

• Choose your best West Coast USA itinerary
• Plan how to get to West Coast USA
• Get your US tourist visa
• Hire the best travel insurance for traveling to the United States
• Book a rental car
• Buy America the Beautiful Pass to enter the US National Parks for free
• Book the best accommodation  on the West Coast

HOW TO CHOOSE THE best West Coast USA itinerary

From the previous section where we highlighted the best places to visit in Western US, choose 8 (if taking a 10-day West Coast road trip) or 15 places (if taking a 20-day trip) that interest you most.

Jot them down on a map of  West Coast USA (I suggest using  Google MyMaps ).

Connect the different points and check on our map below to see if there is any tourist attraction that is on your way or that you can easily reach.

Finally, check that the driving hours are compatible with the itinerary or else leave them out of your list.

Driving in the West Coast USA

Do not be frustrated, no matter how long you stay on the West Coast, you will always leave something to explore for the next trip 😉

how to get to the West Coast of USA

In order to define our itinerary, we must know how to get to the Western US.

The best way is by flying to one of the following three airports:

• San Francisco

If you want to find cheap flights to the West Coast , the best time to book them is 3 months in advance. You can find here the best cheap flights hacks . My favorite search engine is Kiwi.com.

Also, if you want to visit too many places in the West and do not have much time, I suggest that you do a one-way trip , starting at a different airport from where you will return home through. This will increase the travel budget a bit, but you don’t get to travel to the Western US every day, do you?

VISA FOR THE UNITED STATES

There are two ways to travel as a tourist to the United States. If you belong to one of these countries you can travel to the US without a visa, but must obtain a travel authorization called “ESTA”.

HOW TO PROCESS THE ESTA

The ESTA is very easy to obtain. Simply fill out the application form on iVisa and you will receive the approval in about 6 hours by email.

We have a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the ESTA to the USA.

HOW TO PROCESS TOURIST VISA B2

If you do not have a passport from one of the countries mentioned above, you need a B2 visa to travel as a tourist to the United States.

This type of visa is more difficult to obtain. In addition to preparing the required documentation which proves that you are not going to travel to the United States with the intention of living or working, you will have to go through an interview at the embassy.

A more extensive explanation of how to process this visa can be found on the US Department of State website.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR THE UNITED STATES

Living in the USA, I know how important is to have good travel insurance for the USA. Since health care cost in this country is very high, hospitalization without insurance can easily make your bill rise above $100,000.

So when we moved here, we bought long-stay travel insurance , although we are currently using annual multi-trip insurance.

Death Valley dunes

Although I always recommend buying the best travel insurance wherever you go, you must have extraordinary coverage for the US (never consider hiring anything that covers below $30,000 if you travel to the United States).

You can get the best quality-price insurance with Heymondo .

5% OFF your travel insurance

western USA car rental

As we have said, the only practical way to travel the Western United States is by renting a car.

Driving in Death Valley

If you do not have too much time, consider taking a  one-way instead of a round-trip  along the West. We picked up the car in Vegas and left it in San Francisco. Although this meant an increase in the budget because of the drop off-fee, we were able to visit more places during our 10-day West Coast trip.

The cheapest way to rent a car is using DiscoverCars , where we hired the rental car in Las Vegas.

FIND CHEAP RENTAL CARS IN THE US

ANNUAL NATIONAL PARKS PASS – AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL

If you are planning a Western US National Parks itinerary, I recommend that you buy an annual America the Beautiful pass.

This pass allows access to all US National Parks, as well as other state parks.

The pass is valid for one year from when it is purchased and covers entry for one vehicle with up to 5 passengers. Display pass by hanging it over the rear-view mirror).

In addition, the pass is issued for two owners who must sign behind the card to use. A very good option is to buy the annual pass, leave one signature blank, and resell it to a second owner at the end of your Western USA tour.

Even if you don’t resell the pass, you will get your money’s worth just by visiting 3 or 4 National Parks (Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Yosemite …).

The pass can be purchased online from here or directly at the ticket office of the first national park you visit.

ACCOMMODATION ON THE WEST COAST US

It is difficult to find cheap and very good quality hotels at the same time on West Coast America. Therefore we will try to help you by listing the best places to stay, considering different budgets, tastes, and needs.

Best accommodation in West Coast USA

Keep in mind that accommodation will be one of the major expenses of your trip to  West Coast America. On the other hand, sometimes a good hotel can even be one of the best attractions you can enjoy during your trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO

• HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel: Hostel in the heart of San Francisco that has both shared and private rooms at a very low price. Free WIFI. Includes breakfast and a kitchen for those who want to cook.
• Buena Vista Motor Inn: Hotel with complimentary parking in the middle of Lombard street. Wi-Fi and breakfast included. Totally safe area to walk at night. Just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf.

Guide on where to stay in San Francisco

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS

• Venetian:  Venice-themed casino resort with gondoliers included.
• Circus Circus: Casino hotel with circus theme, with its own indoor amusement park that runs throughout the year.
• Stratosphere:  Casino hotel that includes vertigo attractions at 350 meters high.
• Bellagio: Inspired by Italy, it is one of the most luxurious resort and casinos in Las Vegas.
• New York – New York:   Resort casino inspired by the big city where we can find a miniature statue of liberty.
• Paris Las Vegas:   Perfect casino hotel for honeymoon or couple trips with miniature Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe.
• Excalibur:  You will find yourself in the Middle Ages in this casino resort within its castles.
• Planet Hollywood:  Modern hotel and casino where you will feel the essence of the West Coast.

Guide on where to stay in Las Vegas

WHERE TO STAY IN LOS ANGELES

• Hollywood Travelodge:  Located very close to the walk of fame. Includes breakfast, Wi-Fi and free parking.
• Samesun Venice Beach:  The best option if you want to enjoy the Venice boardwalk and its beach. They have bicycle rental service.
• Cal Mar Hotel Suites:  If you prefer to be close to Santa Monica beach this option is very well priced.

Guide on where to stay in Los Angeles

WHERE TO STAY IN GRAND CANYON

If we visit the South Rim, the most touristic edge of the Grand Canyon, it is quite important to stay in the Grand Canyon Village, since two of the main attractions of this jewel of Western US is their sunrise and sunset. So, the closer we are to the edge, the easier it will be for us.

We camped in the Grand Canyon, at the  Mather Campground on the South Rim.

If you prefer to stay at a hotel, all accommodations at Grand Canyon Village are run by the company   Xanterra ,  and you can make reservations on whose website.

Guide on where to stay in Grand Canyon

WHERE TO STAY IN PAGE

• Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell: This hotel is located in the center of Page. As it is highly valued, you will have to book it well in advance, since rooms tend to run out being such a small and tourist place at the same time.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: Without a doubt the best hotel in Page, both the price and the charm of its rooms. It is not in the center but is closer to Horseshoe Bend.

Guide on where to stay in Page

WHERE TO STAY IN BRYCE

Bryce is one of the best places to camp in the Western US. In addition to two conventional campsites ( North Campground and Sunset Campground ), there are 12 backcountry campsites.

If camping is not your thing and you prefer to stay in one of the best hotels in the West, then I recommend the Best Western Ruby’s Inn , a historic hotel at the gates of the national park that also has a camping area.

Guide on where to stay in Bryce

WHERE TO STAY IN ZION

• Bumbleberry Inn:  One of the few hotels near Zion whose price is below $200 a night and with a great value.
• La Quinta Inn and Suites : Another hotel that also has good prices and is highly rated near Zion, known for its buffet breakfast that includes delicious homemade waffles.

Guide on where to stay in Zion

WHERE TO STAY IN MONUMENT VALLEY

If you want to enjoy dawn with the best views of the valley, I recommend that you camp in the Monument Valley. The campground is called The View Campground and the only way to reserve it is by calling +1 435-727-5802.

This campsite belongs to  The View Hotel , a hotel run by the Navajo Indians with equally amazing views.

Guide on where to stay in Monument Valley

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA BARBARA

• Hotel Santa Barbara: One of the best hotels in Santa Barbara with a great location in the city center and very close to the beach. Includes Wi-Fi, breakfast and free parking.
• The Eagle Inn:   On the beach of Santa Barbara and in a beautiful historic building. The price is a bit higher but it includes a jacuzzi in the room.

WHERE TO STAY IN YOSEMITE

We decided to camp at Camp 4 during our visit to Yosemite. Here, the hippy movement was born in the 60s and spread throughout the United States.

However, if you don’t want to camp, don’t worry. There are very good hotels in Yosemite. Some of the best are:

• The Ahwahnee
• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Curry Village

Guide on where to stay in Yosemite

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO

• Staypineapple at Hotel Z: One of the best hotels in downtown San Diego. Modern design and quite affordable. It offers free bicycles to its customers.
• HI-San Diego Point Loma Hostel: Hostel with shared rooms, very good price and located next to the beach. Ideal if you visit San Diego with the intention of meeting other travelers.

WHERE TO STAY IN JOSHUA TREE

The best place to stay in Joshua Tree is in one of its campsites. There are 4 campsites throughout the national park that can be reserved, and another 4 first-come, first-served campground. All the information regarding the Joshua Tree campgrounds can be found on the National Parks Service website.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEATH VALLEY

• The Inn at Death Valley: This Oasis in the middle of the desert is the most luxurious resort you’ll find here. Refresh between your palm garden and its spring water pool and relax in your spa area.
• The Ranch at Death Valley: Run by the same company as The Inn at Death Valley, it is the familiar and informal complement of the previous one. If you want to relax in a unique environment but without too many pretensions, this accommodation is for you.
• Panamint Springs Resort:  This resort offers both tourist resorts and lodging in tents. It’s close to the west entrance of the national park, from where you’ll have stunning views of the sand dunes.

Guide on where to stay in Death Valley

WHERE TO STAY IN MOJAVE DESERT

There are no motels inside Mojave National Preserve. The only way to stay is camping. There are two family campsites, Hole-in-the-Wall Campground and Mid Hills Campground. Both are first-come, first-served campgrounds.

There is also the possibility of doing backcountry camping. If you want more information, check the US National Parks Service website.

WHERE TO STAY IN ARCHES

There are no campsites or hotels within Arches National Park. The best thing to do is to stay somewhere close to the entrance:

• Red Cliffs Lodge:  All rooms have views of the Colorado River. In addition, you have access to a private living room with a fridge and microwave. This accommodation is the best you’ll find if you visit Arches National Park from the west. Do not miss its western cinema museum.
• Under Canvas Moab:  This accommodation is located east of Arches National Park and offers already pitched tents, some with private bathrooms. If you are not a fan of the camps, but you would like to try, this is your place. In addition to the bed linen, the hotel will lend you towels and a flashlight. A very comfortable way to learn a little about the American camper culture.

WHERE TO STAY IN SEQUOIA

• Montecito Sequoia Lodge: This rustic mountain accommodation offers a place to relax, surrounded by lakes, forests and rugged peaks. It has a restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet.
• Bearpaw High Sierra Camp: This established camp has 6 canvas tents with wooden floors. The views of the surroundings are amazing. Breakfast and dinner are included in the price of the accommodation.
• Wuksachi Lodge:  It is the emblematic hotel of Sequoia, an amazing mountain hut made of stone and cedar located in the heart of the park, surrounded by a powerful sequoia forest and towering peaks of the sierra.

WHERE TO STAY IN HAVASU FALLS

As we commented, if you visit Havasu Falls, it is compulsory to spend at least one night in one of its campsites, since you cannot make excursions exclusively for one day. Book both the tour and the camping permit from the official website of the Havasupai Indian Reservation.

WHERE TO STAY IN YELLOWSTONE

There are only  9 hotels within Yellowstone National Park , so in peak tourist season, most travelers only find accommodation outside the park.

You can find the best options on our guide on where to stay in Yellowstone National Park, but my favorite hotels are:

• Kelly Inn West Yellowstone
• Yellowstone Gateway Inn
• Stage Coach Inn
• Al’s Westward Ho Motel
• Travelodge by Wyndham
• Absaroka Lodge

WHERE TO STAY IN GRAND TETON

There are many places to stay in Grand Teton National Park but my favorite ones are:

• Colter Bay Village 
• Jackson Lake Lodge  
• Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch 
• Jenny Lake Lodge

To calculate  how much a road trip along the West Coast cost, keep in mind that gasoline in the United States is quite cheap compared most European countries, so even though you will drive many kilometers, this is not something you have to worry too much about when planning your itinerary.

Regarding the food , going to restaurants or going out to have a drink is very expensive; especially when you are looking for somewhere that serve healthy and quality food. If you’re willing to eat fast food, your West Cost travel budget will decrease since the United States is the paradise for junk food.

Regarding accommodation , while it is more expensive in the US than other countries, there are ways to make it cheaper .

Consider camping during your West Coast America tour. In addition to being cheaper, it is very fun and do not forget that there is no country in the world with such an active camping culture as in the United States. You will enjoy watching all the American accessories that make camping more comfortable, and the amazing motorhomes that are better than many houses. You can check some tips for traveling by rv in the USA here.

If you want to know how much we spent during out trip, you can check our West Coast travel budget for 10 days.

West Coast USA combinations ideas

In case you have more time, you can combine the West Coast of the USA with other destinations. Some of the most popular combinations are the following.

West Coast America and Hawaii holidays

If you love nature, combine  West Coast USA and Hawaii to enjoy the most active volcanoes in the United States. These wild islands in the middle of the Pacific, offer a native culture totally different from any other place in the world, in addition to beautiful beaches. The Western US and Hawaii landscapes are an excellent combination for the more adventurous.

RIVIERA MAYA and WEST COAST USA honeymoon

Riviera Maya and West Coast America honeymoon trips are very popular.  With this travel itinerary, we can enjoy a mix of the natural American West Coast landscapes with turquoise water beaches and the history of ancient civilizations. This is the best combination for honeymoons or for travelers interested in a mix of all-inclusive vacation packages.

WEST COAST AND ROUTE 66 road trip

If you want to travel the most famous road in the United States, plan a Route 66 – Western US road trip. With this tour, you will have a chance to visit my favorite city in the US: Chicago. I don’t recommend this combination if you do not like driving since much time of this trip will be spent inside the car.

West Coast USA tours from New york

Another very popular combination, especially if you are traveling from Europe. A New York & West Coast America fly-drive itinerary mixes the Western US National Parks with the busiest city of the East Coast. This option is perfect for those who also enjoy visiting big cities, since there are plenty of things to do in New York City.

With any of these combinations, I recommend spending at least 10 days in West Coast America .

However, if you only plan to travel to the West Coast and can afford it, I would recommend spending 2 or even  3 weeks.

map of West Coast USA

Finally, it is very useful to plan your trip using a map of Western US , marked with your places of interest. Then check the following map to see if there is any other attraction on the way.

SEE you ON THE WEST COAST and do not hesitate to ask if you need help preparing your itinerary!

Ascen Aynat

80 replies on “ Planning a 10-Day West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary ”

We are from Singapore and planning a 20 days trip in June to West Coast of US and would be our first drive trip to the US. We wanted to cover Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Yosemite, route 66, UTAH but not sure if we are able to (or worth to) cover up till Seattle. We love your advise as it will be our first trip to West Coast of US and accommodation recommendations will be helpful plus itinerary. regards Melvin

Hi Melvin, Wow, that sounds amazing! There is so much to see the western United States. I think you’ll find our road trip itineraries from Las Vegas to be super helpful. As for accommodation, it depends on whether you’re renting a car or RV since an RV will take care of accommodation for you. Otherwise, the hotel recommendations above in this article are a great place to start. 🙂

Hi! Wow, relieved i came accross this blog. Thank you for sharing this.

I made an almost similar itinerary and posted it in trip advisor.

we are arriving early morning in Vegas on March 10 and flying out late night from San Francisco March 20. For the 10 day trip, we’d like to see Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon and Yosemite. Most of the comments says most of the time will be spent driving hence the trip might not be an enjoyable one. Some even suggested dropping Yosemite as this is too far from the rest of the places we’re hoping to see.

With all the driving you did on this trip, do you think you still spent a good time exploring the parks?

Thanks heaps!

Yes, it was a lot of hours driving but it was a trip of a lifetime. I won’t change any of the stops I did so I highly recommend it specially if you don’t mind driving at night and you don’t have more time to spend on the West Coast USA.

Hi, very informative post there ! May I know what route did u take to travel to yosemite from death valley ? I supposed you travelled when the tiogo road was closed ?

We traveled in August when the Tioga Road was open. So we just drove Nort through the Eastern Sierra and enter from the Northeastern part of the park 😉

i am planning to go to a trip with my friends but iam confused where should i go.

It’s difficult to choose when there are so many great options! My recommendation is to check the places and pictures and just pick the 4/5 places that you find more interesting 😉

Hi Martin from Australia here. I am busy planning an 8 day self drive tour in April starting in, and returning to Las Vegas. I stumbled on your website and found it to be a fantastic resource, full of very helpful information. One thing that is puzzling me with your route. Why did you go to Monument Valley first and then criss-cross south to Antelope Canyon, north to Bryce Canyon and then south again to the Grand Canyon. This appears to add an additional 400 miles (appx). I had originally been planning a circuit through Bryce Canyon, Monument Park, Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon. Then Back to Las Vegas via Mojave Desert and Death Valley. Thank you

We did that itinerary because we were traveling in August (high season) and wanted to camp in Monument Valley and Grand Canyon, so we book the only days available hehehe

Your itinerary sounds great. Let me know how you do it finally.

Hi! I would love your help in planning my itinerary for my West Coast Roadtrip Honeymoon. We would love to check as many of the same locations off our list as you have in this post. Would love to get your thoughts on cost efficiency, glamping/camping vs. RV rentals and what we HAVE to see, and what we could skip. We definitely don’t want to spend the majority of our trip in the car. Thinking of flying into Vegas and then going from there. We would be going from June 12-20th. This is by far the most helpful article I have found online so far! Thanks for writing!

We will be happy to help. Let me know any questions you may have and we will help.

we are a couple, 60 years+ but able to drive and planning a trip next Sep. 2020. However we note that at some places you had to camp. I don’t think we are up to camping and wonder how to achieve the trip you made without camping.

You don’t need to camp if you don’t want to. There are many hotels where you can stay 🙂 Let me know your itinerary and I will give you some hotel ideas.

I wish more people would post valuable content like this. This is the first time I’ve been on your website, but after this, I doubt it will be the last time.

Thanks Robert!! You are always welcome 😉

Planning a trip in mid December. Is your 10 day trip feasible at this time of year ? Thanks.

Yes, it’s perfectly fine. Just bear in mind that you might find snow in some places like Bryce and Yosemite and the main roads to Yosemite from the east (Tioga road) is gonna be closed.

Hope you have a beautiful trip!

Have you ever thought of planning a trip of the Four Corners States of the Southwest (New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado & Utah). There are so many sites that would be a tough decision. New Mexico has the Gila National Forest, City of Rocks in the southwest, Carlsbad Caverns to name just a few, Colorado, Arizona, Utah you could go on and on. This would also the sunrises and sunsets, rivers canyons. It is so vast that each state could provide what every photographer would want to see and shoot. Just think about it. if you more information, please contact me.

Sure! We still have a bunch of places we want to visit!

Thank you It was very useful

Thanks Isabel!

Great post, thanks for the info I’m considering doing this trip with my dad, how fit do you have to be to do this trip? He can’t really walk a whole lot at a time.

Hi Emiliano,

You don’t need to walk if you don’t want to. Just visit the main lookouts accessible by car.

Let me know if you have any other question.

Well, that was a pretty fascinating read, not going to lie. I really hope you continue to write. Probably one of the more informative pieces I’ve read on this subject. Thanks!

Thanks Justin! Glad to see our USA West Coast article was useful and you enjoyed it reading!

You know if you are not on Instagram, you should be. I know you can’t put text up, but just throw in a few pics and build an audience there. I think you’d find a ton of people who would be super interested in your blog here.

Thanks for the advice. We already use Instagram, our account is: @Capturetheatlas

Well… consider yourself added to my blogroll. I have like six other blogs I read on a weekly basis, guess that number just increased to seven! Keep writing!

Thanks Chris! and Welcome to Capture the Atlas! 😉

Way to go on this post man. Really killer stuff. I’ll be back to read your other posts.

Thanks Travis! Glad you found the information helpful!

Wow! What a scenery. I hope I can visit those place in the future too! People on your newsletter must love you. This content is pure 100% gold

Thanks Matthew for your kind words! I am sure you will be fascinated by the West Coast USA landscapes when you visit them.

Feel free to join our community and receive our newsletter 😉

Hi, My family of 3 will be travelling to West of USA for about 12 to 14 days this coming September month 2019. Can you help us to plan the trip visiting all the interesting places and also advise us the cost.

We give a lot of piece of advice on our blog. Please read it and let us know if you have any question.

I am flying from Toronto, Canada and am unsure which airport to arrive and leave in. I am planning on visiting Zion, Bryce Canyon, Cathedral Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Grand Canyon (South Rim). I am unsure whether to fly to Las Vegas and leave from Arizona, or vice versa, or do a loop. Any suggestions?

Amazing blog by the way!

Which airport in Arizona are you considering? Las Vegas in quite close to those places you want to visit and usually there is cheap flights to go there.

Let me know if you have any question

Thank you for your reply! I was thinking Phoenix airport. Just not sure the best route and will be renting a car!

Also, do you know if its possible to rent a car at one airport and return it to another?

Hi, i am traveling with 6 adults. Planning to arrive in New York, then fly to LA and hoping to have a glimpse of the city and its surrounding and fly to vancouver . We will fly back home from Vancouver.

How many days do you think is good for us? I am travelling with my parents aged 60yo.

Can you give me any recommendations

Hi Felicia,

I would say to book at least 10 – 15 days. As recommendations I would suggest hiring good travel insurance for the USA and check the different articles we have at the blog.

Let me know if you need something else,

Hello there,

We have about 8-9 days along the West Coast after a conference in Vegas. Looking at the following itinerary/places we want to visit. Do you think this is something workable/have any comments? Thanks so much!

Day 1: (From Vegas) Antelope Valley/Horseshoe Bend (Find somewhere to stay for the night – is there a recommendation where we can stay in that area?) Day 2: Grand Canyon Day 3: Travel back to Vegas, fly to San Francisco. Day 4: San Francisco Day 5: San Francisco -> Monterey, Big Sur (Find somewhere to stay?) Day 6: Travel to LA Day 7: LA Day 8: LA

Thanks very much for your message and for reading us!

Until day 4 your itinerary is gonna be very intense but definitely doable, as we made a very similar itinerary at the beginning of our trip. You can find recommendations for the night near horseshoe bend/Antelope Canyon in this section of our article.

As for the second part of your trip, We didn’t travel from SF towards the south so don’t know if that would be something possible.

Please let me know if we can help with any other questions.

Best regards,

Hi I am trying to plan a trip with my son for September 2019 have i left enough time to do this? And could you help us with an itinerary Also if we choose to camp do we purchase this in the USA as we are travelling from the UK Thanks

Hi Richard,

Thank you very much for your message.

You are still in time for planning the trip, so I ‘d definitely try to do it!

You can see different itineraries in our US articles depending on your days and preferences. Hope that helps.

As for the campings it depends on the campsite, some accept online reservations like the one in Monument Valley while others are filled in a first-come first-served basis like Camp 4 in Yosemite.

Please let us know if we can help with any other questions.

Hi everyone! Could you help me to make a itinerary with the time and 10 destinations?

We will need some more information to help you. When and where are you starting your trip, days, preferences and so on.

Hi guys, Love your work. I’m a photographer and looking to do a road trip through the west cost of the USA, covering as much of the national parks as possible (Yellowstone a must). We only have a 2 week gap during July to do this. Do you have any tours available for July 2019 for 2 super fun people?

Me, along with spouse and 13 year old son, are planning for a 10 day trip to LA, LV & SFO from India during June last week.

Request if you could help build us an itinerary for First Timers to US. It would be with a driver if we have to hire a car.

Do you deal in hotel accommodations too – 4 star?

Could you please let me know a rough expenditure on all this.

Kindly do mention your charges too for helping us out with a good itinerary and any help on ground that you could provide during our stay.

Thanking You, MOHAN

I have sent you an email with our service rates.

Have a nice day!

I am planing with my boyfriend our trip in June to California for 10 days. We are landing in LA and we would like to visit Yosemite, Death Valley, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and San Diego. Could you please give us some tips? We are afraid that Tioga Pass might not be opened at the beginning of June..

Thanks a lot!

Hi Anabel, I think you have enough time in 10 days to visit the cities and NP you mentioned. You can do 2 days for LA, 3 days for Yosemite, 1 day for Death Valley, 1 day for Las Vegas, 2 days for Grand Canyon and 1 day for San Diego.

As you said, Tioga Pass maybe is still close in June, so I recommend you booking a hotel around Fresno (in case Tigoa Road is close) and other around Mammonth Lakes (in case it is open). And cancel the one you are not going to use once you know the Tioga Road status?

Let me know if you need anything else.

Hello, Thanks for the detailed analysis of west coast. We are planning to visit west coast from Philadelphia and would like to cover California/LA/SFO/Las Vegas. We would however fly to Seattle from PHL and take our trip to west coast from Seattle.

Please provide us with an itinerary.

We are planning 10 days for this trip and would like to over not just national parks but also Golden gate bridge/Hollywood/Alcatraz etc. We don’t want to do the theme parks.

Sure, I have sent you an email with our planner services rates.

Hi, Thanks for itinerary! We are going on a trip from LA in September for 16 days, and this helped a lot! If you could give some tips on showering…it’s not available in a lot of camp sites. Also, if you have some experience with laundry service, I would appreciate some info. Thanks!

Hi Soma! Thanks for your message and words!

You can check beforehand which campsites offer shower utilities and plan according to your needs. We booked camping with showers in Grand Canyon and Yosemite, taking a shower at least every 2 days. As for laundry service, I would suggest doing the same. We went just for a week and didn’t really need to do any washing but if you are staying 16 days some campings have some sort of place for washing. As an example again, you can find those utilities in Grand Canyon and Yosemite, and I am sure there will be more in other important campgrounds.

Hope that helps and have a wonderful US West Coast trip!

Hi we are planning a 15 day stay flying into LA hiring a car can you recommened a route then we fly back out from LA.Thanks

The US West Coast is huge and there are endless possibilities doing a round trip from L.A.

Depending on your personal taste and the number of miles that you are willing to drive, there are many itineraries.

I recommend that you check all the main attractions explained throughout the article and once you know your preferences, you can design your own route.

Hope it helps and you make the most of your trip!

Planning on driving to monument valley and staying at View hotel I need driving directions from Salt Lake City

Take I-15 S, US-6 E, US-191 S and US-163 S to Main Monument Valley Rd/Monument Valley Rd in Oljato-Monument Valley

Hi my husband and I are planning a trip to tour the west coast next June/July next year for 4 weeks starting in San Francisco driving down the coast then across to Vegas by car then possibly hiring a camper van to visit the national parks, would you be able to advise us of some places to stop and stay and give some advice as to how long we should stay at certain places, we would also like to spend a week in Washington and New York at the end of our stay but we will fly to the east coast, thanks Tracey

Sure, I have sent you an email more information about our trip planner services. I can also help you to plan your visits to NYC and Washington. I live in Philadelphia, that is 2hours from NYC and two hours from Washington, so I know these cities very well and I can help you too.

Hello Jaz, thank you for the useful information. I am planning for the west coast trip but could you confirm will it be too much to digest if I cover all/most of the destinations mentioned in your article above in just one trip?

Or shall I split the trip in multiple trips to enjoy and assimilate the delightful view which each destination has to offer?

That is up to you. How much time do you have? Where are you coming from? If I could, I would do it in one trip (3-4 months).

Let me know if you need something else, Ascen.

We are planning a tour of West Coast starting and ending at LA. Can you suggest a good travel itinerary for family of 3 or 6 pxs. for 8-12 days sometime in June or July 2019. Thanks Jaz

Hi Jasmine, I have sent you an email with our rates. Ascen.

Planning to gravel to west coast of USA Visiting friends & also travelling (self drive) . I have 14 days from Sep15 to Sep30 Would like to visit Yosomite, Death Valley Coastal Drive & Las Vegas and Grand canyon. Thanks for your help with an itinerary.

Sure! I will help you to plan your West America trip. I have sent you an email.

Hi, I am planning for west coast tour for 10 days in July. I would like to start from San Francisco . Could you please suggest road trip plan

Hi Rajan, I will be happy for helping you to plan your west coast USA itinerary.

I have sent you an email regarding our travel planner services.

Hi, I am planning a 15 days trip to USA with my family of 5 (2 sons aged 24, 25, Daughter 18). What route would you recommend us to take? We are looking to rent a car and drive around ourselves. Thank you.

Hi Sharon, I have sent you an email regarding our travel planning services.

Thanks, Ascen.

Hi.. myself and 2 friends are planning a trip up the west coast from San Francisco in April.. We are renting an RV ..we would like to try and go as north to Portland maybe Seattle.. could you advise of the best route and places we should try to see.

Hi we are planning to Visit West coast in the month of June 19 . Not sure about self drive option but could u please suggest some best places to explore in 10 days . We are landing at San Francisco & leaving to New York from LA .

Would appreciate if u could help us to arrange our trip .

Thanks Sunil

I have sent you an email regarding our travel planning services.

Hi Loved reading your information on USA! My husband and I want to travel the west coast in September this year. We have booked so far return flights from Sydney to San Francisco. We would like to see Yosemite Bryce Zion Death Valley Redlands Lake Tahoe Sequoia and Grand Canyon. Not interested in Los Angeles or Las Vegas. We thought we would return via The big Sur to San Francisco. Do you think we can do this in a month? What would be the best driving route to do all this. Can we also purchase driving maps? Any help you could give I would be most grateful! Thanking you

Hi Cath, I have sent you an email regarding our travel planning services.

Hi, thanks a lot for your details itinerary which is very much appreciated. I’m planning my self-drive trip to west coast USA for about 12 days, in May 2019. Just wondering any tips on what to wear? Will it be cold in the Yosemite national park? I’m planning for Grand Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon + Horseshoes band, Yosemite, is it still worth to get the annnual pass? There are total 6 of us.

Hi Joey, If you are only visiting two national parks (Yosemite and Grand Canyon ) it is not worth getting the annual pass. Pay just for the standard fee in each of them. Horseshoe Bend is free and Antelope Canyon is private, so you will have to pay the Navajo fee.

In 12 days you have enough time to visit Death Valley, Bryce and Zion too.

Regarding what to carry in the backpack, please check the camping and cold weather section of this post.

P.S: Next sunday we will be posting our Guide to Yosemite and I am sure you are going to find it interested!!

Best, Ascen

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The Best Road Trips in the American West

04/24/2022 by Kristin Addis 9 Comments

The more I travel the world, the more I have come to appreciate and fall in love with the American West. There’s nowhere in the world like it in terms of sheer beauty and diversity — both of landscapes and people.

Where else can you experience one of the hottest deserts on Earth, the tallest trees, the most famous coastline, world-class skiing, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and the sweeping canyons and rock arches of Utah — all in one region? It would take a lifetime to explore it all, and then some, but the following road trips can help you get a taste of each of these incredible places.

The following are some of the best road trips in the western USA, from state to state. These trips follow a somewhat logical loop, beginning in California.

Table of Contents

The Golden State is one of the most diverse in the nation, with a world-famous coastal drive, a wealth of national parks, and deserts that cover 25% of the state. There’s so much to see, but a few road trips cover the highlights:

➵ Rent a car in California here

Pacific Coast Highway

This might be the most famous road trip in the entire country. The Pacific Coast Highway takes you down the California coast, making for a wonderful road trip full of picturesque spots. You’ll cover nearly 800 miles, so spend about a week on this trip, minimum.

• San Diego:  Start your road trip in one of California’s southernmost cities, where surfers and great Mexican food abound.
• Los Angeles:  Cruise 120 miles north to LA, where you’ll find everything from skyscrapers to colorful sunsets over the Hollywood sign. Stop in  Orange County  on the way for spectacular beaches and Disneyland.
• Santa Barbara : Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean on the 95-mile drive up to sunny  Santa Barbara , where you’ll camp overnight.
• San Luis Obispo:  Continue on another 95 miles to stop for lunch in San Luis Obispo or another destination in SLO County, like Pismo Beach.
• Big Sur:  Drive 110 miles to Big Sur, where you’ll admire seaside cliffs and waterfalls, and camp among the tall redwood trees.
• Carmel/Monterey:  Upon leaving Big Sur, drive 30 miles north to Carmel, where you can cruise the famous 17-Mile Drive through the Monterey Peninsula on the way to San Francisco, another 125 miles up the coast. If you don’t want to rent a car, consider this tour of the area , which leaves from San Francisco.
• San Francisco:  Spend a day in  San Francisco , where you can explore the funky Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, shop on Fisherman’s Wharf, walk around the Presidio, and much more.
• Humboldt County: Drive the last 280 miles of the trip up to Arcata in Humboldt County, often called “ the Lost Coast ” for its complete lack of tourism. Walk along empty stretches of beach and enjoy the peace and quiet. Stop in  Fort Bragg  if you have the time!

Check out the  full PCH itinerary  here!

California Deserts

Most people don’t go on a trip just to see deserts, but they’re missing out! This 430-mile, six-day trip is as varied as it is beautiful.

• Alabama Hills : This is the place of old Western movie sets and incredible stargazing. Mobius Arch, Boot Arch, and Movie Road are  must-sees .
• Death Valley : The Badwater Basin,  Golden Canyon , and sunrise at Zabriskie Point make Death Valley, 110 miles to the east, a stunning stop. You can take  a full-day tour  to see all of the (literal) hot spots.
• Mojave National Preserve and Mojave Trails National Monument : 150 miles southeast of Death Valley is the third largest unit of the National Park System in the contiguous US; highlights include Kelso Dunes; Amboy Crater, including a ghost town with the iconic Roy’s Motel Café; and the lava tubes. Find out what to do at Mojave here .
• Joshua Tree : Drive 90 miles south to see the famous (but dying) Joshua trees, Barker Dam, the Cholla Cactus Garden, and an incredible, starry sky. Find more ideas for what to do in Joshua Tree here.
• Anza-Borrego Desert State Park : Finally, drive 80 miles southwest to explore natural wind caves and take in amazing views stretching on as far as the eye can see at Font’s Point. Get more ideas on how to spend your time at Anza-Borrego here .

Read more about this California deserts itinerary here!

Nevada might just be one of the American Southwest’s most underrated states, simply because people don’t know much about it besides Vegas and Tahoe. While those are both awesome places, there is much more to explore. A road trip like this one is the best way to discover the Silver State for yourself. With every stop mentioned below, it covers nearly 900 miles and takes about five days:

➵ Rent a car in Nevada here

• Seven Magic Mountains:   Check out this art installation  of painted and stacked rocks lying between the mountains and Interstate 15, 25 miles out of Vegas.
• Las Vegas :  Vegas  makes a great  girlfriends’ getaway , so it would be a perfect stop for a day or two if you’re road-tripping with friends! You can also venture to the Nevada side of Death Valley on this day tour .
• Grand Canyon : The Grand Canyon is a no-brainer. You can even take a  helicopter tour from Vegas  like I did!
• Valley of Fire : Camp at this state park, 50 miles from Vegas, and check out Seven Sisters, Elephant Rock, Beehives, and Fire Wave Trail if time allows.  Join a hiking tour  for some scrambling fun.
• Historical ghost towns:  Nevada is home to countless  historical ghost towns , which make for cool stops. Be sure to check out Belmont Mill (north of Valley of Fire) and Gold Point (northwest of Vegas).
• Hot springs : Nevada has more hot springs than any other state, so be sure to incorporate a few of them into your road trip. Soldier Meadows and Black Rock (in the northwest), Spencer (dead center), and Gold Strike (down south) look especially cool.
• Tahoe : From the northwest hot springs, drive south 170 miles to go stand-up paddleboarding on the crystal-clear water of Lake Tahoe or hiking in the hills surrounding it.

Reno to Las Vegas

If you can’t do the entire 900-mile trip outlined above, consider traversing Nevada between Reno and Las Vegas instead. This is about half that length and features some exciting stops along the way:

• Fish Lake Valley Hot Well : This hot spring has some gorgeous scenery around it. You can swim and even camp nearby if you fancy.
• Tonopah : Halfway between Reno and Las Vegas, this historic town is a great spot to spend a night or two. You can even stay in the so-called haunted Mizpah Hotel , if you dare.
• Goldfield : This quirky town is definitely worth a stop to check out the wacky art installations at the International Car Forest of the Last Church.
• Rhyolite and the Goldwell Open Air Museum : This is another artsy stop, where you’ll find large statues and other head-scratching installations.
• Charleston Peak and Red Rock Canyon : Although it’s a bit off Highway 95, the detour is worth it if you want to get out and stretch your legs with a hike before arriving in Las Vegas.

Utah is one of the best destinations in the US for seeing the great outdoors. Here is a ten-stop itinerary for the lesser-known sights of southern Utah, spanning 550 miles and taking about five days:

➵ Rent a car in Utah here

• Dead Horse Point State Park : A unique road trip through Utah begins at Moab’s Dead Horse Point State Park, which is just as geographically impressive as the Grand Canyon, minus all the tourists.
• Canyonlands National Park : A short drive away, Needles Overlook at Canyonlands provides a scenic drive up to a 360-degree viewpoint of southern Utah.
• Bears Ears National Monument : Drive 115 miles south from Moab to just past and west of Blanding, where you’ll be able to check out the ancient cave drawings at Bears Ears.
• Valley of the Gods : Camp on the free public land at Valley of the Gods and wake up to awesome views of red-rock formations. It’s  gorgeous at sunset .
• Goosenecks State Park : Only ten miles away, Goosenecks State Park offers a panorama of the Colorado River winding through the canyon below.
• Natural Bridges National Monument : For your last stop near Blanding, hike the three major bridges at Natural Bridges National Monument.
• Goblin Valley State Park : You can stroll through the mushroom-like red rock formations 130 miles away at  Goblin Valley State Park .
• Little Wild Horse/Bell Canyon:  These two slot canyons, right next to Goblin Valley, resemble the more popular Antelope Canyon.
• Mystic Hot Springs: This beautiful and relaxing hot spring is just northwest of Capitol Reef and is the ideal place to rest for a night or two to soothe your sore muscles after all that hiking. Find out more about Mystic Hot Springs here .
• Capitol Reef National Park : Seventy more miles gets you to Teasdale’s Capitol Reef National Park, where you’ll see massive rock formations rising out of the ground.
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument : Your last destination is Big Water, where you can spend a day hiking  Coyote Gulch  in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Get  a self-guided driving tour  to discover some of the hidden gems in the area.

For more tips and tricks, check out the full itinerary for  Utah’s best secret places !

The destinations covered in this section, as well as some of the Nevada suggestions and the following Arizona ones, are included in my more in-depth  American Southwest road trip itinerary  as well.

Arizona’s abundance of natural sights means that you’ll see everything from waterfalls to massive rock structures on this week-long road trip, which covers almost a thousand miles.

➵ Rent a car in Arizona here

• Sedona : Artsy Sedona is famous for  energy vortexes , and with great hikes like Devil’s Bridge, Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, you could easily  spend a day or two here .
• Havasu Falls : 205 miles southeast lies the beautiful blue Havasu Falls, which is worth the permit and ten-mile hike required to reach it.  Here’s all you need to know  about making it happen.
• Grand Canyon : It’s a 200-mile drive to the  South Rim of the Grand Canyon , where you can enjoy the views along Desert View Drive, watch the sunset at Yavapai Point, and check out the lesser-known Lipan Point, spending the night in either Flagstaff or Cameron.
• Horseshoe Bend : Continue the sightseeing at  picturesque Horseshoe Bend , another 120 miles north towards Page, where you can get some stunning sunset photos.
• Antelope Canyon : A bit east is Antelope Canyon, the world’s most famous slot canyon. Check out  more info about Antelope Canyon here!
• The Wave/White Pocket : Sixty miles away, the Wave sits at the Arizona-Utah border and requires a permit, but its neighbor White Pocket is much easier to see. ( Read more about White Pocket here .)
• Monument Valley : Drive a couple hours east to  Monument Valley , where the rock structures seem to rise up out of nowhere.
• Canyon de Chelly : A hundred miles back down south lies Canyon de Chelly, a frequently overlooked destination, where you can take a guided hike through the canyon or head up to Spider Rock Overlook on your own for great views.
• Petrified Forest National Park : 110 more miles south toward Phoenix, the multicolored buttes full of fossils and wildflowers at Painted Desert are certainly a sight to see.

For more details on hikes, national parks and monuments, tours, and routes, check out this  full guide to an Arizona road trip !

New Mexico is perhaps the best destination to see both Spanish influence and Native American heritage, as well as incredible natural attractions like volcanic craters. This northern New Mexico road trip, which will allow you to enjoy a bit of everything this unique state has to offer, covers 475 miles and takes about five days:

➵ Rent a car in New Mexico here

Northern New Mexico

• Albuquerque :  Take a hot-air balloon ride  over Albuquerque with  Rainbow Ryders , explore the  ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden , see a show at the historic Kimo Theatre , or visit the  San Felipe de Neri Parish  to see the authentic Spanish influence still present in Albuquerque.
• Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument : Drive 55 miles northeast to spend the morning exploring  Kasha-Katuwe , a national monument protecting unique rock formations created by volcanic eruptions several million years ago.
• Santa Fe : Drive 40 more miles to New Mexico’s capital, nicknamed, “The City Different,” to see the  Georgia O’Keeffe Museum ,  Museum Hill , the Santa Fe Plaza at the heart of downtown, and plenty of art markets.
• Valles Caldera National Preserve: Drive 50 miles west to  Valles Caldera  to spend the morning hiking or biking the million-year-old volcanic crater. After you’ve explored, spend another day back in Santa Fe.
• Taos : Seventy miles northeast is Taos, and artsy adobe town with the best  whitewater rapids  in the state,  nearby hot springs , and cool shopping at the  Bent Street Shops .
• Aztec : 210 miles west is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains thousand-year-old  Aztec ruins , as well as hundreds of natural stone arches.
• White Sands National Monument: Head south toward Las Cruces to see the incredible White Sands National Monument . It’s not a particularly logical part of the rest of this road trip, but it sure is worth it to me! Finish off in Las Cruces and head west into Arizona or south into Texas.

If you want a longer trip to see more of New Mexico, this road trip will take about 2-3 weeks and covers more ground:

Full New Mexico

• Las Cruces: This is the southernmost large city in New Mexico, making it the perfect starting point to go from south to north.
• White Sands National Monument: For the same reason why this stop is mentioned on the previous New Mexico road-trip itinerary, definitely add this one to your list.
• Carlsbad National Park: Featuring over 119 caves, this is an interesting place to explore an underground natural wonder.
• Truth or Consequences: A small town with a gorgeous hot spring, this is the perfect place to relax and even see some wildlife.
• Albuquerque: If you’re not into stopping in a city, leave this one out. Albuquerque does have some interesting sights to check out though (see above), especially if you’re a Breaking Bad fan.
• Turquoise Trail, ttop in Madrid : Stopping in Madrid is a must on the scenic drive between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It’s a quirky former ghost town that is now the home of many artists who gave it new life. There are some excellent art galleries and neat shops here.
• Santa Fe: Known for its artsy scene, Santa Fe is an incredible destination all on its own (see above).
• Jemez Springs: Whether for hiking, bathing in hot springs, and taking a scenic drive, Jemez Springs is the ideal spot to stretch your legs and spend some time in nature.
• Bandelier National Monument : Head here to check out some historic cave dwellings that date back over 11,000 years.
• Taos – Earthship Biotecture : This resourceful biotecture community includes over 70 earth houses that exist completely off grid. You can even stay overnight in one of these earthships !
• Bisti Badlands : This might be a bit of a detour, but definitely still worth visiting. This is one of the most epic places in the country to see unique rock formations.

Find out more about this full New Mexico road trip itinerary here.

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38 Unique Things to do in New Mexico

While winter isn’t typically road trip season, it certainly can be in Idaho when it means hopping between hot springs! This itinerary leads you to some of Idaho’s best springs over nearly 250 miles and five days:

➵ Rent a car in Idaho here

• The Springs:  From Boise, drive 40 miles to Idaho City, where The Springs, one of the more spa-like hot springs, offers a private jacuzzi with a server to bring you snacks and drinks.
• Kirkham Hot Springs : Continue 40 more miles to Lowman, where the Kirkham Hot Springs on the Payette River offers steaming waterfalls and incredible mountain views.
• Mountain Village Resort:  The rustic Mountain Village Resort in Stanley feels like a winter wonderland when it snows. Staying at the hotel gets you free access to the spring-fed spa pools.
• Boat Box Hot Springs : A few miles outside Stanley, Boat Box — which isn’t a pool in the ground but a small metal tub that looks like a witch’s cauldron — sits right on the river.
• Sunbeam Hot Springs : Only ten minutes beyond Boat Box is a single pool with the potential for some peaceful solitude.
• Goldbug Hot Springs: Another 55 miles gets you to the famous Goldbug Hot Springs, different pools of varying temperatures, which all have incredible views.
• Sun Valley:  Back up toward Stanley, Sun Valley is a fun and friendly town with a few nearby hot springs.

Check out the  whole guide to Idaho hot springs here !

For a more summer-oriented road trip from Boise to Stanley, including Craters of the Moon, check out my  five-day Idaho itinerary ! This is the perfect segue into the next stop: Montana, or east to Wyoming!

There is a reason why Montana is called “Big Sky Country.” See it for yourself with this 530-mile, weeklong road trip:

➵ Rent a car in Montana here

• Big Sky : Big Sky boasts  scenic hikes ,  biking ,  zip-lining ,  whitewater rafting on the Gallatin River ,  horseback riding , a  variety of spas , and two gorgeous drives ( the scenic road through Gallatin Canyon  and the Lone Mountain Trail scenic drive).
• Butte & Boulder : Drive 120 miles north to Butte, once nicknamed “the Richest Hill on Earth,” to see the old mansions and Victorian business district, then head northeast 40 miles to Boulder to visit a  natural hot spring .
• Helena : Thirty miles past Boulder is the state capital, where you’ll see historic sites like  Reeder’s Alley , the ornate  Cathedral of St. Helena , and the  Women’s Mural . Then follow a  walking tour of the Mansion District  or hike to the top of  Mount Helena City Park  for a panoramic view of the city.
• Hamilton : Go west 160 miles to Hamilton, which maintains that small-town feel but is set apart by a  buzzing downtown  and bustling arts and music scene.
• Missoula : Drive north to the “Garden City” of Montana, where you can  raft Alberton Gorge , stroll along the riverfront walking trail,  hit up a food truck  or  Big Dipper Ice Cream ,  go shopping , or even  check out another hot spring .
• Libby : Libby’s main attraction is the nearby  Kootenai Falls , a waterfall under a long swinging bridge. Other adventures in Libby, 175 miles northwest of Missoula, include riding OHVs (off-highway vehicles) on miles of trails and cross-country skiing in the winter.
• Optional addition: Glacier National Park : If you’re feeling up to it, head to Glacier National Park to spend a few extra days taking in the incredible natural beauty of Montana.  Read more about Glacier here .

Wyoming is the least populated state in the US, leaving a lot of room for things like skiing and snowboarding in Jackson Hole, exploring the Teton Range, and visiting Yellowstone National Park . The perfect Wyoming road trip hits all three. This adventure spans about a hundred miles and takes six days (reverse the route if coming in from Idaho):

➵ Rent a car in Wyoming here

• Yellowstone National Park:  Spend two days here to catch an eruption from  Old Faithful , see Steamboat Geyser (the tallest in the world), check out the travertine terraces of  Mammoth Hot Springs , and visit two of Yellowstone’s best waterfalls:  Lower Falls  (which is nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls) and  Tower Fall . You can see them all on  a full-day tour .
• Grand Teton National Park:  Drive 60 miles south and spend three days in Grand Teton National Park . Visit  Mormon Row  (home to the widely photographed Moulton Barns) and the  Menor’s Ferry Historic District , take a few  picturesque drives ,  canoe  on Jenny Lake, follow a  scenic hike , and float or raft the Snake River. Be sure to enjoy a seasonal activity: swim at String Lake in the summer, take a horseback ride through autumn foliage, follow a ranger-led snowshoe walk in the winter, or watch elk, bison, deer, and moose migrate in the spring on  a safari adventure .
• Jackson Hole: Twenty-five miles past Grand Teton is Jackson Hole, where you can ski in the winter or take the  Jackson Hole Aerial Tram  up the mountain in the summer, as well as visit the  National Museum of Wildlife Art , which houses works by Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keeffe.

Oregon is special for its unique array of forests, rivers, coastline, mountains,  and  cool cities. It is home to some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, and the best way to see it is on a road trip .

➵ Rent a car in Oregon here

Oregon coast

The beautiful Oregon coastline is dotted with countless charming seaside towns, making a perfect road trip. See a handful of them by starting at the top and working your way down, traveling 230 miles over a week:

• Astoria:  Spend a day in Astoria by strolling its  Sunday Market  (one of the largest in Oregon), following the  Astoria Riverwalk , riding around town in the  “Old 300”  trolley, and climbing up the  Astoria Column  for 360-degree views of the city.
• Cannon Beach: Twenty-five miles south lies Cannon Beach, known for colorful sunsets and towering rocks rising out of the ocean, where you’ll want to spend two days exploring the  four state parks , walking along the beach, and taking a scenic hike to watch the diverse wildlife.
• Newport:  Head to the friendly fishing city of Newport to go whale watching, grab a bowl of  famous clam chowder,  visit  Oregon’s tallest lighthouse , and stroll through the underwater walkways at the  Oregon Coast Aquarium .
• Coos Bay:  A hundred miles south of Newport, Coos Bay is a great base to explore Oregon’s diverse nature, as it is home to three state parks ( Shore Acres State Park ,  Cape Arago State Park,  and  Sunset Bay State Park ) and the Oregon Dunes!

Inland Oregon

Some of Oregon’s best cities are situated inland, also a great option. Start to finish, this road trip is sure to provide a balance of arts and culture, great food, and outdoor adventure! For this itinerary, you’ll be covering about 260 miles, and you’ll need about seven days to do it:

• Portland : Spend a day or two in Portland (the epitome of Pacific Northwest hipster cool) following a few of the amazing hikes , wandering through  Powell’s Books (which claims to be the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world), and hanging out in the gorgeous rose garden in Washington Park. (Oh, and eat lots of delicious food!)
• Salem : Head 50 miles south to Salem, the state capital, to stroll through the shops housed in the old Reed Opera House , take a  riverboat brunch cruise  on the Willamette River, or picnic in Riverfront Park.
• Corvallis : Thirty miles south is the college town adjacent to Oregon State University, where you can follow the  Corvallis Mural Map  to see the cool street art, or rent a bike to cruise some of the 60+ miles of trails.
• Eugene : A second college town sits 50 miles further south. Here, catch a  Ducks football game  at the U of Oregon, wander through the  Eugene Saturday Market , or swing by the  Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art  to see artwork from China, Japan, and Korea.
• Bend : Drive east to wrap up your trip in  Bend , a great mountain town with a fantastic food and drink scene; you can also try anything from  kayaking to  whitewater rafting  to a  helicopter aerial tour .

Typically, when Washington State comes to mind, people think of rain and the Space Needle, but from western cities on the water like Port Townsend to eastern ones like Spokane, its landscape and attractions are diverse. See all Washington has to offer with this 500-mile, weeklong road trip:

➵ Rent a car in Washington here

• Olympia:  Start in the state capital, at the bottom of the Puget Sound, by hanging out in West Bay Park and checking out the city’s unique food scene, which is quirky and progressive but not pretentious.
• Port Townsend:  Drive 100 miles north to one of the coolest small towns in the US. Check out the  Port Townsend Farmers Market  (one of the best in Washington), take a free boat tour with the Northwest Maritime Center , and finish out the day by browsing the independent stores housed in old Victorian buildings on Water Street.
• Seattle:  Drive 60 more miles to  Seattle , where you’ll want to check out  Pike Place Market ,  take a harbor cruise  to see the city from Elliott Bay, visit a unique museum like the  Museum of Pop Culture , and eat fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.
• Bellevue:  Across Lake Washington, visit the  Bellevue Arts Museum  (where you can sometimes chat with the artists themselves), hang out in Downtown Park, and zip-line through Eastgate Park with  Bellevue Zip Tour .
• Leavenworth:  In this charming town modeled after a traditional Bavarian village, eat your way through the German sweet shops, hike the river trail at  Icicle Gorge , stroll along the Wenatchee River at Waterfront Park, or visit the town’s quirky  Nutcracker Museum .
• Spokane:  Drive the last 180 miles to the eastern side of Washington to the capital of “the Inland Empire,” where you can follow the  Spokane City Drive , a self-guided tour of the best spots in town, or the  Spokane Sculpture Walk  for an experience you won’t find in any other city.

Washington Hikes Road Trip

Looking to get outside as much as possible on your Washington road trip? Consider this quick itinerary to all of the state’s best hikes, where you can park your car and head out into the wilderness to see gorgeous mountain peaks, lush forests, and more:

• Seattle: Start your trip here, where you can rent a car for your journey.
• Maple Pass in North Cascades National Park: This leg of the trip is the longest stretch at over 5 hours along Interstate 90 East and Highway 97, but the scenery is on point the whole way. Stay the night near the national park and hike Maple Pass first thing in the morning.
• Lake Ingalls: Another long stretch back down south along Highway 97 will take you to Lake Ingalls where you can enjoy the beauty of this gorgeous alpine lake.
• Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier National Park: This trail gives incredible views of Mount Rainier, plus plenty of waterfalls along the way. It’s easily one of the best trails in Washington. Get there from Lake Ingalls by taking I-90 towards Tacoma (option to stay there for the night) and then Highway 161 down to the park.
• Pinnacle Peak in Mount Rainier National Park: While you’re near Rainier National Park, don’t miss out on this epic trail that leads to the Pinnacle Peak Saddle where you’ll have the most incredible view.
• Rialto Beach: Another long stretch will bring you to Washington’s rocky coast where you can hike from Rialto Beach to Hole-In-The-Wall which is a rugged and exciting affair.
• Hurricane Ridge: Before heading back to Seattle, Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park plus the breathtaking Sunrise Viewpoint right next to it are the perfect ending to a perfect trip.

The Perfect Washington National Parks Itinerary

From skiing in the mountains to hiking through hills and meadows, Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. This itinerary can be cut in half, between Breckenridge and Rocky Mountain National Park , if 12 stops is too long of a trip. (Each leg consists of half natural sights and half cities, so you’ll still get a full taste of Colorado with six stops.) All in all, this road trip covers more than 800 miles and takes about ten days.

• Mesa Verde National Park : See the mesa-top villages and cliffside dwellings of the Pueblo people from hundreds of years ago by driving the Mesa Top Loop Road and Cliff Palace driving loop, or head to Park Point (elevation: 8,500 feet).
• Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park : Highlights of this park, located 160 miles northeast of Mesa Verde, include Gunnison Point, Chasm View, Painted Wall, and Sunset View.
• Aspen : After you’ve driven 115 miles from Black Canyon to Aspen, hike Red Butte Trail for 360-degree views of the Aspen Valley, ride the  Silver Queen Gondola  to the summit of the mountain, stand-up paddleboard at  North Star Nature Preserve , and explore the waterfalls and ice caves along  Grottos Trail .
• Hanging Lake : Stop 50 miles down the road to follow one of Colorado’s most popular hikes to this magical  cliffside lake .
• Vail :  Raft the river ,  drive an ATV , catch a cool  seasonal event , check out a  farmers’ market , or hike to a waterfall in this fun mountain town 60 miles northeast of Hanging Lake.
• Breckenridge : One of Colorado’s friendliest small towns, Breckenridge offers  great hikes , tons of  biking trails , cool events like the  International Festival of Arts , and lots of sunny restaurant patios where you can grab a bite.
• Rocky Mountain National Park:  Take a scenic drive (especially on  Trail Ridge Road , the highest continuous paved road in the US), hike to one of the park’s  eleven waterfalls  and two cascades, go  four-wheeling , or take a horseback ride through Rocky Mountain National Park, located 100 miles north of Breckenridge. Click here for a complete list of things to do in the park.
• Boulder : Spend a day or two in Boulder by ordering beignets at  Lucile’s , exploring  Pearl Street  and the  Boulder Creek Path , hiking to the famous  sandstone Flatirons , and attending a show at the historic Boulder Theater.
• Denver : Drive 30 miles to the state capital, which has  plenty to explore , including the  Lower Downtown (LoDo)  neighborhood, Capitol Building, outdoor 16th Street Mall,  Larimer Square ,  Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre , and  Denver Art Museum .
• Garden of the Gods : Seventy miles from Denver is another national park, where you can take a tour on foot, electric bike, or Segway, as well as go rock climbing and check out  Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site .
• Colorado Springs : The last city of the road trip sits next to Garden of the Gods. Spend a day exploring  Seven Falls , hiking in  Ute Valley Park , and driving the Gold Belt Scenic Byway.
• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve:  At your last destination, plan on camping for a night so that you’ll have the chance to stargaze with no city lights to obscure the view. But until the sun sets, sled down the sand dunes (some of which are hundreds of feet high) and (if your car permits) drive the adventurous  Medano Pass .

The perfect Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

While an area as vast as the American West is tough to cover in a single road trip, or even a single lifetime, I hope this post helps you to pick a trip you’ll love. The best news is, you really can’t go wrong, as all of these places are gorgeous, though some are better suited to certain weather and seasons than others.

Choose the best adventure for you!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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09/20/2019 at 7:38 am

Bravo! This is the most comprehensive post yet for a region. Literally a lifetime of things to see and all doable on a road trip! There is even more like Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Flaming Gorge, Devil’s Tower, grassland parks, and Bighorn in Wyoming for instance. Great job, your hard work has paid off with this amazing post. I will add this to the now long list of travel ideas you have provided me!!!

Hena Tayeb says

09/22/2019 at 6:53 pm

So much great information! We were in Washington and Oregon just last summer and loved it. We are trying to decide between Arizona and New Mexico for this coming spring.. you post will come in very handy.

Kristin says

09/22/2019 at 8:30 pm

why not both? 😉

10/28/2019 at 6:31 am

Thanks for the super write up! So many things to do in each of the locations. I visited Estes and the the RMNP in July and it was such a great experience. We did some river rafting and a fair bit of hiking in the park. Didn’t see any bears unfortunately was apparently still a bit early in the season for them. Not sure if you enjoy more Adrenalin fueled activities – have you ever tried doing a tandem jump? It’s actually a great way to experience the scenery of an area. And you’d be surprised just how many drop zones there are now in the US. It’s a great experience and totally worth spending half a day doing 😉

01/15/2020 at 11:21 pm

thank you so much for your helpful trips! one of the best sites around

Eileen Chu says

05/06/2022 at 11:01 am

Love the recommendations. I’m planning a road trip myself and I’m struggling to decide which month of the year to do this loop. Which month did you do it so that you didn’t encounter the snowy roads in the north and the blazing sun in the south.? April?

05/07/2022 at 8:28 pm

Which loop exactly? If you’re wanting to avoid winter, May is often a good month as is June.

Karla Smith says

07/04/2023 at 11:55 am

I like your site. Great info. Thank you. I’m taking a month long solo trip from Missouri out west. I’m 70 years young and bringing just my dog, Lovebug. Last road trip for this lady! Any thoughts about “the dog”? She a trained school therapy dog. National or state parks allow on leash? Dog friendly places? Thanks to you I’m going to Mystic Hot Springs. Tent camping some. Any advice is websites to read? Thank you so much! Karla

07/05/2023 at 8:44 am

Some national park trails allow dogs on a leash. I’ve got lots of solo camping advice on here! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/outdoors-101/

The Best Road Trips in the West

• Grand Canyon, Arizona
• Baja, Mexico
• Machu Picchu, Peru
• Patagonia, Chile
• Zambia & Botswana
• Canyonlands
• Grand Canyon
• Whitewater Rafting
• Multi-Sport
• Sea Kayaking
• Rowing Clinics
• Whitewater Guide School
• 1/2 Day or 1 Day
• Car Camping

Explore the Road to Whitewater

The classic road trip vacation is undeniably nostalgic. If the lure of the open road is calling, let these action-packed itinerary ideas from some of the West’s biggest travel hubs be your inspiration to get out there. And because we couldn’t help ourselves, they all lead to at least one unforgettable rafting adventure .

Even if you don’t love whitewater as much as we do, you’ll find there’s no shortage of incredible sites and stops to experience on these nine adventurous Western road trip routes.

Ready to hit the road?

Here are some of the best road trips in the west:.

• Denver to Dinosaur National Monument Loop
• Scenic Route to the Lower Salmon & Hells Canyon from Portland
• Tahoe to Yosemite Loop
• Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip
• San Francisco/Sacramento to the Sierra Nevada (serious whitewater-lovers only!)
• San Francisco to Southern Oregon Loop
• Epic Southern Oregon Road Trip from Portland
• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip
• The Classic Western Road Trip to Yellowstone & Grand Teton 3 Ways

1. Colorado Road Trip: Denver to Dino Loop

From the towering peaks of the Flat Tops Wilderness to the ancient red rock canyons and exciting whitewater within Dinosaur National Monument , this bucket list road trip from Denver makes for an outdoor adventure you’ll never forget.

2. The Best Road Trip From Portland Nobody Knows About

On this short and sweet road trip, leave the city behind and explore scenic Highway 14 as you wind your way through the Columbia River Gorge on the way to Lewiston, ID–the gateway to several of Idaho’s renowned river canyons, including the Gorges of the Lower Salmon .

3. California Road Trip: The Tahoe to Yosemite Loop

This unforgettable California road trip takes you from the mesmerizing blue waters of Lake Tahoe to the raging waterfalls of Yosemite and back. Along the way, pass over stunning mountain passes, stop for some whitewater action, stretch your legs on a hike or two, and enjoy a dip in a natural hot spring.

4. Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

If you’re in Southern California, it doesn’t get better than this bucket list road trip, which takes you on the road less traveled from Los Angeles to the granite wonderland of Yosemite and back. Explore the majestic Eastern Sierra, go off-the-beaten-path in the park, and take on some of the state’s most thrilling whitewater .

5. Ultimate California Road Trip for Adventure-Lovers

An easy excursion from San Francisco or Sacramento, this adventure through California’s Sierra Nevada, including rafting on four different stretches of river and a layover in Yosemite National Park , is big on thrills, scenery, and fun. It’s definitely for serious whitewater lovers.

6. Go Rogue: San Francisco to Southern Oregon Road Trip

This action-packed road trip from San Francisco starts with a visit to Lassen National Park before taking you across the Oregon border for one of the most classic multi-day whitewater rafting trips in the West. After ditching the car for a few days, you’ll return to the road to explore California’s iconic Highway 1 back to San Francisco.

7. Oregon Road Trip: Portland to the Rogue Loop

This southern Oregon road trip has a little something for everyone. You’ll stand-up paddle the Deschutes through the heart of Bend, hike Crater Lake National Park, and raft down the Wild & Scenic Rogue River , before exploring the scenic Oregon coast on the way back to Portland.

8. Hit the Road: Salt Lake City to Moab

This lollipop loop from Salt Lake City to Moab takes you through the heart of red rock country to all five of Utah’s iconic national parks, plus Bears Ears National Monument. It’s the ultimate southwest road trip adventure.

9. Wyoming Road Trip: 3 Epic Routes to Yellowstone & Grand Teton

This is the classic Western road trip. From where to stop to stretch your legs or grab a good meal to the cool attractions you won’t want to miss along the way, we’ve compiled some of the best stops on the road to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks from three major hubs—Seattle, San Francisco, and Denver.

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The Wandering Road

Usa rv road trip travel blog.

The Ultimate Western USA Road Trip Guide

Our 10-week rv route through montana, wyoming, and the pacific northwest – including detailed itinerary and expense breakdown.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Quick stats, cost breakdown.

The American west was made for road trips. We spent the better part of 10 weeks exploring this wonderland of big skies, open roads and small towns. Our early summer trek, first through the mountains and later along the coast, kept us in temperatures that peaked in the 70s. Such a difference from the summers of our recent past spent in the humidity of Washington, D.C. or the 100 degree+ temperatures of the Sacramento valley.

The route included some of our favorite places along with some new discoveries. While Montana will always have my heart, I have a new found appreciation for Idaho’s unsung beauty. And I think everyone should drive down the Oregon coast at least once.

Living in D.C. for so long, one of the small talk questions I got the most when people learned I was from California would be: “which coast is your favorite?” My default answer was always that I like the west, and I like the east, for different reasons. But if I am honest with myself, there is something that just feels right when I am in the western states. Maybe it’s the fresh air, maybe it’s all that space, maybe it’s the wild west and gold rush history that didn’t happen all that long ago. If you haven’t had a chance to get out there and see it for yourself, what are you waiting for?

Read on for a detailed account of our 10-week trip, including destinations, campground reviews, and costs to help you plan a road trip through the American west.

Looking for more travel ideas? Read my detailed coast-to-coast itinerary here or check out my other USA destination guides here .

• Days On the Road: 69.
• Miles Traveled in RV (not counting the additional miles put on the car when exploring): 3,427.
• States Driven Through: 6.
• National Parks Visited: Crater Lake National Park, Craters of the Moon National Monument, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Redwood National and State Parks.
• Number of Campgrounds Parked At: 21 (9 county/state/national parks, 9 private, 3 free camping spots).
• Visitors: 9, for a total of 20 nights. Life at The Chateau became like adult summer camp!
• Repairs: Oil changes for both vehicles, sealant for a leaky roof seam. The Chateau got its first road scars after we backed it into a campsite all wrong and scratched the back bumper. Nothing serious, thankfully.
• Grand Total Travel Costs for 10 Weeks On the Road: (read later in post for more details): $6,6775

Campground Price Guide:

$ = Free $$ = $10-$30/night $$$ = $30 – $50/night $$$$ = Over $50/night

Departure: We kicked off the summer road trip by rolling out of Sacramento at the end of May 2019.

Klamath Falls Four Mile Flat Quarry – GPS: 42.431503, -122.160638 $ Review: We started the trip with some free camping. It was hard to find info about this spot online but it exceeded my expectations. Kind of middle of the nowhere. A rocky parking lot by the water with more camping spots tucked along a rough road. I would stay here again for a night but wouldn’t make this a destination in itself. Local attractions: Crater Lake National Park (about an hour away). Miles from previous location: 360 miles.

Sweet Roystone Hot Springs – 7882 N. Hwy 52 Sweet, ID 83670 $$ Review: A very nice family-owned campground with renovated bathrooms and wifi. My favorite part was the hot springs that you can access for a minimal fee. Local attractions: Boise. Miles from previous location: 400 miles.

Bellevue Riverside RV Park and Campground – 403 Broadford Road, Bellevue, Idaho $$ Review: An older, small private campground with lots of long-term guests. Good wifi and close proximity to Sun Valley. Local attractions: The charming towns of Hailey and Ketchum (the nation’s first ski resort and the final resting place of Ernest Hemingway), Craters of the Moon National Monument. Click here to read about our visit. Miles from previous location: 195 miles.

Jackson Area

Spread Creek – Forest Road 30290 $ Review: This is our favorite boon docking spot to date! No amenities, unbeatable views and an unmatched location for exploring the northern part of Grand Teton National Park. We stayed in spot #3 and it was great for our rig. The road to spots #5-10 gets really rough so might not be a good fit for larger RVs. Read more about our visit here. Local attractions: Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Miles from previous location: 267 miles.

Kelly Gros Ventre Campground – 100 Gros Ventre Campground Rd, Kelly, WY 83011 $$$$ Review: After four nights of boondocking, we decided to try out our first National Park campground. We snagged a spot without a reservation. This is a nice woodsy spot with electric hookups but no showers. We found showers at the Colter Bay Campground and at a gym in town. There’s a great spot to see moose near the campground. Local attractions: Jackson, Grand Teton National Park. Miles from previous location: 44 miles.

West Yellowstone Baker’s Hole Campground – 3 mi NW of West Yellowstone on US 191 $$ Review: We were torn about where to stay during our visit to Yellowstone National Park. Our priorities were 1) staying as close to the park entrance as possible; 2) avoiding “parking lot” campgrounds and 3) paying a reasonable fee. This campground fit the bill! We found a first come first serve electric hookup site. No showers available. No cell service, either. Local attractions: West Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park. Read my guide to help you avoid the crowds in Yellowstone here . Miles from previous location: 124 miles.

Cody Buffalo Bill State Park, North Fork Campground – near Cody, Wyoming off US 14 W/ US 16 W / US 20 W $$$ Review: One of the best state park campgrounds I have ever seen. Located about 15 minutes from downtown Cody. We were able to find a walk-up site with electricity but were told that it is hard to get in without a reservation later in summer. Nice views of the surrounding rocky cliffs (some of the formations reminded us of southern Utah). Coin operated showers. Local attractions: Cody is the quintessential wild west town. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 132 miles.

Livingston Osen’s RV Park – 20 Merrill Lane, Livingston, MT 59047 $$$ Review: We picked this campground for its proximity to downtown Livingston, which also made it a good launching point for exploring both Yellowstone and Bozeman, Montana. It is clean and well-maintained but the spots are pretty close together. Management closes the entrance gates at 9 pm each night but you can open and close them manually as needed. Local attractions : Ben and I love Livingston; it’s just about the perfect small town. It was the original gateway city to Yellowstone. Be sure to check out the Murray Bar and Neptune’s. Bozeman is about 30 minutes away. It’s a larger college town with a very walkable main street. Miles from previous location: 178 miles.

Helena Cromwell Dixon Campground – 15 miles west of Helena at MacDonald Pass off Highway 12. $$ Review: Quiet, rustic camping on the top of a mountain just outside of downtown Helena. Local attractions: The state capitol building is gorgeous. Visit quirky Lewis and Clark Brewery and Broadwater hot springs. Miles from previous location: 123 miles.

Great Falls Dick’s RV Park – 1403 11th St SW, Great Falls, MT 59404 $$$ Review: This is an urban campground with older facilities and lots of long term guests. That being said, it is the most convenient place to stay while exploring Great Falls. Local attractions: Great Falls feels like a city on the rise. Read my guide to the Electric City here. Don’t forget to visit the mermaids. Miles from previous location: 121 miles.

Kalispell Rocky Mountain Hi Campground – 825 Helena Flats Road, Kalispell 59901 $$$ Review: Glacier country is a whole other (unbelievably gorgeous) world. This campground is spacious and has a full laundromat on site. It gets busy with families and kids on the weekends. Local attractions: Glacier National Park, Whitefish, Kalispell. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 227 miles.

*** If you want, add a stop in Wallace, Idaho on your way to Washington. It’s a much-celebrated small town with a big personality that I look forward to visiting in the future.

Spokane Area Peaceful Pines – 1231 W 1st St, Cheney, WA 99004 Review: We stayed about 20 minutes outside of downtown Spokane in the sleepy college town of Cheney. This private campground is small with recently updated bathrooms and showers. We had some issues with the wifi connection. Local attractions : Spokane is an under-the-radar city with a charming waterfront and beautiful architecture. Read my guide to the city here. Take a day trip to the nearby resort town of Coeur D’Alene. Miles from previous location: 250 miles.

Yakima Area Horn Rapids Park – 78410 Overlook Dr, Benton City, WA 99320 $$ Review: Inexpensive and spacious with electric hookups. Kind of in the middle of nowhere, yet convenient for exploring Yakima wine country. Local attractions: Highly recommend stopping by some wineries (like WIT and Col Solare) or breweries (Bale Breaker) and a trip into Yakima proper for some of the award-winning tamales from Los Hernandez. Miles from previous location: 154 miles.

The Dalles Area Rufus Landing $ Review: Free boon docking on the river. I was surprised by how busy this gravel parking lot gets! We stayed here two nights. Local attractions : The Dalles is a quaint small town; there’s hiking in a state park nearby; Hood River is a good stop for breweries and outdoorsy fun. Miles from previous location: 120 miles.

Tillamook Air Museum Grounds – 5005 Highway 101 South, Tillamook, OR 97141 $$ Review: A no frills and inexpensive camping spot next to the tiny Tillamook airport and air museum. Super close to town. Local attractions: Tillamook was our first stop on the Oregon coast. Be sure to visit the famous Tillamook Creamery – it lives up to the hype. From this home base we also explored Cannon Beach and Pacific City. Click here to read my complete guide to the Oregon Coast. Miles from previous location: 157 miles.

Yachats Cape Perpetua Campground – 2200 US-101, Yachats, OR 97498 $$ Review: This is it. The perfect campground in the perfect coastal town. (As long as you don’t need cell service.) I fell hard for Yachats. Local attractions: Redwoods, fresh sea food, and tide pools galore. Click here to read my full guide to Yachats. Miles from previous location: 93 miles.

Coos Bay Bastendorff County Park – 63379 Bastendorff Beach Rd. Coos Bay, OR, 97423 $$$ Review: We were excited to get a last minute spot at this campground but it came with serious pros and cons. It’s a great location for checking out Charleston, North Bend, Coos Bay, and the surrounding area. It’s also very busy and crowded and the bathrooms leave much to be desired. Local attractions: Be sure to check out the nearby adorable beach towns of Florence and Bandon. Click here to read my complete guide to the Oregon Coast. Miles from previous location: 74 miles.

Brookings Sea Bird RV Park – 16429 Highway 101 South Brookings, OR 97415 $$$ Review: Truth be told, we planned to state at Harris Beach State Park but turns out everything was full because there was a kite festival that weekend (true story). Sea Bird is a small private campground with a mix of travelers and long term residents. Local attractions: There’s no shortage of stunning views along Oregon’s southern coast. Be sure to stop by Crazy Norwegian’s Fish and Chips in Port Orford. Miles from previous location: 107 miles.

Trinidad Emerald Forest Cabins & RV – 753 Patricks Point Drive, Trinidad, CA, 95570 $$$ Review: What a wonderful campground, with camping spots tucked in among tall evergreens! Great for families. Just outside of the quiet fishing town of Trinidad. Local attractions: It’s a short drive to Redwood National and State Parks or Eureka. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 86 miles.

Fortuna Area Van Duzen Campground – Swimmers Delight – 12 miles east of Highway 101 on Highway 36 $$ Review: This was a last minute find for us. While we only stayed for one night, this would be a fun spot to spend a long weekend. The spots are large and quite literally surrounded by giant redwoods. Local attractions: Soak up the nature, and visit the charming Victorian village (and dairyland) of Ferndale. Miles from previous location: 40 miles.

Fort Bragg MacKerricher State Park – West Pinewood Campground – three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near the town of Cleone $$$ Review: IMHO this is the best place to stay in Fort Bragg, by far. Huge campsites within walking distance to the beach and only a short drive to downtown. However, in our experience, California state parks are more expensive to dry camp in than other states, and the amenities are limited. Local attractions: Fort Bragg is a charming coastal town with shops, restaurants and North Coast Brewing Co.. Enjoy fresh seafood, beach hikes, and wildlife watching. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 117 miles.

Arrival: We returned to Sacramento at the end of July 2019, just in time to see friends and family and then fly back to Washington, D.C. for a work trip.

Just like “normal” life, you can pretty much spend as little or as much as you want while living the full-time RV lifestyle. I was very curious to compare our costs during this leg of the trip with our expenses from April 2019, our mad dash across the country. (You can read about that itinerary and why we had to travel across the whole USA in one month here .)

And you guys, guess what? I think we are figuring out this whole full-time RV thing! In June and July, we stayed at several pricey campgrounds out of necessity while visiting popular destinations like the Tetons or the California coast. But we also found some great deals at state park campgrounds and boondocked whenever we could. We found our travel speed sweet spot, moving every five days or so and limiting drive days to around three hours (most of the time). That schedule helped us balance time for work with time for fun. We are loving how RV travel allows you to experience an area the way the locals do.

I added a new “health” category to our expense tracker this month. We had our first dog health scare this month when Hobbes had a flare up of a past back injury. I shared more about how we keep Hobbes healthy on the road in this blog post for the Pet Food Institute. My top recommendation for RVers (or anyone traveling with their dog) is to keep a file of past health diagnoses and vaccination records with you. It was so helpful to be able to share this information with the new-to-us vet so they had some context for his symptoms.

Western Road Trip RV Travel Expenses At a Glance:

10 Weeks/69 Days on the Road

Gas: $1,497 This included fuel for both The Chateau and our car. Let’s just say the difference in gas prices between Montana and the California coast was “significant”. Ouch.

Campground Fees: $1,922 This breaks down to $28/day. Not bad. We stayed at a mix of free campsites, state and national parks, and private campgrounds. This total also includes parking fees in the few cities we visited with parking meters. In comparison, we spent $1,300 for just 30 days in April.

Eating and Drinking Out: $1,585 Mostly includes meals in the $15-30 range (and lots of coffee). We admittedly spend a lot in this area since trying new restaurants is one of the best ways to get to know a new city, IMHO.

Entertainment: $282 A minor league baseball game, bowling, the Cody Nite rodeo, and visiting a dinosaur dig.

Groceries: $1,288 This number also includes random household supplies purchased along with groceries at Walmart.

Health and Wellness: $165 Mostly day passes for gyms (and showers)!

RV and Car Maintenance: $213 Oil changes, etc. Also includes some organizational supplies and a new ottoman!

Connectivity: $451 My phone plan, a wireless jetpack for wifi, and our mail forwarding service.

Grand Total: $6,775

This breaks down to $98/day or $1.98 per mile.

Our primary goal in embracing the full-time RV lifestyle is to see and experience as many new places as possible (rather than saving money) – and clearly that shows. Adjusting your speed of travel or avoiding eating and drinking out are the easiest ways to save money on the road.

I hope this information is helpful if you are planning to jump into fulltime RV living or just an extended road trip across the American west. Feel free to send me a comment or an email if you have any questions about the itinerary.

I am currently planning the next leg of our journey : fall in the USA’s upper Midwest… your recommendations would be much appreciated! Be sure to click here to read my latest dispatches from the road and follow me on Instagram for more updates!

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19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

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Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Looking for an incredible adventure? Consider going on an 1-month West Coast road trip. You’ll love the stunning scenery, breathtaking views, magical landscapes, bustling wildlife, and — of course — incredible memories! And to help you out, I’ve put together this ultimate 1-month USA West Coast road trip itinerary that’ll blow your mind!

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

There’s nothing better than the big open road, a car with a full tank of gas, good company, and the opportunity for endless adventures.

That’s exactly what Dan and I experienced when we embarked on our incredible 1-month USA road trip across the West Coast earlier this year. In just 30 days, we visited 14 different states, nearly hit 8,000 miles in our little van, and made incredible memories. It’s something I’ll never forget.

Within these 14 days, we experienced a good number of things — both good and bad…

✓ Camped out in numerous Wal-Mart parking lots, only to be woken up by late-night truckers and visitors.

✓ Ate one of the best vegan donuts  ever , as well as my first vegan sausage McMuffin.

✓ Viewed the Mexico/US border from our car while driving to New Mexico from Dallas.

✓ Hiked in the Superstition Mountains near Phoenix .

✓ Drove through the darkness to find a good FREE camping spot and star gazed in the middle of nowhere near Sedona, AZ .

✓ Explored the nooks and crannies of Zion National Park.

✓ Experienced strange things on the Las Vegas strip (completely sober BTW).

✓ Got locked out of our van in Yosemite National Park (yep — we were  those people!).

✓ Unlocked the van with a piece of string, a stick, and sheer willpower.

✓ Walked with the giants (Giant Sequoia’s that is) in Sequoia National Park.

✓ Camped on a desolate beach on the California Coast (only to be  almost caught by the DNR when we woke up!).

✓ Saw endless ocean views along the stunning Oregon Coast .

✓ Drove through blizzard-like weather in Montana .

✓ Made a few Buffalo friends while in Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota.

✓ Safely made it back home to good ol’ Minnesota .

No doubt, it was an incredible adventure! In the end, this unbelievable west coast trip just made me realize  how much the United States really has to offer in terms of amazing natural beauty and fantastic places to explore.

So, with that in mind, are you ready to explore the United States with this awesome 1-month West Coast drive that’ll completely blow your mind? I thought so.

Side Note: This itinerary can also be used as just a general outline and inspiration! Bend it to your will and use it for West Coast road trip ideas; tailor it to find the perfect adventure for you!

Psst, ever thought about renting an RV for your US road trip adventure? Click HERE to read my post on 5 reasons why you need to rent one. (Hint: these reasons are pretty awesome!)

Table of Contents

THE ULTIMATE 1-MONTH USA WEST COAST ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Since Dan and I nearly drove straight from Minnesota to Dallas, TX in the span of a day and a half, I definitely don’t expect you to start there.

So, because Arizona is damn near my favorite state ever, this mind-blowing west coast USA road trip starts in Phoenix and takes you through incredible national parks, breathtaking landscapes, and along spectacular coastal roads.

You’ll end in Seattle, Washington, where you can easily hop on another flight to get back to where you need to be!

QUICK SUMMARY: 

• Day 1-3 : Phoenix, Arizona
• Day 4-5 : Sedona, Arizona
• Day 6-7 : Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 8-10 : Las Vegas, Nevada
• Day 11-13 : Death Valley National Park
• Day 14-16 : Sedona National Park
• Day 17-20 : Yosemite National Park
• Day 21-22 : Sacramento, California
• Day 23-27 : California/Oregon Coast
• Day 28-29 : Portland, Oregon
• Day 30-31 : Seattle, Washington

Additionally, keep in mind that this is just a general itinerary! You can pick and choose how you’d like to go about it. Like one destination more than you thought? Stay a bit longer! Not feeling the vibe of another destination? Peace out!

**One great thing about using Booking.com (which the accommodations are linked to) is that you can usually cancel last minute without being charged — which means you can be more flexible with your road trip!

Psst, before you pack up and head out, don’t forget to take a peek at my handy dandy list of 55+ essentials to pack for a long-term road trip !

Day 1: Phoenix, Arizona

Depending on how you arrive in Phoenix, whether it be by car or plane, the first day on your epic road trip adventure will no doubt be filled with fatigue and jet lag. Although, if you have the energy, it’s a great place to get out and explore.

If not, take that nap! You deserve it. We all deserve the naps.

If you’re looking for a great restaurant to eat in the day, depending on what time you arrive, check out my list on 10 fantastic vegan restaurants in Phoenix !

Day 2-3: Phoenix, Arizona

Once you’ve rested and you’re reading to go, head out into the bustling city, as well as the city surroundings. Phoenix is a fantastic base for those who love to hike and those who love to shop. Whatever you’re choice, there’s options for everyone!

I recommend researching some awesome hikes in the nearby mountains; Superstition Mountains, Camelback Mountain, and the Phoenix Mountains. You can find some really great hiking trail suggestions here !

Additionally, if you’re not into hiking, the city of Phoenix offers a plethora of things to do.

Things to do in Phoenix:

• Head into Scottsdale Old Town and explore the Wild West-looking buildings.
• Check out the incredible Desert Botanical Garden and view adorable succulents, beautiful flowers, towering cacti, and gorgeous greenery!
• Ready to view beautiful Phoenix from above? Go on a Sunrise Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride !
• Depending on how hot it is, have a picnic in one of the many city parks.
• Visit the Heard Museum, which is devoted to Native American civilizations.
• Check out the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
• Admire the Pueblo Grande Ruin.
• Spend time outside at the Tempe Beach Park.
• Explore the the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Ro Ho En.
• Ultimately, get outside because the weather is usually spot-on and there are  so many things to do in parks, greenery, and mountains of Phoenix, AZ!

P.S. Check out these day tours and excursions from Phoenix  if you aren’t into planning activities yourself!

Where to stay in Phoenix:

As in many cities, there are various neighborhoods which are better than others! A few of my favorite suburbs of Phoenix are Scottsdale, Chandler, and Mesa.

• The Gainey Suites Hotel is a highly-rated hotel located in Scottsdale — and it’s surprisingly affordable!
• The Comfort Suites Old Town is a more affordable option in Scottsdale that’s in an awesome location — right in Old Town!
• In Chandler, the Cambria Hotel Phoenix Chandler – Fashion Center is an affordable, highly-rated option and is a guest favorite.
• Mesa, Arizona is a nice suburb of Phoenix closest to some of the best hiking in the Superstition Mountains. You can find a list of great hotels here !

Day 4-5: Sedona, Arizona

Out of all the destinations, I think Sedona, Arizona might be Dan and I’s favorite place.

The gorgeous red rock, non-existent light pollution, beautiful landscapes, and unbelievable star gazing won over our hearts. We spent one awesome night camping just outside Sedona’s city limits before heading up to the Grand Canyon and it was totally worth it!

Seriously, I can’t even tell you how many shooting stars we spotted. We spent  hours outside looking at the crystal clear skies and crazy cool stars. It was an awesome night!

Plus, if you get to Sedona early, you can go on a tour through the awesome Red Rock State Park . Sedona is also a pretty cool town to check out, with its cute cafes, gift shops, and nice locals.

Things to do in Sedona, Arizona:

• Hike one of the many different trails (like the Broken Arrow Trail — highly rated!).
• Check out Oak Creek Canyon.
• Visit Cathedral Rock.
• Explore the Red Rock Scenic Byway.
• Make your heart skip a beat by hiking the Devil’s Bridge Trail.
• Check out one (or a few) of the many gift and specialty shops — the crystal shops are amazing here!
• Visit the Palatki Ruins ( super   cool! ).
• Take a look at the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
• View Sedona from above and watch the sunset from the Airport Mesa.
• Marvel at the Palatki Ruins (Palatki Heritage Site), just outside of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest.

And if you want to stay in Sedona for a bit longer and make it your base, check out these awesome day tours and excursions which go from the city.

Psst, if you want a more detailed itinerary, click here to read a full guide on how to spend one day in Sedona !

Where to Stay in Sedona:

• The A Sunset Chateau is a great place for a relaxing and above-average stay.
• The Bell Rock Inn By Diamond Resorts is highly-rated mid-range accommodation.
• And the Sedona Village Lodge is for those on a budget but who still want to stay at a nicely-rated place!

Psst, want to camp out under the stars? Check out this post on how to find free RV camping around the US !

Also, if you want to spend more time in Arizona, don’t forget to check out my post on the ultimate 7-day Arizona road trip itinerary that explores Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona !

Day 6-7: Grand Canyon National Park

No matter which route you take while traveling the west coast of America, you cannot — I repeat, you cannot! — miss out on the Grand Canyon!

Full of wonder and beauty, Grand Canyon National Park is a spectacular site in Northern Arizona which attracts hundreds and thousands of visitors each year. And when you first see it with your own eyes, it’s no wonder why.

Seriously, you may think you understand the enormity of it when you view the Grand Canyon in pictures, but they don’t do it justice! Its vast valley, mile deep ridges, and huge walls filled with the colors of red, orange, purple, and yellow is unbelievable.

Things to do in the Grand Canyon:

• 45 minutes helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon from Tuyasan, AZ (the town right next to the Grand Canyon National Park).
• Drive to one of the many viewpoints throughout the park.
• Go on a Grand Canyon East Rim jeep tour .
• Check out the Grand Canyon Village (surprisingly, a LOT of vegan options in the grocery store!).
• Grand Canyon Hermit Road Bicycle Tour .

Have you ever heard of Minnesota? Here are 15 reasons why summers are better in MN !

Where to stay near or within Grand Canyon National Park:

Dan and I camped in one of the many National Park’s campgrounds — which I highly recommend! — but if you aren’t planning to camp, many accommodations are available.

• For those on a budget: Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel
• Mid-range hotel, yet high ratings: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
• Great location, good ratings: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Day 8-10: Las Vegas, Nevada

The drive from the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim entrance to Las Vegas, Nevada takes about 4-5 hours, depending on how many stops you make to take photos of the surroundings!

When you get to Las Vegas and check-in to your accommodations, get your butt out onto the strip and people watch!

Depending on how much time you have, you can spend 2-3 nights in Las Vegas. Dan and I didn’t drink while exploring Las Vegas but we had such a fun time just walking the strip, seeing what different places had to offer, and watching all the craziness!

Things to do in Las Vegas:

• Walk the strip and people watch.
• Admire the water fountain show at the Bellagio .
• View Las Vegas from above at the Stratosphere.
• Win (or lose) some money at the slot machines.
• Go on a night flight to view Las Vegas from above and have an incredible dinner for two.
• See one of the many, many entertaining shows.
• Go crazy at the Adventuredome Theme Park.
• Check out the Mob Museum.
• Go on a Las Vegas brewery tour !
• See some (fake) celebrities at Madame Tussauds !

Where to stay in Las Vegas:

As you can imagine, there are numerous places to stay in Las Vegas! You can spend your top dollar at one of the many high-class hotels right on the strip or go for a budget accommodation somewhere on the outskirts.

Here are my recommendations:

• If you want to go upscale and splurge, the Bellagio is the place to do it. With its beautiful interior, amazing fountain show, and excellent reviews, there’s no other hotel like it in LV.
• A more affordable, yet just as great option is The Carriage House .
• Into more of a condo style hotel? Try the Jet Luxury at The Vdara .
• At just $60 per night,  The LINQ Hotel and Casino  is a super affordable option with pretty good reviews.

Day 11-13: Death Valley National Park, California

Okay, okay, this might have been my most favorite part on Dan and I’s west coast road trip!

Death Valley National Park looks and feels like another freakin’ planet and it’s the coolest thing ever. As the biggest national park in the continental US, Death Valley has a lot to offer.

No doubt, the best to see it all (or at least see part of it), is to rent a car and simply drive around. You’ll be blown away by the red rock, vast views, endless landscapes, and Mars-looking mountains.

Although, if you want to do a tour around Death Valley, there are a few that go from Las Vegas!

Things to do in Death Valley National Park:

• Visit Zabriskie Point.
• Check out the Artists Palette.
• Lookout at the landscape at Dante’s View.
• Visit the wondrous Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
• Explore the Mosaic Canyon.
• If you prefer to do tours, this Death Valley Day Trip tour goes from Las Vegas and is a full-day adventure filled with excitement.

Looking to be a more sustainable traveler? Check out these  20 helpful tips to get started .

Where to stay in Death Valley National Park:

Unfortunately, there’s not many place to stay  within Death Valley National Park, but there’s a few nice places on the outskirts.

If possible, I highly recommend camping in the National Park. You can find a few great free campsites from this website .

• A nice hotel in the middle of Death Valley and Sequoia National Park: Panamint Springs Hotel .
• The  Amargosa Opera House & Hotel is located in Death Valley Junction, near the California/Nevada border.
• The Longstreet Inn & Casino is the nicest out of the three, but it’s actually in Nevada, near the border. If you decide to leave Las Vegas early, this is a nice spot in between LV and Death Valley National Park.

Day 14-16: Sequoia National Park, California

Ready to see some giants? Giant trees, that is.

Sequoia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in California and after visiting, it’s easy to see why.

The Giant Sequoia and Redwoods, gorgeous views, breathtaking mountains, and incredible hikes are all worthy of the hype!

Things to do in Sequoia National Park:

• Visit the General Sherman Tree.
• Explore Grant Grove.
• Stroll the General Grant Tree Trail.
• Drive the Crescent Meadow Loop.
• Simply drive through this spectacular national park and take in the beautiful scenery!

Where to stay in Sequoia National Park:

Similar to other national parks on the list, there’s no real places to stay within Sequoia National Park unless you decide to camp.

The best places to find accommodations near Sequoia NP is in Three Rivers, Badger, or Pinehurst.

• Stony Creek Lodge is the only accommodation actually within Sequoia National Park. It has a fantastic location (obvi) and good reviews.
• The Rio Sierra Riverhouse has raving reviews and is a mid-range hotel.
• The Sierra Lodge Three Rivers is a budget accommodations with good reviews.
• In Badger, The Hummingbird House has incredible reviews and is a mid-range hotel with lots to offer.

Tip: If you’re visiting Sequoia National Park in the summer or in its busy season, make sure to book well in advance. Accommodations book up quickly and you don’t want to miss out on this place!

Day 17-20: Yosemite National Park, California

Even if you’re not from the United States, you might have heard of a magical not-so-little national park in America: Yosemite National Park .

One of my favorite stops on this West Coast America trip, Yosemite boasts breathtaking views, incredible mountains, lush forests, awesome hiking, magical wildlife, and overall an unbelievable atmosphere.

Things to do in Yosemite National Park:

• Go hiking! One of the best things to do here, no doubt. You’ll find hundreds of trails; some are hard, some are easy but you’ll easily find one you’ll love!
• Visit one of the many waterfalls. Some of the best include Bridalveil Falls, Vernal Fall, Yosemite Falls, and Chilnualna Falls.
• Just sit back and enjoy the views! Yosemite National Park is incredible so don’t miss out on just taking everything in.
• Go on a hiking adventure with a knowledgable guide! Cross the Half Dome, El Capitan, and Glacier Point off your bucket list with this Yosemite Hiking Excursion .

Vegan travel isn’t hard! Especially with these  10+ life-changing vegan travel tips .

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park:

Yosemite National Park is one of the best national parks where you can actually stay  within the national park itself.

While camping here is also great, the accommodations are in abundance — and all are relatively wonderful.

• The Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite has excellent reviews and is in the heart of the national park.
• Yosemite View Lodge is one of the nearest accommodations near Yosemite Village and has some raving reviews. It’s also relatively affordable!
• Located on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort is the budget accommodation on this list. At under $100 a night, it’s definitely affordable. Although, it’s not located in Yosemite itself.

Day 21-22: Sacramento, California

Even though Sacramento is the state capital of California, it’s not very big! And totally doable in one day.

Additionally, this city is totally optional. Dan and I didn’t spend much time here, only going to the California Automobile Museum because Dan is totes into cool cars.

So, if you need a little stop between Yosemite National Park and driving to the coast (because yes, the coast is next up on the list), Sacramento is a great place to have it.

No doubt, this west coast road trip itinerary is packed full of things to do and awesome adventures, so if you need a little chill day, have it here.

Things to do in Sacramento, California:

• Like old and new cars? Check out the California Automobile Museum . (Dan LOVED this place!)
• Visit the California State Railroad Museum.
• Take a stroll through Old Sacramento.
• Marvel at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.
• Admire the California State Capitol Museum.
• Walk through one of the many city parks (William Land Park is particularly nice).
• Wander about the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park.

Where to stay in Sacramento, California:

• Love staying in hostels? You’ll like the HI Sacramento Hostel ! Affordable AND awesome reviews.
• The Inn at Parkside is in an excellent location and has wonderful reviews at a great price.
• One of the higher-range hotels on the list, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade is beautiful, has fantastic reviews, and is in the perfect location.

Day 23-27: California/Oregon Coast

One of my favorite destinations/regions on this USA road trip itinerary.

The California and Oregon Coast is filled with endless ocean views, heart-stopping cliffs, beautiful wildlife, captivating scenery, and incredible adventures!

(Check out this photo diary of the Oregon Coast if you don’t believe me!)

Even though Dan and I had to rush through the California and Oregon Coast, as we were running out of time, this particular road trip itinerary for the American West Coast focuses on spending 4 days meandering through the region.

Because, as one of the most beautiful parts of this itinerary, you need to spend time relaxing and admiring, rather than rushing!

Sample Itinerary for the California and Oregon Coast:

• Pull up Google Maps and find a route from Sacramento to Fort Bragg. (This will take about 4 hours, depending on how much you stop.)
• Fort Bragg has a beautiful glass sand that’s wonderful to explore. If you’d like, you can stay in Fort Bragg. There’s a good amount of affordable, nice hotels .
• P.S. Make sure to venture off the 101 and go onto the Avenue of the Giants. A gorgeous drive through the massive redwoods! Stop off at one of the pull-offs and just walk around to feel the magic of this state park for yourself.
• (This will take about 2 hours to arrive at the Avenue of the Giants from Fort Bragg.)
•  Throughout this drive, there will be a number of pull-offs to stop at. The beaches are beautiful to walk amongst and the cliffside viewing areas are especially breathtaking.
• Lastly, you’ll want to make your way towards Lincoln City, OR, to stay on the 101. After Lincoln City, you’ll make your way inland towards Portland.

Psst, ever thought about visiting Glacier National Park? Check out this post 32 photos of Glacier National Park that’ll blow your mind!

Where to stay along the California and Oregon Coast:

• In Fort Bragg, the Ocean View Lodge has awesome reviews and is in a great location.
• Crescent City is another nice stop along the California Coast. There are a number of fantastic hotels to suit your preference . The Lighthouse Inn has good reviews and breakfast is included!
• Go a little further than Crescent Bay and you’ll come to Newport, OR. A nice little coastal town with lots of hotels.  The Landing at Newport Condominium Hotel is in an incredible location and is a guest favorite!

Day 28-29: Portland, Oregon

Another one of my favorite cities in the United States, Portland is full of fantastic things to do and is a must-see stop on this US west coast itinerary.

And even better?

It’s  chock full of incredible vegan eateries, restaurants, cafes, and shops. As a vegan food fanatic, I love it! In fact, this city kind of reminds of Berlin, Germany; it’s hip, trendy, totally vegan-friendly, and packed with cool things to do.

Things to do in Portland, Oregon:

• Wander through the most magical book store — Powell’s City of Books! One of my favorite things to do in Portland.
• Visit the Lan Su Chinese Garden.
• Walk through the Portland Saturday Market, the nation’s largest weekly open-air arts and crafts market.
• Take a stroll through the Pittock Mansion, a century-old symbol of Portland’s dramatic transformation from a small lumber town to a bustling city.
• Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, one of the nation’s leading science museums.
• Grab a vegan donut at Voodoo Donuts (you won’t be disappointed!).
• Explore the International Rose Test Garden and take in all the gorgeous sights and smells of the place.
• Do a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls and MT Hood .
• Avid wine drinker? Check out this  Willamette Valley Wine-Tasting Tour !

I recommend checking out this 2-day Portland itinerary for a more detailed guide on how to spend your time in this vibrant, hip city!

Where to stay in Portland, Oregon:

• Want to stay right in the heart of downtown Portland? The Hyatt House Portland/Downtown is perfect!
• At $85 a night, the HI – Portland Northwest Hostel is an affordable option with great reviews!
• The Oxford Suites Portland – Jantzen Beach is a mid-range option in a great location with awesome reviews.

Are you a Harry Potter fan like me? Take a look at this post on the  best Harry Potter sites and attractions in Edinburgh, Scotland (the birthplace of HP!).

Day 30-31: Seattle, Washington

One of the more iconic destinations on this west coast itinerary, Seattle, Washington, is a cool city just begging to be explored.

With its gum wall, Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Museum of Pop Culture, it’s an incredible place to have an adventure.

Alas, I cannot tell lies… Dan and I didn’t actually visit Seattle . We bi-passed it completely to drive from Portland, OR, to Spokane, WA, to visit my sister. Although, it’s not logical to have you end in Spokane, am I right?

Thus, Seattle makes more sense, as it has a bigger airport if you’re planning to fly out.

Additionally, it has much, much more to do than Spokane. Overall, it just works out better as an ending point! Anyhow, without further rambling…

Things to do in Seattle, Washington:

• Take a ride up the Space Needle to see Seattle from above.
• Wander through the Pike Place Market.
• Stroll along the Seattle Waterfront and relax on some of the nice beaches (yes, they do exist in Seattle!).
• Explore Downtown Seattle and check out the restaurants, shops, eateries, theaters, and more.
• Take a photo in front of the infamous Seattle Gum Wall (just down the road from the Pike Place Market!).
• Venture down under and go on an Underground Tour !
• Relax in one of Seattle’s many parks.
• Get out on the water and admire Seattle from the sea on a boat tour .
• Head out to the field and go to a baseball game.
• Take a walk along one of the many trails surrounding the city.

Where to stay in Seattle:

• Looking to splurge on your last city? Check out the Paramount Hotel . Located in the heart of Downtown Seattle, it has raving reviews and excellent customer service.
• A more budget-friendly option is the Motif Seattle . At $197, it’s definitely one of the cheaper options throughout the city and has awesome reviews, as well as a great location.
• One of the most affordable accommodations throughout Seattle is the HI – Seattle at the American Hotel Hostel ; great reviews, $99 per night, and in Downtown Seattle.

What’s the Budget for a One-Month USA West Coast Road Trip?

I’ve gotten a lot of questions about how to properly budget for this 1 month USA road trip. While everyone’s budget is going to be slightly different, as people generally like to spend their time differently, here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend.

• Accommodation : $50-200 per night
• Food & Drinks : $20-70 per day
• Fuel : $250-300 total (roughly $.11 per mile)
• Attractions : $0-100 per day
• Insurance : $100-200 total (I highly recommend World Nomads travel insurance )
• Car Maintenance : $50-150 total
• Miscellaneous : $100-200

Since everyone likes to stay in different accommodations, eats different food, likes to go to different attractions, and do other miscellaneous activities, this budget is going to vary drastically.

To save on accommodation and eating at restaurants everyday, I couldn’t recommend renting an RV more. Use RVShare to explore your options!

Dan and I spent almost every night in our van, so we saved a ton on accommodation. Additionally, while we didn’t have a kitchen, we did use a Coleman camping stove to cook the majority of our meals, saving us loads of money.

Can I just say one word… wowza .

What a monster of a blog post, amirite?!

Although, no doubt, this American West Coast road trip itinerary is packed with helpful information, an easy to follow route, and — of course — awesome experiences!

If you want to discover what the best of the USA west coast has to offer, this itinerary delivers.

Have you visited the United States West Coast? Or have traveled around it? Additionally, let me know what you think of this itinerary in the comments! 

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• 10 best places to visit in Wales, UK (#7 is a must!)
• Your guide to hiking Devil’s Bridge from Mescal Trailhead — Sedona, Arizona
• Road trip packing list – 55+ essentials you can’t forget (2020 edition)
• Best places for vegan food in Minneapolis & St. Paul
• Destinations along Minnesota’s North Shore

Like this post on the ultimate USA west coast road trip itinerary? Pin it!

Yay for transparency! This post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase through one of the links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure policy here .

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Article comments.

Kevin McCarthy

Hi Sophie, What a joyful month that seems to have been for you and Dan. Great commentary on the places I’ve seen, from a different spin. I loved it. Since I’m a retired HS English teacher I’m versed in good writing and that was good. One sticking point I had was your use of “Dan and I’s favorite place” several times., where “Dan and my favorite place” would be more precise. Just a niggling thing, I know, but retirement doesn’t shut down the linguist in me. Thanks for such a great look at our fabulous West. Kevin McCarthy

Bucket list material, that Grand Canyon: if you re just after an impression, you can visit the bad boy in one day. But since it was quite the drive to get there (6 hours), we decided to stay a bit longer. The first day we mainly checked out the east side, the second day the west side. If you re there, try to watch a sunset as well: the sun gives the canyon a truly magical color.

Would love it if you could provide a budget for this trip!

Hey Paige, that’s a great idea! Thank you for the suggestion. I will be sure to update the post with an estimated budget and an exact budget of what my partner and I spent on this road trip! Stay tuned. 🙂

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Home » North America » USA » West Coast

Ultimate West Coast Road Trip Guide for 2024

Going on a West Coast road trip  has to be one of the most magnificent experiences in the USA. This region, comprising of California, Oregon, Washington, is one of the most beautiful regions in the world and offers countless things to do and places to see.

While traveling on the West Coast, you’ll have the option of taking many road trip routes. You can take a road trip on Highway 101 along some of the finest coastlines in the world, or you can navigate through the epic Cascades and the Sierra Nevada mountains inland.

Being raised in Oregon, and having taken several road trips on the West Coast, I have a lot to share with you, my fellow broke backpackers.

In this USA West Coast road trip planner, we’ll cover several topics, including how to stick to a budget, the best places to visit on the West Coast, and plenty of ideas and itineraries to easily organize your entire trip.

So come with me as we go on a road trip of the West Coast, USA!

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USA West Coast Road Trips Costs

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Let’s face it – while backpacking the USA , whether on foot or in a car,  you’re probably going to spend a lot of money. The West Coast is a big and beautiful place with lots to do and see, so you’re going to need all the help that you can get to save cash.

Even if you’re unable to travel on $10/day like in some of my favorite countries, this West Coast road trip guide will at least help you minimize expenses.

Each West Coast state will cost different amounts of money. California will be the most expensive state, followed by Washington, and then Oregon.

Generally speaking, the average daily budget for a road trip on the West Coast will be between $175 – $250 – this includes gas, a rental car, lodging, food, drink, and activities.

Gas is very expensive on the West Coast and will lead you to an early bankruptcy if you’re not careful. Do everything you can to limit the costs of gas by planning/sticking to routes, using a fuel-efficient car, and carpooling.

Going on a road trip in the USA with a group is fun, more environmentally friendly, and cheaper. Traveling with other people is the best way to save money, but we understand this isn’t always possible!

No fear! You can also save money on a solo trip by camping and staying at hostels, grocery shopping, and taking your time (i.e. not driving 500 miles a day).

Food and lodging will cost as much as you’re willing to invest. Staying in fancy digs and eating out for every meal will obviously drain your funds. Camping out and cooking for yourself will save you much more money in the long run.

You will probably visit several national parks as well and each has a fee. Pick 1-2 parks, or invest in an America the Beautiful Pass .

While these costs might seem steep, always remember you can always save a TON by camping. But even if you don’t spend any nights under the stars, you can rest assured that your money is allowing you to see some of the very best places to visit in the US .

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Average Costs of a USA West Coast Road Trip

Below is a breakdown of the average costs of a USA West Coast road trip:

Rental car : $30-$100

RV rental:  $100-$300

Gallon of gas:  $3.39

Average AirBnB:  $120

Hotel room:  $140

Hostel:  $25-$35

Campground:  $5-$20 (sometimes free!)

Sandwich:  $6-$9

Beer at a bar:  $5-$8

Coffee:  $2-$4

Bottle of Whiskey from market:  $20

Dinner for two:  $35-$75

While there are TONS of epic places to stay along the West Coast, here are three that are absolutely worth reserving in advance!

Best West Coast Mountain Getaway: Earthlight Washington Villa

This mountain villa in Waterville, Washington just might be the most incredible Airbnb on the West Coast. Built on the edge of a ridge that overlooks the Columbia River and some stunning mountains. Enjoy it all from a truly legendary deck that features a jacuzzi and panoramic views. Only one hour from Leavenworth and 15 minutes from the nearest town, you’ll get to be as secluded as possible while still having 21st-century amenities in reach.

Best West Coast Beach Cottage: Oregon Coast Beach Getaway

This Oregon Coast beach cottage is mere steps from one of the West Coast’s most legendary beaches. Multiple comfy beds, a large kitchen and a wood-burning stove all add to the homey feel–just 100 yards from the ocean. You’ll also have easy access to local breweries and some hiking trails if you’ve had enough beach time!

Best Airbnb in Los Angeles: Downtown LA Condo

Where you stay in LA matters a LOT, so why not choose this iconic condo located right near the City of Angels’ main attractions? The 1 bedroom condo features glass windows, 20 ft ceilings, and a rooftop pool that you’ll definitely be thankful for if visiting in the summer! You can also count on a super comfy bed, a TV, fast Wifi and EPIC views of LA.

Below is a list of sample road trips up (and down) the West Coast. Varying from 10 days to 30 days in length, they cover many of the West Coast’s top attractions. Each itinerary provides day-by-day highlights, which are meant to give you some awesome West Coast road trip ideas.

Since the West Coast is massive and I can’t go into every single detail for each location, I’ve created more specific road trips to help you out a bit. Get ready for a heavy dose of driving in the USA inspo!

• California Road Trip
• Oregon Road Trip

A road trip on Highway 101 is one of the most popular and most desirable adventures in the entire United States. This route features an amazing coastline that shifts every step of the way. While you’ll see other states too, this is the California trip of your dreams!

Starting in Southern California, you’ll see palm trees and surf-worthy swells slowly turn to dramatic cliffs. By the time you reach the Olympic Peninsula, you’ll be surrounded by lush, temperate rainforest, the likes of which you can see nowhere else in America.

On the road trip from San Diego to Seattle, you will pass by several of the most interesting cities in the region, Must-do’s include visiting Los Angeles , Santa Barbara, and Seattle. Between these many places, you will have your pick of bars, restaurants, and local markets.

Ultimately, a road trip on Highway 1 is a no-fail and we wouldn’t be surprised if people decided to spend more time on this itinerary.

Highlights: San Diego, Los Angeles, Big Sur, San Francisco, Redwoods, Oregon Coast, Olympic National Park

Notable bars and restaurants: Zeitgeist (San Francisco), A.O.C. (LA), Lost Abbey (San Diego), Annie’s Cambodian Cuisine (Eureka), Pelican Brewery (Cape Kiwanda), The Schooner (Netarts), Local Ocean Seafoods (Newport), Chestnut Cottage (Port Angeles), Granny’s Cafe (Port Angeles)

Where to Sleep:

• Freehand Hostel Los Angeles
• ITH ZOO Hostel San Diego
• Green Tortoise Hostel San Francisco
• Ecola Creek Lodge (Cannon Beach)

You’ve only got 10 days on this West Coast Road Trip and it’s definitely not a lot of time for such a massive creation. Don’t expect to see each and every highlight on the way, especially when visiting LA where traffic can get hectic to say the least.

You’ll have to plan your activities ahead to enjoy a stress-free adventure. The best activities are surfing around SoCal, camping in Big Sur and whale watching. If you’re more of an active person, you should check out the hiking trails on the Olympic Peninsula. Exploring San Francisco and the Redwoods is a great experience too.

If you’re into scenic drives, check out Highway 101 and Highway 1 – both offer incredible views!

Depending on when you’re visiting, you’ll be able to attend some cool festivals. Here are the coolest:

• Festival of the Dark Arts in Astoria (February)
• Goonies Day in Astoria (June)
• SF Outside Lands (August)
• Desert Daze (October)
• Kinetic Grand Championship (May)
• Redwood Coast Music Fest (May)

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

This is quite literally the opposite of a road on Highway 101 – this route primarily covers the eastern portion of California, Oregon, and Washington, areas that are defined by arid landscapes and rugged mountains.

Starting this road trip in California, you’ll begin in the hottest official place in the USA before escaping to the Sierra Nevada. You’ll pass by Yosemite , Lake Mono, and Lake Tahoe before reaching Oregon. Here, you’ll get a break from the desert by visiting Crater Lake before heading to the deserts around John Day again. By the time, you reach Washington, you’ll be in the rolling hills of the Palouse.

Given the harshness of the landscape, it’s advised that you undertake this road trip in late-spring or early-fall. Although it’s the desert, there is still a high probability of snow in the passes.

Highlights: Death Valley, Sierras, Lake Tahoe, Lassen Volcanic NP, Crater Lake, Bend, Wallowas, Palouse

Notable bars and restaurants: Holy Smokes Texas Style BBQ (Bishop), The Stove (Mammoth Lakes), Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs (Reno), Crux Fermentation Project (Bend), McKay Cottage (Bend), Roosters Country Kitchen (Pendleton)

• Villa D’billa Airbnb (Reno)
• Moderne Hostel (Mammoth Lakes)
• Mellow Mountain Hostel (Tahoe)
• Bunk + Brews Historic Lucas House (Bend)

The best activities on this road trip are definitely climbing in Yosemite and canoeing at Lake Tahoe. For everyone that’s into adventures and adrenaline, you can ski and then stay at a cabin on Mammoth Lakes and hike the John Muir Wilderness. Biking around Crater Lake and taking epic photos in the Palouse is a bit more relaxing.

For Scenic Drives on this road trip, we’d recommend the Tioga Pass, Lassen Scenic Byway and Highway 395. There are more drives that you can find online, but these ones are our favorites.

The best events you can attend are:

• Burning Man (August),
• Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza (August)
• Bishop Manzanar Pilgrimage (April)
• What the Festival (June)
• Bend Brew Festival (August)

One look at the map for this itinerary and you will probably exclaim how random it looks. Given that we will be visiting every national park between California and Washington, it’s pretty clear that there will be a great deal of driving.

But there’s going to be equal, if not a greater amount of majesty. The nationals parks of the Western USA are famous and arguably form the finest collection in all of North America. You’re going to see deserts, valleys, giant redwoods, lakes, mountains; if you can think of a landscape, it’s going to be featured here.

Luckily, there will be plenty of breaks on this best national parks edition of a West Coast road trip. We’ll see many of the West Coast’s major cities, including Portland and Bellingham, and have the chance to take a brief road trip on Highway 101. So even if you are itching to go camping and get a little dirty, there will still be some showers along the way.

Highlights : Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Channel Islands, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Olympic, Mt Rainier, North Cascades

Notable bars and restaurants: Stonefly Restaurant (Markleeville), Austin’s Restaurant (Tahoe), Aaron Schat’s Roadhouse (Bishop), John’s Pizza Works (Mammoth Lakes), Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs (Reno),

• Emerald Forest Cabins (Eureka)
• Maverick Inn (Klamath Falls)
• Lolo Pass Hostel (Portland)
• Bavarian Bungalow Getaway (Leavenworth)

On this road trip, you’ll come across the absolute best hiking trails in the US . You can do a separate road trip in Redwoods, bike around Crater Lake or check out the awesome beaches of Olympic Peninsula if hiking is not your thing. For the more creative ones, you’ll love taking pictures at the Death Valley.

All scenic drives that we mentioned above can be visited on this road trip too, but I’d recommend checking out the Cascade Loop and Lassen Volcanic Scenic Byway .

Since this itinerary includes various cities, you’ve got an incredible number of festivals and events you can attend. Research online to find out when and where you can find the ones of your interest.

This is it – the most complete road trip from California to Washington that you can do in 30 days. Just about every destination that has been covered so far in previous road trips is included here. This includes a road trip on the California Coast, a road trip from San Francisco to the Sierra Nevada, the Oregon Coast, the Washington Cascades, Olympic Peninsula, and much, much more.

All of the major cities on the West Coast are included as well. There will be plenty of places to visit while staying in Los Angeles , San Francisco, Seattle and every other city for that matter. Regardless of where you choose to spend your time – be it in the cities or in nature – it will be time well spent.

This itinerary also has the added benefit of featuring the amazing San Juan Islands, located at the end of a Highway 101 road trip. These are among the most beautiful places to stay in Washington and a mandatory given the amount of time you have.

Highlights : Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, Big Sur, San Francisco, Sierras, Lake Tahoe, Redwoods, Oregon Coast, Crater Lake, Bend, Portland, North Cascades, Seattle, Olympic Peninsula

Notable bars and restaurants: A.O.C. (LA), Lost Abbey (San Diego), Zeitgeist (San Francisco), Annie’s Cambodian Cuisine (Eureka), Crux Fermentation Project (Bend), Cartopia (Portland), Dick’s Drive-In (Seattle)

• Otter’s Pond Bed & Breakfast (Orcas)

Well, you’ve got a whole month on your hands! So you better do everything the West Coast has to offer, right? Whether it’s surfing while staying in Santa Cruz , exploring LA’s nightlife or hiking in the Sierra Nevada – you’ll never get bored.

A couple of things I’d definitely recommend though are sailing in the San Juans, alpine climbing in North Cascades and taking the delicious beer in Bend. What you end up ding during the 4-week road trip is completely up to you, but you can be sure to have a blast!

Hit up the road and check out the most beautiful scenic drives in the West Coast. They include the Highway 101 , US-26 and Crater Lake Rim . If you’ve got a nice car and love driving around, add these to your list as well.

Below is a list of the best road trip stops on the West Coast. Study them well and decide which ones you like the most for your road trip.

Southern California Road Trip

Southern California or SoCal is the drier, sunnier part of California, known for its desert landscapes, Latin-influences, beach culture, and urban sprawl. It is distinct from Northern California in many ways and should definitely be discussed in its own section.

Southern California is by no means small – it hosts millions of residents, leagues of land, several national parks, and a lot of coastlines – but for the sake of brevity, we must condense all of Southern California into a single section.

The region is best known for its easy-going and Epicurean culture. Metropolises, like Los Angeles and San Diego, host huge populations of people who just want to have fun in the sun, do business, and maybe get famous. The parties in Southern California are often extravagant and it goes without saying that places like Hollywood or Santa Barbara  get really crazy.

Southern California is also well-known for its desert landscapes and climate. Sunshine is plentiful, temperatures are warm, and rain is infrequent.

Superlative national parks, like Death Valley and the magical Joshua Tree , exhibit the arid beauty of Southern California. Add in some of the best beaches on the West Coast and you can why the surfer and beach culture is strong here.

In the end, Southern California is a paradisiacal place, both in mind and reality. People flock here in pursuit of dreams, warmer climates, and sometimes for no reason at all. I can think of no better place to start a fantastic road trip up the West Coast than Southern California.

Northern California Road Trip

Northern California or NorCal is a bit more temperate than SoCal, both in climate and attitude. The weather is moodier, people are slightly more cosmopolitan, and the food is far more eclectic.

You won’t find the desert beaches and vast deserts of SoCal; NorCal has grander forests, more alpine areas, and a rougher coastline. Its home to many of the best hikes in California .

Nothing illustrates the difference between NorCal and SoCal better than comparing Los Angeles and San Francisco. Whereas LA is more defined by its entertainment and pleasure industries, San Francisco is a technological utopia that hosts some of the most influential industries in the world i.e. Google.

As a city, San Francisco is far denser, better planned, and all-in-all more modern than Los Angeles. Staying in San Francisco can be refreshing and recharging, especially after spending a long time on the road. It has superior public transport, more public works, and a greater amount of accommodation options.

San Francisco also benefits from being a part of the greater Bay Area , which offers West Coast road trippers a huge array of activities.

There’s the increasingly affluent but always gritty Oakland in the East Bay as well as the gorgeous if not opulent Marin County in the North Bay. The stunning Napa Valley has some of the best wineries in California and the coastline around SF is spectacular.

Along the coast, Big Sur, Monterrey, John Muir Woods, and Point Reyes are all worth visiting.

Finally, Northern California offers some of the best landscapes in California. Legendary areas like Yosemite , Tahoe , and the Redwoods are all worth visiting as are the lesser-known ones like Lassen , the John Muir Wilderness , and the Lost Coast .

Northern California is definitely one of the best places that you’ll visit on your West Coast road trip route. Like Southern California, we had to, unfortunately, be very brief with this region.

• Best hostels in San Francisco
• Is San Francisco safe?
• Incredible San Francisco Airbnbs
• Things to Do in Santa Rosa

Oregon Coastal Road Trip

Whimsical Oregon – home to hipsters, endlessly flowing beers, and some of the most enchanting beaches and hikes on the West Coast .

Over the years, Oregon has been the recipient of many titles and stereotypes, some of which are spot-on. Though not the enclave for the weird that it used to be, Oregon is still one of the most endearing and charming states in the entire country, and is still utterly unique.

Oregon is one of the most geographically diverse states on the West Coast. It has deserts, mountains, rainforest, beaches, gorges, and volcanoes; you name it, and Oregon has got it. Because of this, there is an immense amount of things to do in Oregon, from relaxing to finding the best hikes you’ve ever seen.

The largest and most well-known city in Oregon is Portland. Famed for its craft beer scene, amazing food, and uncanny residents, backpacking Portland is definitely one of the best experiences you can have on your West Coast road trip. Grab a bike, grab a brew, grab a friend, and go for a joy ride in the city.

If you’re looking for a good hike, there are several trails near Portland in Forest Park , the Columbia River Gorge , and at every Portlandians favorite landmark, the elegant Mt Hood .

Almost as famous as Portland is the Oregon Coast . The Oregon Coast is far more rugged, moody, and, arguably, more beautiful than the California Coast, and people love to visit here in order to getaway.

The Oregon and California Coasts are, thankfully, connected via the amazing Highway 101, which runs further all the way up to Washington. Taking a road trip on Highway 101 up the West Coast is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the region.

Oregon’s Highway 101 attractions include Cannon Beach , the Oregon Dunes , and Cape Perpetua .

• Iconic cottages in Oregon
• Epic treehouses and lodging in Oregon
• Where to stay in Portland
• Best hostels in Portland

Eastern Oregon Road Trip

Many imagine Oregon to be a dreary, rainy wonderland full of trees and hippies. While this is true for the Western portion of Oregon, few realize that this not the case for nearly two-thirds of the state.

Eastern Oregon is situated in the mostly high desert. Here, the people are more conservative, the landscape is harsher, and the sagebrush rolls on endlessly. It’s an ideal place to grab a quality Oregon cabin and really get acquainted with this unique class of nature.

Eastern Oregon is separated from the rest of the state by the Cascade Mountain Range . These mountains extend north through Washington and south to Northern California.

The Cascades have a profound effect on the climate. Eastern Oregon receives far less rain than the west and is much more arid. The Oregon Cascades are beautiful as well, and many of the top places to visit on a West Coast road trip are located in this range.

The aforementioned Mt Hood , superlative Crater Lake , and countless waterfalls throughout the state can be found in the Oregon Cascades.

The desert dominates Eastern Oregon. Locations like the Painted Hills, Alvord Desert, Smith Rock , and Owyhee Canyonlands are all wonderful representatives of Eastern Oregon’s stark beauty.

Those looking for more than just desert though will be happy to hear that places like the Wallowa Mountains and the Blue Mountains offer more alpine experiences.

There are lots of things to do in Eastern Oregon. Aside from seeking solitude, people often visit Eastern Oregon for adventurous activities. Whitewater rafting, skiing, and hiking are all excellent here.

Staying in Bend , the largest city in Eastern Oregon, is an excellent place idea as it offers lots of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Road Trip to Seattle

Visiting Seattle is a must while road tripping the West Coast. It’s one of the most prosperous and dynamic cities in the Pacific Northwest. It’s a culturally rich place that has helped gestate the careers of some of the greatest icons in American history including Ray Charles, Nirvana, and Jimi Hendrix.

Economically, it is one of the fastest-growing American cities and hosts several important companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Starbucks. Lying on the banks of the Puget Sound and in the shadow of the massive Mt Rainier , Seattle may also be the most beautiful city on the West Coast.

Seattle is best explored at a leisurely pace. Allocate lots of time to walk around and visit the many cafes in the city. Drink coffee and beer in copious amounts and be sure to eat the local seafood, which is bountiful in the city. Basically, try not to rush through Seattle’s many places to visit .

Though there are several restaurants to visit around Seattle, no trip to the city is complete without a visit to the iconic Pikes Place Market .

Seattle is a very outdoorsy city. Lots of backpackers love Seattle because of its laid-back, hipster vibe . There are tons of parks around the city that offer amazing views of the surrounding cityscape/landscape and display quintessential PNW lushness, including evergreens and maples.

From parks like Jose Rizal, Kerry Park, Discovery , and Seaword , you’ll have astounding views of the city and Cascade Range. Seriously, these viewpoints are some of the best I’ve ever visited.

There are several notable museums in Seattle. The ultra-modern Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle Art Museum, and the Chihuly Garden are all gorgeous museums and among the best places to visit in Seattle.

Consider sailing on  Elliot Bay  as well. You can charter a larger, more luxurious sailboat, which will obviously cost more, or choose a more affordable option. You can rent a kayak for good rates and even sail for free every Sunday with the Center for Wooden Boats , the latter of which is one of the best free things to do in Seattle!

• Best hostels in Seattle
• Where to stay in Seattle?
• Epic Seattle itinerary
• Things to do in Seattle

Olympic Peninsula Road Trip

The Olympic Peninsula hosts Washington’s best beaches, a national park, rugged mountains, and some of the densest and wettest rainforest in North America. It is an Arcadian destination where you could get lost for days (or weeks); it is, without a doubt, one of the top West Coast road trip destinations.

The Olympic Peninsula is located west of Seattle across the Puget Sound . You can reach the peninsula from Seattle by road via Tacoma and Olympia or by ferry.

Our favorite West Coast road trip route, Highway 101 , actually starts/ends at the Tumwater/I-5 junction, just south of Olympia, and circles the entire Olympic Peninsula too. (As if this road couldn’t get any better?)

The vast majority of the Olympic Peninsula is a part of the Olympic National Park . Within the park, you’ll find all sorts of natural attractions. Here you can go hiking, mountain climbing, and rafting all within the course of a day, maybe.

Near Port Angeles is the Hurricane Ridge Road, which grants access to the Hurricane Ridge . Aside from hosting a ski resort, Hurricane Ridge has one of the most jaw-dropping vistas in the state, as you’ll see huge swathes of peaks and forest.

Continuing west and then south around the Olympic Peninsula, you’ll reach the furthest shores of Washington state. Along the western portion of the Olympic Peninsula are a series of ultra-rugged and remote beaches among the most beautiful places on the West Coast.

Most of these require either a 4×4 car or hike on foot to reach. Some of the best beaches of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula are Rialto Beach , Shi Shi Beach , and Ruby Beach .

Finally, the Hoh Rainforest is accessed via a series of dirt roads on the western edge of the peninsula. The Hoh is one of the most incredible rainforests in the world. Overrun by mammoth trees and covered nearly head to toe in lush moss, the Hoh seemingly offers nearly every shade of green imaginable.

Road Trip to Bellingham and the San Juan Islands

North of Seattle is the Salish Sea, which, apart from linking Seattle to the Pacific Ocean, hosts a number of idyllic islands and communities. Most notable are the San Juan Islands – a gorgeous archipelago that offers some of the most bucolic and relaxing settings in the Pacific Northwest. It’s the perfect place to grab a quirky Washington treehouse and just bask in the awesomeness of nature. These in addition to Bellingham on the mainland are some of the best places in Washington.

Driving north from Seattle, you’ll first pass by Anacortes , which is the primary docking area for ferries to the San Juans as well as Vancouver Island .

South of Anacortes is Whidbey Island . Though not as gorgeous as the San Juans, Whidbey is still very nice and actually offers one of the most scenic drives in Washington. Whidbey Island is connected by bridge to the mainland at Deception Pass .

We’ll revisit Anacortes and the San Juans later but let’s continue onto Bellingham for now.

Bellingham is one of the coolest towns on the West Coast, thanks to its awesome brewery scene, young population, and outdoorsy culture. It’s primarily a college town, inhabited mostly by students, but lots of people end up falling in love with Bellingham and settling here permanently. Like any good student town, the nightlife is usually ramped up, and the beer, in particular, is quite good in Bellingham.

Bellingham is very close to Canada, Mt Baker, and the San Juan Islands, which makes it a great base for exploring the Pacific Northwest.

The San Juan Islands are one of the best places to visit on a West Coast road trip. Here is a Pacific paradise with untouched woods, calm waters, and gorgeous scenery. Small towns like Friday Harbor make for amazing places to stay for a rest stop.

People love to visit the San Juans to unwind and escape from civilization. Migrating orcas are frequently seen in the San Juans as well, which makes them popular with whale watchers.

You can reach the San Juans via ferry back in Anacortes. The ferry runs all year though less frequently in the winter.

Cascades Road Trip

Though the Cascade Range extends all the way into Oregon and California, the portion in Washington is arguably the best. The Washington Cascades are home to two of the West Coast’s best national parks – Rainier and North Cascades – in addition to several superlative wildernesses.

For mountaineers, hikers, and anyone interested in the outdoors, the Washington Cascades are among the most beautiful places .

The Washington Cascades can be roughly broken into 4 sections: the Gifford-Pinchot, Mt. Rainier, the Okanogan-Wenatchee, and North Cascades .

The Gifford-Pinchot section of the Cascades is the most southerly part of the range and is a part of the eponymous national forest. Here you’ll find Mt Adams – the second highest peak in the Cascades – and Mt St Helens – the famous active volcano. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest are also in the Gifford-Pinchot.

Mt Rainier is the largest mountain in the Cascades and hosts a national park. Mt Rainier National Park offers some of the best hikes and camping opportunities in Washington. The Summerland , Wonderland, and Tolmie Lookout trails are some of the most popular. Mt Rainier is also famous for its wildflowers, which bloom around July.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee area is home to many of Washington’s premier ski resorts. Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie, and Leavenworth are all notable locations.

Leavenworth is a very charming town in its own right and was designed to resemble a Bavarian village. Nearby to Leavenworth is the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and superlative Enchantment Basin , both of which offer amazing hiking opportunities.

Finally, the North Cascades – near the border of Canada – has some of the most rugged and remote peaks in the country. There are lots more hiking opportunities to be had around the North Cascades. Popular trails include Hidden Lake Lookout, Lake Anne, Sahalie Arm , and Copper Ridge . There is excellent skiing at Mt Baker as well, which is the highest mountain in the area.

Eastern Washington Road Trip

Eastern Washington is very different from the Western portion of the state. Lying on the other side of the Cascade Range, Eastern Washington is more arid and desert-like, much in the same way as Eastern Oregon.

This part of Washington is distinctly more agrarian as well, and people tend to lean towards of the conservative side of the political spectrum. Regardless of its differences, Eastern Washington is a gorgeous place to visit and offers some of the most unique places to visit in Washington.

Though we’ll be frank when we say there is not a whole lot to do in Eastern Washington. Aside from a few very notable and beautiful attractions, 80% of Eastern Washington is either boring farmland or shrubbery. Definitely consider visiting this region but don’t allocate too many days to it.

Spokane is the largest city in Eastern Washington. It’s a peaceful city that doesn’t see much in the way of tourism. There are a few notable landmarks in the city like Spokane Falls, Davenport Arts District, and Manito Park .

Architecture fans may enjoy wandering around the city to see the works of Kirtland Cutter , who was one of the most influential architects in the PNW.

Most people just use Spokane as a base to explore the surrounding landscape. Spokane benefits from the excellent road trips nearby. The ever-charming Coeur d’Alene, and Sandpoint, Idaho are both very close to Spokane as is the Canadian border. Mountain lovers will love having the Northern Rockies right at their fingertips in Spokane.

South of Spokane is the Palouse , a very pastoral region that could easily rival Tuscany in terms of beauty. With rolling hills and endless fields, many photographers love Palouse. Consider a visit if you are looking to escape to the countryside. Steptoe Butte offers one of the best views of the hills.

Palouse also has one of the best waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest: Palouse Falls . This mighty waterfall drops into a gorgeous canyon and makes for excellent photographs. Hikers can walk to the base of the waterfall through the canyon itself as well.

Off The Beaten Path West Coast Road Trip Destinations

Looking for some more unique West Coast road trip ideas? Then check out these off-the-beaten-path locations for a chance to see something different!

Nevada Road Trip

Nevada is a state directly east of California, best known for debaucherous Las Vegas. Because of its proximity to Los Angeles (a 4-hour drive), Las Vegas and Nevada are frequently visited on a California road trip.

Visit Las Vegas for a chance to party big and win bigger at the casinos, and consider visiting the rest of the state. There are several excellent attractions in Nevada that have nothing to do with LV like the Valley of Fire, Great Basin National Park, and Reno. 

Lake Tahoe is probably the biggest draw in the area. There are many cool things to do in Lake Tahoe , and it’s an ideal place to have your own vehicle.

Idaho Road Trip

Idaho is a relatively neglected state that doesn’t get much attention from the rest of the country. While some of it is admittedly unimpressive – the south is an endless expanse of ugly agriculture and weird towns – there are still a lot of cool things in Idaho.

Boise is quickly becoming one of the most charming cities in the Western USA and has a great culinary scene. The mountains of Idaho, being a part of the northernmost section of the American Rockies , are also very beautiful. The Sawtooth Range, Nez-Perce Woods , and the lake town of Sandpoint are all very attractive places worth visiting.

One of the best ways to see these mountains is to stay in a cabin in Idaho , as they offer unrivaled views of the mountains and the best scenic spots in the state.

Vancouver Road Trip

If you’ve finished your West Coast road trip route and want more, then why not continue your trip into Canada? While Vancouver isn’t exactly off the beaten path, it is just across the Washington-Canada border and one of the most gorgeous cities in the entire world.

Backpacking Vancouver offers many adventurous opportunities including skiing, hiking, sailing, and ferries to Vancouver Island. Granted, there aren’t many coastal roadways in British Columbia but the mountains are superlative and only a few hours drive away from Vancouver!

The US national parks are among the most beautiful places on the West Coast! Visit any one of the following areas for a glimpse of the best of the West Coast’s splendor and get ready to take lots of pictures.

California National Parks

• Kings Canyon/Sequoia (SoCal) – Home to the giant sequoias, which are one of the tallest trees in the world. Framed by quintessential-Sierra Nevada craggy peaks.
• Channel Islands (SoCal) – Islands that have huge ecological diversity. Good for whale watching, scuba diving, and hiking.
• Yosemite (NorCal) – Granite wonderland full of some of the sheerest and most dramatic rock walls in the world. A Mecca for rock climbers and hikers. Plan your visit to Yosemite ahead of time!
• Death Valley (SoCal) – One of the hottest and most inhospitable places in the world. Defined by surreal geology, mountains, and enormous sand dunes.
• Joshua Tree (SoCal) – A desert national park close to Los Angeles. Home to unique flora and fauna. Popular with boulders, climbers, and weekend warriors.
• Redwood (NorCal) – Park dedicated to some of the oldest and greatest trees on the planet. One of the California Coast’s best attractions.
• Lassen Volcanic (NorCal) – A highly volcanic area defined by bubbling thermal pools and active volcanoes, and one of the best camping spots in California .
• Pinnacles (NorCal) – Set-up to preserve unique rock formations and local bat populations.

Oregon National Parks

• Crater Lake (Oregon) – The only national park in Oregon and one of the best places in Oregon. Insanely deep and clear lake sitting in a collapsed caldera.

Washington National Parks

• Mt Rainier (Washington) – The highest mountain in the Cascades and home to the largest glaciers in the lower 48. An alpine paradise.
• Olympic (Washington) – One of the most geographically diverse regions on the West Coast. Mountains, glaciers, rugged coastline, and rainforest all in one place.
• North Cascades (Washington) – “The Alps of the USA.” Vast and wild national park that protects some of the most beautiful mountains in America.

Americans have a weird affinity to the strange landmarks that are usually found out in the middle of nowhere. The roadside attractions on the West Coast have become so admired that many people go on a trip just to see them! Below is a list of some of the most interesting West Coast roadside attractions.

• Forestiere Underground Gardens (Fresno) – An impressive and intricate series of underground passageways with gardens everywhere. Very pretty place.
• Trees of Mystery (Klamath) – An amusement park of sorts with, most notably, two giants statues of Paul Bunyon and his ox Babe .
• Salvation Mountain (Niland) – A pretty famous attraction on the edge of San Diego. Surreal and Gaudi-like shrine in the desert. Definitely one of the most unique things to do in Southern California.
• Cabazon Dinosaurs (Cabazon) – One of the OG California roadside attractions! A favorite for many.
• Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health (Salem) – A real mental institution that was used for filming One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Now displays important artifacts from the movie as well as archaic therapeutic techniques.
• Octopus Tree (Tillamook) – An old spruce tree that came to be shaped like an octopus by unknown means.
• The Oregon Vortex (Gold Hill) – Place where the laws of physics are purportedly non-existent due to paranormal activity.
• Rosie (Sekiu) – An anthropomorphic fish statue complete with a pink skirt, bra, and tennis shoes. Doesn’t get much weirder than this.
• Codger Pole (Colfax) – Local totem pole built to commemorate a local football game. Depicts the players as they appeared in the 1930s during their first match. Dedicated in 1988 during their final rematch.
• Wild Horses Monument (Vantage) – Dedicated to Washington state’s centennial. A collection of iron horses galloping on a ridgeline over the Columbia River Gorge.

You have endless options for gorgeous roads on the West Coast. Choose any one of these scenic routes listed below to gain more West Coast road trip ideas!

Each drive features some of the best places to visit on a USA West Coast road trip and several other scenic byways detours as well.

1. Highway 101/1 (California/Oregon/Washington)

One of the finest drives in the entire USA. Road trip from San Diego to Seattle via Highway 1 and 101, which hugs the near entirety of the West Coast.

Watch the coastline change from desert-like to temperate and see some of the finest scenery of all. Highway 101 attractions include the California Redwoods, camping at Big Sur , the rugged Oregon Coast, and the lush Olympic Peninsula in Washington.

2. Highway 395/97 (California/Oregon/Washington)

A great alternative to a road trip on Highway 101 – this route takes you through Eastern California and the Cascades of Oregon and Washington. See epic mountain vistas and visit some of the best national parks in the West.

Highlights include Death Valley, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Bend, the Columbia River Gorge, and Leavenworth. This California-to-Washington state road trip begins in Los Angeles and ends in Seattle, and requires a transfer between Hwy 395 and 97 near Lassen NP.

3. Highway 26 (Oregon)

Travel from sea to sky and get a taste of Oregon’s geographic diversity. Start at Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast and travel eastbound on 26. Pass by Portland and stop at the mighty Mt. Hood.

Continue down 26 to reach the Oregon High Desert and be sure to stop by Bend, Smith Rock, and the Painted Hills along the way.

4. Cascade Loop (Washington)

Hands-down the most scenic drive in Washington state. This enormous loop starts and ends in Everett – north of Seattle – and offers a little bit of everything. Begin by taking the Stevens Pass Greenway deep into the Cascade Mountains.

From there, head north and loop back around back west via the superlative North Cascades Highway. Finally, end your Washington state road trip in the Puget Sound via the Whidbey Isle Scenic Byway.

Here are some things you should definitely know before hitting the roads of the West Coast!

Best Time to Visit West Coast

Depending on what you want to do on your road trip and what kind of climate you like, the West Coast can be visited at any time of the year . With temperate winters, sunny summers, and few extreme weather patterns, the West Coast is relatively pleasant no matter what time of the year it is.

The West Coast of the United States is a huge region with many distinct climates. The northern areas (Oregon and Washington) are well-known for being wet, dreary, and grey while California is famous for being warm, sunny, arid, and smokey.

Note that these are generalizations and that individual climates are, in reality, far more complex (but we’ll get into that soon).

Summers on the West Coast are usually bright, warm, and dry, and depending on the latitude and proximity to the sea, summers can be more or less very long and very dry.

While this means that you can be guaranteed good weather, it also means higher prices. Wildfires also start in the dry summers, which have become an enormous problem in recent years.

Winters on the West Coast are very mild and most of the yearly precipitation falls during this time. Snow is not very common for West Coast cities located near the sea.

Portland and Seattle may see a few snowy days in the winter while San Francisco and Los Angeles may only see snow once in a lifetime. Both the Cascades and the Sierra Nevadas receive plentiful snow and skiing is a very popular activity in these mountains.

Autumn is a usually lovely time to go on a road trip down the West Coast. Temperatures are still pleasant and nights are crisp. November is a transition month and when the rainy season usually starts – the Pacific Northwest can receive bucket loads of rain and, hopefully, California is no longer on fire.

Spring is also a good time to go on a USA West Coast road trip. The rain is slowly subsiding, temperatures are rising, and the hordes of tourists haven’t arrived yet. This is the greenest time in California, though Oregon and Washington (the Evergreen State) are pretty much always green (aside from the very eastern parts).

Why Visit this Part of the World

The West Coast is hands-down one of the best parts of the United States and could rival any other state, country, landmass, whatever, in terms of splendor. While an East Coast road trip is certainly beautiful and historical, it comes in second place when compared to the magic that exists along the Pacific Ocean.

Why? Insane geographic diversity, for one.

As you road trip from California to Washington, you’ll watch the landscape shift before you, from stunning beaches and alpine wonderlands to huge groves of rainforest and desolate deserts. Nowhere else in America can offer as much scenic beauty as the West Coast can.

The sublimity of the land is not lost on the locals as they are among the most eco-friendly people you’ll meet. Nothing is more important to them than the ground they walk on and they will do everything they can to preserve it.

That is not to say people on the West Coast are stuffy or stiff-collared. West Coasters love to have a good time. Whether you’re in a Hollywood nightclub, a Portland dive bar, or a farmhouse brewery in Washington, you’re sure to have a good time with whoever is next to you, familiar or stranger.

The West Coast has more going for it than any other American region; more, for that matter, than some entire countries as well. Call me biased – I was raised in Oregon – but I think it is one of the best places in the world.

Visit the West Coast for the food, people, weather, and majesty; most important of all, visit to just see what all the hype is about.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

Below is a list of West Coast road trip ideas for saving money. Try and practice these as much as possible.

• Rent an economy car : Prices can be as low as $25/day depending on the time of year and how far in advance you reserve. Economy cars are also more fuel-efficient. Use apps like ViaMichelin to find cheap gas, which, seriously, always ends up being one of the most surprising and costly expenses on a road trip.
• Use vehicle relocation services : These brilliant services offer huge discounts to people on the condition they get a vehicle to a certain place at a certain time. No joke, you can rent a car sometimes for as low as $1/day! Availability is very limited though, so keep a watchful eye on the sites. Check immova and Cruise America to start with.
• Sleep overnight in an empty lot : Though not technically legal, people sleep in parking lots all the time. Make sure the lot is safe by asking around. Walmarts are reportedly good places to park overnight as they allow overnight parking.
• Camp : Unless you want to fork out big bucks for a lodge, you have to camp. With a solid backpacking tent , campgrounds are way less expensive and sometimes even free.
• Cook your own food: Eating out can be very expensive. Cook your own food as much as possible to save – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove. Otherwise, have a fancy night out at a food cart.
• Do free shit: There are lots of free activities on the West Coast! From hiking to laying on the beach to going to the local monuments; all of these things cost you nill. Be sure to keep your ear to the ground for all things free in the West.If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Pack a filtered water bottle : It’s good for your wallet and the environment.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Books to Read during your West Coast Road Trip

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in the Western USA. Read one or two and you may have some great road trips ideas for the West Coast…

• Ask the Dust – A struggling writer, Arturo, living in Los Angeles falls for a local waitress, Camilla, and pursues her fervently. A drama unfolds as the writer struggles with his own poverty, shame, and unstable Camilla. An excellent commentary on the California dream.
• Angle of Repose – A crippled professor retreats to his home in California to write a biography about his grandmother. A tour-de-force exploring Western pioneers and the formation of the American identity.
• The Mountains of California – The musings and ramblings of John Muir, one of the most famous and beloved naturalism in American history.
• Sometimes a Great Notion – Ken Kesey is a literary demigod in Oregon and this is arguably his greatest novel. A tale of a hardheaded logging family that goes on strike, leading the town to drama and tragedy.
• Grapes of Wrath – John Steinbeck’s epic novel about the American Great Depression. Am Oklahoma family is ruined by the Dust Bowl and sets out for California to start a new life.

Make Money Online Whilst Traveling on the West Coast

Want to stay in the USA longer? Worried that you don’t have enough cash for a longer West Coast road trip? One idea is to make money while traveling!

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Traveling in the USA is generally safe , but you never know what can happen while on the road! Do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

We all need a clean bed and a hot shower after a long camping road trip. The West Coast, thankfully, has a ton of lodges and hotels that cater to all sorts of travelers. You can stay at a fancy resort, basic motel, charming apartment, and much, much more while traveling on the West Coast.

Hotels in America are fairly generic and expensive. If you’re on a budget and need to limit how much you spend on lodging, then you’ll need to stick to USA budget hotels and motels. These are very rudimentary accommodations – sometimes with little more than four walls, a roof, and a bathroom – but they’ll get the job done. Expect to pay no less than $60-$70 for budget hotels on the West Coast.

Airbnbs are usually more affordable than hotels and are far more charming. There are some pretty amazing AirBnbs in the USA that can really make your time in the West more special. I’ve seen incredible treehouses in Washington, converted box cars, teepees, luxury airstreams, and even a gingerbread house while surfing for the best Airbnb on the West Coast.

There are many hostels in the USA and these are usually the most affordable lodging options on the West Coast, especially for solo travelers. The quality of hostels in this part of the USA is very good and actually often superior to conventional hotels.

If you’re feeling lucky you could try your hand at Couchsurfing! Lots of people use this though so competition is quite high.

Best Places to Stay on Your West Coast Road Trip

Here are some of the best places to stay all along the West Coast.

Camping while traveling is absolutely one of the best ways to experience the majesty of the West Coast. This region has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country and some truly awesome campgrounds. For those on a West Coast road trip, camping is an absolute must.

There are all kinds of campgrounds on the West Coast that offer a wide range of amenities and rates. Generally speaking, there are four types: private, public, dispersed , and backcountry . Below is a brief explanation of each.

Private – Larger campgrounds that offer the most amenities including communal kitchens, showers, and maybe onsite restaurants. Most appropriate for demanding campers. Most expensive as well. Payment is made through the office of the owners.

Public – More basic campgrounds that offer limited but crucial amenities. Running water, electricity, and bathrooms should be but are not always present. Good prices. Payment is made to a public organization either online or via a dropbox at the camp.

Dispersed – aka wild camping and primitive camping . Camping in an area that is not an official campground but is still legal. Little to no amenities. Almost always free.

Backcountry – Camps located in the wilderness areas. Almost always require a hike to reach. Often no facilities so campers must bring food, cooking gear, camp supplies, etc. Permits are usually required and can be arranged at a nearby ranger station.

A lot of campgrounds, especially those at the national parks, can fill up very quickly. Consider booking a campground ahead of time to ensure that you have a spot. If you plan on sleeping at more unique sites – like yurt camps or a fire lookout – you will definitely have to book ahead.

Lots of campgrounds have walk-up sites available, which you’ll need to arrive early to claim. If you strike-out on the walk-up sites as well, there may be overflow camping nearby.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

West Coast Camping – Gear Checklist

The West Coast has some of the finest camping in the whole country. This means a proper road trip packing list is essential .

You could sleep in your car or an RV while traveling on the West Coast but sleeping outside under the stars is way more fun. Having a good tent will keep you comfortable on those chilly nights and give you lots of flexibility when it comes to finding a place to sleep.

Here are some other things that I recommend adding to your RV packing list if you plan on camping out…

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Free West Coast Camping

Those on a road trip down the West Coast should totally take advantage of the many free campgrounds spread throughout the state. Keep on reading for a list of some of our favorite free West Coast camping spots .

Note that some campgrounds listed in this guide may require a 4×4 vehicle to access.

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around the Western USA. There are a myriad of car rental agencies here that offer varying deals and varying models.

To find the best rental car deal in the USA, use search engines that compare the prices of individual companies. I personally like using Rentalcars.com as they’ve never failed to give me a great price.

You can also rent an RV or campervan, which means you don’t have to worry about packing camping gear. You will have to empty and refill the various waste and water tanks to live the van life though, which will require a visit to the proper facilities. RVs also cost more to rent, use more gas, and demand higher prices at campgrounds.

Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

We suggest booking a campervan with Outdoorsy as they usually have a good selection and good prices. Better yet, Broke Backpackers also get a $40 discount with Outdoorsy! Just use the coupon code “BACKPACKER” when checking out.

The roads are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should deliver you to most of the West Coast’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the Sierra Nevada and the Cascades will you need to be concerned about having 4-wheel drive.

If you’re on a West Coast road trip during the winter and conditions are poor, you will definitely need all-wheel or 4-wheel drive.

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals in the US

• I mentioned before that you can reach out to vehicle relocation services, like Cruise America , as a way of saving heaps of cash on rentals. Pursue these as best you can as they can save you a lot of money. Don’t get your hopes up too much though, as availability is always limited.
• Car insurance isn’t always mandatory in the USA but is highly encouraged. This being said, you don’t necessarily have to buy car insurance from the company you’re renting from. Purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.
• Many credit card companies offer free car insurance if you book the car with the proper card. Call your credit card company for more information regarding terms and conditions.

Here are some things to do on the West Coast that you just can’t miss!

Food on the West Coast

When national polls release their lists for the best food in the USA, the West Coast states usually inhabit the top 10. Washington, California, and Oregon all have amazing food that comes in every known shape, color, flavor, and size that you can possibly imagine.

Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, excellent seafood, or something international, you’re sure to find some good eats on the West Coast. From food tours in Seattle to the hundreds of iconic street carts in SoCal, you’re sure to try something worth remembering.

The West Coast benefits from some of the most bountiful agriculture and fishing sectors in the entire USA. Fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruit are often expected when dining out on the West Coast.

Farm-to-table dining – where local ingredients are sourced directly to local restaurants – is an increasingly popular trend that is both responsible and delicious.

The West Coast also has an enormous immigrant population, which means you can find just about any type of food in the world here. Southern California is lauded for its authentic Mexican and Latin American food.

San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures and offers a huge variety of dining, but the Asian cuisine, in particular, is excellent. Though less demographically diverse, Oregon and Washington still offer awesome international foods mostly because the people there just like all types of food.

You can eat at a huge variety of establishments. Diners, restaurants, cafes, bistros, organic farms, and outdoor markets; everywhere you look there is food.

Dining out can be expensive on the West Coast, so you should be choosy if you’re on a budget. To save money on eating out, take advantage of the ubiquitous food carts, which – swear to God – have food that is equal to if not better than restaurants.

Get your Buzz On

No matter when, where, or with whom you’re with – people on the West Coast love to kick back with a drink or smoke. With some of the best beer, wine, and spirits in the USA as well as legalized marijuana, there are endless opportunities to relax and partake in drug tourism while on a road trip down the West Coast.

Whether you’re at a warehouse rave or just chillin’ by the fire with a pint of local camp whiskey, makes no difference.

Residents from each West Coast state have their own preferences when it comes to drinking. Oregonians and Washingtonites tend to stick to craft beer and the local bud.

Though Californians also enjoy a lackadaisical smoke and brew (who doesn’t?), they have reputation for going harder and partying more than their northern neighbors.

The most and best parties are usually in the larger cities of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle. These cities have the most bars, clubs, and just a greater selection of places to drink. The larger cities also host a greater amount of shows and touring musicians.

Portland and San Diego definitely have their fair share of bars and shows, but these cities feel more local and somewhat laidback.

The West Coast produces a myriad of local spirits and alcoholic beverages and they are among the finest in the USA. All of the West Coast states brew excellent beers, though Oregon generally takes the spotlight for the best of all them.

California is famous for its vineyards, which produce excellent Cabs and Chardonnays (and Pinots on the Central Coast), while Washington, with its endless apple orchards, is leading the way of the “cider revolution.”

Finally, marijuana is legal in every Western US state! You can easily pick up a bag of kush in any state, just so long as you have an ID proving you’re over 21 and bring cash. Smoke up, my friends.

Being a Responsible Backpacker

Remember to be a respectful and responsible backpacker while on your West Coast road trip. Depart from the grounds at a decent hour, follow leave no trace principles, and be very, very aware of fire bans. Forest fires are an enormous problem in the Western USA and are often caused by reckless campers.

West Coasters are also very conscious of the environment and like to take care of it, as should you.

Reduce your plastic footprint: Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a Grayl Geopass . Refill at your hostel/guest house! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Pack a tough and cool travel water bottle. You’ll use it every single day whether you are traveling or not! Help save the planet, and pick up a water bottle here.

By now, you should know everything there is to know about the West Coast and possible road trip hotspots. I know, it’s a lot to take in, and you’ve still got numerous options to choose from – which is why it’s important to plan ahead properly instead of just hitting the road.

Sort your packing list, your car, or stylish RV and your insurance first, come up with a rough itinerary and then you can be almost 100% sure that you’ll have a successful trip.

Of course, all road trips are flexible and you can always make spontaneous decisions (which is the best thing about them), but if you’ve got the time and your budget allows it, take a month and follow my complete 30-day west coast road trip. That way, you won’t miss out on anything! And if you don’t like it, just skip one stopover and go to the next one.

Now, enough talking! Let’s hit the road… the West Coast awaits!

Updated April 2022 by Samantha Shea

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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7 Best West Coast Road Trips in the U.S.

Lively cities, charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, rugged national parks, and more await.

Stretching from San Diego, California , to Blaine, Washington, the West Coast of the United States encompasses over 1,370 miles from top to bottom. With so much beauty lying in between, including striking mountains, stunning national parks, and of course, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this region is best experienced on the road, with a good number of detours to explore what lies inland, too.

But planning a West Coast road trip can be intimidating, with a variety of options, from a coastal California drive with plenty of stops at beaches along the way to a scenic journey from Seattle , Washington, to historic Astoria in Oregon.

Plus, you'll have to consider more than just your route and destinations. For example, will you rent a car or an RV ? Many road trippers are looking into recreational vehicles from companies like Outdoorsy, which offers RVs in a range of sizes and amenities, depending on your travel needs. Renting an RV also allows you to save on lodging and meals, as well as experience the camaraderie at RV parks and campgrounds . Then comes the question of how long you'll drive each day, and how much time you'll spend at each stop.

To help you get started, we've compiled a list of seven of the best West Coast road trips, all departing from major cities. Gas up the car and go.

Road Trips From Seattle

Spend a few days in Seattle if it's not your hometown and you're visiting for the first time. Don't miss the view from the Space Needle or the lively activity at the Pike Place Market . The Museum of Pop Culture is fun, and art fans will enjoy the Seattle Art Museum and Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum . Here are a few suggestions for road trips from Seattle.

Seattle to Astoria, Oregon

Head south from Seattle toward Tacoma on Interstate 5, or take State Route 509 for a scenic, but longer drive. From Tacoma, drive southwest on Interstate 5 toward Olympia, the state capital. From there, drive west on State Route 8 to Aberdeen, get on U.S. Route 101 (Oregon Coast Highway), and head south toward Raymond. (If you have time to spare, and are eager to see the ocean, take State Route 105 toward Markham for a drive around the peninsula.) From Raymond, head south on U.S. Route 101 until you reach the Columbia River and spectacular Astoria-Megler Bridge to the historic town of Astoria.

The scenic trip along the Oregon Coast Highway includes rugged coastline views, charming towns, state parks, beaches, tide pools, and marine life, like whales during their migration. Pass through (or stop at) Cannon Beach, Tillamook, Depoe Bay, Newport, or one of many picture-perfect overlooks. If you wish to continue further, the Oregon coast road trip from Astoria to the California border on U.S. Route 101 is about 340 miles.

Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia (With an Optional Side Trip Through Whidbey Island)

Head north on Interstate 5 toward Everett, Washington, home of the Boeing manufacturing center. Continue on to Burlington, which is about halfway to Vancouver. Drive the tree-lined highway, passing Lake Samish and heading toward Bellingham, with views of Mount Baker to the east. Cross the border into Canada at Blaine, where you can see the Peace Arch , half in the U.S. and half in Canada. Then, continue north to Vancouver.

The scenic side trip, if your schedule allows, includes a ferry ride from Mukilteo to Whidbey Island and then a drive across the island, passing beaches and Deception Pass State Park and Fidalgo Island on State Route 20. Then, head east and meet up with Interstate 5 to continue on to Vancouver.

Road Trips From San Francisco

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

You'll want to spend a few days in San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge , snap a picture of the Painted Ladies Victorian mansions, and experience the city's restaurants and attractions.

San Francisco to Seattle (Four-day Trip)

The road trip from San Francisco to Seattle is a long one, with two overnights on the way, so you may prefer to select just a segment if your time is limited.

From San Francisco, drive north on Highway 1 , passing through Point Reyes National Seashore before reaching Bodega Bay. Continue on this route; it hugs the coast, so you'll find plenty of places to stop for photo ops.

You'll have driven nearly 200 miles upon arriving in Mendocino, so consider spending a night there or in nearby Fort Bragg. From Fort Bragg, continue north on Highway 1, and enjoy the ocean views and redwood forests. Highway 1 ends, turns inland, and becomes 101 (Redwood Highway). Continue north among the lush surroundings as you make your way back to the coast. Spend a night in Coos Bay or another one of Oregon's seaside towns.

Stay on 101 for a spectacular trip up the Oregon coast. Spend a night in Cannon Beach or Astoria before the last leg of your road trip to Seattle. From that point, cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge into Washington and take 101 to Highway 12 east to Interstate 5. Finally, head north into Seattle.

San Francisco to Napa and Sonoma

This popular northern California road trip takes folks to Napa and Sonoma wine country, just about an hour away from the city. The beauty of the area, with rows of grapevines, tree-lined roads, and excellent dining, appeals to visitors, even those who don't plan to partake in wine tasting and tours.

From San Francisco, two direct routes bring drivers to the city of Napa, the ideal starting point for exploring the valley towns and wineries. The slightly shorter route begins with Interstate 80, which turns north on the eastern side of San Francisco Bay, a total of about 60 miles. Alternatively, head north on Highway 101 and then northeast on State Route 37 to arrive in Napa. From there, take Highway 29 (or the parallel Silverado Trail) north among wineries, pretty towns, and lush scenery to Calistoga at the northern end of the Napa Valley.

If you have time to combine visits to both Sonoma and Napa, drive northwest from Calistoga to Geyserville on State Route 128. From there, head south to Healdsburg and then Santa Rosa before driving west to the coastal towns of Jenner and Bodega Bay and returning to San Francisco on Highway 1.

For a direct trip from San Francisco to Sonoma, take 101 north, a trip of about 70 miles to Healdsburg.

San Francisco to Los Angeles (Two-day Trip)

This classic California road trip takes drivers south on Highway 1, along the coast. (Several inland freeways are shorter and faster, but less scenic.)

Join Highway 1 near the Presidio or Golden Gate Park and head south along the coast, passing beaches and small towns. You'll arrive in Santa Cruz and then drive inland a bit until reaching the Monterey Peninsula. A side trip along the famed 17-Mile Drive through forests and along the coast is well worth the time. Continue south and you'll soon come to the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge on your way to spectacular Big Sur.

You'll have driven nearly 230 miles, undoubtedly with many stops for taking in the breathtaking views, when Highway 1 (Cabrillo Highway) meets U.S. State Route 101 and swerves inland for a while around Morro Bay. Rest for the night in that town, San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, or Pismo Beach, all excellent stops on the Highway 1 Discovery Route , a prime section of your California coast road trip.

With less than 200 miles to go, you can take your time, visiting wineries near San Luis Obispo, Edna Valley, and Santa Ynez Valley, and stopping in Santa Barbara. Continuing on the coast, you'll reach Malibu, Santa Monica, and the South Bay area. In Los Angeles, you can stay near the beach, downtown, or in one of the many towns in the City of the Angels.

Road Trips From Los Angeles

Los angeles to san diego.

This drive takes about two to three hours, depending on traffic, but there are many great places to stop along the way, so the trip could last an entire leisurely day. The South Bay beach cities make for pleasant pit stops, perhaps for breakfast near the Strand, which stretches from Malibu to Torrance. Further south, Long Beach offers an aquarium, waterfront dining, and the Queen Mary.

From Long Beach, head south on Highway 1, passing the Huntington Beach Pier in Surf City, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point, where Highway 1 changes to Interstate 5, still close to the coast. Crossing into San Diego County, you'll pass the beachfront towns of Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, and La Jolla, any of which would be perfect for a rest with views and ocean breezes.

In San Diego, visit the lively downtown area and Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Mission Bay, and SeaWorld, or just relax on a sunny beach.

West Coast National Parks Road Trip

The West Coast states of Washington, Oregon, and California are home to 13 national parks and hundreds of state parks, national monuments, historical reserves, and designated wilderness areas. Road trip through these sections to camp, explore, and experience the country's natural beauty.

Planning a trip to one or more of these destinations is an exciting undertaking, certainly ranking among the best West Coast road trips. But with so many variables to consider, including starting point, time available, traveler ages, interests, and budget, we're going to leave the details up to you. However, one standout option is Redwood National Park's scenic Coastal Drive . The nine-mile journey begins in Klamath on U.S. 101 and continues to the Klamath Beach Road exit. The narrow road curves, offering views of the Pacific Ocean and Klamath River estuary. Even better, wildlife, such as whales (in season), sea lions, and pelicans, may be spotted en route.

The Ultimate Wild West Road Trip: From Tombstone to Deadwood

Buckle up, cowboys and cowgirls.

The West was made for road trips. The desolate roads, mountains, cacti and wildlife are practically begging you to hop in your car and explore. There's plenty of history to draw you in, too. If you're a fan of  cowboys,  cowgirls and covered wagons, buckle up for the ultimate Old West road trip.

You'll start in southern Arizona, travel up through New Mexico and mosey on up through the wild west towns of the gorgeous western plains.

Tombstone, Ariz.

A thorobrace stagecoach in Tombstone, Tombstone, Arizona, circa 1882. (Photo by Underwood Archives/Getty Images)

You'll start where a slew of Old West outlaws met their end. Tombstone, Ariz. is the setting of one of the most notorious shootouts in history: the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The shootout was the result of a longstanding feud between a group of cowboys and the Tombstone law enforcement, made up of Wyatt Earp , Morgan and Virgil Earp and Doc Holliday. Today, the ghost town-turned-tourist-destination holds daily reenactments of the O.K. Corral gunfight on the historic site.

Amarillo, Texas

Getty Images

There's a reason George Strait was so eager to get to Amarillo by morning. The city is rodeo-central and one of the best places to experience Western culture. Check out the   American Quarter Horse Museum , which pays tribute to one of the most beloved symbols of the American west.

While you're in the area, drive down to Canyon, Texas to visit the  Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum . The museum is the proclaimed "Smithsonian with a Texas accent." See a replica pioneer town and learn about life on the Panhandle-Plains in the 1800s.

Cache, Okla.

Cache, Okla. was the home of Quanah Parker, the last chief of the Quahada Comanche American Indian tribe. Parker was the son of Cynthia Ann Parker, a white woman who had been captured by a Comanche war band as a young girl. She lived among the tribe until adulthood when she was found by the Texas Rangers and taken back to Texas against her will. Quanah lived a life that couldn't be matched in the pages of even the greatest Western novel. A warrior and a statesman, he befriended President Theodore Roosevelt and Texas rancher Charles Goodnight. Parker went on to found the Native American Church Movement.

Today, the estate of Quanah Parker still stands. Known as the "Star House," due to the giant stars painted on the roof, the house is a piece of Oklahoma and Western history. Although the New York Times reported in 2015 that the Star House is badly in need of repair, the estate is still open for tours. The Star House is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination to pay tribute to a legend.

Dodge City, Kan.

Dodge City, was once the epicenter of the Wild West. Rough, rowdy and dangerous, the pioneer town became famous for the western icons who passed through, such as the saloon-keeper turned lawman Wyatt Earp. Don't worry about being challenged to an old-fashioned gunfight at high noon, though. Dodge City is much more quaint these days. However, there's still plenty of chances to step back in time. Visit the Boot Hill museum, located on the site of the historic Boot Hill cemetery, for a look at the 60,000 artifacts of Dodge City from the 1870s through the 1920s.

Durango, Colo.

Transcendental Graphics/Getty Images

It may feel like you've stepped onto a western movie set when you reach Durango. The classic  Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid  was filmed here. And if you want to ride in style like Butch and the Kid, hop on the Durango train, a steam train that takes you on winding roads through the San Juan National Forest.

North Platte, Neb.

HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Buffalo Bill Cody became synonymous with the Old West when he launched his Wild West show in 1883. The massively popular touring extravaganza brought a slice of the American west all over the world, enlisting sharpshooters such as Annie Oakley . Even beloved frontier figure Calamity Jane appeared in the show to tell stories of her days riding with Wild Bill Hickok.

Buffalo Bill's Wild West  was founded in Buffalo Bill's hometown of North Platte, Neb. Here you can pay tribute to the Wild West ringleader himself at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park where visitors can tour Cody's 1882 home.

Deadwood, S.D.

Photo by: Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The final stop is one of the most notable western towns in history. Deadwood made its name on gambling, brothels and general lawlessness. Today, Deadwood has cleaned up its act, but thankfully doesn't shy away from its past. You can still play cards in the gaming halls not far from where Jack McCall shot Wild Bill Hickok in the back over a heated game of poker.

When you're done drinking whiskey at the local saloon, go pay your respect to Wild Bill and his old friend Calamity Jane, who are buried in the nearby Mount Moriah Cemetery.

Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Country are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission

This article was originally published in 2017. It was updated on July 31, 2023.

READ MORE:  Bass Reeves: The Real Lone Ranger of the Wild West

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10 Day USA West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Countless globetrotters venture to the shores of the USA to embark on the ultimate west coast road trip. Here’s your itinerary.

If you’re looking for epic coastal landscapes, flawless weather, and super-hip cities, the West Coast USA is something you’ll never forget. This coast offers many exciting experiences, from the beautiful coastlines of Oregon to the thriving metropolises of Seattle and San Francisco.

If you’re looking for adventure in the great outdoors, then head south to California’s redwood forests or explore Washington’s Olympic National Park , which boasts some of America’s most stunning hiking trails.

While it can be tempting to leave the adventure to fate, the West Coast USA is massive, and basing your travel around an itinerary lets you plan for various travel routes.

It’s also the easiest way of ensuring that you’ve accounted for all major attractions, necessary costs, and budget-friendly accommodation options.

From ideas to populate your route to a full-on itinerary, I’ve put together this West Coast trip guide with all you thrill-seekers in mind.

Renting a Campervan, RV or Car for Your West Coast Road Trip

First thing’s first: what are your wheels for this road trip? Are you opting for a campervan , or do you plan on renting a car and stopping at a new accommodation each night?

Renting a car or taking your own is the easiest way to get around the West Coast. Roads along the route are generally in good condition, meaning you don’t need to rely on a 4-wheel drive. (However, it may be an entirely different scenario in the winter for parts of Sierra Nevada, so if you’d feel more comfortable with a 4-wheel drive then go for it.)

It’s never hard to find a rental car company in this region, and the process is always quick and straightforward. Rentalcars.com is my go-to, purely because of how broad their range is. You’ll get a wide range of options, whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or for more luxurious vehicles.

Motorhomes can be expensive—they use more gas and tend to cost more at campgrounds than tents. But if you’re on a longer road trip, saving on accommodations may be worth it for you, as well as having your own space to cook. There’s ample opportunity along this road trip for refilling the water tanks and emptying the refuse at the proper facilities.

I’ve never had trouble with renting from Outdoorsy . They’re not just for your typical motorhome; they have a variety of van options to suit each traveler. Couples can choose from the likes of cozy two-person VW’s, while families can opt for a Class C, which sleeps up to 5.

The Best Time for a West Coast Road Trip

Planning the perfect trip for you comes down to which season you’re keen on discovering the surrounding areas. Each season comes with perks and a relatively pleasant climate; you’ll find that the environment lacks extremes, even in winter.

The north of the West Coast has a wetter climate with luscious scapes and incredible waterfalls, even if the weather is grey and dreary. Towards southern California, prepare for sunny and dry climates ideal for beach-goers.

• Summer (June – September) : Summer is the most popular time for a West Coast road trip, but it also means busier campsites and heftier prices. The weather is almost guaranteed to be a banger, lakes are open for swimming, camping is simpler with warmer nights, and dry roads make for easy passing.
• Autumn (September – December) : Autumn is a great time to embark on a road trip if you’re in search of the golden larches in Washington. Temperatures during the day are pleasant, but you’ll need to keep snug if you’re camping in the northern part of the journey.
• Winter (December – March) : If you’re sticking to routes along the ocean, snow isn’t a common occurrence, and temperatures are bearable. This is an excellent option for those looking to snuggle up in cozy cabins or book into downtown hotels.
• Spring (March – June) : Spring allows you to get the sunshine of summer but with fewer crowds. The south of the West Coast tends to be greener at this period, making for fantastic hiking scenery with not too much rain.

10-Day Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

The West Coast of the United States is also commonly called the Pacific Coast as its coastline sits along the North Pacific Ocean. It includes the coastal mountain regions on the eastern borders and the Pacific Ocean on the western border.

Stretching from Washington to California, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most sought-after road trip routes in the USA. From coastal cliffs to bustling urban spaces, the route offers something for travelers from all walks of life.

The route starts from US 101 and runs through Washington, Oregon, and parts of California. It then joins onto California Highway 1 , which shows off most of California. In total, the journey is 1,675 miles.

If you are hoping to do the entire route, you can budget about 10 days for your travels. This gives you the chance to take the route at your own pace. You’ll still have time to marvel at the views and stop at attractions.

It’s a long list of places, so don’t worry if it seems overwhelming. I’ve broken the trip down into different regions if you’d like to spend more time in one place.

Keep in mind that you have the option of starting in San Diego or Seattle. This itinerary starts from Seattle, where you’ll discover the Olympic National Park, and ends the trip at the beach in San Diego. But the reverse route is just as appealing.

Day 1: Seattle

As one of the biggest South Pacific cities, you’ll easily immerse yourself in a city with diverse culture. That might include sampling various cuisines (many found at the Pike Park Market), soaking up the epic nightlife, and visiting art attractions like the Museum of Pop Culture.

But that’s not to say that this is entirely a city-slicking destination; Seattle features rolling hills, leafy suburbs, and an abundance of parks. The Washington Park Arboretum sits alongside the shores of Washington Lake, while Kerry Park shows off panoramic views of the city.

Because you’re starting your road trip here, you can factor in several nights in the city before hitting the road. I’d recommend staying in Downtown Seattle so that you’ve quick access to the best parts of the city.

Day 2: Olympic National Park

The drive to Olympic National Park is a mere 2 hours. However, the early bird catches the worm here; starting the day early means you’ve got plenty of time to wander around the national park. Encompassing close to a million acres, the park offers a plethora of ecosystems and dramatic landscapes.

Now is the perfect time to grab the hiking boots to trek through old-growth rainforests, wild coastlines, and glacier-capped mountain peaks. There’s tons to add to your itinerary here, including hiking, fly-fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and ranger-led activities.

Each year, over 50,000 people camp in the national park. Over a dozen campgrounds in Olympic National Park accommodate backpackers and campers (keep in mind that car camping is only allowed at certain campsites). For caravans, most of the bases allow for 21 feet or shorter, while a small handful accommodates up to 35 feet.

Day 3: Portland

The drive from the National Park to Portland is close to 3 hours. Before heading straight to the city, it’s worth taking a drive to the Witch’s Castle, which is a crumbling and creepy old house found in Portland’s Forest Park.

Once you’ve reached the city, a day of adventure awaits you. The city has a huge foodie culture, so if you’re up to getting to know the city a little better, indulge yourself and embark on a food tour .

If you’re up for giving yourself a break from driving, exploring the Mississippi Neighborhood on foot leads you to quirky shops, trendy bars, and hidden libraries. There’s an array of hotels in Portland for you to choose from, but if you’re not in the mood for looking, Mark Spencer Hotel is in an excellent location.

Day 4: Coos Bay

The Pacific Coast is buzzing with charming little towns that aren’t as well known as the bigger cities but no less spectacular. Coos Bay is a seaside gem that is 3 hours and 45 minutes away from Portland, giving you plenty of time to get in the road trip mood.

The secluded beach sits alongside luscious forests, with the Coos River flowing into the Pacific. Today it’s celebrated for its history of shipbuilding and lumber products. You can visit the Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection to step back into the town’s history.

Coos Bay is a fantastic place to catch those iconic West Coast sunsets. Locals and vagabonds gather at the oceanside with their cameras and picnics in hand. Because of the beauty of the town, camping is a great way to appreciate nature. Sunset State Bay Park and the Mill Casino RV Park are some of your top options.

Day 5: Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is 2 and a half hours from the coast of Coos Bay. You can make a stop to the park to gaze upon the world’s tallest trees. However, there’s so much more to see and do at the park.

This park is particularly great for road trippers because there are many scenic drives . This grants you the freedom to simply pass through the national park or extend the trip with a camping experience.

The park has four developed campsites that provide campers and RVers with basic amenities, such as showers and firewood. If you feel like roughing it up, you can book one of the backcountry campsites with more than 200 miles worth of hiking trails. If you’re traveling with furry friends, you’ll be happy to know that leashed dogs are more than welcome.

Day 6: San Francisco

Of course, this wouldn’t be a real West Coast USA road trip without factoring in some time to spend in San Francisco, a hub of excitement. The city keeps you on your toes from the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park to Alcatraz Island. Just be sure to start the day early, as it’s a 5.5-hour drive from Redwood National Forest.

The coolest way to get around the city is to hop on the cable car system. The first cable car was developed in 1873, and from there, 23 other cars were introduced. Today, there are just 3 making their way around (nowadays they’re mostly regarded as a tourist attraction, but there’s nothing wrong with that).

Staying in a town as eclectic as San Fran will give you your first taste of the diverse Californian lifestyle. With so many attractions in the heart of the city, staying at Marriott Marquis Union Square means you can save your petrol for longer hauls and venture around on foot or by metro.

Day 7: Big Sur

Big Sur features 90-miles of rugged coastline, and in this case, it’s more about the journey than the destination. The drive boasts the best of both worlds, with the Santa Lucia Mountains meeting the Pacific Ocean.

You can expect to spend the whole day in the car as you discover the various attractions scattered along the way. You’ll definitely want to stop at Camel-by-the-Sea on the north side, the Henry Miller Memorial Library, and Partington Cove.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park sits on the slopes of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Here you’ll have the chance to wander alongside the maple trees, conifers, redwoods, and oaks. Pfeiffer Beach is also home to Keyhole Rock, an enormous rock formation with a beautiful natural arch.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is popular amongst scuba divers and hikers, with various trails overlooking the dramatic coastline.

Ragged Point is another stop to add, preferably at dinner, as it offers a gourmet restaurant, a coffee bar, and comfortable places to spend the night, such as Ragged Point Inn .

Day 8: Los Angeles

Los Angeles is quite a drive from Big Sur, and depending on where you finished off your 7th day, you could be spending around 5 hours in the car.

Los Angeles holds a piece of magic for all kinds of travelers. You can spend your time getting lost in a world of museums—something that LA is famous for—or dedicate the day to studio tours and trips to theme parks.

For beach bums, the soft shores aren’t a bad way to spend the day. If the beaches are what you’re after, Paradise Cove Beach and Venice Beach allow you to catch some rays (or even a wave).

When it comes to spending the night, the choice comes entirely to the individual. LA has a variety of different scenes, from buzzing nightlife to quaint streets dotted with restaurants. If you’re keen on meeting some friendly faces you can book into a trendy hostel that offers pub crawls. But if you’re not in the mood for a party, I’d suggest an idyllic B&B that’s not too far from the rest of the action.

Day 9: San Diego

After a wild, or perhaps tame night in Los Angeles, take a leisurely drive down to San Diego. It’s a city that’s known for its warm climate, art galleries, museums, luscious gardens, and laid-back attitude.

If you’re a sun-seeker and nature-enthusiast, you’ll love it here. La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Torrey Pines provide you with good enough reasons to spend a few nights here.

North of the California border holds a Mexican influence; expect to find mouth-watering cuisines, Mexican monuments, and the Spanish Revival Balboa Park here.

Given that you’ve been on the road adventuring around the West Coast for 10 days, you might consider a resort to top off the experience. The Lodge at Torrey Pines boasts activities and tours both on-site and off, from golf courses to wellness spas.

There’s also the option of keeping things down to earth. In that case, I’d definitely recommend booking a holiday home for quick escapes to the shores of La Jolla Cove.

Other Destinations to Include on Your Road Trip on the West Coast

If you’re more of an adventurous type, I thought it’d be worth adding a few favorite valleys and national parks in the West Coast region. These parks and national reserves are what make the West Coast road trip route famous worldwide.

Now that you’ve got an idea of where you’re heading when embarking on a 10-day road trip, you can include these stops for an extended vacation.

I would, however, recommend that you opt for a backpacking experience when venturing to these destinations. While you can find lodges and resorts scattered around the region, camping provides you with greater freedom of movement. If you’ve fallen in love with a place, just spend an extra night without worrying about 10 am check-outs.

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park is 2 hours and 45 minutes from the busy city of San Diego and 2 hours from Los Angeles, yet it still feels completely remote. Natural beauty is brimming in the national park that’s populated with the topsy turvy Joshua Trees, Yucca brevifolia, and true desert wilderness with plenty of amazing hikes .

Camping under the Milky Way is the way to go when visiting Joshua Tree. You’ll find campsites nestled in rock formations that allow you to experience nature in its truest form. During the day, hiking trails lead you through groves of palm trees and desert oases.

The high season in the park runs from March to May and October to November, when conditions are most comfortable. But this also means that finding a camping spot can be tricky during the weekends. Consider a mid-week break for camping at the park.

If you’re looking for where to stay , there are also plenty of vacation rentals and hotels in and near Joshua Tree . The design of most hotels here will still make you feel like you’ve escaped the city and are spending your time in the heart of nature.

Death Valley

Moving inland, Death Valley is a 4-hour drive from Los Angeles.

As the driest, hottest desert landscape in California, it’s a land of extremes which makes its name all the more appropriate. It gives you the feeling that you’re wandering around a foreign planet, yet it carries an utterly mystical feel.

While it might seem impossible for things to thrive here, there is an abundance of diverse life that survives in Death Valley. In the rare case of tropical rainstorms, the valley bursts into color from thousands of wildflower fields. Throughout the year, willows and cottonwood trees, which are home to over 80 species of birds, scatter the ground.

Camping in summer here means packing plenty of water, and you need to avoid hiking after 10 am. Temperatures range from 110°F to 120°F. Camping is a first-come, first-served basis—you can claim your spot by pitching your tent and setting up your chairs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a gem to visit no matter the season, and just 3 hours from San Francisco. While the park holds an abundance of wildlife, it’s teeming with history for you to discover on a Yosemite tour . There’s also 7 museums here, including history museums and a nature center.

When exploring the park’s incredible surroundings, the best way to do it is on foot. With the park featuring dozens of hiking trails for all levels of experience, you’ll find waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and incredible lakes. Alternatively, take a bike ride along the cycling trails.

An important thing to note is you can’t visit the park spontaneously. Instead, you’ll need to reserve a vehicle pass . I would highly suggest booking your pass pretty far in advance to avoid disappointment.

Lake Tahoe is an enormous, turquoise lake surrounded by the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with alpine forests hugging the shores. Below the towering mountaintops sits Tahoe Town, which transports you back to the Old West with a touch of modernity.

It’s a destination worth spending at least a weekend, as it offers miles of hiking and biking trails, music festivals, dozens of beaches, casual and fine dining options, and sporting events.

During the warmer months, the lake comes alive with swimmers, kayakers, and anglers. As the chill of winter starts to creep in and the mountains develop snow caps, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular pastimes.

The beautiful surroundings of Lake Tahoe are the perfect backdrop for your holiday. Decide where to stay in Lake Tahoe by determining what you’re most interested in: campgrounds, luxury resorts, pet-friendly hotels, or rustic cabins that offer a more primitive experience. Condos are great if you want modern conveniences like Wi-Fi access while still enjoying mountain views from every room.

Crater Lake

If you’re following my Pacific Coast itinerary, Crater Lake is 3 and half hours from Coos Bay. It’s a destination often overlooked when it comes to West Coast drives, but I honestly think this is one of the most incredible destinations in the states.

Around 7,000 years ago, Native Americans witnessed a violent eruption in the tall mountain peaks. This left an enormous sinkhole filled with rainwater and melting snow, which is now one of the most pristine lakes in the world. It’s also the deepest lake in the USA.

It’s magical to see the park in winter, but sometimes the cloud covers prevent you from seeing the lake. Before hitting the road, you can use their online webcam to get a feel of the weather conditions.

Another thing to note is that each year for two days, the East Rim Drive is closed to vehicles. This gives cyclists and pedestrians the chance to enjoy the scenic paths without the noise and interruption of traffic.

USA West Coast Road Trip Packing List

Packing for an RV or hotel-based experience is simple enough when you understand the weather conditions. Everything you need, in terms of cooking and sleeping supplies, will likely be in your motorhome or accommodation.

But this guide also has adventure-seeking nature enthusiasts in mind. If you’re keen on venturing out into nature during your road trip, here’s a breakdown of the gear and supplies to pack.

• Camping stove : Bringing along a portable camping stove works wonders for hiking experiences. This stove is small enough to fit in a travel backpack and you can use it to prepare tea or mid-hike lunches.
• Trekking poles : Carbon fiber trekking poles are sturdy enough to grip between rocks without losing shape. This feature is handy in rocky landscapes and wet conditions. They’re also lightweight enough to attach to your pack when they’re no longer needed.
• Binoculars : During your West Coast road trip, there are going to be ample opportunities to marvel at the incredible views. I always rely on a high-quality pair of binoculars when I’m spotting whales in the ocean, bird watching, or spying upon deer in the forest.
• Hiking shoes : I’m gonna go ahead and say that hiking boots are the most important item for a road trip in this part of the world. Yes, you’ll be in the car, but you’ll also be making stops to explore rocky paths, trek along wet hiking trails, and venture into leafy forests. For men, I’ve found the best hiking boots to be the Lowa Renegade by REI . For women, the Merrell Moab is a highly-rated, waterproof boot.
• Bug spray : I don’t know about you, but there’s nothing worse than being eaten alive by mosquitos during a summery evening. This Sawyer Picaridin bug repellent provides long-lasting protection that isn’t going to mess up your gear or clothing.
• Sunscreen : With all the good weather, sunscreen is an essential item for beach days and hikes.
• First-aid kit : Bringing along a first-aid kit means you can conveniently treat injuries and outdoor mishaps without heading back to your accommodation or a nearby pharmacy.
• Insulated water bottle : I’m all about embracing what nature has to offer. There are some incredible freshwater waterfalls in some of these national parks and you can fill up on your road stop with some pure, ice-cold water. An insulated water bottle can be filled and brought along in the car.

Tips for Your West Coast Travels

Each time you embark on a road trip, you’re going to discover more and more tips for a leisurely experience. But for now, if you’re a newbie road tripper, here’s some much-needed advice for your first rodeo.

• Invest in travel insurance : Travel insurance can do you no harm, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry. World Nomads Travel Insurance provides you with 24/7 emergency services across the US; it covers the loss, theft, and damage to your property or gear and protects you from trip interruption.
• Don’t plan too many stops : The best West Coast road trips last a lifetime, and I can assure you that no matter how many times you make the journey, you’ll always discover something new. Instead of trying to do it all in one trip, space out your itinerary and give yourself time to enjoy one destination at a time.
• Bring along the right gear and equipment : There’s no controlling mother nature, and when you’re starting a long trip, it’s best to come prepared for all weather conditions.  It would suck leaving something like a rain jacket behind in summer, as you might encounter unexpected rainfall. Being prepared with the right gear comes into play—camp stoves help out in this department, as do dehydrated meals.
• Respect your environment : California’s dry; the low-rainfall environment puts it at risk of wildfire. For this reason, some campsites don’t allow open fires. It’s important to follow the leave-no-trace principles .

The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

With endless opportunities for adventure, a road trip on the West Coast leads you to new discoveries with each journey. Because of how much there is to see, planning is key. Give yourself a rough outline of the places you’re keen on exploring.

All road trips are flexible, and with this 10-day itinerary, you’ve got the option of shortening your trip to suit your travel needs. (Although I’m pretty sure you’ll be extending it by adding some of the incredible national parks scattered around the region to your itinerary.)

So what are you waiting for? Go explore the incredible coasts by RV or rental car on an experience that is consistently making its way onto travelers’ bucket lists.

Where along the West Coast road trip route are you most stoked about? Let us know in the comments!

West Coast Road Trip FAQs

How long do you need for west coast road trip.

10 days to a month is a good amount of time for a West Coast roadtrip.

What is the best road trip on the West Coast?

A roadtrip along the Pacific Coast Highway is an amazing way to explore the West Coast.

What is the best month to travel West Coast?

July is the best month for traveling the West Coast.

Where to stop on a West Coast road trip?

Some of the top destinations for a West Coast road trip include Seattle, Portland, Red Woods National Park, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

How long does it take to road trip the Pacific Coast Highway?

You can drive the Pacific Coast Highway end-to-end in about 12 hours, but I’d recommend taking at least a week for a road trip.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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World Wild Schooling

12 Breathtaking US Spots for Your West Coast Road Trip

Posted: April 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 13, 2024

Taking a road trip up or down the US West Coast is a dream vacation for many. Whether you hanker after the golden beaches of California or the ice fields of Alaska, there’s something for every traveler on the Pacific Seaboard. From south to north, here are a dozen wonderful spots to stop at when driving the US West Coast. 

San Diego, California

San Diego is a famous surfing spot, and the city’s craft brewery scene is also making a name for itself. The settlement by the sea is also abundant in lovely parks and beautiful beaches. USS Midway at the harbor, San Diego Zoo, and many art galleries and studios are also among the attractions.

Read also: Epic US Road Trips

Santa Monica, California

The Los Angeles seaside enclave of Santa Monica is worth stopping at if you fancy a slice of LA life. It’s the smarter, glossier sister of Venice Beach, and as the two blend seamlessly together, it’s easy to visit both. Palisades Park offers amazing views over the ocean, and you can enjoy the rides at Pacific Park amusement park on the pier. Stop at a cafe here; there’s a chance your waiter will be a Hollywood wannabe.

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This lovely little place on the Monterey Peninsula is picturesque, with pretty buildings clustered in the center. Many of these are home to stylish boutiques and slick art galleries. You can also surf, scuba dive, or do some bird watching at the local beaches. Should you want to stretch your legs, take a stroll along the Scenic Bluff Path. You can also delve into the history of the Carmel Mission at the local museum. 

Read also: Fairy Tale Towns Across the Globe

Big Sur, California

Big Sur is the rugged coastline between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon. Follow State Route 1 to see the jagged cliffs, twisting turns, redwood forests, and untamed waters that characterize the area. Big Sur has inspired many creative types and makes the perfect playground for outdoor types. 

Read also: Instagrammable Spots in the US

San Francisco, California

The City by the Bay is not to be missed so you can see the awesome Golden Gate Bridge for yourself. It’s also famous for its steep streets lined with pastel-painted homes and the offshore Alcatraz prison. You can also take a tram trip between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, which is packed with bold shops and brash restaurants. 

Read also: Incredible US Destinations for Art Lovers

Portland, Oregon

Though it lies 60 miles inland, Portland, Oregon, is a pleasing place known for its leafy parks, cycle paths, coffee shops, and craft breweries. Mount Hood looms over the skyline, and the Columbia and Willamette rivers run through the city. Culture is big news in Portland, with thriving music, arts, and performance scenes, while vast Washington Park offers Oregon Zoo, a Japanese Garden, and more. Expect to experience a relaxed, eco-friendly lifestyle in Portland. 

Read also: US Towns with Gorgeous Spring Blossoms

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Head northwest of Portland, back towards the Oregon coast, and you’ll hit Cannon Beach. This long stretch of pristine sand, dotted with large boulders, is featured in The Goonies movie. The charming town has an arty vibe, too, and is lined with art galleries. Back at the beach, look out for tidal pools or walk to Haystack Rock, where you might spot sea anemones, small crabs, and starfish in the water. 

Read also: Secret Beach in the US

La Push, Washington

La Push in Olympic National Park has three gorgeous Washington state beaches and starred on the silver screen in the Twilight movies. Strewn with smooth pebbles and mossy boulders, it’s a photogenic spot. The area is around 15 miles west of Fork, and the fact that Third Beach lies within the Quileute Indian Reservation keeps it relatively peaceful. 

Read also: US National Parks

Seattle, Washington

The biggest city in Washington State is situated on Puget Sound and is known for its tech industry, the Space Needle, Starbucks, and the spectacular setting. Seattle also has a generous sprinkling of appealing parks and something of an alternative scene. Grunge music originated here, and indie music is still popular. This is also another West Coast destination with numerous craft breweries. 

Read also: Historic US Cities

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands of the Pacific Northwest offer all sorts of outdoor pastimes, including whale-watching tours. San Juan Island, Lopez Island, and Orcas Island are the most popular ones to visit. San Juan is the best for art fans and wildlife lovers, while Orcas is a true foodie destination. Lopez is the most peaceful of these three and, at an hour by ferry, the fastest to get to. There are around 170 San Juan islands in all. 

Read also: Iconic Places in the World

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Though a relatively unknown US National Park, Kenai Fjords in Alaska covers almost 670,000 acres, it’s located west of Seward, in the southwest of the state. As well as the Kenai Fjords, you can also see the Harding Icefield, glaciers, and a series of islands. The thick forests of the Kenai Peninsula are also favored by wildlife lovers. 

Read also: Amazing Natural Wonders in Europe

Anchorage, Alaska

If you continue your West Coast trio beyond Washington, Anchorage in Alaska beckons. Indigenous culture is a big thing here; you can learn about crafts, dance, and lifestyle at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. While in the area, you could also visit Chugach State Park, just outside the city limits, the Gold Rush town of Talkeetna, and the ski resort of Girdwood.

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World

Visa-Free Countries

Explore these  countries visa-free  with your American passport.

• Read more:  Visa-Free Countries

Must-Visit European Cities

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Quaint US Harbor Towns for a Seaside Vacation

Plan your relaxing seaside retreat in these idyllic  US harbor towns .

• Read more:  US Harbor Towns .

Secret Beaches in the US

Discover the hidden treasures of the US coastline with these  secluded beaches .

• Read more:  Hidden Beaches in the US

Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List

Dreaming of paradise? Discover  tropical destinations  to add to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Caribbean Destinations Where No Visa Is Needed for Americans

Discover passport-free paradise with our guide to  Caribbean destinations for US citizens .

• Read more:  Caribbean Destinations Without Visa

Read the original thread on  12 Breathtaking US Spots for Your West Coast Road Trip .

This article was produced and syndicated by  World Wild Schooling .

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

You might also like: 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

You might also like: Road Trip with Kids: 15 Essentials to Pack

Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

Read next: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

Take these tips with you! Download the free road trip checklist!

Grab your packing essentials for every road trip with kids. Includes the 15 things you don’t want to forget!

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

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Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

8 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In West Virginia Before You Die

Rachel Whetstone

Rachel is proud to live in wild and wonderful West Virginia. She enjoys nature walks, photography, and discovering new restaurants all around the state.

More by this Author

If you love road trips, you’re in the perfect state. West Virginia has plenty to see and do all within a few hundred miles. Here are some of the best West Virginia road trips to keep you busy all year long. What are you waiting for? Gas up the tank and check out our essential Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide ! You’re about to have an epic adventure.

To view the interactive Google Map of each trip in a separate tab or window, simply click on the link beneath each map photo.

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What do you think of our list of the best West Virginia road trips? Have you taken any of these trips? We’d love to hear about it!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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West virginia road trips.

Are there any other themed road trips in West Virginia?

There are so many great themed road trips in West Virginia. Our Lavender Fields Road Trip will lead you to beautiful fields blooming with the colorful and fragrant purple flowers. Just plan this trip for when lavender is in bloom in the state. If you love abandoned places then you may be interested in our Thrilling Road Trip To The 7 Most Abandoned Places In West Virginia . Grab your cameras and head out to places like Virginius Island and Hilltop House Hotel in Harpers Ferry for some incredible photography opportunities.

What are the best attractions in West Virginia?

The best attractions in West Virginia are:

• Dolly Sods Wilderness Area
• Blackwater Falls
• The WV Farm Museum

In the town of Paw Paw, visitors from all over come to see the incredible natural spring called the Pinoak Fountain . It’s a fountain fed by a gravity-powered spring, an unusual roadside attraction that’s a must-visit.  With a long history of coal mining, a trip to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is worthy of a stop. Located in New River Park in Beckley, you can take a tour of this deep underground mine while learning the history of the industry. 

What are some of the best things to do in West Virginia?

The best things to do in West Virginia are:

• hike to the New River Gorge
• Kayak along the Cheat River Water Trail
• Visit Morgantown

The Mountain State has countless wonderful things to see and do. If you’re looking for things to do that don’t cost a thing, we have a list of 11 free outdoor activities in West Virginia you may be interested in. Among some of the wonderful things on this list are a visit to Copper’s Rock State Forest to enjoy the epic views, a walk through Harpers Ferry’s historic district, and a hike along the state’s portion of the Appalachian Trail.

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