USA Road Trips
Introduction
Home to the world’s greatest road network, the USA has all you need for a truly epic road trip. Its 6.8 million kilometres of roads criss-cross every state, and you’ll find everything from coastal and cultural routes to journeys which take in all kinds of environments, from desert sands to looming pine forests and snow-topped peaks.
Many of the best journeys include sections of the 260,000 km-long National Highway System, a stretch of major roads linking states and major cities. The USA has numerous airports with international connections too, giving you plenty of flexibility when it comes to picking where to start and end your drive.
It’s time to hire a camper van or an RV and get exploring…
Pacific Coast Highway
Linking the West Coast cities of San Francisco and San Diego, taking in the urban metropolis of Los Angeles on route, the Pacific Coast Highway is one for the bucket list.
Covering around 950 km, the route follows California’s Highway 1 and traces its way along the state’s coastline, promising striking rock formations, sandy beaches and unforgettable views. Journeying from north to south keeps you in the lane nearest the sea, with giant redwood trees lining many parts of the route.
Highlights including the surf of Santa Cruz, the glitz and glam of Santa Barbara, and San Diego Zoo.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Renowned for its stunning scenery, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a route designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Speed-limits are 45mph or below for the majority of the 755 km route, which weaves through the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia into North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains National Park.
Surrounded by nature, the route is transformed in the autumn months when the forests turn wonderful shades of orange, gold and crimson. There are numerous stopping points and hiking trails along the route, offering panoramic views at every turn.
Route 66
One of America’s first highways, Route 66 weaves its way through eight states, from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica in Los Angeles, California. Although no longer an officially recognised highway, it is often referred to as Historic Route 66, as much of its 3,940 km original route can still be loosely followed.
From old-fashioned truck stops in the Midwest to the mountains of New Mexico, there’s plenty of cities on this iconic route too. Enjoy the beautiful sounds of Blues music in St Louis, delve into the heart of cowboy country in Oklahoma and tuck into the spicy flavours of Albuquerque’s distinctive cuisine.
Great River Highway
Following the route of the Mississippi River for more than 4,800 km, the Great River Road a collection of state and local roads crosses no fewer than ten states. Expect to spy everything from farms and swamps to vast forests, as well as an abundance of unique wildlife.
Stop off in Memphis for a dose of Elvis fever, including his former home at Graceland, and sample the unique vibe on offer in New Orleans’ French Quarter, as well as its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine.
The Oregon Traill
The Oregon Trail runs from west to east across northern America, linking Portland, Oregon with Boston, Massachusetts. Largely following US Route-20 and spanning more than 5,300 km, it’s a route that takes in everything from urban sprawl to the natural emptiness of the Great Plains.
Observe the sparkling waters of Niagara Falls, stop off at Mount Rushmore for selfies, or watch on as the Old Faithful geyser gushes skywards in the heart of Yellowstone National Park. These are just some of the many highlights to look out for.
Insurance you should consider if you are travelling to USA and renting a car Car Hire Excess Insurance and Travel Insurance from Questor Insurance.