13 Most Scenic Road Trips To Take In The Northern United States
Nothing eases 21st-century anxieties like grabbing your best friends and going for a ride, be it fifty miles or three thousand. The greens, blues, and orange hues that whirl by as laughter and good food are shared do not compare to any other exercise in camaraderie. Thankfully, the United States has a wide variety of road trip destinations to indulge in, and sticking to the north guarantees forests and lakes of a lush variety. A couple of these winding routes make their way throughout several states and regions, literally creating an opportunity to expand your horizons.
The Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts
The Mohawk Trail, a 69-mile scenic tourist path established in 1914, unveils Massachusetts' sublime nature from Williamstown to Athol. Along this path, the Hoosac Range exposes leafy fall foliage and breathtaking mountainous horizons. North Adams, one of the settlements en route, merges art, history, and nature harmoniously, housing spaces like the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, one can capture broad panoramas of the Hoosac Valley and Northern Berkshire Mountains at the Hairpin Turn. Furthermore, Shelburne Falls' Bridge of Flowers, originally a trolley bridge, now hosts a botanical wonderland. Last, for those invested in Autumn aesthetics, the annual Fall Foliage Parade attracts many.
Highway 101, Oregon
Winding its way from Astoria to Brookings, the historic Highway 101 in Oregon traverses unparalleled natural beauty. Landmarks such as Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach amplify the coastal delight. Historic Astoria, one of the earliest American settlements west of the Rockies, is an intriguing pit-stop along this trail. Features like the Sea Lion Caves contribute to the path's extraordinary appeal. History is carved into the trail, with the 1926 Astoria Column displaying local legends and offering an observation platform 126 feet in the air. For a cultural encounter, indulge in the local seafood festivals, a cherished tradition along this coastal road.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Spanning 50 miles through Montana's Rockies, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a journey of awe-inspiring discovery. Along the route, Lake McDonald unfurls placid waters against a backdrop of towering peaks. The path navigates through Glacier National Park, a haven of unspoiled wilderness and alpine scenery. At Logan Pass, the highest point of the road, a range of mesmerizing vistas unfolds. History weaves through the path, resonating with the past of Native American tribes that used to dominate this region of the United States. The journey through this road is also an exploration of biodiversity, providing glimpses into local wildlife such as grizzlies and bighorn sheep.
Route 100, Vermont
Stretching from Stamford to Newport, Route 100 in Vermont meanders through a realm of serene landscapes. The road is a window to the Green Mountains, where the morning mist creates a visual symphony while providing access to quintessential towns. Stowe and Wilmington, both effervescent and full of history museums and tales of long-ago frontiers, invite travelers to soak in their welcoming ambiance. Autumn transforms the route into a sea of fiery hues, showcasing Vermont's renowned foliage. History seekers can visit the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, a 19th-century home that has preserved the former President's original furnishings. Last, the Vermont Maple Festival sweetens the journey every April by granting access to this legendary syrup alongside carnival rides and performances.
Route 66, Illinois to California
The famed Route 66 extends from the northern state of Illinois to California, illustrating the breadth of America's heartland. This iconic journey showcases the splendor of natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, an essential visit for those bursting with Red-White-and-Blue pride. Key cities include the bustling metropolises of Chicago and Bloomington, both filled with their own character and nuances. Quirky roadside attractions, the Cadillac Ranch being a favorite, give the route an element of whimsy. A conduit for America's westward expansion, the road carries tales of pioneers and adventurers. For foodies, Route 66 also presents an opportunity to experience classic roadside diners and traditional local eats.
George Parks Highway, Alaska
In Alaska, the George Parks Highway provides a journey into the wild unknown. Spanning over 300 miles from Anchorage to Fairbanks, the route features unparalleled views of the Alaska Range. Towns like Healy and Fairbanks, positioned on the route, are gateways into Alaskan culture and wilderness. A major highlight of this route is Denali, the towering peak that reigns over North America. The highway's construction during Alaska's oil boom years adds historical context to the journey. Along the route, cultural events like the Nenana Ice Classic reflect Alaskan traditions and community spirit.
US Route 2, Michigan
A ribbon of road, US Route 2 in Michigan, extends from the Upper Peninsula's St. Ignace to Everett, Washington. It traces the southern edge of Lake Michigan, where waves caress the shoreline, gifting pebble beaches and soothing sounds. St. Ignace, a cozy haven, has a deep Native American history and currently examples the-best in hospitality and farmer's markets. One memorable spectacle is the Mackinac Bridge, an engineering marvel gracefully connecting two peninsulas. Remnants of the past find a home at Fayette Historic State Park, a well-preserved 19th-century industrial community. Moreover, Traverse City's National Cherry Festival, an anticipated annual spectacle, celebrates Michigan's proud cherry heritage.
US Route 50, The Loneliest Road in America
Stretching over 3,000 miles, US Route 50, tagged 'The Loneliest Road in America,' spans from Ocean City, Maryland, to Sacramento, California. It incorporates the majestic views of the Great Basin National Park with its ancient bristlecone pines and luminous night sky. Sparse settlements like Ely and Eureka instill a sense of calm, far from any urban frenzy. Its landscapes whisper tales of stark solitude, an uncommon canvas painted with vast desert scenes and infinite skies. The Eureka Opera House, a symbol of gold-rush prosperity, carries a resonating echo of the past. Finally, the Eureka Fourth of July celebration, an annual tradition, unites this remote community in spectacular bursts of patriotism.
Alaska Highway, Alaska
The Alaska Highway, unfurling for over 1,300 miles, is a route known for its untamed beauty. Kluane National Park marks its path, an unspoiled paradise of snow-clad mountains and ice fields. Whitehorse, a Canadian oasis along the route, brings a sigh of relief with its welcoming light. One can find in Watson Lake an intriguing sight, the Sign Post Forest, a collection of over 80,000 signs from globe trotters. The road's WWII military significance is a reminder of the great lengths Americans will go to in the service of noble causes. Witnessing local wildlife, such as roaming bison and curious bears, punctuates the journey with one-of-a-kind encounters.
Lake Champlain Byway, Vermont
Encompassing 184 miles, the Lake Champlain Byway initiates its journey in Alburgh, leading to a grand finale in Addison, Vermont. Sand Bar State Park, a nature enthusiast's sanctuary, is a significant pitstop featuring swimming, fishing, and avian spectacles. Burlington, an artistic haven with an energetic waterfront, marks a highlight along the route. The tranquil Champlain Islands captivate with sprawling vineyards and apple orchards as far as the eye can see. Next up for the creatives is the Shelburne Museum, whose American folk and decorative art pieces narrate a story of heritage, while the Vermont Brewers Festival fosters a sense of community through a shared love of craft beer.
The Oregon Coast Highway, Oregon
Stretching along breathtaking landscapes, the Oregon Coast Highway weaves through key locations like Newport and Seaside. Natural gems, including Cannon Beach and Cape Perpetua, punctuate the route with gorgeous dunes and sandy beachfront. Newport and Seaside, brimming with coastal character, feature marine life and promenades that date back to the 1920s. The iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse is an iconic spot along the coastline; its beacon even acts as a guiding light for road trippers. History buffs can explore Fort Clatsop in the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, while the Oregon Coast Jazz Party provides a rhythmic pulse right in Newport, an event for jazz lovers, by jazz lovers.
The Lake Superior Circle Tour
The Lake Superior Circle Tour, tracing the perimeter of its namesake, is an epic pilgrimage that crosses through Michigan, Wisconsin, Montana, and Ontario. Spectacular natural landmarks like the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin offer a compelling reason to journey this route. Cities like Duluth, Minnesota, and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, gives a chance to restock and relax in an otherwise nature-dominated journey. Lighthouses dotting the route offer a sense of nostalgia and romance as if they were plucked right out of The Great Gatsby. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Michigan curates knowledge about the 350 shipwrecks that Lake Superior personally oversaw. On a lighter note, the Bayfield Apple Festival in Wisconsin introduces travelers to local traditions and delectable treats.
Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, South Dakota
Embracing South Dakota's pastoral landscapes, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway winds its way from Rapid City, terminating at Mount Rushmore. This 70-mile route graces travelers with landmarks like the intriguing Needles Eye and the monumental Rushmore Presidents. En route, small towns like Keystone and Custer dot the journey, lending aid in the event that a leg stretch is overdue. Amidst this, Sylvan Lake, a man-made marvel, provides a serene break. Its creation is attributed to Peter Norbeck and his predecessors. Norbeck was the byway's namesake as well as South Dakota's former governor in the early 20th century. Lastly, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally showcases the byway's lively side, drawing motor enthusiasts nationwide.
As we draw the curtain on this first taste of U.S. road trips, one thing becomes clear: these journeys are not just about moving from point A to B but about unveiling the layers of history, culture, and sublime natural beauty these regions offer. From the lush forested landscapes of the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts to the tranquility of the 'Loneliest Road in America,' every trip paints a unique story of American grandeur. Whether it is the vibrant charm of the Lake Champlain Byway in Vermont or the untamed beauty of the Alaska Highway, there's a road trip suited for every explorer's soul. So, pack your bags, put on your favorite tunes, and prepare to create unforgettable memories on the grand highways of the northern United States.
