Best roads in the US
Jan 18, 2023
Only a few countries in the whole world can claim the geographical glories of the US. The country is flanked by two oceans and has expansive mountain ranges. There are numerous lakes, canyons, and rivers out there. All these make driving through the US anything but mundane. It’s amazing natural contours for perfect driving roads that offer a lifetime’s supply of variety. So, pack your stuff and head out – we’re introducing the best and longest roads in the US!
The longest roads in the US
Highways are considered the backbones of the classic American road trip. They are all about seeing the country the best way we know how – on the open road. If you feel like a really long drive, here are the longest roads in the US:
US Route 20, from the Pacific Northwest to New England: 3,365 miles
It’s the single longest road in the US. It starts in Boston at a junction with Massachusetts Route 2 and ends in Newport, Oregon, at a junction with US 101. The road takes a similar route to the I-90. The first mile includes the historic Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox. In total, the road stretches through 12 states: Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon.
Interstate 90, from Boston to Seattle: 3,020.44 miles
It’s the longest interstate highway in the country. It takes off at Boston Logan International Airport and ends at Seattle’s Greyhound bus station. On the go, you have an opportunity to stop at the University of Notre Dame, Niagara Falls, and Sturbridge Living Museum.
Interstate 10, from Florida to California: 2,460.34 miles
It begins in Jacksonville and then goes straight west. Interstate 10 is a perfect way to visit the USS Alabama Museum and Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. Most of Interstate 10 is in Texas. It stretches eight states: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.
Interstate 5, from Mexico to Canada: 1,381.29 miles
Technically, this country-long road touches three countries. It kicks off in the plain sight of the Mexican border, minutes from Downtown Tijuana. Interstate 5 delivers magnificent views, e.g., the view of Portland from the east side of the Willamette River.
The best roads in the US
The longest doesn’t necessarily mean the best, does it? When you think of a perfect road, you probably imagine impressive, scenic views, too. Therefore, we’ve prepared a comprehensive list of the best roads in the US. Buckle up and hit the road!
Pacific Coast Highway, California
California is not only beaches lined with palm trees. It’s also a breathtaking drive from San Diego up the northern coast of the state to San Francisco. While driving Pacific Coast Highway, you will see historic bridges, amazing redwood trees, and rocky coastlines.
The Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway runs for 106 miles right over the ocean and through the Florida Keys. The road is recommended for travelers seeking some true views - while driving, you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore fun stops (like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Rain Barrel Village), roadside attractions (like Mile Marker ‘0’), and exactly 42 bridges.
Pikes Peak, Colorado
Colorado is America’s prime location for a number of the country’s most aesthetically pleasing driving roads. Pikes Peak takes the cake as a technical expense of asphalt that’s really well received. By the end of the route, you can enjoy panoramic views of the best territories the Rocky Mountains have to offer.
US Route 163, Arizona and Utah
It’s a beautiful drive from the Arizona border through Monument Valley in Utah. The spot has been used in a lot of films so it’s pretty recognizable. The red rock desert and spires of scenic Monument Valley, plus a volcanic core that stands prominently next to the road - what’s not to love?
San Juan Skyway, Colorado
A scenic loop of surfaced asphalt stretches nearly 236 miles through Colorado’s Scenic and Historic Byway system. A huge part of the route takes place in the famous Uncompahgre National Forest. There are also unique towns and shops that are worth paying a visit to.
Tunnel of Trees, Michigan
One of those roads travelers look forward to when traversing the upper northeast. It’s considered one of the most scenic drives in the country with its immaculate colors, especially during spring and fall. There are numerous notable spots to photograph during it.
Pig Trail Scenic Byway in Ozark, Arkansas
A 25-mile route through the Ozarks. It’s famous and legendary with its curvy pavement and non-stop beautiful scenery. It begins at Ozark National Forest and continues all the way until 23 runs into AR-16.
The best motorcycle roads in the US
Driving can be exciting but what about touring by motorcycle? The enhanced sense of freedom together with the heightened adventure says it all. Here are the best motorcycle roads in the US:
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, Colorado
It is barely 60 miles long and combines amazing twisties with some of the finest scenery the natural environment has to offer. You will see breathtaking Rocky Mountain vistas and dazzling glacier-cut valleys, as well as thick forests and alpine meadows. In Estes Park, you can even see moose and elk.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
One of the most iconic mountain routes. For many motorcyclists, it’s a must-do. It goes through the Great Smoky Mountains with the smooth Blue Ridge Parkway. 45 miles are compulsory. If you want more, you can take the longer drive – the 105-mile Skyline Drive through Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park.
Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming
It’s a 68-mile stretch with dozens of switchbacks and hairpins. It begins at Red Lodge and travels up through Beartooth Pass in Wyoming. A great part of the route is above-tree-line tundra with jaw-dropping views. Keep in mind that the pass is usually closed from October to May due to snow.
Skyline Boulevard, California
A short, 61-mile ride offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley. It zigzags across the Santa Cruz Mountain range. Despite the views, the route is known for its sharp turns and corners which makes it a bit dangerous, especially during weekends when there are lots of bikers and cyclists.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Going-to-the-Sun is a famous 50-mile stretch loved by serious riders. It has countless twists and turns. The route transcends Glacier National Park and climbs 3,000 feet from Lake McDonald to the 6,646-foot summit at Logan Pass.
Summary
As you can see, America is full of dazzling roads and highways. Breath-taking scenery, the beauty of nature, mountains, and rivers – all those can make your trip unforgettable. Do you already have your favorite route?
