When you go on a road trip, you want to soak in the scenery and enjoy the beautiful sights.
However, you don’t want to get stuck in traffic behind other drivers. How can you beat the crowds and still enjoy a fun vacation?
Explore these six underrated road trip routes in the U.S.
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1. U.S. Route 395
If you like long road trips, the American West has what you want. Travel along U.S. Route 395 to get from Southern California to the Canadian border on a fascinating journey.
The path is long — about 550 miles for the California stretch — but worth the drive for the incredible views.
This road trip takes you through some of America’s most famous natural locations. In California alone, U.S. Route 395 takes you through Sequoia National Forest,
Yosemite National Park and Sierra National Forest. Outside the Golden State, the highway explores Fremont National Forest and Reno, Nevada. Plan your visit outside of summer to avoid the worst desert heat.
2. The High Road to Taos
Another underrated route out West is the High Road to Taos. This trip is shorter than U.S. Highway 395, as you can easily drive to Santa Fe and back in a day. That said, take time to see the historic sites on your path. New Mexico is among the most affordable American vacations, and this trip is accessible for most budgets.
Start your road to Taos by heading to Nambe — a small town just north of Santa Fe. This area and others on the route have roots in Spanish colonialism, as seen by the old churches with adobe walls. Stop by the San Francisco de Asís Church in Ranchos de Taos to view incredible architecture. Once you get to Taos, check out the Gorge Bridge and the old pueblos for a fun time.
3. U.S. Route 6
U.S. Route 6 starts in Massachusetts and ends in California’s Mojave desert, stretching 14 states. The highway lets you see the beauty of America’s mid-Atlantic,
Midwestern and Western regions, as each section provides unique scenery. One of the best stretches is in Pennsylvania because you get to see Allegheny National Forest.
This highway is an excellent way to see the Keystone State without paying for its toll roads.
These paid routes can add over $100 to road trips, so take the scenic route along the New York border. Along the way, stop at the Pine Creek Gorge and the Susquehanna National Forest for postcard-worthy views.
4. Great River Road
Typical Mississippi River plans include New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis and other historic cities. While these spots are terrific, the famous river stretches north to Minnesota.
Before the water ends, you get an incredible route in Wisconsin called the Great River Road. This path explores the Badger State’s scenic river towns and provides fun opportunities.
Start your Great River Road journey in Kieler, Wisconsin, near the Iowa border. The famous road takes you a few hours north to Prescott, where the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers meet.
Wisconsin’s reputation for dairy means you’ll see cheese shops and ice cream parlors on your trip. If you enjoy American literature, stop by the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Pepin.
5. The Cheese Trail
When you think of Vermont, you probably picture ski resorts and maple syrup bottles. However, the Green Mountain State is one of the best for dairy products.
While some travel for the Ben and Jerry’s factory, others vacation for the cheese. Vermont gives Wisconsin a run for its money whether you like Parmesan or pepperjack.
Dairy enthusiasts head to Vermont for the Cheese Trail and a trip around the state’s best farms. Start your journey by traveling to the Spoonwood Cabin Creamery near the Massachusetts border.
The six-hour drive concludes at the Boucher Family Farm near Highgate. If you’re curious about cheese production and flavors, this trip is for you.
6. The Golden Road
If you can’t get enough of New England, trek the Golden Road in Maine.
This scenic route stretches nearly 100 miles through the Pine Tree State and is an excellent summer or fall vacation. Great Northern — a lumber company — established it to make timber transportation easier.
Now, it’s a staple for New Englanders wanting to explore the open road.
What’s the catch with the Golden Road? There’s not much to stop and see here. The 100 miles doesn’t take you to any cities or roadside attractions.
You drive through the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area and only see the best of Mother Nature. It’s just you and the wilderness for a couple of hours as you drive the heart of Maine.
Finding America’s Hidden Gems on the Road
America’s vast land means there are plenty of road trip opportunities. While Route 66 is famous, it’s not the only option for a fun driving vacation. Take the underrated roads and routes to soak in the scenery while enjoying fewer crowds.
