Road trips are the perfect way to explore the hidden gems of the United States. While I’ve covered much of the West, my travels in the East have been limited to New England. Here are 17 lesser-known road trips I’m eager to experience, and you should be too!
1. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
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This scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains offers stunning vistas and charming small towns. It’s a peaceful alternative to the busier highways.
2. The Adirondack Trail, New York
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Explore the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, with its pristine lakes and dense forests. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. The Great River Road, Mississippi
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Follow the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route is rich in history and culture, with plenty of quirky stops along the way.
4. The Bourbon Trail, Kentucky
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Tour the birthplace of bourbon, visiting historic distilleries and picturesque countryside. It’s a must for whiskey aficionados.
5. The Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi
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Drive along this ancient trail used by Native Americans, with beautiful landscapes and historical sites. It’s a journey through time and nature.
6. The Loneliest Road, Nevada
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US Route 50 cuts through the heart of Nevada, offering solitude and stark desert beauty. Perfect for those seeking a quiet, introspective trip.
7. The Finger Lakes Loop, New York
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Discover the Finger Lakes region with its wineries, waterfalls, and charming villages. A delightful escape in upstate New York.
8. The San Juan Skyway, Colorado
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This loop through the San Juan Mountains provides breathtaking views and access to historic mining towns. An adventure in the Rockies like no other.
9. The Pacific Coast Highway, California
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Although not entirely unknown, this route offers hidden spots and breathtaking coastal views from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
10. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail, New York to Pennsylvania
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Travel along the shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, exploring charming waterfront towns and scenic landscapes.
11. The Black Hills, South Dakota
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Beyond Mount Rushmore, this region offers winding roads through forests and past stunning rock formations. A serene escape with a touch of history.
12. The White Mountains Trail, New Hampshire
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Experience the natural beauty of the White Mountains, with opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and quaint town visits.
13. The Lake Superior Circle Tour, Michigan to Wisconsin
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Encircle the largest of the Great Lakes, with rugged shorelines, dense forests, and picturesque towns. A perfect blend of nature and culture.
14. The Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina
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Drive along the barrier islands of North Carolina, with stunning ocean views and unique coastal communities.
15. The Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
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Explore the dramatic landscapes along the Columbia River, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.
16. The High Road to Taos, New Mexico
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This historic route offers a glimpse into Native American and Spanish heritage, with beautiful mountain views and artistic communities.
17. The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, Arkansas
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Drive through the heart of the Ozarks, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint towns. A peaceful retreat into nature’s beauty.
Ready to Hit the Road?
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These hidden gems offer unique experiences and breathtaking scenery, perfect for your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking solitude, history, or natural beauty, these road trips have something special to offer.
Unveiling the 21 Places Single Women Should Avoid at All Costs
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Traveling solo as a woman? It’s an adventure with its own set of challenges. From street safety to discrimination, some spots are riskier than others. We’ve used the Women’s Danger Index and other resources to craft a guide that helps you choose your destinations wisely. Unveiling the 21 Places Single Women Should Avoid at All Costs
Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops
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Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops
18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
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American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
20 Things That Americans Tolerate That Canadians Would Never Accept
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Canadians often find American customs ranging from amusing to astonishing. From the quirky to the confounding, let’s explore the U.S. through a Canadian lens—maple syrup and poutine in hand. Get ready for a journey that’s both odd and insightful, seen from the Great White North. 20 Things That Americans Tolerate That Canadians Would Never Accept
22 of America’s Most Charming Towns
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Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns
The post Secret Scenic Drives: U.S. Road Trips off the Radar first appeared on Passing Thru.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip
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