HomeBlogBlogBest U.S. Road Trip Routes: I-40, PCH, or Parks

Best U.S. Road Trip Routes: I-40, PCH, or Parks

Q: What is the best road trip to take across the United States?

A: Build the “best” trip around your travel style, then pick a classic cross-country route

The best road trip across the United States is the one that matches how you like to drive: fast and efficient, scenic and slow, national-park heavy, food-focused, or city-to-city. Our team recommends choosing one iconic corridor, keeping daily drive time realistic, and planning a few “anchor stops” you’re excited about—then filling in the gaps with flexible detours.

Option 1: The classic coast-to-coast—Interstate 40 (Southern Route)

If you want big variety with generally milder weather, I-40 is a strong pick: California desert landscapes, the Southwest’s red rock, historic Route 66 towns, and easy access to major cities like Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, Memphis, and Nashville. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of open-road scenery and convenient services.

Option 2: The postcard route—Pacific Coast Highway + the Pacific Northwest

For dramatic ocean views and frequent stops, go north–south along the West Coast: coastal California, Oregon’s viewpoints, and Washington’s evergreen stretches. This trip rewards shorter driving days and lots of pull-offs, so it’s great if you prefer many brief adventures over a few long hauls.

Option 3: The bucket-list parks run—Utah’s Mighty 5 + Arizona loop

If your goal is national parks, concentrate your mileage where the scenery stacks up fast: Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, and an Arizona add-on like the Grand Canyon. Plan for early starts, hot afternoons, and plenty of water, shade, and sun protection in your car.

Make it smoother (especially with pets)

Keep a simple “grab-and-go” bin in the car: first-aid basics, wipes, trash bags, paper towels, a flashlight, and a spare phone charger. If you’re traveling with a dog or cat, add a secured harness or carrier, a spill-resistant water setup, and a calm-down routine for stops. Our full pet-friendly packing list is here: pet travel checklist for safe road trips.

FAQ

How do you plan a road trip with a dog or cat?

Build your days around safe, predictable breaks: short walks or litter checks, water, and cool-down time before you get back on the road. Use a secured carrier or crash-tested harness setup so your pet can’t roam the cabin while you drive.