For those who live for the open road and breathtaking views, an RV road trip is the ultimate way to experience the world. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, the journey becomes just as thrilling as the destination.
Whether you’re seeking majestic mountain landscapes, coastal wonders, or desert vistas, the U.S. is home to some of the most stunning scenic drives, perfect for an RV adventure. Here are the top five scenic routes you won’t want to miss.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Why It’s Perfect for RVs: The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, is perhaps one of the most iconic drives in the world. Stretching over 600 miles from Southern California to Northern California, this route offers endless views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea.
What You’ll See:
Coastal cliffs and pristine beaches
Breathtaking sunsets over the ocean
Charming seaside towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara
The famous Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls
Best Time to Go: The weather along the PCH is mild year-round, but spring and fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. However, be mindful of winding, narrow roads, especially for larger RVs.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)
Why It’s Perfect for RVs: The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic masterpiece that spans 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains. Known as "America's Favorite Drive," this route provides travelers with some of the most spectacular views of rolling hills, vibrant forests, and tranquil valleys.
What You’ll See:
Lush forests and sweeping mountain vistas
Serene overlooks, perfect for a picnic or a photo op
Historic landmarks and hiking trails
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best Time to Go: Fall is the peak season to witness the stunning foliage, but spring and summer also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings and enjoying outdoor activities.
3. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Why It’s Perfect for RVs: The historic Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. This route is a nostalgic journey through America’s past, offering a perfect mix of quirky roadside attractions, charming towns, and expansive plains.
What You’ll See:
Iconic landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch and the Route 66 Hall of Fame
Classic diners, motels, and gas stations
Wide open spaces and vast desert landscapes
The stunning desert beauty of Arizona and New Mexico
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall are ideal, as summer can get quite hot in the desert regions. Route 66 is an adventure year-round, but these seasons offer the best driving conditions.
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
Why It’s Perfect for RVs: Following the mighty Mississippi River, the Great River Road is a winding route that takes you through 10 states. This scenic drive offers a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the heart of America, with lush river valleys and vibrant towns dotted along the way.
What You’ll See:
Majestic river views and wildlife sightings
Historic river towns like Hannibal, Missouri, and Natchez, Mississippi
Beautiful wetlands, bluffs, and forests
Civil War history and scenic overlooks
Best Time to Go: Spring and early fall are the best times to take the Great River Road, as the weather is mild, and you can enjoy festivals and events along the way.
5. Denali Highway (Alaska)
Why It’s Perfect for RVs: For RV enthusiasts who love a bit of adventure, the Denali Highway in Alaska is a must-drive route. This 135-mile stretch offers an epic journey through wild, remote landscapes and is the perfect way to see the incredible natural beauty of Alaska.
What You’ll See:
Unmatched views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak
Glacial rivers, tundra, and vast wilderness
Wildlife sightings, including moose, bears, and caribou
The raw, untouched beauty of the Alaskan wilderness
Best Time to Go: The summer months, from late June to early September, offer the best conditions for driving and camping along the Denali Highway. The road is gravel, so be prepared for some bumps along the way!
Each of these scenic drives offers its own unique experience, catering to different types of road trippers. Whether you’re driving along the coastline, through mountain ranges, or across vast deserts, these routes provide the kind of stunning landscapes that make RV road trips unforgettable.
So, pack up your RV, hit the road, and let these top scenic drives take you on a journey you’ll never forget.