4-Wheel Drive Journeys: Scenic Routes To Take in The U.S.

Ah, the open road. The call of the wild. The thrill of the unknown. There's nothing quite like setting out on a 4-wheel drive adventure, leaving the concrete jungle behind and venturing into the great outdoors.

Whether you're a seasoned off-roading enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore the backroads, there's no shortage of breathtaking scenic routes to take in the United States. From the rugged mountain passes of the West to the windswept beaches of the East, there's something for every type of adventure seeker.

Here are four of my favorite 4-wheel drive routes to check out in the good ol' U.S. of A:

The Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming

One of the most iconic road trips in America, the Beartooth Highway winds its way through the stunningly beautiful Beartooth Mountains in Montana and Wyoming. This 68-mile stretch of road takes you from the town of Red Lodge, Montana, up to the 10,947-foot Beartooth Pass, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness along the way.

The Beartooth Highway is a true off-roading gem, with winding roads, steep inclines, and hairpin turns that will test even the most experienced driver. But the reward for tackling this challenging route is well worth it. From the top of Beartooth Pass, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests. You might even catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, including bighorn sheep and grizzly bears.

The Pacific Coast Highway, California

This iconic road stretches for over 650 miles along the California coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal towns. Some of the highlights of this route include the rugged coastline, historic lighthouses, and picturesque beaches. The Pacific Coast Highway is also home to some of the most impressive engineering feats in California, with stretches of winding road that take you along seaside cliffs and through tunnels carved into the side of a mountain.

Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-filled off-roading adventure or just want to soak up the breathtaking views, this route has something for everyone.

Along the way, you may want to stop in Santa Barbara to explore the city's shops and restaurants, or take a break at Big Sur to appreciate the beauty of nature.

You can stop at Stearns Wharf for some shopping and dining and some historical points of interest, or just chill at one of the beaches. Oh, and don't miss The Mission — one of the oldest Spanish missions in California and offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history.

You can also visit Monterey, which offers a wealth of experiences that are perfect for travelers looking for adventure and relaxation alike. Along with its stunning beaches, Monterey is home to historical sites and fun attractions that keep tourists coming back for more.

The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

This scenic byway winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views of forests, meadows, and distant mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a winding 469-mile stretch of road with plenty of stops and overlooks that let you take in the majesty of the Appalachians.

The route includes numerous trails for hikers, cyclists, and campers, so you can explore the area on foot or by bike. If you're lucky, you might even come across some of the local wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.

The route also passes through numerous quaint towns along the way, so you can take a break from driving to explore some of the area's small-town charm.

The Overseas Highway, Florida

This 113-mile road connects the mainland of Florida to the Florida Keys, offering stunning views of the ocean and the many small islands along the way.

The route takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Florida, with winding roads, steep inclines, and hairpin turns. You'll travel across dozens of bridges – including the famous Seven Mile Bridge – offering views of the crystal clear waters and lush mangrove forests below. Along your journey, you'll also have the chance to spot some of Florida's native wildlife, like dolphins and manatees.

The Great River Road Along the Mississippi

The Great River Road is a network of scenic highways and byways that follow the course of the Mississippi River. This route stretches from the northernmost tip of Minnesota all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. Along the way, you will pass through 10 different states and experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the Midwest.

Some highlights of the Great River Road include:

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
The historic city of St. Louis, where you can visit the iconic Gateway Arch and learn about the city's role in westward expansion.
The Mississippi Delta, where you can see the birthplace of the blues and explore the rich history of African American culture.

In addition to these natural and cultural attractions, the Great River Road offers many charming riverside towns and villages to explore. You can stop at quaint cafes and shops, or visit local museums and historic sites. The Great River Road is the perfect way to experience the beauty and history of the Mississippi River and the Midwest.

The Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic route that follows the path of an ancient trail that was used by Native Americans, European settlers, and traders. The parkway runs from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, passing through the states of Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.

Along the Natchez Trace Parkway, you will experience the beauty of the southern United States, with its rolling hills, forests, and meadows. The parkway also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Natchez Trace Parkway is also rich in history and culture. You can visit historic sites and landmarks, such as the Sunken Trace, the Meriwether Lewis Monument, and the Emerald Mound. You can also stop at charming towns and villages, where you can experience southern hospitality and local cuisine.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a beautiful and peaceful way to explore the southern United States. Whether you are interested in nature, history, or culture, the Natchez Trace Parkway has something to offer everyone.

Route 66

This route, also known as the Mother Road, was one of the first highways in the United States and stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California.

One of the highlights of Route 66 is the Grand Canyon National Park, located in northern Arizona. This park is home to the famous Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that was carved over millions of years by the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon is over a mile deep and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

While traveling along Route 66, you can stop at the Grand Canyon National Park and take a scenic drive along the South Rim, where you can see the canyon from various overlooks. You can also take a hike along one of the park's many trails, or even go rafting on the Colorado River.

In addition to the Grand Canyon, Route 66 offers many other attractions to see, such as the historic Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, and the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or adventure, Route 66 is a must-see road trip destination.

Ready for Your Road Trip?

Before you take off on an adventure, it's important to make sure your 4-wheel drive vehicle is in tip-top shape. Make sure that you check for any mechanical issues such as worn brakes and tires and that the oil has been changed recently.

You'll also want an SUV with the best gas mileage so your wallet won't suffer too much. Don't forget to bring an emergency kit with you in case of any unforeseen problems and make sure all your safety devices are functioning properly.

With these precautions taken care of, you'll be able to enjoy an unforgettable adventure that will take you places you never imagined. So pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the road!

Conclusion

There are so many amazing scenic routes to take in the United States, it's hard to know which one to choose. Each of these roads offers stunning views of natural landscapes and local wildlife that will leave you breathless. So if you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, be sure to add these routes to your itinerary.

Images:
Image by Ton Souza on Pexels
By Phil Armitage, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Image by 12019 from Pixabay
Image by KarenRuhle from Pixabay
Image by United States Department of Transportation via Wikimedia Commons
U.S. Government, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Image by Falkenpost from Pixabay
Image by crispy-fotografie from Pixabay