Epic Road Trips You Can Take This Year

There’s something uniquely liberating about hitting the open road. Whether it’s the freedom to explore at your own pace, the excitement of discovering hidden gems, or the thrill of seeing new landscapes unfold, road trips offer the ultimate adventure. From scenic coastal routes to rugged mountain highways, here are some epic road trips you can take this year to experience breathtaking views, diverse cultures, and unforgettable memories.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)

Route: From San Francisco to Los Angeles (or vice versa), 656 miles
Why It’s Epic:
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is one of the most famous road trips in the world. This coastal route runs along California’s rugged coastline, offering stunning ocean views, charming beach towns, and dramatic cliffs.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: Late spring to early fall, when the weather is most pleasant.

2. Route 66 (USA)

Route: From Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, 2,448 miles
Why It’s Epic:
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the most iconic road trips in the world. This historic route traverses the heart of the United States, offering a mix of small-town charm, retro diners, roadside attractions, and fascinating historical landmarks.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: Spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

3. The Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Route: From Torquay to Allansford, 151 miles
Why It’s Epic:
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a spectacular coastal drive, with towering cliffs, ancient rainforests, and a rugged shoreline. The road winds through charming seaside towns and offers some of the most iconic views in the country.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: December to February, when the weather is warm and perfect for exploring the coast.

4. The Ring Road (Iceland)

Route: Around the island, 830 miles
Why It’s Epic:
Iceland’s Ring Road is an otherworldly adventure that takes you through some of the planet’s most unique landscapes, from volcanic deserts to glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. A trip around Iceland is a perfect way to experience nature’s raw beauty in a relatively short time.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: June to August for the best weather and the Midnight Sun, though winter offers the chance to see the Northern Lights.

5. Garden Route (South Africa)

Route: From Mossel Bay to Storms River, 180 miles
Why It’s Epic:
South Africa’s Garden Route offers a diverse mix of coastal beauty, lush forests, and charming towns. Along the way, you’ll find nature reserves, beaches, and opportunities to spot wildlife like whales, seals, and birds.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: November to March, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.

6. The Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Route: From Sorrento to Salerno, 50 miles
Why It’s Epic:
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in Europe, with dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and a Mediterranean atmosphere that feels like something straight out of a movie. It’s a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: May to October for the best weather and fewer tourists than in peak summer months.

7. The Scottish Highlands (Scotland)

Route: From Edinburgh to Inverness, 150 miles
Why It’s Epic:
Scotland’s Highlands offer dramatic landscapes of rolling hills, deep lochs, and rugged peaks. This road trip is a must for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience the misty, romantic allure of Scotland.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: May to September for milder weather and longer daylight hours.

8. Transfăgărășan Highway (Romania)

Route: From Bascov to Cârța, 56 miles
Why It’s Epic:
Often called one of the most beautiful roads in the world, the Transfăgărășan Highway cuts through the Carpathian Mountains, offering breathtaking views of valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. This is a road trip for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, as the winding road offers hairpin turns and dramatic ascents.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: June to September, as the road is closed during the winter months due to snow.

9. The Pacific Northwest (USA)

Route: From Portland, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia, 315 miles
Why It’s Epic:
The Pacific Northwest offers a diverse road trip experience, from lush forests and rugged coastlines to vibrant cities. This route allows you to enjoy the best of the U.S. and Canada, with scenic views, great food, and access to national parks.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: Summer months (June to September) for the best weather and outdoor activities.

10. The Icefields Parkway (Canada)

Route: From Jasper to Banff, 143 miles
Why It’s Epic:
The Icefields Parkway in Canada is one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding through the stunning Rocky Mountains. This route is dotted with glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged peaks, making it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Highlights:

Best Time to Go: June to September for the best weather and accessibility to hiking trails.

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to coastal beauty, rugged mountains, or the open road’s promise of adventure, these epic road trips offer something for every kind of traveler. Pack your bags, roll down the windows, and prepare for the road trip of a lifetime this year!