14 West Coast Road Trips That Will Redefine Your Travel Experience
The West Coast of the United States is an explorer’s dream—sweeping coastlines, towering mountains, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re after iconic landmarks or hidden gems, there’s a road trip for everyone.
From the famous Pacific Coast Highway to off-the-beaten-path routes through lush forests and desert landscapes, these 14 unforgettable road trips will open your eyes to the diversity and beauty of the West Coast.
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Arguably the most iconic road trip on the West Coast, the Pacific Coast Highway offers jaw-dropping views of cliffs, ocean, and beaches. Stretching from San Francisco down to Los Angeles, this route lets you experience California’s coastal beauty.
It passes through charming seaside towns, iconic landmarks like Big Sur, and stunning state parks.
Columbia River Gorge (Oregon)
This scenic drive through Oregon takes you from Portland to the Columbia River Gorge, where you’ll witness some of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
Stop by the Vista House for panoramic views and explore hiking trails that lead to hidden gems like Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
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Highway 395 (California)
Stretching from Southern California up to the Eastern Sierra, Highway 395 is a road trip filled with natural beauty and history.
From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the ancient bristlecone pine forests and hot springs in Mammoth Lakes, this trip offers a mix of outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes.
Oregon Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)
The Oregon Coast Scenic Byway offers an amazing mix of coastline, small towns, and outdoor exploration. From the bustling city of Astoria to the pristine beaches of Coos Bay, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and even whale watching.
This less-traveled route is spectacular.
Mount Rainier Scenic Byway (Washington)
For lovers of mountain landscapes, the Mount Rainier Scenic Byway offers some of the best views of Washington’s iconic peak. This loop takes you around Mount Rainier National Park, passing through dense forests, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.
It gives you unparalleled views of the mountain.
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Big Bend Scenic Byway (California)
Take a step back from the coastal views and dive into the stunning deserts of California with the Big Bend Scenic Byway. This route through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers views of rugged canyons and colorful wildflower blooms in the spring.
You’ll also get the chance to experience the vast, serene desert landscape.
Redwood Highway (California)
Travel through towering trees as you venture along California’s Redwood Highway. From Crescent City down to the Avenue of the Giants, this route lets you experience the majesty of the ancient redwoods.
Stop at scenic lookouts, hike among the trees, and even drive through a tunnel of trees.
Sierra Nevada Loop (California)
This loop around the Sierra Nevada mountain range takes you through alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and historic mining towns. The route includes stops at Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and other must-see natural wonders.
These destinations showcase the beauty and diversity of the Sierra Nevada.
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Highway 101 (California and Oregon)
Highway 101 is a lengthy stretch of road that runs from Los Angeles to the border of Washington. Along the way, you’ll encounter rugged cliffs, towering forests, and charming coastal towns.
The route takes you from California’s southern coastline to Oregon’s lush landscapes.
The Enchanted Circle (New Mexico)
For a West Coast road trip with a bit of Southwestern flair, the Enchanted Circle in New Mexico is a must. This 85-mile loop through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains takes you through scenic valleys and historic towns like Taos.
It offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventure in any season.
Death Valley National Park (California)
If you’re looking for an otherworldly road trip, look no further than Death Valley National Park.
Known for its vast desert landscapes, salt flats, and towering sand dunes, the drive through this California national park will immerse you in the desert’s dramatic features.
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Olympic Peninsula Loop (Washington)
For a complete change of scenery, the Olympic Peninsula Loop in Washington offers a dramatic mix of coastal views, lush rainforests, and towering peaks.
The drive around the Olympic National Park takes you through diverse landscapes, including beachside cliffs and alpine lakes.
You’ll also see stunning evergreen forests.
Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway (California)
This road trip runs along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada and is known for its rugged terrain, stunning lakes, and off-the-beaten-path nature.
From Mono Lake to the majestic Mount Whitney, the Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway offers a deep dive into California’s natural beauty.
Cascade Loop (Washington)
The Cascade Loop takes you through some of the best outdoor scenery in Washington, from charming small towns like Leavenworth to the towering peaks of the Cascade Mountains. You’ll pass through scenic byways, along lakes, and through verdant forests.
It’s perfect for those who want to explore the heart of Washington state.
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