The 6 Best Road Trips In The West

The American West ignites the imagination with its vast landscapes, memorable experiences, hidden gems and iconic attractions waiting to be discovered. Buckle up, hit the gas and get ready to create lasting memories on your summer adventure — starting with any one of these six unforgettable Western road trips!

1. Anchorage, AK

Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, serves as the jumping-off point for adventures into the Last Frontier. Reaching Anchorage by car requires an epic road trip via the Alaska Highway, a scenic 1,500-mile route from Dawson Creek, British Columbia.

Once you’ve arrived, explore Denali National Park and witness North America's tallest mountain. Animal lovers can go wildlife watching for moose, bears and bald eagles — just be sure to take safety precautions and always stay at a safe distance! Hikers won't want to miss Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Area, offering stunning glacial views and trails, while curious minds can delve into Alaska Native history at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.

Foodies will appreciate bragging rights for having experienced Alaskan cuisine. Some of the freshest seafood can be experienced in Anchorage, and you may even discover some surprising flavors you can’t find anywhere else. When you arrive in Anchorage, ask the locals what their favorite restaurant is and you won’t be disappointed.

2. Hollywood, CA

Hollywood beckons with its star-studded allure. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, snap a photo under the Hollywood sign or visit Universal Studios Hollywood for thrilling rides and movie magic.

Beyond the glitz, explore vibrant neighborhoods like Koreatown and Silver Lake, offering delicious eats and unique shops. When the sun goes down, enjoy the nightlife scene and trendy restaurants on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. Finally, get a taste of scenic Southern California when you visit the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views.

For a scenic road trip, take I-5 south from San Francisco (380 miles) for a classic California coastal drive. While in Los Angeles, art history appreciators can explore the Getty Center, showcasing works from medieval times to the present day. Nature lovers can hike to the top of Runyon Canyon for panoramic city views.

3. Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, known for its luxurious vacation spots, offers a mid-century modern escape nestled amidst the dramatic Coachella Valley.

Relax by the pool at a retro hotel, explore the vibrant art scene or witness the towering trees in Joshua Tree National Park. This national park hosts the place where two desert ecosystems merge: the Colorado Desert and Mojave. Then, visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking mountain views and hiking trails at the top.

When it’s time to tuck into a delicious meal, Palm Springs has plenty of fine dining options. After all, luxury is a massive selling point for this area of California. However, if you’re looking for comfort food, the food truck selection in Palm Springs is on-point, and you get to grub and go as you continue on your road trip journey.

To get to Palm Springs, take I-10 east from Los Angeles (120 miles) and enjoy the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Along the way, history buffs can explore the Coachella Valley History Museum, located just 30 minutes from Palm Springs on a scenic desert drive. History buffs and book lovers will enjoy the hour-long drive through Beaumont and River Valley to visit the Nixon Library.

4. Seattle, WA

Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, captivates with its scenic waterfront, bustling markets and backdrop of evergreen forests.

Explore Pike Place Market, a haven for fresh seafood and memorable souvenirs. Immerse yourself in coffee culture at a local cafe, or visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) to delve into music, science fiction and popular culture.

If lush green landscapes are more your speed, visit one of the many scenic hiking trails Seattle has to offer. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can hike to the top of Gas Works Park for panoramic city views.

For a scenic drive, take I-5 north from Portland (170 miles), enjoying views of the majestic Mount Rainier along the way. Find a ferry and explore the San Juan Islands, known for their natural beauty and whale watching opportunities.

5. Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City, nestled against the Wasatch Mountains, is one of the most picturesque cities in the United States.

You can hike or bike in the nearby canyons, or visit Great Salt Lake State Park to witness a view where water and mountains meet. Salt Lake City also has a plethora of zoos and gardens to visit, so you may want to plan a multiple-day stay in the area if you’re traveling with nature enthusiasts.

Foodies can indulge in the city's restaurant scene and taste for themselves the many Vietnamese cuisine options available. Ski enthusiasts can hit the slopes at world-class resorts like Park City, which is a 50-minute drive from Salt Lake City, and a good opportunity to see some urban areas as the route takes you through downtown SLC.

While Salt Lake City International Airport is a major hub, road trips are perfect for such a scenic destination. If you want the ultimate Western sightseeing experience, take I-15 South from Yellowstone National Park (310 miles), following the majestic Teton Range along the way.

6. Salem, OR

Salem, Oregon is a popular autumn destination for those looking for a scenic drive by color-changing trees.

History buffs will appreciate the Willamette Heritage Center, showcasing the region's rich past.

Nature lovers can explore Silver Falls State Park, boasting a series of cascading waterfalls and hiking trails. Wine enthusiasts can embark on a Willamette Valley wine tour, sampling award-winning Pinot Noirs at local wineries.

Salem is easily accessible by car or train. For a scenic drive, take I-5 south from Portland (50 miles), following the Willamette River.

The West unfolds with endless possibilities for adventure at every stop. Unforgettable experiences await — what will your Western road trip story be?

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