Winter in the United States offers unique road trip opportunities for travelers looking to experience a variety of landscapes, from snowy mountain ranges to coastal vistas. Here are some of the best winter road trips that will take you through scenic wonders, festive towns, and cozy getaways.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is a must for road-trippers all year round, and winter brings quieter roads and stunning views. Starting from San Francisco and ending in San Diego, this route hugs California’s coastline, providing incredible ocean views and many attractions. In the winter, Big Sur’s rocky cliffs look even more majestic, with fog draping the shoreline. Stopping at Hearst Castle offers a warm, historical retreat.
Top Stops: Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Creek Bridge, Santa Barbara, and San Diego’s La Jolla Shores.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway becomes a true winter wonderland from late fall through early spring. Stretching through Virginia and North Carolina, the parkway offers captivating mountain views, with trees dusted in snow and fog rolling through the Appalachian Mountains. There are hiking opportunities for those willing to brave the cold and historic small towns with cozy lodges to enjoy local culture and warmth.
Top Stops: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville, and the Folk Art Center for Appalachian Crafts.
3. Lake Tahoe Loop, California & Nevada
The Lake Tahoe Loop is a favorite for snow lovers. It offers thrilling ski resorts and quieter, scenic areas around Lake Tahoe. Driving around the lake provides breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, clear blue waters, and alpine forests. This loop also allows you to stop at charming towns and enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Top Stops: Heavenly Mountain Resort, Emerald Bay State Park, and South Lake Tahoe.
4. Route 100, Vermont
Vermont’s Route 100 is ideal for those seeking a quintessential New England winter experience. This route winds through quaint towns and forests, offering picturesque views of snowy landscapes and cozy villages. Winter in Vermont is synonymous with skiing, and Route 100 provides access to some of the best resorts on the East Coast. For a quieter experience, visit the small towns along the route and sample local maple syrup, cheese, and other specialties.
Top Stops: Killington Ski Resort, Stowe, and the Vermont Country Store.
5. Park Loop Road, Maine’s Acadia National Park
For a winter road trip on the coast, head to Maine’s Acadia National Park. The Park Loop Road remains open year-round, giving travelers access to Maine’s rugged coastline with breathtaking ocean views and icy cliffs. The park is peaceful and serene in winter, making it the perfect place to escape the holiday hustle and bustle. There’s also plenty of wildlife, such as deer and eagles, to spot along the way.
Top Stops: Thunder Hole, Cadillac Mountain, and the coastal town of Bar Harbor.
6. Southern Utah’s National Parks Loop
Southern Utah’s red rock landscapes take on a unique beauty in winter. Start at Zion National Park, drive through Bryce Canyon, and end at Arches National Park. The contrast of snow against the red rocks creates an unforgettable landscape, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures that make hiking more comfortable.
Top Stops: Zion Canyon, Bryce’s Hoodoos, and the Arches Scenic Drive.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a snow sports enthusiast, a scenic driver, or a quiet nature lover, a winter road trip suits your taste. From the coastlines of California to New England’s charming villages and Utah’s desert landscapes, these winter trips showcase the beauty and diversity of the U.S. So pack your bags, grab a warm drink, and set out to explore these winter roads that promise breathtaking scenery and adventure at every turn.