The Ultimate Van Life Route: Exploring the USA’s Most Scenic Drives
Living the van life is about more than just the open road—it’s about discovering the most breathtaking landscapes, charming small towns, and hidden gems across the country.
If you’re planning the ultimate van life road trip, this guide will take you through the most scenic routes in the USA, covering diverse terrains from coastal highways to rugged mountain passes. Here are some of my favorite stops as well as suggestions on how to best spend your time.
Why Choose These Scenic Routes?
Each of the routes on this list offers:
- Unparalleled Natural Beauty – From dramatic cliffs to lush forests, these drives showcase the best of America’s landscapes.
- Van Life Accessibility – Well-maintained roads, numerous camping spots, and van-friendly amenities.
- Diverse Adventures – Whether you love hiking, surfing, or just relaxing with a view, these routes offer something for every traveler.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, Oregon, Washington)
Best for: Coastal views, beach camping, and iconic landmarks.
Spanning over 1,600 miles from Southern California to Washington, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a dream route for van lifers. This legendary drive hugs the coastline, offering panoramic ocean views, picturesque seaside towns, and famous attractions like Big Sur, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the rugged Oregon coast.
Whether you’re catching waves in Malibu, exploring tide pools in Oregon, or hiking through Washington’s misty forests, this road trip is an unforgettable experience for those who love the sea and sky.
Spanning over 1,600 miles from Southern California to Washington, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a dream route for van lifers.
Highlights:
- Big Sur, CA – Towering cliffs, redwoods, and ocean views.
- Oregon Coast – Dramatic sea stacks and charming coastal towns.
- Olympic Peninsula, WA – Rainforests, rugged coastlines, and hot springs.
Where to Camp:
- Kirk Creek Campground, CA (oceanfront camping!)
- Cape Lookout State Park, OR
- Hoh Rainforest Campground, WA
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
Best for: Fall foliage, mountain views, and peaceful drives.
The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles, winding through the Appalachian Mountains and connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This scenic drive is famous for its rolling blue-tinted ridges, countless overlooks, and stunning autumn colors. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the frequent deer and black bear sightings, while outdoor enthusiasts can explore countless hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites along the way.
Whether you’re visiting in spring for wildflowers or fall for golden leaves, this drive is a peaceful escape into nature.
Highlights:
- Linn Cove Viaduct – One of the most photographed spots on the parkway.
- Craggy Gardens – Vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring.
- Clingmans Dome – The highest point in the Smoky Mountains.
Where to Camp:
- Loft Mountain Campground, VA
- Mount Pisgah Campground, NC
- Deep Creek Campground, TN
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Best for: Glacier views, alpine lakes, and wildlife spotting.
A 50-mile stretch through Glacier National Park, this drive is short but packed with jaw-dropping scenery. The road climbs to Logan Pass, where you can witness expansive views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and roaming mountain goats.
The turquoise waters of Hidden Lake and Lake McDonald make perfect spots to stop for a picnic or a short hike. The drive is only open during the summer months due to snow, but those who visit are rewarded with one of the most spectacular alpine landscapes in the country.
Highlights:
- Logan Pass – Stunning panoramic views and wildlife sightings.
- Hidden Lake Overlook – A must-do short hike.
- Lake McDonald – Iconic colorful pebbles and crystal-clear water.
Where to Camp:
- Apgar Campground (inside the park)
- Many Glacier Campground
- St. Mary Campground
4. The Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
Best for: Historic towns, Mississippi River views, and cultural stops.
Following the mighty Mississippi River, this 3,000-mile route covers 10 states and offers a mix of scenic beauty and American history.
Travelers can visit historic river towns, enjoy soul food and blues music in the South, and admire the changing landscapes from the Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Great River Road is perfect for those who love a slower pace, where each stop tells a different story about America’s past and present.
Highlights:
- Hannibal, MO – Mark Twain’s hometown.
- Natchez, MS – Antebellum mansions and rich Southern history.
- New Orleans, LA – Vibrant culture and incredible food.
Where to Camp:
- Frontenac State Park, MN
- Pere Marquette State Park, IL
- Bayou Segnette State Park, LA
5. The Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Best for: Mountain passes, adventure activities, and ghost towns.
This 25-mile stretch between Ouray and Silverton is one of the most thrilling (and slightly nerve-wracking) drives in the country. With steep cliffs, sharp turns, and no guardrails in some areas, this road is an adventure on its own. Surrounded by towering peaks, visitors can explore the area’s ghost towns, soak in natural hot springs, and hike through alpine meadows.
The Million Dollar Highway is perfect for adrenaline junkies looking to drive through some of the most awe-inspiring mountain landscapes in the USA.
Highlights:
- Red Mountain Pass – Stunning alpine views at 11,000+ feet.
- Box Canyon Falls – A hidden gem in Ouray.
- Silverton – A historic mining town with a Wild West vibe.
Where to Camp:
- Amphitheater Campground, Ouray
- Molas Lake Campground, Silverton
- South Mineral Campground, San Juan NF
6. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Best for: Classic Americana, quirky roadside attractions, and nostalgia.
No ultimate van life route would be complete without Route 66, the most legendary road trip in the USA. Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, this drive takes travelers through classic diners, neon-lit motels, and bizarre roadside attractions.
Whether you’re stopping for a slice of pie at a historic diner or taking a photo at the “End of the Trail” sign in Santa Monica, Route 66 captures the essence of American road trips.
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch, TX – Iconic car sculptures.
- Petrified Forest National Park, AZ – Ancient landscapes.
- Santa Monica Pier, CA – The official end of the route.
Where to Camp:
- Blue Hole Campground, NM
- Grand Canyon Railway RV Park, AZ
- Malibu Beach RV Park, CA
7. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway (Florida)
Best for: Tropical vibes, oceanfront camping, and island hopping.
The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is a 113-mile stretch of US Route 1 that takes van lifers across a series of stunning islands, from Key Largo to Key West.
Driving across the famous Seven Mile Bridge feels like floating on water, with endless ocean views in every direction.
Along the way, travelers can stop at coral reefs for snorkeling, explore quirky beach towns, and indulge in fresh seafood and grab key lime pie! The laid-back vibe of the Keys with its turquoise water and amazing snorkeling opportunities makes this drive one of the most relaxing and picturesque routes in the country.
Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge – A stunning stretch of road over open water.
- Bahia Honda State Park – One of Florida’s best beaches.
- Key West – The southernmost point of the U.S.
Where to Camp:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Curry Hammock State Park
- Boyd’s Key West Campground
More Essential Van Life Tips for The Ultimate Van Life Route
- Plan Your Campsites: Some spots require reservations, especially national park campgrounds.
- Be Prepared for Weather: Mountain passes can be snowy, and coastal areas can get stormy.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these places beautiful for future travelers.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Remote areas may have limited grocery and gas options.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Van Life Route: Exploring the USA’s Most Scenic Drives
Each of these scenic routes offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the USA. Whether you’re chasing ocean sunsets, mountain vistas, or historic landmarks, these van life routes will give you the adventure of a lifetime.
Ready to hit the road? Pack your van, plan your route, and start exploring!
