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The West Coast is made for road trips. With rugged coastlines, redwood forests, desert stretches, and mountain ranges, the variety of landscapes is unmatched. Each route offers its own mix of natural beauty, history, and hidden towns worth exploring along the way. Whether you want ocean views, national parks, or winding highways, there’s a trip here to fit your mood. These eight epic drives show why the West Coast remains one of the best regions to explore by car.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway is arguably the most famous drive in America. It stretches along California’s shoreline, linking iconic spots like Malibu, Big Sur, and Monterey. What makes it so memorable is the contrast between cliffs dropping into the Pacific and the winding road that keeps you close to the water. You’ll pass through charming coastal towns, state parks, and scenic overlooks perfect for photo stops. It’s best enjoyed at a slower pace, with time to pull over, explore, and watch the sunset melt into the ocean.
2. Highway 101 Through Oregon
Highway 101 offers a wilder version of the coastal road trip. Oregon’s shoreline is dotted with sea stacks, windswept beaches, and lighthouses that feel untouched by time. Small towns like Cannon Beach and Florence invite you to slow down, grab fresh seafood, and wander local shops. You’ll also find state parks where trails lead to hidden coves or panoramic bluffs. The drive is less crowded than California’s PCH but delivers equally dramatic views. It’s a road trip that blends nature, culture, and stretches of quiet solitude.
3. Olympic Peninsula Loop (Washington)
The Olympic Peninsula Loop circles one of the most diverse landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. You can start in the harbor town of Port Angeles, then wind your way through rainforests, rugged coastlines, and mountain valleys. Stops like Ruby Beach, Hoh Rain Forest, and Hurricane Ridge highlight how varied the region can be within a single loop. Wildlife sightings are common, from elk in the forest to bald eagles overhead. The combination of coastal scenery and alpine peaks makes this loop a true showcase of the Northwest’s wild character.
4. Redwood Highway (Northern California)
The Redwood Highway takes you through towering groves of ancient trees that can make any traveler feel small in the best way. Driving through Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Redwood National and State Parks, you’ll encounter some of the tallest trees on Earth. Scenic byways cut directly through the forest, creating a sense of immersion unlike anywhere else. Along the way, roadside attractions like the Trees of Mystery add a touch of Americana. It’s a trip where you can hike, camp, and reconnect with landscapes that have stood for centuries.
5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (Oregon)
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway offers a mountain-focused adventure that feels different from coastal drives. Starting near Bend, Oregon, the road winds past volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and high desert terrain. Popular stops include Mount Bachelor, Sparks Lake, and Elk Lake, each offering trails or water activities. Summer and early fall are the best times to drive since snow often closes the route in winter. The mix of mountains and lakes gives the byway a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer alpine beauty to ocean vistas.
6. Big Sur to San Simeon (California)
This stretch of Highway 1 is the most dramatic section of California’s coast. Between Big Sur and San Simeon, the road hugs cliffs with ocean waves crashing far below. Famous spots like Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Hearst Castle provide natural and cultural highlights. Fog often rolls in, adding mystery to the scenery, but clear days reveal views that stretch endlessly. Pullouts along the highway invite travelers to stop and absorb the landscape. Few drives capture the raw power of the Pacific like this one.
7. Columbia River Gorge (Oregon/Washington)
The Columbia River Gorge combines striking river views with towering cliffs and waterfalls. Beginning near Portland, the Historic Columbia River Highway takes you past famous cascades like Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Crossing into Washington reveals quieter roads with equally impressive overlooks. The gorge is not just about scenery; it’s also a hub for windsurfing, hiking, and wine tasting in nearby towns. With its blend of adventure and beauty, this drive delivers a little of everything within a manageable distance.
8. Highway 395 (California)
Highway 395 is a hidden gem running along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada. The route passes alpine lakes, desert valleys, and small towns with deep history. You’ll find Mammoth Lakes for hiking, Mono Lake with its unusual tufa formations, and Bodie, a preserved ghost town. Farther south, the highway skirts Death Valley’s northern edge, offering stark desert landscapes. This road trip feels less polished than the coast but full of character. It’s ideal for travelers who want variety and wide open space in one journey.