1

Chicago highlights

Route 66 begins in Chicago, the traditional starting point for east-to-west Route 66 trips; visitors often photograph the "begin" signs and explore nearby city landmarks before hitting the open road.

2

The Gemini Giant

In Wilmington, or the Chain O’ Lakes, you can find another classic. The "Muffler Men" statues, the Gemini Giant towers over a diner and is a favorite selfie station for travelers heading out of Chicago.

3

Pontiac Route 66 Hall of Fame & Murals

In Illinois, Pontiac is a Route 66 museum-and-mural town: murals, classic car collections, and a Route 66 Hall of Fame make it a major cultural stop on the Illinois stretch.

4

Meramec Caverns

Next is Stanton, Missouri: An enormous cave system promoted for decades as a Route 66 attraction; its guided tours and dramatic caverns make it a long-standing draw.

5

Gateway Arch

Of course, there’s the Gateway Arch at St. Louis! The same city provides both the monumental (the Arch) and the kitsch (the famed Ted Drewes custard stands), both popular stops for Route 66 travelers.

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The Midpoint Café

The official midpoint of Route 66 (halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica) is this Texas diner, "Midpoint," with its famous sign and pies, which are obligatory stops for many road-trippers.

7

Cadillac Ranch

Found in Amarillo, Texas. Ten Cadillacs half-buried nose-first in the dirt, a public, spray-paint-friendly art piece that travelers love to photograph and tag. Interactive, colorful, and instantly iconic.

8

Tucumcari

In New Mexico, you’ll find Tucumcari, famous for neon-lit motels, classic signs, and a lively downtown that celebrates Route 66 nostalgia; photographers and retro lovers linger here for sunsets and signs.

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10

Albuquerque

A major stopping city with historic Old Town, neon motels, and cultural attractions that pair well with a Route 66 itinerary.

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Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert

Not strictly "roadside kitsch," but these Arizona spots are one of the most spectacular natural detours on Route 66: colorful badlands, fossilized wood, and landscape views tourists remember.

12

Winslow

The Eagles’ song (" Standin’ on the Corner ") turned Winslow’s little corner into a pilgrimage spot; the small park and downtown murals draw fans and photographers.

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Roy’s Motel & Café

The vast Mojave Desert backdrop , plus the preserved mid-century motel and neon sign, make Amboy, California, one of the most atmospheric stops on the California stretch of Route 66.

14

Santa Monica Pier

Finally, the symbolic end point of Route 66: the famous "End of the Trail" sign and the busy pier make for the classic finish-line photo. It’s touristy, joyful, and unavoidable if you’re completing the westbound route.

1

Yellowstone National Park

Image: Johanna Persson

National parks and motorhomes are a match made in America, and no list of this kind would be complete without mentioning Yellowstone National Park, the oldest park in the country and a very popular RV destination for all the right reasons.

The park offers several RV-friendly campgrounds, and there are plenty of options to choose from in the surrounding towns as well. For drivers looking for an amazing scenic drive, take the Beartooth Highway, which will lead you to Yellowstone’s Northeast entrance. This roadway has been dubbed "The most beautiful in America" and is also known as the "Highway in the Sky."

2

Outer Banks

Image: Sergio Martínez

The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina , offering some of the East Coast’s most impressive and scenic beaches. With numerous RV parks throughout the islands, each with its unique charm, this location is an RV paradise.

Hike the largest dune system on the East Coast at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, kayak the peaceful waters of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, or take a ferry ride to Ocracoke Island’s rustic village. The Outer Banks has activities for everybody and infrastructure to provide all the necessary comfort.

3

Acadia National Park

Image: Marek Konopnicki

Acadia National Park is another gem on the RV roadmap of the U.S. Located primarily on Maine’s Mount Desert Island , the largest island off the coast of Maine, the park is sometimes referred to as the "Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast."

Aside from being home to the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the U.S., the park features several different habitats, offering plenty of plants and animals to see. Acadia has four campgrounds within the park, three of which are RV-friendly.

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California

Image: Fabian

The entire state of California makes for an incredible RV road trip , offering an endless supply of natural beauty, from towering redwood forests to dusty deserts to breathtaking seascapes and shorelines.

RV travelers can start their journey just northeast of San Diego and follow a clockwise loop, visiting the coast first and exploring the state's inner beauties later.

5

Joshua Tree National Park

Image: Mariana Brás

Joshua Tree National Park features some of America’s most beautiful landscapes, set along the sun-blasted frontier of the Mojave and Colorado deserts . That countryside includes remarkable monzogranite formations and boulders, such as Skull Rock, as well as multiple mountain ranges.

Year-round camping is available in this area, although the summer heat may not be for everyone. There are several campgrounds in the park, ranging from well-developed to primitive options and beyond.

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Rocky Mountains

Image: Luke Porter

A road trip around the Rocky Mountains in a motorhome is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that any RV camper would love to add to their wishlist. These mountains stretch over 3,000 miles from New Mexico to British Columbia, offering a lifetime's worth of exploration opportunities.

Drivers could spend weeks at Yellowstone and Grand Teton alone, but the entire route is packed with amazing scenery and comfortable RV parks, ranging from primitive sites to lush locations with premium amenities.

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New England

Image: Rodrigo Curi

New England is an excellent region for an RV road trip. Its balanced blend of forests, rocky seascapes, colonial history, and gorgeous seaside towns offer plenty of opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, relaxation, and more.

A possible route could start in upstate New York, heading east and north into the parks of upper New England, and then heading south along the coast after Acadia for some breathtaking ocean views.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Image: lucas Favre

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina, containing expansive forests and mountainous terrain . This southern wonder features hiking trails, including parts of the greater Appalachian Trail, and a vast array of plant and animal life to explore.

The area is a popular RV destination, and there is no shortage of camps along the way, offering rest and comfort for happy campers.

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Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Image: Vladimir Kudinov

The majestic state of Colorado is filled with breathtaking landscapes , and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is no exception. The Gunnison River sculpted this vertical terrain of rock over thousands of years , creating many picturesque paths for hikers of all skill levels to explore.

During the winter, the sloped hills become a great destination for cross-country skiers. After a long journey in the wilderness, visitors can return to their RV at the South Rim Campground, which welcomes thousands of guests each year.

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Sedona

Image: Julian Ackroyd

Located where the Colorado Plateau drops down to Arizona’s deserts, Sedona is world-famous for its red rock formations and vibrant communities. RV campers can also visit the Grand Canyon , which is situated not too far to the north .

Sedona is filled with RV parks and campgrounds, and ample public lands in the area offer a multitude of primitive camping opportunities.

1

Chain Lakes Loop Trailhead

Image: Pavł Polø

If you’re looking for stunning views and vibrant fall colors, Chain Lakes is the place to go. Located in Washington’s Mount Baker National Forest, this 6.5-mile trail takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.

The Chain Lakes Loop is one of the most scenic hikes in the country, offering a glimpse of Northern Washington’s breathtaking landscapes . A paradise for outdoor explorers and landscape photographers, it features turquoise glacial lakes, rugged mountain chains, alpine meadows, snow-capped volcanic peaks, and towering conifers—it truly has it all!

2

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain

Image: Aleksey Kuprikov

Mirror Lake, located in Oregon’s Mount Hood National Forest, is a scenic trail popular for picnicking and swimming. But for even better views, hike another mile—you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking sights of Mount Hood, a stunning perspective of the lake below, Mount Jefferson to the south, and, on a clear day, even Mount Rainier .

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain features three distinct peaks, which inspired its name—referencing the old phrase "any Tom, Dick, or Harry," used to describe three generic people. This 7.8-mile trail takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.

3

Miners Ridge and James Irvine Trail Loop

Image: wallace Henry

This 13-mile trail in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California, is long but has relatively little elevation gain. Though it takes 6 to 9 hours to complete, the breathtaking views are totally worth it.

The Miners Ridge and James Irvine Trail Loop is one of the best places to experience the majesty of the redwoods . Staring up at these massive, ancient old-growth trees is truly awe-inspiring. But while the trees are the main attraction, they’re not the only highlight. This loop also takes you across a scenic stretch of beach—offering the perfect opportunity to cool off in the ocean midway through your hike.

4

Clouds Rest From Tenaya Lake

Image: Jess Polley

When people think of Yosemite, Half Dome usually steals the spotlight. But what if we told you there’s a less crowded hike with unique landscapes and unforgettable views?

At nearly 13 miles, the Clouds Rest Trail from Tenaya Lake is a challenging yet rewarding day hike. The trail itself is beautiful, featuring rolling terrain with several ups and downs. Reaching the summit of Clouds Rest will reward you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the national park . From the top, you can spot Tenaya Lake, the Cathedral Spires, Mount Dana, and, of course, Half Dome.

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Angels Landing

Image: Carl Nenzen Loven

Contemplating the world from atop a jaw-dropping mountain view is a humbling experience everyone should go through at least once. At Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah, that sense of majesty is within reach.

Though stunning, this 4.8-mile hike is not to be taken lightly. It has some dangerous cliffs that make it a bit challenging. If you have vertigo, perhaps this trail is not for you. However, if you are in good shape and have an adventurous soul, the stunning scenery at the summit is something not to be missed.

6

Alkali Flat Trail

Image: PublicDomainPictures

For a truly unique experience, travel to White Sands National Monument in New Mexico. The breathtaking blue skies and otherworldly white dunes of the Alkali Flat Trail will transport you to a desert worthy of the best adventure films.

On regular terrain, this 5-mile hike would be considered easy. However, the desert environment and lack of shade make it far more demanding than you might expect. To stay safe, avoid hiking in the summer and be mindful of the heat.

7

Mount Bierstadt

Image: caleb weiner

Did you know Colorado is home to more than 50 fourteeners? Mountains above 14,000 feet in height are the ultimate challenge for any self-respecting hiker. Mount Bierstadt, one of the more accessible 14ers, offers a rewarding climb just a short drive from Denver.

This 7.4-mile trail provides stunning views of Mount Evans, Torreys Peak, and Grays Peak. However, no mountain should be tackled without proper preparation and planning. That said, summiting Bierstadt is an excellent test of your abilities—especially if you're gearing up for a more challenging climb.

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Cascade Canyon Trail

Image: ELTON MENEFEE

The Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is a must-explore for any hiker. Just a mile from Jenny Lake, the trail features two stunning landmarks: Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

Many visitors turn back at this point, missing out on eight more miles of breathtaking canyon scenery. If you're up for a longer trek, continue onward to experience the true grandeur of the Tetons up close. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife—you might even spot moose or bears!

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Grinnell Glacier Trail

Image: Mick Kirchman

Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in America. With its turquoise lakes and jagged, arrowhead-like peaks , it stands apart from any other park in the U.S. Among its many trails, the Grinnell Glacier hike is one of the most popular in the Montana park.

This 10.5-mile trek offers stunning views, with the massive Mount Gould dominating the horizon. A word of advice: add this hike to your bucket list ASAP. Grinnell Glacier is rapidly shrinking and may disappear within the next few decades.

10

Ricketts Glen Falls Loop

Image: Venti Views

Hiking isn’t just about summiting mountains—waterfalls can offer spectacular views too! This 6.8-mile loop in Pennsylvania features more than 20 waterfalls, making it one of the best waterfall hikes in the eastern United States . While some trails lead to taller, more dramatic falls, few offer the sheer number and variety found here.

Each waterfall is unique and beautiful in its own way, ranging from 15 to 50 feet in height, with the tallest reaching nearly 100 feet. But that’s not all—along this trail, you’ll also encounter fascinating rock formations and ancient old-growth forests.

11

Giant Mountain

Image: Ty Finck

Although New England peaks are only a third the height of the Rockies, East Coast hikes can be even more challenging due to their rugged trails, steep descents, and tricky terrain. Tackling Giant Mountain in the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness is no small feat.

This New York trail takes 4 to 6 hours to complete, but the effort is well worth it. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a picturesque forest , making it a must-visit for those confident in their ability to take on a strenuous climb.

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Precipice Trail

Image: Raphael Assouline

With its rocky cliffs and oceanside forests , Maine’s Acadia National Park offers a hiking experience unlike any other in the eastern United States. While all of its rugged peaks provide stunning views, no trail in Acadia is as memorable—or as challenging—as the Precipice Trail.

Despite the trail’s short length (just 2.6 miles), this is a challenging hike not recommended if you have a fear of heights. Once you reach the summit of Champlain Mountain, after nearly a thousand feet of climbing, you will be rewarded with sprawling views looking out over the park, Frenchman Bay, and the Mount Desert Narrows stretching out to the Atlantic.