Road trips offer the freedom to explore breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. Whether you love mountains, coastlines, or deserts, there’s a perfect scenic drive for you. Here are three of the most stunning road trips tailored to different types of travelers.
1. For the Mountain Lover: The Icefields Parkway, Canada
If you’re drawn to towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes, the Icefields Parkway in Canada is a dream road trip. Stretching 144 miles (232 km) between Jasper and Banff National Parks, this scenic route showcases some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America.
Why It’s Perfect for Mountain Lovers
The drive takes you past massive icefields, jagged mountain peaks, and turquoise glacial lakes. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and even bears.
Must-See Stops
- Athabasca Glacier – Take a guided glacier walk or ride the Ice Explorer to experience this ancient ice field.
- Peyto Lake – A short hike leads to one of the most stunning viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies.
- Sunwapta Falls – A powerful waterfall surrounded by dramatic rock formations.
With breathtaking landscapes at every turn, the Icefields Parkway is an unforgettable road trip for those who love rugged mountain scenery.
2. For the Ocean Enthusiast: The Great Ocean Road, Australia
If the sound of crashing waves and endless coastal views excites you, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is the perfect scenic drive. This 151-mile (243 km) coastal route along Victoria’s southern coast is one of the most famous ocean drives in the world.
Why It’s Perfect for Ocean Lovers
The road hugs the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Southern Ocean, offering spectacular viewpoints and beachside towns. The changing light throughout the day makes the scenery even more mesmerizing.
Must-See Stops
- The Twelve Apostles – Iconic limestone rock formations rising from the ocean.
- Bells Beach – A world-famous surf spot with stunning coastal views.
- Otway National Park – Explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and koala-filled eucalyptus trees.
From scenic beaches to rugged cliffs, the Great Ocean Road is a paradise for travelers who love the ocean.
3. For the Desert Explorer: Monument Valley, USA
For those who crave vast open landscapes and otherworldly rock formations, Monument Valley is an unmatched road trip experience. This stunning red desert landscape straddling the Arizona-Utah border is one of the most recognizable locations in the American Southwest.
Why It’s Perfect for Desert Lovers
The sandstone mesas and towering rock formations make this a surreal and cinematic drive. The changing light at sunrise and sunset paints the valley in hues of orange and red, creating a truly magical experience.
Must-See Stops
- Forrest Gump Point – A famous spot where the road stretches into the horizon with Monument Valley in the background.
- John Ford’s Point – One of the best panoramic views of the valley, named after the legendary filmmaker.
- The Mittens and Merrick Butte – The most iconic rock formations of Monument Valley.
Driving through Monument Valley is like stepping into a classic Western film, making it a must-do for those enchanted by the beauty of the desert.