8 Road Trips on the West Coast to Do Before You Die
From rugged coastlines to towering mountains, the West Coast has some of the most breathtaking road trips in the world.
If you’re ready to hit the open road, these epic drives are a must-do before you kick the bucket.
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Table of Contents
1. Three Capes Scenic Loop, Oregon
Skip the busy highways and opt for the Three Capes Scenic Loop on the Oregon Coast. This hidden gem offers dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and iconic lighthouses.
The 40-mile loop takes you through Cape Meares, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda, with stunning views of the ocean and Haystack Rock.
READ MORE: Three Capes Scenic Route
2. Oregon Coast Road Trip
The Oregon Coast is packed with natural beauty, and taking a road trip down Highway 101 is one of the best ways to experience it all.
From Cannon Beach’s famous Haystack Rock to the dunes at Florence and beyond, this coastal road trip offers endless adventure. Don’t miss stops like Thor’s Well and Cape Perpetua.
READ MORE: Oregon Coast Road Trip
3. Big Sur Drive, California
The drive along Big Sur is one of the most iconic on the West Coast.
Highway 1 winds along the cliffs, offering jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls, and the dramatic coastline that makes Big Sur world-famous.
READ MORE: Things To Do in Big Sur
4. Crater Lake Rim Road, Oregon
One of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest, the Crater Lake Rim Road offers 33 miles of jaw-dropping views.
With stops at Wizard Island and several breathtaking overlooks, this road trip is a must for anyone exploring Southern Oregon.
READ MORE: Things To Do at Crater Lake
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5. Owyhee Canyonlands, Oregon
If you’re looking for rugged beauty, the Owyhee Canyonlands is an underrated adventure.
This remote area of Oregon is filled with vast canyons, desert landscapes, and towering rock formations. It’s a true off-the-beaten-path road trip.
READ MORE: Owyhee Canyonlands | Succor Creek
6. Around Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
The road trip around Lake Tahoe offers stunning views of crystal-clear waters, alpine forests, and snow-capped mountains.
Whether you’re stopping to hike, take in the scenery, or explore local beaches, this loop is an unforgettable journey.
READ MORE: Exploring Lake Tahoe
7. Cascade Scenic Loop, Oregon
The Cascade Loop in Oregon takes you through diverse landscapes—from volcanic peaks to alpine lakes and lush forests.
This loop offers breathtaking views and countless stops for outdoor activities.
READ MORE: Cascade Lakes
8. Old Columbia River Gorge Highway, Oregon
Take a scenic journey along the Old Columbia River Gorge Highway, one of the most picturesque drives in the Pacific Northwest.
The winding road offers views of towering cliffs, waterfalls, and the iconic Columbia River.
READ MORE: Columbia River Gorge Adventures
Read more West Coast adventures here!
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