10 West Coast Road Trips That Are Amazing Any Time of Year

The West Coast is the ultimate playground for road trips, with its stunning coastal highways, majestic mountains, and quirky small towns. Whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall, these routes promise unforgettable scenery and adventure. Buckle up for 10 epic road trips that are perfect any time of year.

Table of Contents

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
2. Cascade Loop (Washington)
3. Oregon’s Highway 101
4. The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway (California)
5. The Redwood Highway (California to Oregon)
6. The Lost Coast (California)
7. The Columbia River Gorge (Oregon/Washington)
8. Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive (California/Nevada)
9. Crater Lake Rim Drive (Oregon)
10. Southern California Desert Loop
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1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

This classic drive along Highway 1 offers jaw-dropping ocean views, charming coastal towns, and iconic stops like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. It’s a must-do for anyone craving coastal vibes, no matter the season. Pro tip: Don’t rush it—this route deserves a few days to soak in all the beauty.

2. Cascade Loop (Washington)

Tiny people on a rock with a huge mountain in the back with glacier in Cascades National Park.

This 440-mile loop takes you through the stunning Cascade Mountains, charming towns like Leavenworth, and serene lakes. Winter offers snow-capped peaks, while summer and fall bring vibrant wildflowers and foliage. It’s a year-round stunner.

3. Oregon’s Highway 101

Explore the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast on Highway 101. From Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock to the towering dunes in Florence, there’s something new to discover at every turn. Bonus: Winter storms make this route especially dramatic!

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4. The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway (California)

talimena scenic drive, sunset, autumn, countryside, road, twilight, fall, arkansas, nature, scenic drive, talimena national scenic byway, arkansas, arkansas, arkansas, arkansas, arkansas — Photo by OutthereMJ on Pixabay

Escape the crowds with this lesser-known route through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Stunning granite formations, lush forests, and panoramic views make it a hidden gem. While summer is peak season, winter drives here offer a quieter, snow-dusted magic.

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5. The Redwood Highway (California to Oregon)

Nina walking along a trail in Redwood National Park with huge redwoods to her left. — Tiny humans vs huge trees.

Winding through ancient redwood forests, this route feels straight out of a fairytale. Stops like Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and the Avenue of the Giants make it a bucket-list road trip. It’s enchanting any time of year, but winter offers peaceful solitude among the trees.

6. The Lost Coast (California)

“The Lost Coast -Foggy and Sunny” by Scrubhiker (USCdyer) is licensed under CC BY 2.0

This remote stretch of Northern California coastline is an adventurer’s dream. Rugged cliffs, black sand beaches, and epic ocean views await. Pro tip: Pack layers and snacks—it’s isolated, but that’s part of its charm.

7. The Columbia River Gorge (Oregon/Washington)

Wahkeena Falls surrounded by lush greenery.

This road trip combines lush green landscapes with dramatic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. In winter, you’ll find snow-dusted cliffs; in spring, wildflowers steal the show. Pair it with a stop in Hood River for some craft beer or cider.

8. Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive (California/Nevada)

People sitting on the sandy shores of Lake Tahoe with blue water on a sunny day.

This 72-mile loop around Lake Tahoe offers crystal-clear waters, alpine scenery, and quaint towns. Winter is perfect for snow sports, while summer brings beach vibes and paddleboarding. It’s always a good time to circle this gorgeous lake.

9. Crater Lake Rim Drive (Oregon)

Nina in a black coat overlooking Crater Lake during winter.

Although some sections close in winter, the parts that remain open offer magical snow-covered views of the lake’s deep blue water. In summer, the full rim drive reveals its dramatic volcanic landscape. Either way, Crater Lake never disappoints.

10. Southern California Desert Loop

“Our campsite at Vallecito Creek in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park” by slworking2 is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Explore the stunning desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the Salton Sea. This loop offers a mix of quirky roadside attractions and breathtaking natural beauty. Winter brings cooler temperatures, but it’s stunning all year.