Road trips gaining momentum
Search trends in 2026 show a strong shift toward scenic road trips across the United States. Travelers are choosing routes that feel flexible, personal, and rich with stops along the way. These journeys focus less on speed and more on memorable landscapes and towns.
Many of the fastest-growing routes connect national parks, coastal towns, and cultural hubs. They reflect changing travel habits shaped by social media photos and shared itineraries. Shorter drives that still feel rewarding are driving much of this interest.
Pacific Northwest circle
Searches for a loop through Seattle, Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, and the Oregon Coast are climbing fast. The route combines rainforest, snow-capped peaks, and rugged beaches within one journey. Towns like Port Angeles, Astoria, and Cannon Beach appear often in search results.
Travelers favor scenic highways and ferry connections over major interstates. Stops include coastal viewpoints and roadside seafood spots. The variety packed into a manageable distance makes this route especially appealing.
Arizona red rock route
Routes linking Phoenix, Sedona, Page, and the Grand Canyon are seeing major growth in 2026. Red rock formations, desert sky, and canyon views shape the experience. Flagstaff stands out as a cooler mountain stop along the drive.
Search patterns show travelers expanding beyond the canyon rim. Popular additions include Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Oak Creek Canyon. The constant change in scenery keeps interest high throughout the trip.
Texas hill country drive
Searches connecting Austin, Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Bandera continue to rise. This region offers rolling hills, spring wildflowers, and river views. It feels scenic and relaxed compared to larger Texas cities.
Travelers enjoy mixing music venues with small-town charm. Wineries, peach orchards, and classic barbecue stops shape most itineraries. The drive feels approachable yet distinctly local.
Desert to coast escape
Routes between Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and San Diego are trending sharply upward. The contrast between quiet desert mornings and ocean sunsets draws strong interest. This journey feels adventurous without feeling demanding.
Stops often include Anza Borrego State Park, Julian, and coastal neighborhoods in La Jolla. Search data shows a preference for scenic back roads. Year-round accessibility keeps this route popular.
Utah national parks path
Searches connecting Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Moab are growing quickly. This route links some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. Every stretch of road offers striking views.
Travelers plan longer stays in Springdale, Torrey, and Moab. Sunrise hikes and night skies are often highlighted in itineraries. The visual intensity explains the surge in interest.
Great Lakes shoreline
The Lake Michigan drive from Chicago through Door County into Michigan is gaining attention. Beaches, dunes, and harbor towns define the route. Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes appear frequently in searches.
Travelers enjoy freshwater swimming without heavy crowds. Ferry rides and shoreline highways add variety to the journey. It feels familiar yet newly rediscovered.
Blue Ridge mountains
Searches for routes linking Asheville, Boone, Blowing Rock, and Roanoke continue rising—the Blue Ridge Parkway anchors many of these trips. Scenic overlooks drive much of the interest.
Travelers stop for hikes, mountain cabins, and small town diners. Craft breweries and fall color views shape popular plans. The drive offers a calm, unhurried rhythm.
New Mexico heritage route
Routes between Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, and Chimayo are trending upward. Travelers are drawn to art, culture and desert scenery. This drive blends history with striking landscapes.
Stops include historic plazas, canyon views, and roadside art markets. Local food experiences play a central role. The journey feels deeply rooted and authentic.
Florida Gulf Coast
Searches for drives from Tampa through Apalachicola to Destin are increasing. Calm waters and white sand beaches define this stretch. Scenic Highway 30A features heavily in route planning.
Travelers mix beach time with seafood spots and coastal parks. Sunsets and small beach towns set the tone. The relaxed pace fuels steady growth in search.
Colorado mountain circuit
Routes linking Denver, Estes Park, Aspen, and Telluride are gaining traction. Alpine lakes and mountain passes define the scenery. Interest extends well beyond the winter months.
Summer hikes and fall foliage drive much of the search growth. Towns like Ouray and Crested Butte appear as frequent additions. Constant scenery changes keep the drive engaging.
Maine coastal road
Searches for routes between Portland, Bar Harbor, and Acadia National Park are rising fast. Rocky coastlines and historic harbors shape the experience, and Route 1 is favored for its views and reputation for safety, aligning with recent rankings of the safest regions for road trips based on 2025 transport data. The drive feels scenic without feeling stressful.
Lighthouse stops, lobster shacks, and coastal trails fill most itineraries. The slower pace appeals during warmer months. Cooler weather adds to its charm.
Why routes trend
Search growth reflects a desire for flexible, visually rewarding travel. Travelers value routes that combine scenery, food, and culture. These drives feel immersive rather than rushed.
The fastest-growing routes adapt to different trip lengths. They balance iconic sights with lesser-known stops. That balance defines road trip trends in 2026.
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
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