9 Best USA Road Trips Every Solo Female Traveler Must Take!

There’s something magical about a solo road trip. You’re in full control of the playlist, the snack choices, and where you stop – or don’t stop. It’s just you, your car, and the open road. But if you’re anything like me, planning can feel a little overwhelming. Where do you even start? Which routes are the best? That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best USA road trips for solo female travelers. It has everything you need to make your solo journey epic.

1. Pacific Coast Highway: The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a classic for a reason. With its cliffs, beautiful beaches, and endless ocean views, it’s a true solo traveler’s paradise.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Overview

• Route: San Francisco → Monterey → Big Sur → San Luis Obispo → Santa Barbara → Los Angeles → San Diego
• Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall
• Days Needed: 5–7 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 600 miles
• Best for: Ocean lovers and those seeking stunning coastal views

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $110-$190
• Accommodations: $150-$350/night
• Food: $40-$60/day
• Activities: $50-$100/day

Wondering how to budget for your trip? I’ve got a free tool to make it super easy – check it out here!

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip?

• Day 1–2: Start in San Francisco. Take your time exploring – Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, and Alcatraz if you’re feeling touristy. When you’re done, head to Monterey or Carmel for the night.
  • Stops: Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and the 17-Mile Drive.
• Day 3–4: Drive through Big Sur. You’ll want to pull over every 10 minutes for photos, but trust me, McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge are the real highlights. Stay the night in San Luis Obispo.
  • Stops: Pfeiffer Beach (purple sand!), Hearst Castle, and Cambria for a bite.
• Day 5–7: Cruise through Santa Barbara, Malibu, and Los Angeles before wrapping up in San Diego.
  • Stops: Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and La Jolla Cove.

Explore Bixby Creek Bridge with this virtual tour – click the arrows to move around and enjoy the views!

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Pacific Coast Highway

• Don’t drive Big Sur at night unless you want to feel like you’re in a horror movie
• Book your stays in Carmel or Santa Barbara early – these spots fill up fast with other travelers
• Download offline maps into your cell phone
• Book accommodations in advance
• Check winter road conditions (potential landslides)
• Carry a portable car phone charger
• Pack layers (coastal weather changes quickly)
• Avoid peak season crowds in summer if you prefer a quieter trip and want to save money

2. Blue Ridge Parkway: A Scenic East Coast Mountain Road Trip

This is one of those road trips that just feels peaceful. No traffic jams, no rush – just mountains, little towns, and enough scenic overlooks to fill your phone with photos you’ll never delete.

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Overview

• Route: Shenandoah National Park → Charlottesville → Roanoke → Asheville → Great Smoky Mountains
• Best Time to Go: Fall (the leaves!) or Spring (the flowers!)
• Days Needed: 3–5 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 469 miles
• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and solo travelers looking to escape into the mountains

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $80-$130
• Accommodations: $150-$300/night
• Food: $40-$60/day
• Activities: $30-$100/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip?  

• Day 1: Kick things off at Shenandoah National Park. Take Skyline Drive (slow and steady) and stop at overlooks like Stony Man. Crash nearby for the night.
  • Stops: Dark Hollow Falls Trail and Big Meadows Lodge.
• Day 2–3: Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hit up Mabry Mill (famous for pancakes) and Linville Falls. Spend the night in Asheville.
  • Stops: Asheville’s art scene and the Biltmore Estate if you’re feeling fancy.
• Day 4–5: End your trip at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Explore Cades Cove and hike to Clingmans Dome for views that’ll make you feel small in the best way.

Not sure where to start with planning your first solo trip? Find all the tips you need here!

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Gas up before you start your solo travel on the parkway – there are hardly any stations
• Cell service? Forget about it. Download offline maps into your cell phone before you go
• Have a backup communication device
• Pack hiking gear
• Carry bear spray
• Book accommodations early during fall season

3. Route 66: A Nostalgic Road Trip Through America’s Heartland

This one’s for the nostalgic folks. Route 66 isn’t about rushing from Point A to Point B – it’s about the old diners, retro motels, and random roadside attractions that make you smile for no reason.

Looking for some fun solo travel inspiration? Check out the best cities in North America for women traveling solo!

Route 66 Road Trip Overview

• Route: Chicago → St. Louis → Tulsa → Oklahoma City → Amarillo → Albuquerque → Flagstaff → Santa Monica
• Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall
• Days Needed: 10–14 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 2,448 miles
• Best for: History buffs and solo travelers craving a classic American road trip adventure

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Route 66 Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $400-$650
• Accommodations: $100-$350/night
• Food: $40-$60/day
• Activities: $30-$100/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Route 66 Road Trip?  

• Day 1–3: Start in Chicago and head toward St. Louis. Stop at the Route 66 Museum in Springfield, IL, and check out the Gateway Arch.
  • Stops: Cozy Dog Drive-In and Meramec Caverns.
• Day 4–7: Drive through Oklahoma City, Amarillo (TX), and Albuquerque (NM). Spray-paint a car at Cadillac Ranch and snap photos at the Blue Swallow Motel.
  • Stops: Petrified Forest National Park, Meteor Crater, and the Wigwam Motel.
• Day 8–14: Detour to the Grand Canyon (obviously), then finish your trip at Santa Monica Pier.
  • Stops: Grand Canyon, Santa Monica Pier.

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Route 66

• A lot of Route 66 attractions are cash-only, so bring some cash
• Stay at quirky motels – they’re part of the experience
• If you’re in a rental car, double-check everything’s in good shape before hitting the road
• Carry physical maps as backup
• Stay in well-reviewed motels
• Join roadside assistance program
• Carry extra water and snacks
• Download multiple navigation apps

4. Utah’s Mighty Five: A Bucket List Southwest Road Trip

The Mighty Five is the nickname for a famous road trip through Utah’s five iconic national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion.

This road trip is all about jaw-dropping red rock landscapes, canyons, and some of the best hiking in the country. If you’re into wide-open spaces and dramatic views, this trip will blow your mind.

Mighty Five Road Trip Overview

• Route: Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon National Park → Capitol Reef National Park → Arches National Park → Canyonlands National Park
• Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall
• Days Needed: 7–10 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 600–800 miles (depending on your starting point and whether you include scenic drives like Highway 12 or other detours).
• Best for: Adventure seeker and solo road tripper who loves stunning national parks and red rock landscapes

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Mighty Five Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $150-$250
• Accommodations: $100-$300/night
• Food: $40-$60/day
• Activities: $50-$150/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Mighty Five Road Trip?

• Day 1–2: Start at Zion National Park. Hike Angels Landing if you’re feeling brave, or take a scenic walk through The Narrows.
  • Stops: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and Observation Point.
• Day 3–4: Head to Bryce Canyon. Take a stroll through the hoodoos (weird rock formations that look like they belong on another planet). Overnight in Torrey, UT, near Capitol Reef.
  • Stops: Sunrise Point and Fairyland Loop Trail.
• Day 5–7: Drive to Capitol Reef, then finish your trip in Moab, exploring Arches and Canyonlands.
  • Stops: Delicate Arch, Mesa Arch, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Take a virtual stroll around Delicate Arch and soak in the stunning views of this iconic red rock wonder. Use the arrows to explore it from every angle!

Solo Female Travel Tips for Utah’s Mighty Five

• Bring plenty of water – these parks can get hot
• Cell service is spotty in most of the parks, so don’t rely on GPS
• Carry emergency satellite communicator
• Download park trail maps
• Start hikes early morning
• Bring high-SPF sunscreen
• Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing
• Join ranger-led tours – they’re a great to meet other travelers

Don’t forget to download my free packing checklist.

5. Seward Highway: Alaska’s Best Scenic Road Trip Adventure 

This short but unforgettable adventure is perfect for those looking for small solo trips through some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes, with glaciers, wildlife, and endless views.

Seward Highway Road Trip Overview

• Route: Anchorage → Girdwood → Portage Glacier → Kenai Lake → Seward
• Best Time to Go: Summer
• Days Needed: 1–2 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 127 miles
• Best for: Nature lovers and solo travelers looking for incredible views of glaciers and wildlife

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Seward Highway Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $30-$70
• Accommodations: $120-$350/night
• Food: $40-$80/day
• Activities: $50-$200/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Seward Highway Road Trip?

• Day 1: Start in Anchorage and drive south along Turnagain Arm. Stop at Beluga Point to spot whales or at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
  • Stops: Girdwood for lunch, Alyeska Resort for a tram ride with insane views.
• Day 2: End your trip in Seward. Take a boat tour through Kenai Fjords National Park to see glaciers up close.
  • Stops: Exit Glacier and Resurrection Bay.

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Seward Highway

• Weather changes fast in Alaska – bring layers
• Keep an eye out for wildlife (but from a safe distance)
• Download offline maps
• Keep bear spray handy if you’re hiking
• Drive during daylight
• Don’t miss solo-friendly adventures like a Kenai Fjords boat tour

6. The Great River Road: A Scenic Midwest and Southern Road Trip

The Great River Road takes you through 10 states, following the Mississippi River from its start in Minnesota all the way to Louisiana. It’s the perfect mix of scenic beauty, historic stops, and amazing food.

The Great River Road Trip Overview

• Route: Minneapolis → Dubuque → St. Louis → Memphis → Vicksburg, MS → Baton Rouge → New Orleans
• Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall
• Days Needed: 7–10 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 2,000 miles
• Best for: History enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys scenic riverside drives and charming small towns

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Great River Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $300-$400
• Accommodations: $100-$300/night
• Food: $40-$70/day
• Activities: $30-$150/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Great River Road Trip?

• Day 1–3: Start in Minneapolis and drive through Wisconsin and Iowa. Stop in Dubuque to check out the National Mississippi River Museum and explore the historic district for charming architecture and local history.
  • Stops: The Headwaters of the Mississippi in Itasca State Park, Dubuque Riverwalk.
• Day 4–7: Travel through Memphis and Clarksdale, MS. Eat barbecue, listen to live blues, and soak up the Southern charm.
  • Stops: Graceland, Beale Street, and the Delta Blues Museum.
• Day 8–10: Finish in New Orleans. Explore the French Quarter, eat beignets, and catch live music.
  • Stops: Café du Monde, Preservation Hall, and a swamp tour.

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Great River Road

• Check flood conditions if traveling in spring – parts of this route are prone to flooding
• Keep cash handy for smaller towns
• Drive scenic sections like Wisconsin’s river bluffs during the day for better safety and views
• Download offline maps for rural stretches with poor cell service
• Refuel strategically – gas stations can be sparse in rural stretches
• Choose accommodations with good reviews in central town locations

7. Florida Keys Scenic Highway: The Ultimate Island-Hopping Road Trip

This tropical road trip takes you across 42 bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, with turquoise waters on both sides. It’s laid-back, sunny, and perfect for recharging. It’s one of my favorite road trips!

Florida Keys Scenic Highway Road Trip Overview

• Route: Miami → Key Largo → Islamorada → Marathon → Big Pine Key → Key West
• Best Time to Go: Winter (to avoid hurricane season)
• Days Needed: 3–4 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 113 miles (from Key Largo to Key West; add ~60 miles if starting in Miami).
• Best for: Beach lovers and anyone looking for a laid-back, tropical road trip

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does a Florida Keys Scenic Highway Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $50-$100
• Accommodations: $150-$400/night
• Food: $50-$100/day
• Activities: $50-$200/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for a Florida Keys Scenic Highway Road Trip?

• Day 1–2: Start in Miami and drive to Key Largo. Snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or relax at the beach.
  • Stops: Islamorada for fresh seafood and kayaking.
• Day 3–4: Drive to Key West. Explore Duval Street, visit the Hemingway House, and watch the sunset at Mallory Square.
  • Stops: Southernmost Point Buoy and Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Florida Keys Scenic Highway

• Traffic can be slow – add extra time for the drive
• Pack sunscreen – you’ll need it
• Book accommodations in Key West early – hotels fill up fast, especially during winter
• Stay near Duval Street for safety and convenience
• Join group activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or sunset cruises to stay social and safe
• Visit Bahia Honda State Park – it’s quieter and perfect for solo exploration or relaxation

8. Oregon’s Scenic Byways: A Stunning West Coast Road Trip  

This road trip is full of waterfalls, lush forests, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

Oregon’s Scenic Byways Road Trip Overview

• Route: Portland → Columbia River Gorge → Mount Hood → Crater Lake → Bend
• Best Time to Go: Summer
• Days Needed: 5–7 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 400–600 miles (depending on which byways you include and your exact route).
• Best for: Nature lovers and those looking to explore waterfalls, forests, and breathtaking lakes

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does an Oregon Scenic Byways Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $60-$120
• Accommodations: $100-$300/night
• Food: $40-$80/day
• Activities: $30-$150/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for an Oregon Scenic Byways Road Trip? 

• Day 1–2: Start in Portland and drive to the Columbia River Gorge. Spend the day exploring waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and Horsetail Falls.
  • Stops: Bonneville Dam, Hood River for local cider.
• Day 3–5: Head south to Crater Lake National Park. Take the Rim Drive for incredible views of the lake.
  • Stops: Wizard Island, Cleetwood Cove Trail.
• Day 6–7: End in Bend. Go for a hike, float the Deschutes River, or relax with a local craft beer.
  • Stops: Pilot Butte, Tumalo Falls.

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Oregon’s Scenic Byways

• Some roads in Crater Lake can close due to snow, even in summer – check conditions before you go
• Stay in Bend or Hood River – safe, central lodging with great amenities
• Hike popular trails like Multnomah Falls – stick to well-traveled areas
• Refuel in Bend or Klamath Falls – gas stations are sparse in rural areas
• Pack layers – be ready for sudden weather changes

9. Arizona Road Trip: Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Iconic Southwest

Arizona’s landscapes are nothing short of amazing, from Sedona’s iconic red rocks to the majestic Grand Canyon and the serene beauty of Antelope Canyon.

Arizona Road Trip Overview

• Route: Phoenix → Sedona → Grand Canyon (South Rim) → Antelope Canyon → Horseshoe Bend → Monument Valley
• Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall (comfortable weather and fewer crowds)
• Days Needed: 5–7 days
• Total Distance: Approximately 400–600 miles (depending on your route).
• Best for: Desert lovers and anyone wanting to explore iconic red rocks, canyons, and wide-open landscapes

View the main stops on Google Maps:

How Much Does an Arizona Road Trip Cost?

• Fuel: $60–$120
• Accommodations: $100–$300/night
• Food: $40–$80/day
• Activities: $50–$200/day

What’s the Best Itinerary for an Arizona Road Trip?

• Day 1–2: Start in Phoenix and drive to Sedona. Explore Sedona’s red rocks, spiritual vortexes, and famous hiking trails.
  • Stops: Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
• Day 3: Head to the Grand Canyon. Visit the South Rim for stunning views and optional hikes.
  • Stops: Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, Desert View Watchtower.
• Day 4: Explore Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Drive to Page, AZ, for a day of photography and scenic views.
  • Stops: Lower Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend.
• Day 5–6: End at Monument Valley. Drive through iconic rock formations and enjoy guided tours.
  • Stops: Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Valley Drive.

Explore the breathtaking views of Horseshoe Bend – click the arrows to look around!

Solo Female Travel Tips for the Arizona Road Trip

• Book accommodations early – lodging fills up quickly in Sedona and near the Grand Canyon
• Visit Antelope Canyon on a guided tour – it’s the only way to access the canyon
• Refuel in Flagstaff or Page – gas stations can be sparse between stops
• Stick to popular hikes like Cathedral Rock and Bright Angel Trail for safety
• Pack layers – temperatures vary widely, especially at the Grand Canyon
• Drive during daylight – roads to remote areas like Monument Valley can be poorly lit
• Download offline maps – cell service is spotty in rural areas

Quiz: Which Road Trip Is Right for You? 

Not sure which road trip is your style? Take this quick quiz, and I’ll help you figure out where to hit the road next.

1, What kind of scenery do you love most?
A) Coastal cliffs and ocean views
B) Lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls
C) Red rock canyons and desert landscapes
D) Rivers, historic towns, and Southern charm
E) Tropical beaches, turquoise waters, and island vibes
F) Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and wildlife
2, How many days do you have for your trip?
A) 5–7 days
B) 7–10 days
C) 10–14 days
D) 3–5 days
E) 1–2 days
F) A long weekend getaway
3, What’s your travel style?
A) Relaxing and scenic
B) Adventurous and nature-focused
C) Cultural and historic
D) Fun, quirky, and unforgettable
E) Tropical and laid-back
F) Remote and wild

Results:

• Mostly A’s: You’re all about the chill. Pacific Coast Highway and Florida Keys Scenic Highway are your jam – ocean views, windy roads, and plenty of places to stop and dip your toes in the water.
• Mostly B’s: You love adventure and the great outdoors. Blue Ridge Parkway, Utah’s Mighty Five, or Oregon’s Scenic Byways are where you should be. From epic hikes to jaw-dropping views, these routes are full of adventure.
• Mostly C’s: You’re all about history and charm. Great River Road or Route 66 will take you through landmarks, small towns, and nostalgic moments.
• Mostly D’s: Unique and unforgettable is your thing. The Arizona Road Trip or Alaska’s Seward Highway are packed with quirky stops, stunning scenery, and memories you’ll be talking about forever.
• Mostly E’s: Island vibes, here you come! The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is calling with turquoise waters, beachside sunsets, and the ultimate tropical road trip.
• Mostly F’s: You’re all about the wild side. The Seward Highway in Alaska is your perfect escape – glaciers, wildlife, and jaw-dropping landscapes at every turn.

Why Solo Road Trips Are Perfect for Female Travelers 

Solo travel road trips aren’t just about the destinations – they’re about the journey, the freedom, and the stories you’ll create along the way. Travel at your own pace, stop when you want, and soak in every moment.
So, go make some memories. Let’s get lost together!