Adventurous Spring Road Trips for Outdoorsy People

Spring is the perfect time for a road trip! The seasons are changing, the sun is shining, and most people are starting to get filled with a sense of wanderlust to celebrate the end of Winter. If you are anything like me, you are starting to plan your next big road trip this time of year. In 2019, Spring is when I visited Zion, Yosemite, the Redwoods, and Glacier, and it was the perfect time to do so. The weather was warm but not hot, perfect for hiking, and the National Parks where not yet filled with people.

This inspired me to team up with several other talented travelers and create a list of some of the best places in the US to plan your next outdoors Spring road trip! Whether road tripping in March or April on Spring Break, or to celebrate the end of school in May, the US has amazing spots for adventurous road trips full of hiking, climbing, and cycling from Western mountains to the East coast, these 8 road trips have something for all outdoorsy people. 

Check out the itineraries and guides below for the following road trips:

• Eastern Sierras to Yosemite Road Trip
• Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks Road Trip
• Boise to Idaho Falls Road Trip
• Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and National Parks Road Trip
• Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip
• Columbia River Gorge Road Trip
• Orlando to Savannah Road Trip
• Washington DC to Florida Road Trip

Eastern Sierras Road Trip

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Road tripping through the Eastern Sierras will take you through some of the most spectacular outdoor spaces in California, from Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states, to the mecca of Yosemite National Park. This road trip begins in the town of Bakersfield and takes you on an approximately 300 mile drive to Yosemite. You’ll want to spend at least a week, if not more, to fully explore everything along the way.

Starting in Bakersfield, take the scenic route (CA-178) through Kern Canyon to Lone Pine, the gateway to Mount Whitney. You can camp in Inyo National Forest (but it gets popular, so make a reservation). If you really plan ahead and win the permit lottery, you can attempt the Mt. Whitney hike and gain the satisfaction of reaching the epic 14,505 foot summit. This is a long, strenuous hike, so you can also opt to take an easier hike and see the stunning peak from afar instead.

Next, head to the town of Bishop, where you can choose your own adventure of rock climbing, mountain biking or more hiking. For a cheap yet delicious lunch, be sure to stop at Schat’s Bakery, featuring hearty sandwiches, cheeses, and fresh-baked bread. Then make your way to the mountain town of Mammoth Lakes which offers lots more hiking, as well as hot springs to soak in and relax your tired body.

Finally, it’s time to visit Yosemite National Park in all its grandeur. Definitely plan to spend a few days exploring this natural wonder, and check out the Half Dome or Clouds Rest hike if you can still summon the energy. Don’t forget to stop in Tuolumne Meadows to savor the lovely meadow, alpine lakes, and gorgeous wildflowers.

An Eastern Sierras road trip is one you won’t soon forget

Utah Mighty Five National Parks Road Trip

From Ale of Sea Salt and Fog

One of the most epic adventures for outdoor enthusiasts is a road trip to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. 

Starting in Las Vegas, you’ll make a big loop through southern Utah, visiting Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks in the process. You can do the trip in as little as a week, but aiming for ten days or longer will give you more time to do more hiking and exploring. 

Some of the best things to do along the way will be in the national parks themselves. In Zion, the must-do hike is The Narrows, where you’ll be surrounded by canyon walls soaring up to 1,000 feet above you. 

Bryce Canyon has the colorful hoodoos, best seen from the Queen’s/Navajo Loop. Capitol Reef is the real hidden gem of the trip, with minimal crowds, a pioneer register carved into the rocks, and yummy pies. 

Your last stop of the trip will be in Moab, Utah, home to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The crown jewel here is Arches, where you’ll be able to see many different arches and rock formations, each more breathtaking than the last. 

The highlight of all the beauty is Delicate Arch, one of Utah’s most famous landmarks. You’ll need to do a 3 mile moderately strenuous hike to get up close to the arch, but it’s absolutely worth it. 

When you’re done exploring the parks, Moab is a cool little town where the outdoors is king. There’s a ton of inexpensive camping spots nearby, often had for $15 – $30 per night. 

Southern Utah is one of the most beautiful places in the US, and an epic road trip is the best way to explore it.

Boise to Idaho Falls Road Trip

From Kay of The Awkward Traveler

Idaho is a great state to road trip, especially during the Spring months when the snow has melted and flowers begin to bloom. If you’re looking to take your Spring Break road trip on the off-beaten path, you’ll want to start in Boise. Although small, the capital of Idaho packs a punch when it comes to great food and affordable activities. There are tons of fun things to do in Boise, from touring entire streets lined with intricate murals to indulging in authentic Basque culture. 

Once you’ve gotten your fill of Boise, you’ll head east in the direction of Idaho Falls. Though the trip could technically be finished in one day, at only 280 miles long, there are plenty of attractions, towns, and beautiful vistas to stop at in between. The first point of interest is Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park, featuring large natural sand dunes and a reflective lake. 

If you have time, spend a night or two in Twin Falls. There are ample hiking trails and scenic nature spots for adventure seekers, including the incredible Shoshone Falls, which is at its peak water flow in the spring. You can also visit Minidoka National Historic Site, a decommissioned internment camp during World War II, to learn more about America’s war crimes against Japanese-Americans. Idaho does not have any National Parks, but the next stop on your road trip will be to Craters of the Moon National Monument where you can explore dozens of lava caverns. 

If you’re interested in science, it’s worth it to make a pit stop in Atomic City, the former home of the world’s first electricity-generating nuclear power plant. Your trip will end in Idaho Falls, a small but charming town, where you can spend the rest of your trip relaxing after all the driving.

Colorado Rocky Mountains and National Parks Road Trip

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

If you’re looking for a late spring adventure (think May) then look no further than Colorado. Featuring 4 amazing national parks and stunning mountain scenery, there’s plenty to add to your Colorado road trip itinerary.

Four days in Colorado will give you a feel for the highlights, but take a week or two to explore the whole state. Start in Denver and explore nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, then head into the heart of the mountains for gorgeous hikes, hot springs, and scenic driving. Don’t miss Hanging Lake, one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado (a $10 advanced reservation is required). You can also check out the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the Colorado National Monument.

Camping during late spring will still get quite cold at night – but it’s totally doable for the adventurous road tripper. Otherwise, consider getting a shared space and private Airbnb for cheaper lodging. May is also an excellent time to travel through Colorado, since it’s considered a low season, so you may be able to find a deal if you don’t wish to camp.

Pack your bags! Don’t forget sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, maps and apps to navigate, a first aid kit, and sunscreen. Colorado sees varying weather so if you’re traveling in late spring bring everything from a heavy-duty parka to your favorite tank top!

Get outside and explore the best of Colorado this spring!

Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

 From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Road tripping from Los Angeles to see the glorious Half Dome located in Yosemite National Park may be something worth adding to your bucket list. Springtime at Yosemite brings less crowds, sunny weather, and flowing waterfalls from the snow melt. About a 5 hour drive (without stops) will land you at front gates. The fastest route to the park from LA is via I-5 North to CA-99 to Fresno, then exiting to take CA-41 which leads straight to the park. Here you’ll pass by Six Flags for a thrilling pitstop/day trip, and Tejon Ranch Outlets for those craving retail therapy before you bask in the natural wildlife.

However, if you prefer a scenic route with more interesting stops, travel via the 101, along the Pacific Coast. Take a stretch break at Pismo Beach along the lovely oceanfront, or make a pit stop in Kettlemen’s City to explore Bravo Farms (there’s IN N OUT here too) and grab a delicious bite to eat.

As you enter Yosemite, grab a free map from the park ranger, then stop and marvel at the incredible Tunnel View – a famous Yosemite lookout point. Venture onward till you reach the Yosemite Valley, where you’ll find Mirror Lake, Curry Village, and Bridalveil Falls for a quick walk only 0.3 miles out and back.

Heading out of the valley, there are even more wonderful hiking trails to explore. There’s Taft point (2 miles out and back), Sentinel Dome (2.2 miles out and back), and the aqua blue waters of Tenaya Lake. While there are an abundance of hiking trails, opt for a guide to Yosemite National Park to learn more about the various types of hiking trails.

Keep in mind, the park may still be chilly during the evenings so pack layers and bring lots of water.

Columbia River Gorge Road Trip

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

The Columbia River Gorge is a fantastic Spring road trip. It has some of the most incredible waterfalls in the United States. You will, for sure, stop every few minutes on the Historic Columbia River Highway to take excellent photos of the magical waterfalls.

You only need a day to see most of the famous waterfalls, but it is recommended to explore the area for at least three or four days. There are so many trails and beautiful viewpoints to visit. The first stop on the road trip is the Vista House. The building sits on top of a cliff and has outstanding views of the Columbia River Gorge. The area can get too windy, so make sure to bring a coat! 

After that, drive to Latourell Falls to experience a lovely waterfall with a cute bridge. You can make it a challenge and add in the Upper Latourell Falls Hike. Next, drive to Bridal Veil Falls and Wahkeena Falls. Both waterfalls are pretty easy to get to and are excellent to witness with the whole family. 

Multnomah Falls is located close to Wahkeena and is the most breathtaking waterfall in Oregon. It is a popular spot for a reason and will most likely be crowded. But it is pretty easy to get a great photo of the waterfall and bridge. After that, check out the popular Horsetail Falls. You can make the stop a bit more challenging by doing the trail to Pony Tail Falls.

Orlando to Savannah Road Trip

From Nichola of Global Mouse Travels

A trip from Orlando to Savannah via the islands of Florida and Georgia is the perfect road trip. Start at Orlando for all the fun of the theme parks and activities here. Then head up the coast to the beautiful Amelia Island, around two hours north of Orlando and a world away. Enjoy all the outdoor activities on offer here from golf to kayaking and take time to visit the fantastic farmers market. 

After a couple days to really relax head onwards and out of Florida for beautiful Georgia and Jekyll Island. The beaches here are simply wonderful, particularly Driftwood Beach with its sand scattered with the bleached out limbs of fallen trees. Cycle around the island and enjoy the peaceful retreat this vacation spot has enjoyed for centuries. 

When you’ve explored all there is to see in Jekyll Island visit another of Georgia’s Islands, Saint Simons Island which has more going on than Amelia and Jekyll and is a great spot to explore some of the history. 

Finally end the road trip in Savannah, packed full of museums and cultural sights as well as its fantastic foodie scene. Spend around ten days on this trip and you will get to really enjoy all the sites of this wonderful area. Some of the great family resorts in Florida  and Georgia can be found on this road trip, with lots of good budget offerings, so there won’t be a shortage of great places to stay.

Washington DC to Florida Road Trip

From Katja of Globetotting

Travelling from the nation’s capital to the sunshine state is no mean feat but take your time and a drive along the country’s east coast is a rewarding road trip. This slice of the country is home to significant historical sites and some beautiful landscapes. 

There are plenty of places worth visiting as you drive south from Washington DC but there are a handful that you simply can’t miss. Savannah and Charleston are always popular but they’re not the only places of historical significance. 

Richmond, Virginia is one of the best stops along the I-95 driving from Washington, DC to Florida. The Virginia State Capitol Building was designed by Thomas Jefferson and features the oldest Greek columns in the United States. Also in Virginia is Williamsburg, the best preserved colonial town in the country. 

If you’ve got time, stop at “South of the Border”, large billboards placed along the border of South Carolina and North Carolina on Interstate 95. The sign may have seen better days but it’s still a good photo op. 

Beaufort is another destination worth spending some time in. Located on Port Royal Island, one of South Carolina’s Coastal Sea Islands, it’s a charming place to while away the days and the sunsets are sublime. 

For hiking opportunities you have the Blue Ridge Parkway that spans 469 miles from Virginia to Cherokee in North Carolina. Taking some time out somewhere like Pigeon Forge will be a small detour but well worth it.

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