TAKE A ROAD TRIP ADVENTURE: Collector Car Summer Drives

June 12, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Rev up your engine and get ready for the ultimate road trip! These quintessential routes each have their own unique charm ‒ offering rich history, breathtaking vistas or heart-pounding excitement with thrilling twists and turns. Buckle up for what is certain to be an epic journey.

PACIFIC REGION

Top of the World Highway – Alaska If you find yourself in Alaska with your collector car, steer towards the charming town of Jack Wade, close to the Canadian border. There, you’ll find the start of an impressive drive on the Top of the World Highway along Alaska 5. Don’t forget your passport, as this road leads you east into Canada, where Alaska 5 transforms into the rugged Yukon 9. It winds through Canada’s breathtaking Yukon Territory and culminates at a ferry terminal in West Dawson, on the scenic banks of the Yukon River. Many say it’s one of the most stunning drives on the planet.

Hana Highway, Maui – Hawaii One of Hawaii’s most iconic drives awaits you on the island of Maui. Often referred to as the Road to Hana, the winding Hana Highway gracefully hugs Maui’s northeast coast, where lush green cliffs are adorned with cascading waterfalls that tumble down to beaches with golden, black and red sands. During the 52-mile journey you’ll traverse narrow one-lane bridges and pass by fruit stands offering fresh local produce.

WESTERN REGION

Cascade Loop Scenic Byway – Washington Spanning 400 miles through some of Washington state’s most breathtaking landscapes, the Cascade Loop promises stunning views and fantastic stops. Along this scenic route, you’ll encounter North Cascades National Park, Whidbey Island, the picturesque Stevens Pass, the serene Lake Chelan and the quaint towns of Winthrop and Methow Valley. This drive is packed with incredible vistas, hiking trails and cozy spots to stay, making it perfect for an unforgettable getaway.

Pikes Peak Highway – Colorado For racing enthusiasts, the $15 toll to access Pikes Peak Highway is a small price to pay to experience one of the most iconic hill-climb racetracks in the world. This thrilling 19-mile road has been the stage for the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as The Race to the Clouds, for over a century. Experience the majestic Rockies in a way that few ever will as you scale to the breathtaking 14,000-foot summit of Pikes Peak. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!

While you’re in the area, we highly recommend taking the scenic route to the Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel, located just 50 miles from Denver on Interstate 70. Starting from Pikes Peak, head north on Route 67, and enjoy several picturesque highways before merging onto I-70. Here, you’ll encounter the world’s highest road tunnel, peaking at an impressive 11,158 feet in elevation. Opened to westbound traffic in 1973 and to eastbound traffic in 1979, this engineering marvel spans over 1.5 miles.

Pacific Coast Highway – California The Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, is one of the world’s most famous roads. If you’re planning to explore this legendary route, be sure to set aside plenty of time to travel the nearly 700 miles of California State Route 1, as it’s called in northern California. For uninterrupted views and easy pull-off stops to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and ocean vistas, we suggest experiencing this journey from north to south.

Mulholland Drive – California Mulholland Drive begins in the Hollywood Hills and stretches 21 miles west to Woodland Hills. From “Ford v Ferrari” to “Fast and Furious,” this ultra-famous Southern California road has been featured in countless films and has hosted celebrities like Madonna, John Lennon, Demi Moore, Bruce Willis and many more. The 2001 film “Mulholland Drive” was inspired by this very route. As a top Hollywood tourist destination, Mulholland Drive is often bustling with tour buses, tourists and locals, representing the essence of Hollywood’s allure and excitement.

SOUTHWESTERN REGION

Photo courtesy of TxDOT

The Twisted Sisters – Texas Northwest of San Antonio and nestled in the captivating Texas Hill Country are three enchanting roads locally dubbed “The Twisted Sisters”. Comprising Texas Farm to Market (FM) roads 335, 336 and 337, this trio offers a journey of winding curves and scenic vistas. Pass through towns such as Medina, Vanderpool, Prade Rach, Hackberry and Camp Wood before finishing the nearly 100-mile loop in Leakey, Texas.

Photo courtesy of Google Maps, © 2024 Google.

The Devil’s Highway – Arizona About 200 miles east of Phoenix near the town of Clifton lies Route 191, now known as the Coronado Trail. Head North towards Alpine to start your adventure. Initially designated as Highway 666, it earned the nickname “Devil’s Highway.” This 93-mile route has been dubbed “the curviest road in the United States.” Beginning at a 3,500-foot elevation, it ascends to nearly 7,000 feet. The landscape transforms from desert terrain adorned with saguaro cacti to breathtaking alpine vistas featuring Ponderosa pines. However, with a continuous climb and no straight stretches in sight, your focus will likely be on the intense, gripping drive rather than the scenery. Undoubtedly, this is the most thrilling, adrenaline-pumping journey you’ll experience in Arizona.

MIDWEST REGION

Photo courtesy of Google Maps, © 2024 Google.

The Triple Nickel – Ohio Nestled in southeast Ohio, this 62-mile road officially goes by SR 555 but is more famously known as the Triple Nickel. While it may not be the most challenging route, the Triple Nickel boasts a combination of high-speed sweepers and tight, low-speed corners, catering to all skill levels. What truly sets SR 555 apart, however, is its sense of seclusion: according to the Ohio Department of Transportation, it’s one of the least-traveled roads in the state, offering a serene and tranquil driving experience.

Photo courtesy of Google Maps, © 2024 Google.

Michigan Highway 22 – Michigan If you’re craving a scenic drive along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, look no further than M-22. Beginning in Onekama, Michigan, and heading north, this 117-mile highway treats you to breathtaking views of Lake Michigan’s coastline. Along the way, you’ll also encounter picturesque smaller lakes like Crystal Lake and Glen Lake, enhancing your journey with even more natural beauty.

SOUTHEAST REGION

Tail of the Dragon – Tennessee For those who live for the thrill of the open road, few routes rival the Tail of the Dragon in Deal’s Gap, Tennessee. Nestled near the border of neighboring North Carolina, this legendary stretch of asphalt features an astounding 318 curves, demanding skillful maneuvering from drivers. It’s no wonder this 11-mile road is a magnet for sports car enthusiasts and motorcyclists alike. Beyond the adrenaline rush, the area treats visitors to picturesque drives, a charming mountain-town ambiance, and convenient access to both the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest.

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – Louisiana For a unique driving experience over water, consider the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the longest bridge in the United States. Stretching an impressive 23.83 miles across Lake Pontchartrain in Southeastern Louisiana, this iconic bridge connects New Orleans and Metairie with Mandeville. Holding the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous bridge over water, the causeway offers a memorable journey with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding scenery.

Seven Mile Bridge – Florida Venture along the road linking the Florida Keys, Florida’s Highway 1, and you’ll encounter the famous Seven Mile Bridge. This bridge holds a special place in Hollywood’s heart, serving as a backdrop for action-packed scenes in movies like “True Lies,” “License to Kill” and “2 Fast, 2 Furious,” where the adrenaline-fueled stars race from Marathon to Little Duck Key. The modern bridge, constructed in 1982, accommodates two lanes of U.S. Highway 1 traffic over the Moser Channel.

NORTHEAST REGION

Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia The Blue Ridge Parkway stands as a quintessential driving route on the East Coast, spanning 469 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Along its winding path, drivers are treated to countless scenic viewpoints showcasing the beauty of the southern Appalachian Mountain range. From picturesque overlooks to inviting hiking trails, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to embark upon. Take a break from the drive to explore charming mountain towns, where you can indulge in local cuisine, shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region.

Mount Washington Auto Road – New Hampshire The Mount Washington Auto Road in New Hampshire is known for tight twists, technical challenges and awe-inspiring vistas. This thrilling journey spans 7.6 miles and gains over 4,000 feet in elevation. Since 1904, this scenic route has been home to the oldest automobile race in the United States, the Mount Washington Hillclimb Auto Race. This road continues to attract a diverse array of competitive events to this day. It’s a drive that promises both excitement and history around every corner.

HONORABLE MENTION

Route 66 No list would be complete without mentioning Route 66, famously known as “the Main Street of America” or “the Mother Road.” While it’s no longer possible to drive the entire length of Route 66 continuously, you can still plan a road trip that follows much of its original path. Many sections of the old highway remain intact, offering a journey through some of America’s most iconic landmarks. Route 66 passes through numerous major cities as it makes its way from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California.