7 of the Best US Road Trips to Take With Your Dog

For those looking to explore the West Coast, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful and dog-friendly road trips out there. This stretch of highway runs up the coast of California and provides plenty of chances to explore the beautiful outdoors. Dogs will love the wide open spaces along the beaches, the countless pet-friendly parks and restaurants, and the chance to explore the rugged coastline around Big Sur.

For a classic American road trip, you can't go wrong with the iconic Route 66. This highway runs from Chicago to Los Angeles and provides plenty of exciting sights and activities for you and your dog. Take advantage of the countless pet-friendly attractions along the way and explore all the small towns and cities that Route 66 passes through.

The Blue Ridge Parkway through North Carolina and Virginia is a great option for those looking for a peaceful and scenic escape. This winding parkway, which runs 469 miles (755 kilometers) from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, provides endless opportunities to explore with your pup, such as breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and plenty of hikes. Adventurous dogs will love the hike up to Crabtree Falls, which features waterfalls up to 60 feet (18 meters) tall.

Consider checking out the Great River Road if you want a unique, scenic experience of the Midwest. This 3,000-mile (4,830-kilometer) stretch of highway runs alongside the Mississippi River, providing plenty of chances to explore the stunning scenery and enjoy the outdoors with your dog. The route will take you on a marathon journey through Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Another great road trip for adventurous dogs is across the southwestern United States, where you and your faithful hound will take in some of the country's most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes. From the red rock canyons around Sedona and the stunning desert views near Lake Powell to the rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon, this trip offers plenty of places to explore that canines love; just be sure to pack lots of water and mind the heat!

If you’re looking for a picturesque road trip, look no further than a drive across coastal Maine. This route provides plenty of chances to explore the coastline, charming towns, and numerous pet-friendly attractions of Maine. Stop at the flagship L.L. Bean store in Freeport, Maine, to pick up a blanket to keep Fido warm and cozy during the chilly Maine nights.

For a beautiful tour of the Great Lakes region, consider driving the Great Lakes Circle. This 1,800-mile (2,900-kilometer) route takes you through some of the most gorgeous areas of the Great Lakes region, including parks, forests, and plenty of pet-friendly attractions. If your dog loves to romp freely, you won’t want to miss Lake Superior Park, where off-leash dogs are welcome on the trails and the entire length of the shoreline.