Underrated RV Routes

Here are some underrated RV routes that offer unique experiences away from the usual tourist traffic:

1. The Loneliest Road in America (U.S. Route 50, Nevada)

• Distance: 287 miles (Ely to Austin)
• Why It's Great: This remote route crosses the heart of Nevada, offering expansive desert landscapes, ghost towns, and a sense of solitude. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil journey.
• Highlights: Great Basin National Park, Ely's historic downtown, and the Schell Creek Range.

2. The San Juan Skyway (Colorado)

• Distance: 236 miles
• Why It's Great: This scenic loop through the San Juan Mountains provides breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, historic mining towns, and the chance to explore areas often missed by travelers sticking to more famous routes.
• Highlights: Telluride, Durango, and the Million Dollar Highway.

3. The Scenic Byway 14 (Utah)

• Distance: 60 miles
• Why It's Great: Connecting the cities of Cedar City and Highway 89, this route features stunning views of Cedar Breaks National Monument and the Dixie National Forest. It's a less-traveled path with beautiful landscapes.
• Highlights: Cedar Breaks National Monument, Dixie National Forest, and numerous scenic overlooks.

4. The Klamath River Highway (California)

• Distance: 75 miles
• Why It's Great: Running through northern California, this route offers lush forests, river views, and a peaceful drive away from the more tourist-heavy coastal routes.
• Highlights: Klamath River, Redwoods National and State Parks, and charming small towns like Klamath.

5. The Great River Road (Mississippi River)

• Distance: Over 3,000 miles (choose any segment)
• Why It's Great: Though not exactly unknown, the Great River Road offers quiet segments with scenic river views, historical towns, and lush landscapes, especially in less-traveled areas.
• Highlights: Effigy Mounds National Monument, charming towns like Galena, and the historic river city of Hannibal.

6. The Gold Country Highway (California)

• Distance: 100 miles (Placerville to Auburn)
• Why It's Great: This route through California's Sierra Nevada foothills offers a glimpse into the Gold Rush era with historic towns, old mining sites, and picturesque landscapes.
• Highlights: Historic towns of Placerville and Auburn, Gold Bug Park, and the scenic American River.

7. The Arkansas Scenic Byway 7

• Distance: 290 miles
• Why It's Great: This route takes you through the Ozark Mountains, with scenic views, charming small towns, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's a hidden gem for those looking to explore less-traveled parts of Arkansas.
• Highlights: Hot Springs National Park, Ozark National Forest, and the quaint town of Jasper.

8. The Lake Superior Circle Tour (Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota)

• Distance: 1,300 miles
• Why It's Great: This scenic tour around Lake Superior offers beautiful views of the lake, waterfalls, and charming towns. While the route is known, some sections remain peaceful and less traveled.
• Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Duluth, and the Apostle Islands.

9. The Highway of Legends (Colorado)

• Distance: 82 miles
• Why It's Great: This route through the southeastern part of Colorado provides stunning mountain views, historic mining towns, and the chance to explore lesser-known corners of the state.
• Highlights: Trinidad, the Spanish Peaks, and the scenic Cuchara Valley.

10. The All American Road (Nebraska)

• Distance: 245 miles
• Why It's Great: Known for its scenic prairies, rolling hills, and small towns, this route through Nebraska provides a unique look at the Great Plains and is less crowded than more famous routes.
• Highlights: Scotts Bluff National Monument, Chimney Rock, and the scenic Sandhills.

These routes offer a mix of natural beauty, historical charm, and tranquil experiences, making them great choices for an RV adventure away from the more crowded paths.