After months spent stuck at home, we’re all itching to get out and explore. There’s no better way to do that with a safe, scenic, socially distanced road trip! At StorQuest Self Storage, we know a thing or two about hitting the open road – and we’re here to help you follow suit with six of our favorite U.S. road trips.
A Coastal Adventure – California’s Highway 1
This twisting, turning, adventure-packed highway delivers an up-close look at California’s epic coastline. Spanning from San Diego to Mendocino, this famed route offers more than 650 miles of awesome scenery – and endless opportunities for adventure. Bring your surfboard and chase waves at iconic spots like Malibu, Big Sur, and Santa Cruz. Pack your bike and ride through the redwoods at the birthplace of modern mountain biking, Mount Tamalpais. There’s adventure to be had at every bend of this legendary highway.
Explore the PNW Coast
Not ready for your coastal adventure to end? Keep heading north after Highway 1 transitions to Highway 101 just past Fort Bragg and continue on this coastal route all the way to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. There’s no shortage of charming coastal outposts to explore along the way. Go sandboarding in Florence, Oregon. Fish for salmon and halibut in Westport, Washington. Explore the rainforests in Olympic National Park. There’s a lot to see and do along the Pacific Northwest coastline.
Independence Pass in Colorado
Reaching the 12,095-foot summit of the Continental Divide, Independence Pass in Colorado is the highest paved pass in North America. Not for the faint of heart, this twisting, narrow road between Twin Lakes and Aspen features unmatched views of the Rocky Mountain landscape from towering mountain peaks. Drive this 32-mile stretch of Highway 82 exclusively for the views, break out your road bike for one of the most grueling and scenic climbs you’ll ever attempt, or come to hike, camp, and see the sights up close. No matter what you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re planning a trip, keep in mind Independence Pass is only open from about Memorial Day until early November.
A Mess of Fun in Texas
Texas is more than just a sprawling desert. From the beautiful beaches of the Texas Gulf Coast to the crag-filled rock faces waiting to be climbed in West Texas, the Lone Star State offers fun in many forms.
We recommend starting in El Paso or Galveston and driving the state from end to end along I-45, Highway 290, and I-10 – a nearly 800-mile adventure. You’ll find no shortage of spectacular places to stop along the way. Surf or fish in Galveston. Check out swimming holes like Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs. Explore some of the biggest rock formations in the U.S. at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area outside Fredericksburg. Feast on the legendary barbecue in Elgin. Brave some of the best sport climbing you’ll find anywhere at Hueco Tanks State Park near El Paso. Enjoy socially distanced urban adventures in big cities like Houston and Austin. Experience it all with this epic Texas road trip.
Explore Florida’s East Coast
Take a trip up or down I-95 and Highway 1 and experience Florida’s amazing East Coast. Spanning more than 400 miles between Jacksonville to the north and the Florida Keys to the south, this fantastic stretch of highway serves up endless white-sand beaches, unbelievable surfing, and water sports of all kinds.
Pack your snorkel gear and explore the reefs at places like Sebastian Inlet State Park at Melbourne Beach, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach, or Key Largo. Surf at world-class beaches along the New Smyrna Beach Inlet, the Ponce Inlet or Cocoa Beach. Explore the tropical reefs of the Florida Keys by kayak. There’s so much to explore along Florida’s East Coast.
Acadia National Park
Looking for the ultimate East Coast road trip? Head to Acadia National Park for a scenic escape you won’t forget. Perched high above the Atlantic in Maine, these rugged headlands feature more than 150 miles of hiking and all sorts of nature and wildlife to explore. With the COVID-19 outbreak, the park has been opening in phases, so be sure to check its website before making the trip. If you’re leaving from New York, take I-95 to Highway 1 in Maine for a scenic, mostly coastal trip that takes you through Boston, Providence, Portland and Brunswick in Maine, and more.
Make Room. Then Make It Happen.
Make room for more awesome adventures in your life with a unit at StorQuest. Whether you’re storing your gear between road trips or simply need a space for all your outdoor gear, we have your back.