The 1970s were a golden age for road trips, a time when families piled into station wagons with picnic baskets, paper maps, and a sense of adventure. These trips weren’t just about getting from point A to B—they were journeys filled with roadside attractions, sing-alongs, and cherished moments spent together. The simplicity of the era made every trip feel like an adventure, even if it was just a few hours down the road.
From scenic coastal highways to winding mountain passes, these road trips captured the essence of family connection and exploration. Revisiting these iconic drives is like flipping through a vintage photo album, filled with timeless memories of a slower, simpler era where the journey truly was the destination.
Pacific Coast Highway
In the 1970s, the Pacific Coast Highway was a favorite for families eager to explore California’s stunning coastline. With breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged cliffs, this route offered an unparalleled sense of freedom. Families would stop at picturesque beaches, enjoy picnics, and take in the salty sea breeze.
The drive was as much about the journey as the destinations, with charming towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara along the way. The highway’s winding nature made every turn a new adventure, etching lasting memories for those on board.
Route 66
Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” symbolized the ultimate road trip adventure in the 1970s. This historic route spanned from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a cross-country journey filled with quirky roadside attractions. Families loved stopping at diners and motels, capturing the essence of Americana.
Each state along the route presented its own unique landscape, from the deserts of Arizona to the plains of Illinois. Traveling Route 66 was about the joy of exploration, with each mile revealing a new story and experience.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching through Virginia and North Carolina, was a beloved destination for families in the 1970s. Known for its stunning fall foliage, this scenic road provided endless opportunities for exploration. Families would often stop for hikes, discovering the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
The Parkway’s overlooks offered breathtaking views, perfect for family photos. Each curve of the road revealed a new vista, keeping the journey exciting and full of awe. It was a chance for families to connect with nature and each other.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
Located in Montana’s Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road was a thrilling adventure for 1970s families. This engineering marvel provided panoramic views of the park’s majestic landscapes, including towering peaks and glacial lakes.
Families on this trip were treated to the sight of wildlife such as mountain goats and bears, adding excitement to the journey. The road’s switchbacks and tunnels made it an exhilarating drive, with each turn offering a new surprise. It was a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the American West.
Great River Road
The Great River Road followed the Mississippi River, offering a scenic drive through America’s heartland. In the 1970s, families enjoyed this route for its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With stops in charming river towns, there were plenty of opportunities to explore local attractions.
The road’s proximity to the river provided stunning vistas, especially during sunset. Families would often take riverboat tours, learning about the region’s rich heritage. This road trip was a delightful mix of adventure and education, perfect for family bonding.
Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway in Florida was a tropical paradise for families in the 1970s. Stretching over the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, this highway connected a chain of islands, each offering unique adventures. Families would enjoy beach outings, snorkeling, and discovering vibrant marine life.
The drive itself was a spectacle, with ocean views on both sides creating a surreal experience. This road trip was not just a journey but a destination in itself, with the promise of sun, sand, and sea at every stop.
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road, located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, was a breathtaking adventure for families in the 1970s. Known as the “Highway to the Sky,” it offered dramatic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
Families appreciated the chance to spot wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep during their journey. The road’s high elevation provided a thrilling drive, with each mile revealing the park’s diverse ecosystems. It was a memorable way for families to experience the grandeur of the Rockies and the great outdoors.
Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway, stretching from Mississippi to Tennessee, was a historical journey for families in the 1970s. This scenic drive followed a path used by Native Americans and early settlers, offering a glimpse into the nation’s past. Families would explore historical markers and enjoy the lush forests lining the road.
The parkway’s peaceful setting provided a perfect escape from everyday life. Families cherished the opportunity to learn about history while enjoying nature’s beauty, making it a treasured memory from their travels.
Beartooth Highway
Beartooth Highway, crossing Montana and Wyoming, was a thrilling road trip in the 1970s. Known for its dramatic switchbacks and high elevations, this route offered spectacular mountain views. Families would often pull over to take pictures and breathe in the crisp mountain air.
The highway’s challenging drive was rewarded with breathtaking vistas, from snow-capped peaks to alpine lakes. It was an adventurous journey that left a lasting impression, showcasing the raw beauty of the American landscape and the spirit of exploration.
Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway, nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, was a favorite for families in the 1970s. Known for its stunning fall foliage, this scenic drive provided a colorful canvas of leaves. Families would stop at overlooks and hiking trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty.
The highway’s serene setting was perfect for a leisurely drive, offering a chance to connect with nature. Each turn revealed a new palette of colors, making it a picturesque journey that families cherished and remembered fondly.
Cabot Trail
The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia was an international favorite for 1970s families seeking adventure. This scenic loop showcased the rugged beauty of Canada’s eastern coastline. Families enjoyed discovering charming fishing villages and exploring the region’s rich Celtic culture.
The trail’s coastal views were breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon. It was a road trip filled with exploration and cultural enrichment, offering a unique blend of nature and heritage that families treasured.
Red Rock Scenic Byway
The Red Rock Scenic Byway in Arizona was a striking road trip destination for families in the 1970s. Known for its stunning red rock formations, the drive offered a visual feast of colors and shapes. Families would explore hiking trails and ancient Native American sites, connecting with the area’s rich history.
The byway’s vibrant landscapes were a photographer’s dream, making every stop an opportunity to capture the beauty. It was a journey of discovery, blending natural wonder with cultural insights, and leaving families with unforgettable memories.
Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway, traversing the Canadian Rockies, was an awe-inspiring road trip for 1970s families. Known for its towering glaciers and turquoise lakes, this route offered breathtaking views at every turn. Families would stop to hike and explore the pristine wilderness, capturing the essence of untouched nature.
The parkway’s majestic landscapes created a sense of wonder and adventure, making it a journey that resonated deeply. It was an opportunity to connect with the natural world, leaving families with a profound appreciation for Canada’s beauty.
Sea-to-Sky Highway
The Sea-to-Sky Highway in British Columbia was a captivating drive for families in the 1970s. This route offered dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for family adventures. Families enjoyed stopping at seaside towns, exploring local culture and attractions.
The highway’s scenic beauty made every mile a pleasure, with opportunities to experience both land and sea. It was a road trip that combined the thrill of exploration with the joy of discovery, cherished by families for its unforgettable vistas.
Black Hills and Badlands
The Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota were a unique road trip destination for families in the 1970s. Known for their rugged terrain and mysterious landscapes, these areas offered a sense of adventure and intrigue. Families would visit landmarks like Mount Rushmore and explore the region’s geological wonders.
The drive through these formations was like stepping back in time, with each view telling a story of ancient history. It was a journey filled with exploration and learning, creating cherished memories for families seeking adventure.